In the first half 2020, more Filipinos turned to online shopping as quarantine regulations were implemented nationwide. Logistics companies then faced a new challenge: how could they adapt to the increased need for their services? 

This was the central topic discussed in “The Rise of Logistics in a Post-Pandemic World”, a free webinar conducted by Sprout Solutions, one of the leading innovators of automated HR and payroll services in the Philippines, and DingDong PH, the fastest-rising delivery app and web-based platform, on January 28. 

Raffy Maramag, Chief Operating Officer of dingdong by Doorbell Technologies, Inc., served as the keynote speaker for this event. He was joined by Atty. Arlene de Castro, Vice-President for Legal and Operations of Sprout, and Atty. Lester Ople, Head of Business Development for Sprout.

Maramag drew from his own observations and personal research into the movements of the logistics industry. He has more than 2 decades of experience in the field, having served as Country Sales Manager at Jobstreet Philippines and was the former Head of Advertising of OLX Philippines. 

Here are some of the lessons we learned from his talk: 

Filipino adaptability extends to online shopping

Before delving into the changes in the logistics industry, Maramag provided an overview of the industry over the past few years. While logistics services were already important prior to the pandemic, it became even more critical because Filipinos readily adapted to online shopping.

DingDong.PH observed a monthly increase in traffic of 50-70% in food and beverage deliveries during the second half of 2020. In December, orders surged from 20 a day to 100 a day for food alone.

Logistics companies are expected to provide quick and excellent service

In line with the increasing number of Filipinos turning to online shopping, logistics companies had to scramble to improve their services.

Logistics can be defined as “getting the right product to the right place at the right time.” However, the number one consideration of most customers is the speed with which they would be able to receive their purchases.

“Here’s the thing: pandemic or no pandemic, typhoon or no typhoon, we now all expect our personal and business orders to arrive on time,” said Maramag.

Automated processes are crucial for the future of logistics

With these delivery expectations in mind, customers do not concern themselves with the operational challenges faced by logistics companies. The burden is placed on these companies to improve their productivity and efficiency.

Because of this, automation is crucial to the post-pandemic supply chain management. The logistics industry needs to do more with less by utilizing technology. 

This is why automated processes – as provided by Sprout Solutions – are necessary. 

In the case of DingDong.PH, Sprout Solutions helps them with digitizing operations, such as payroll and human resources services. Moreover, Sprout gives them access to real-time data to find the root cause of the problem. This enables them to optimize their time, which in turn allows them to focus on their core services.

Aside from digitizing operational processes, other requirements for next generation logistics innovation include the development of an e-commerce ecosystem and the application of multi-level internet service, for example employing 3 service providers, for seamless services.

Above all, the logistics industry should adapt processes that are customer-centric and sustainable in order to provide the best services.

Like DingDong.PH, do you also want to digitize your company’s internal workflows? For more information on the services offered by Sprout Solutions, you can visit their official Facebook page. – Rappler.com