Omni-channel retail, e-commerce and grocery warehouse operators are struggling to find labour, while consumer preference for the convenience of online retail and grocery shopping continues to grow. Online shoppers expect a wide selection of products to be in stock, at low prices, and delivered fast and free. Ten years ago, an operation could simply hire additional temporary staff to keep pace, today that’s no longer a possibility due to labour shortages. Without enough available operators, it’s become incredibly difficult – if not impossible – for warehouses and distribution centres to maintain productivity levels that meet the service level agreements necessary to keep customers happy. What’s the answer to labour scarcity in the face of overwhelming productivity demands?
