An interconnected supply chain is the need of the hour: Shalabh Raizada, CIO, Stellar Value Chain Solutions

Date:

Trending

Speaking to the TechGraph, Shalabh Raizada, Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Stellar Value Chain Solutions said, “An interconnected supply chain is the need of the hour which can help the manufacturers and their supply chain partners build resilience against volatility, cut down lead time and boost responsiveness.”

- Advertisement -

Read the complete interview here:

TechGraph: Could you help give a sense of how far Stellar Value Chain has come since its existence?

- Advertisement -

Shalabh Raizada: Well, we have established Stellar Value Chain Solutions as one of the country’s largest tech-enabled 3PL Warehousing and Distribution Solutions company. Since its inception, our focus has always been on bringing in value chain transformation for our clients.

Our supply chain services have been helping more than 1200 top corporates in boosting cost-efficiency and profits with enhanced service standards, fill rates, and technology integration. Technology forms the core of our service delivery backbone, be it our warehouse management system (WMS), proprietary transport management system, customized apps for niche functional requirements, etc.

Our core vision for growth is to co-create integrated supply chain (warehousing and distribution) solutions and deliver agility to our customers through process innovation, technology transformation, human capital development, and a pan India 21-city infrastructure development.

By setting up our facilities in Nagpur in Maharashtra, Surat in Gujarat, Banur in Chandigarh, Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, and Raipur in Chhattisgarh, we have strengthened our presence with 12 million square feet of warehousing space across all 21 cities which account for 80% of India’s consumption and production pie.

We have integrated our cold chain, express logistics, and partial truckload and less-than-truckload (LTL/PTL) business to offer integrated end-to-end warehousing and distribution solutions. We have also sharpened our focus on three sectors – a) consumer (fashion, retail, durables, consumer packaged goods (CPG), b) e-commerce and c) automotive and industrial to deliver services fortified with advanced technologies.

TechGraph: How exactly does the technology work at Stellar Value Chain?

Shalabh Raizada: As I mentioned, technology is the mainstay of our warehousing and distribution operations. To my mind, technology adoption is the way forward when it comes to liberating the transportation, warehousing, and distribution functionalities from the conventional operational framework and turning those key growth accelerators.

Given the growing customer demands and product and process complexities, technology has emerged as a catalyst for building value propositions. Moreover, technologies build operational resilience to navigate pandemic-like situations with minimum disruptions.

Among the technology integrations we have effectively implemented, a significant one is the introduction of cloud-based enterprise-class supply chain processes from Infor Supply Chain Management solutions into our WMS. Scalable and reconfigurable, the solution delivers superior visibility and cost-efficiency so that our clients can fast-track their go-to-market strategies as well as utilize data analytics to unearth new market opportunities.

Another important and game-changing technology deployment has been our tech-enabled VMI solution which is helping OEMs and Tier-1 vendors control the supply chain costs with an efficient inventory management system.

The tech-enabled VMI solution integrates operations between Tier-1 vendors and OEMs through seamless information sharing and business process reengineering using technology that sharpens the competitive edge. In addition, our tech-enabled transportation management system (TMS) called Stellar TMS offers real-time visibility to our clients.

TechGraph: With Machine learning adoption in the supply chain and logistics sector is speeding up. How Stellar Value Chain is going to capitalize the same?

Shalabh Raizada: At Stellar, we are integrating ML in applications across supply chains – for example, conventional methods would need a user to perform an ABC analysis and place the incoming products in a pre-defined location – our algos now perform this task enabling an efficient put-away and picking process.

Or for example, processing thousands of invoices from hundreds of vendors – without EDI or ASNs could have been a humongous manual effort – a combination of IDP, ML, and RPA brings in efficiency improvements of over 75 % Tech-enabled innovation would continue to be the mainstay of our end-to-end SCM Operations.

TechGraph: What is your view on the role of technology in redefining the logistics sector amid the outbreak of the covid pandemic?

Shalabh Raizada: The pandemic has exposed a lot of inherent vulnerabilities that have been affecting the supply chain dynamics. If one looks at the brighter side of the pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions, it has set the stage for the adoption of new-age technologies and innovative approaches to build resilience and minimize impact.

Integration of digital technologies and data analytics has transformed the logistics landscape by cutting through the operational complexities and enhancing transparency, integrity, and agility. Data-driven technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), etc. have strengthened the predictive capabilities of the supply chain. Companies across sectors now want their supply chain management service providers to play a more proactive role so that they can react faster to demand volatility and operational glitches.

TechGraph: Do you think tech-powered logistics players can address the logistics gap in India?

Shalabh Raizada: The domestic logistics industry is fragmented in nature and the operational silos spread across the supply chain are adversely impacting the operational and cost efficiency as well as service delivery competencies.

For instance, technology adoption is still low among the majority of small truck operators and the low technology adoption inevitably leads to low-capacity utilization and sub-optimal route optimization as well as limited visibility and tracking arrangements. However, the scenario is tailor-made for the futuristic tech-led logistics and supply chain players to develop data-driven solutions to facilitate better decision-making and resource optimization.

An interconnected supply chain is the need of the hour which can help the manufacturers and their supply chain partners build resilience against volatility, cut down lead time, and boost responsiveness. Tech-focussed supply chain players will play a critical role in initiating data-driven technology play for reducing the efficiency gap prevalent in conventional logistics and supply chain framework.

TechGraph: How do you see technologies namely Machine Learning, with regard to their relevance across the supply chain and logistics sector? What does the future look like?

Shalabh Raizada: The consumer-focussed supply chain is fast becoming extremely competitive and in this era of e-commerce and hyper-local time-sensitive deliveries, factors like cost-efficiency, profitability, and customer experience have become critical for companies to ensure sustainable growth.

Disruptive technologies like Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI), etc. will play a vital role in the new-age supply chain dynamics by automating routine tasks, thus ensuring more effective resource deployment, process optimization, and demand analysis.

Technologies like ML have a multidimensional impact on supply chain operations as these applications pave the way for predictive analytics-led demand forecasting, better inventory management, effective route optimization, and superior customer service. Going forward, we’ll witness a more strategic interplay of ML, AI, and deep analytics to take supply chain efficiency to the next level.

TechGraph: What is the roadmap for Stellar Value Chain, going forward?

Shalabh Raizada: As we have strengthened our presence in 21 key cities of the country, we are now well-positioned to redefine supply chain dynamics with our state-of-the-art infrastructure and technological leadership to our clients. By sharpening our focus on three sectors – consumer, e-commerce, and automotive & industrial, we aim to further enhance our sector-specific service delivery competencies.

The rationale behind zeroing in on the three sectors is that they account for over 80% of the organized supply chain market. The strategy is to decrease touch points or handling points for our customers, helping them to achieve cost-efficiency and economies of scale.

Our larger goal is to set up sustainable warehousing and transportation services for corporates across India to help them boost efficiencies to unlock value in their supply chains. We are playing our part to bring India among the top five positions in the Logistics Performance Index.

THE SNAPSHOTS

Sign up to get quick snaps of everyday happening, directly in your inbox.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

- Advertisement -

Support our independent journalism PayPal (Outside India) For PayU (For Indian Readers).

Krishna Mali
Krishna Mali
Founder & Group Editor of TechGraph.

More Latest Stories

More Articles

00:02:59

US President Trump Presses NATO on Greenland Annexation Plans

During a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Thursday, US President Donald Trump argued that acquiring Greenland is essential for maintaining global stability...

UK PM Kier Starmer Abolishes NHS England To Bring Health Services Under Govt Control

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to abolish NHS England and bring it back under government control. The move aims to reduce bureaucracy and redirect funds toward frontline healthcare. Speaking on Thursday, Starmer said, “That money could and should be spent on nurses,...

VIDEO: US President Donald Trump Calls NBC A ‘Work Network’ On Television

During a press meeting at the Oval Office on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump...

The Role of Edge Computing in AI-Powered Cloud Solutions

With businesses including artificial intelligence (AI) in their operations, cloud computing has grown in...
00:02:23

‘Canada Ripping Us’: US President Trump Criticizes High Tariffs on Dairy and Lumber

U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday slammed Canada’s high tariffs on American dairy and...
00:03:00

Trump Defends Elon Musk Plan for Federal Job Cuts; Govt Spending ‘Bloated’

Following a meeting with Elon Musk and senior cabinet members, U.S. President Donald Trump...

RP-Sanjiv Goenka’s Firstsource Opens ANZ HQ and AI Lab in Melbourne

Firstsource Solutions Limited (NSE: FSL, BSE:532809), an RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group company, today announced the...

Meta CPO Chris Cox Sells Shares Worth $8.3 Mn

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) Chief Product Officer Christopher Cox sold 13,556 shares of the...

From Startup to Success: Essential Steps for Landscaping Entrepreneurs

Starting a landscaping business is so exciting, blending creativity with the reward of transforming outdoor spaces. But moving from startup to a more successful...

Meta COO Javier Olivan Offloads Shares Worth $409,768

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) Chief Operating Officer Javier Olivan is set to sell 608...

Personal branding: designing logos for influencers and creators

In today’s digital landscape, personal branding has become more than just a buzzword; it’s...

The Rise of Conversational AI: What It Means for Tech and SaaS Businesses

Back in the time, when AI was not as prominent, businesses used to struggle...

Meta Executive Chris Cox to Sell $13.5 Million in Shares

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) Chief Product Officer Christopher Cox has filed to sell 20,000...

Logistic Startup Picckup Secures $500K in Seed Funding to Expand Electric Fleet

A Mohali-based mid-mile and last-mile logistic startup, Picckup, on Thursday, raised $500K in series seed round funding led by We Founder Circle (WFC), with...

Empowering Communities with Water Tech

This is a major problem worldwide; it affects billions of people in homes, villages, and towns. Population increases, climate change and limited water resources make the situation worse and thus require innovative approaches. In the current world, technology is still rising as the key driver...

IIT Madras and SPF Partners to Enhance Policy Framework for Indian Startups

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding...

Sachin Tendulkar Backed RRP Electronics Partners with Deca Technologies To Enhance Semiconductor Packaging

Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar-backed semiconductor manufacturer RRP Electronics has signed a strategic partnership with...

Leveraging AI and Modern HR Solutions to Transform Recruitment Strategies for Skilled Workers

In today’s competitive job market, recruitment strategies are rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in...

BC Originals: Exclusive Casino Games on BC.Game

BC Originals are special, exclusive casino games that are just for BC.Game players. All...

Dogsee Chew draws $8 Mn in series B round from Ektha & Others

Natural pet treat brand Dogsee Chew on Thursday said, it has raised $8 million...

Simplifying International Transfers: A New Era for Indian Immigrants in Canada

Every year, thousands of Indian professionals and families pack their lives into suitcases and...

INTERVIEW: ADDA’s Krishanu Mukherjee on Transforming Gated Communities

In an interview with TechGraph, Krishanu Mukherjee, AVP of Growth at ADDA.io, explained how...

Choosing the Right Tax Consultant: A Guide for Businesses and Individuals

For both individuals and businesses, tax planning and compliance are crucial aspects of financial...

Wired vs. Wireless Headsets: A Comparative Guide for Evolving Audio Needs

Across a wide range of demographics, including gamers, fitness enthusiasts, business executives, and remote...

The Rise of Conversational AI: What It Means for Tech and SaaS Businesses

Back in the time, when AI was not as prominent, businesses used to struggle...

Ways Technology Can Help Your Business Performance

Businesses of all sizes and across every industry are integrating technology to improve their...

Microsoft Makes Equity Investment in Veeam

American tech giant Microsoft has made an equity investment in Veeam Software to develop...

Pakistan Begins Rice Exports to Bangladesh Under New Government Deal

Bangladesh and Pakistan have resumed direct trade for the first time since 1971. The...

Beyond Firewalls: How Threat Intelligence Platforms Are Transforming Cybersecurity Operations

“Cybersecurity isn't just about building walls—it’s about seeing the enemy before they strike.” In...

Meta Executive Chris Cox to Sell $13.5 Million in Shares

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) Chief Product Officer Christopher Cox has filed to sell 20,000...

Choosing the Right Tax Consultant: A Guide for Businesses and Individuals

For both individuals and businesses, tax planning and compliance are crucial aspects of financial...

Life Insurance Death Benefit Payouts: What Your Family Needs to Know

It is important to know more about life insurance policies and their operational modalities....

Wired vs. Wireless Headsets: A Comparative Guide for Evolving Audio Needs

Across a wide range of demographics, including gamers, fitness enthusiasts, business executives, and remote...