Over the festive period, Daniel Ennor, Chief Commercial Officer at Global Freight Solutions, spoke with Supply Chain Digital and provided an insight into his firm.
Could you briefly describe the company and your role?
Global Freight Solutions (GFS) is a delivery management provider that offers retailers and B2B buyers the tools necessary to deliver the widest choice of delivery options from checkout to doorstep. As Chief Commercial Officer, my role is helping our customers understand how optimised delivery offerings can drive sales and support their ambitious growth plans.
What are the current trends within your industry?
Brexit has brought much uncertainty to the retail market, especially around transparency of duties and taxes. This has spurred on an interest among UK retailers to expand globally and look to other regions outside of the EU to support growth ambitions. Another trend we’re seeing is that ‘fast and free’ delivery is losing its lustre as a purchase incentive. According to research GFS conducted with IMRG, 2019 saw an 11% decrease in the number of consumers who said a free delivery offer encouraged them to buy. And while convenience is still a big factor for delivery satisfaction among consumers, that gap is widening when it comes to comparing delivery with returns satisfaction.
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What makes your company competitive?
Our carrier relationships provide customers with options that suit their business and our consultative approach to delivery is what sets GFS apart from competitors. Our technology also allows customers choice, resilience and control. They can switch on and off certain carriers at the flick of a switch. This is helpful in the event of any issues like weather or unforeseen transport disruptions that may impact a certain carrier, so that the retailer can still maintain service levels and meet customer demands.
What innovations has your company been developing during 2019?
A focus for GFS this year has been on making our customers resilient in the event of Brexit and the uncertainty that brings to their business. Whether that’s from a duties and taxes perspective, or how-to future proof their business through international growth.
What are your predictions for the industry in 2020?
Next year, we’ll see Brexit frustration boil over. More businesses and retailers will continue to focus on international expansion and seeking ways to simplify cross-border delivery. Sustainability will be even more front of mind with the consumer, so we will see a strong trend amongst retailers offering more sustainable delivery and returns options. This will come in conflict with consumers’ ever-growing expectations of delivery choice and convenience, which is a constant at the heart of any delivery proposition.
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