A new study by Zebra Technologies in collaboration with Oxford Economics reveals that the automation of workflows has led to a remarkable 20% increase in productivity across various sectors, with significant implications for warehouses, logistics, and supply chains throughout Asia.
The research highlights how modern technologies such as AI and automation are revolutionising frontline operations, enhancing profitability, and improving customer experiences.
The study underscores the transformative impact of optimised workflows in retail, manufacturing, and transportation & logistics (T&L). Retailers reported a 21% improvement in customer satisfaction, while manufacturers experienced a 19% increase in employee productivity.
T&L leaders noted a similar 21% boost in productivity as a direct result of enhanced workflows. These advancements empower organisations to achieve real-time visibility and generate actionable insights, ultimately driving efficiency.
“Across Asia Pacific, industries like retail, manufacturing, and logistics are being redefined at the workflow level, where speed, visibility, and precision drive growth and elevate frontline productivity," commented Christanto Suryadarma, sales vice president for Southeast Asia, South Korea, and Channel APJeC at Zebra Technologies.
"By integrating advanced technologies like AI and automation with human expertise, intelligent operations empower organizations to simplify complex processes and deliver exceptional customer experiences.” Christanto Suryadarma
The potential financial benefits are substantial. If the top 20 companies from the Forbes Global 2000 list in retail, manufacturing, and T&L optimise their frontline workflows, the study estimates they could collectively generate an average of US$3 billion in additional revenue and US$120 million in profits.
The study also highlights specific applications of AI and automation across industries. Retailers are piloting AI technologies to enhance loss prevention and inventory optimisation.
In logistics, over two-thirds of organisations are employing AI for inventory management and demand forecasting, while nearly half of manufacturers are using predictive analytics to streamline operations.
Zebra’s new brand narrative, "Better Every Day," reinforces its commitment to providing intelligent, connected solutions that enhance frontline performance and agility. Bill Burns, CEO of Zebra Technologies, stated, “Our powerful portfolio of connected frontline, asset visibility, and intelligent automation solutions is purpose-built to support modern workflows and improve the way work gets done every day.”
As supply chains in Asia continue to evolve, the integration of automation and AI is proving essential in addressing challenges such as labour shortages and shifting consumer expectations.
