How to SAVE with D2C model up to 20% p.a.
, by Kamil Bakhshaliyev, 2 min reading time
What solutions can businesses implement to address these challenges and run a D2C business model?
Increase focus on e-commerce
Customers were already enthusiastic online shoppers prior to the lockdown, but retailers including John Lewis and Curry’s PC World chains reported a near doubling of online sales since the quarantine began.
What this crisis has made clear is that once stores do open, they will be in a very different environment. Most economists now agree that, even in the recovery phase, retail spending will be significantly depressed. Where growth does pick up, much will flow through digital channels and e-commerce adoption will continue to accelerate.
By continuing to strengthen your e-commerce offering, you can future-proof your business for the ‘new norm’ that many retailers will be experiencing in the near future.
Dynamic route optimisation
Our very first recommendation is for businesses to implement dynamic route optimisation if they haven’t already.
Many businesses work on a fixed route basis – which raises significant challenges and limitations for those dealing with business change or pivoting from B2B to D2C.
Dynamic routes allow businesses to plan routes daily, weekly, monthly, or however frequently they require a dynamic schedule. Route optimisation systems use algorithms which produce efficient and reliable routes, fast. Taking into account traffic conditions and known roadworks, as well as vehicle capacities, live order volumes and delivery time windows.
All of this supports businesses in avoiding any potential inefficiencies of fixed routes, reduces excess mileage, keeps customers happy and, as a result, cuts operational costs by up to 20%.
Customer communication
52% of consumers report they feel greater loyalty to brands that communicate effectively.
With so much uncertainty in business, and many brands turning to delivery for the first time, customers want to be reassured.
To achieve this, businesses can proactively send out advance email and SMS ETA notifications to regularly keep their customers informed at every step of the delivery process. From order confirmation to letting customers know when their delivery is nearby.
Track vehicles and performance
Similarly, businesses who are new to D2C distribution will likely want further reassurance that their orders are being delivered and that their processes are working effectively.
We’d recommend implementing a driver app which offers real-time job notifications, tracking, live reporting and electronic proof of delivery (EPOD) – all from your drivers’ mobile devices.
Your drivers can even take photos and electronic signatures once the order has been delivered, for added peace of mind.
To find out how you can prepare for post-lockdown and achieve all of the above, get in touch with one of our experts.