Johannesburg, 17 October 2024 – FarEye, an industry leader in logistics technology, is hosting the highly anticipated Last Mile Leaders (LML) event to tackle critical challenges in South Africa’s logistics industry, specifically rising costs and security concerns in last-mile delivery.

As e-commerce and retail rapidly expand, ensuring timely and secure deliveries to customers' doorsteps has become increasingly complex. Over 80 industry leaders from top companies, including Clicks, DANONE, HomeChoice, Massmart, Pepkor Lifestyle, Pick n Pay, Premier Foods, Woolworths, and others, will gather to collaborate on innovative solutions for these pressing issues.

A highlight of the event is a Fireside Chat featuring international cricket legend Gary Kirsten and Kushal Nahata, CEO and co-founder of FarEye. They will explore how both sports and logistics share the theme of precision: “Every delivery counts—on the field and on the road.”

Solving Security and Cost Challenges

South Africa's logistics industry faces significant security challenges, with an alarming 20-25 truck hijackings per day. These incidents drive up operational costs, with last-mile delivery expenses now 50-100% above global averages. With the e-commerce market expected to double in the next five years, solutions are urgently needed as companies like Amazon, Alibaba, Walmart, and Shein ramp up operations.

LML South Africa: Shaping the Future of Last Mile Logistics

The Last Mile Leaders (LML) South Africa event, hosted by FarEye, will focus on reducing delivery costs, improving security, and enhancing customer experiences. Attendees will participate in panel discussions, workshops, and exclusive networking sessions to drive transformative change in last-mile logistics.

A key feature of the event is the Last Mile Innovation Nexus, which showcases cutting-edge startups advancing logistics through AI platforms, drone deliveries, and electric vehicles for greener and more efficient solutions. A panel of expert judges, including VCs from Launch Africa, The Delta, and leading industry executives, will evaluate these groundbreaking innovations.

Launch of "Eye on the Last Mile 3.0" Industry Report

The event will also unveil the “Eye on the Last Mile 3.0” Industry Report, created in partnership with SAPICS. This comprehensive report offers deep insights into South Africa’s last-mile logistics, covering emerging technology trends and sustainability initiatives. The report will be an essential tool for companies navigating the complex landscape of last-mile delivery.

MJ Schoemaker, president of SAPICS, emphasises the importance of last-mile deliveries:
“Last-mile deliveries are a key part of the supply chain that can significantly impact customer satisfaction and potentially save lives. Innovation is critical to ensuring fast, cost-efficient deliveries while keeping environmental impact in mind. The last mile is essential in improving access to quality healthcare and lifesaving medicines.”

Key Sessions and Workshops

Key sessions at the event include:

• Inflation in Logistics – Addressing cost pressures in the supply chain.
• Advent of Global Giants – Examining the impact of global players like Amazon.
• Winds of Change – Exploring new trends in last-mile delivery.
• Unlocking Ultra Experiences – Using technology to enhance customer satisfaction.
• Safe Passage – Focusing on cargo security and solutions.

These sessions, combined with workshops, are designed to revolutionise last-mile operations.

Event Details

This invite-only event takes place on 17 October 2024 in Johannesburg. For more information, visit the official Last Mile Leaders website.

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