Retail Logistics: 5 Facts about Omni-Channel Fulfillment
Scott Hothem • February 9, 2015
They’re on the backs of baseball cards. They help us determine fact from opinion and myth from reality. Whether it’s the EPA regulated fuel efficiency rating of a new car or settling an argument between who’s the better quarterback, Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, statistics carry a lot of weight. While numbers personify trends, they can also be used to steer conversations and prove points. One thing that you can’t be steered away from is the growing prevalence of omni-channel retail distribution. Just as statistical knowledge can help prove your point in those Sunday afternoon gridiron debates, statistics can help you understand and navigate the new challenges of retail logistics. Here are 5 facts and stats about omni-channel and its impact on retail.
- Customer satisfaction metrics improved for 88% of retailers that implemented a “ship-from-store” process.
- 50% of consumers prefer and expect to have the option to order online and pickup in the store of their choice.
- 10% of consumers consider in-store pickup more convenient than having items shipped directly to their home.
- Only 33% of retailers have the basic omni-channel tools in place, such as cross-channel inventory visibility and store based fulfillment.
- 25% of consumers that order online and select the “store pickup” option do so to avoid waiting on shipping.
*These statistics are based on a survey done by Forrester Research, “Consumer Desires vs. Retailer Capabilities: Minding the Omni-Channel Commerce Gap”
While this is only a small sample of the new consumer demands facing all retail outlets, it is clear that consumers want different options, and they want them for different reasons! Inventory visibility, product tracking and e-commerce platforms are now more necessary than ever before. Barrett Distribution, with e-commerce experience and visibility technology, implements supply chain and logistic solutions for retailers.
Recent Blog Posts
Switching warehouses is a significant decision, and it's natural to worry about potential disruptions to your operations. However, with the right third-party logistics (3PL) partner, the transition can be carefully planned and executed with minimal impact on your customers or day-to-day business. A successful warehouse transition begins with a detailed implementation plan. This includes reviewing your inventory, integrating systems, validating data, coordinating inbound inventory transfers, and thoroughly testing processes before orders begin shipping. Clear communication and collaboration throughout the onboarding process help identify potential challenges early and keep the project on schedule. An experienced 3PL will also dedicate resources to training staff, establishing performance benchmarks, and monitoring operations closely during the first few weeks after go-live. This "hypercare" period ensures any issues are resolved quickly while maintaining service levels and order accuracy. At Barrett Distribution, every customer implementation is supported by a dedicated project team that guides the transition from discovery through stabilization. Barrett's structured onboarding process emphasizes detailed planning, system testing, proactive communication, and cross-functional collaboration to help customers make a seamless transition. By focusing on data accuracy, operational readiness, and continuous support, Barrett helps businesses minimize risk and build a strong foundation for long-term success. While every business has unique requirements, switching warehouses doesn't have to mean disrupting your operations. With an experienced logistics partner and a well-executed implementation plan, businesses can transition confidently while positioning themselves for future growth.
When it comes to fast, reliable shipping, warehouse location matters more than many businesses realize. Where your inventory is stored directly impacts transit times, shipping costs, and your ability to meet customer expectations. A strategically located distribution center allows products to travel shorter distances, reducing the number of shipping zones and helping orders reach customers more quickly. This not only improves delivery speed but can also lower transportation costs and increase overall supply chain efficiency. Why Location Matters As ecommerce continues to grow, customers expect deliveries in just a few days—or even the next day. Businesses that position inventory closer to their customers are better equipped to meet those expectations while maintaining competitive shipping rates. Warehouse location also affects access to major transportation networks. Facilities located near interstate highways, parcel carrier hubs, rail lines, ports, or airports can move products through the supply chain more efficiently, reducing delays and improving delivery reliability. Finding the Right Distribution Strategy There is no one-size-fits-all approach to warehouse placement. The ideal location depends on where your customers are located, your order volume, and your distribution goals. Some businesses benefit from a single, centrally located distribution center, while others may require multiple facilities to support nationwide delivery. Regularly evaluating shipping data, customer locations, and transportation costs can help businesses determine whether their current warehouse network is supporting—or slowing down—their operations. How Barrett Helps Customers Ship Faster Barrett Distribution works with customers to develop fulfillment strategies that align with their business goals and customer demand. With strategically located distribution centers across the United States, including facilities in key logistics markets, Barrett helps businesses position inventory for faster, more efficient delivery. For example, Barrett's Olive Branch, Mississippi facility provides convenient access to major interstate highways and the greater Memphis logistics network, making it an ideal location for reaching customers throughout the Southeast and across the country. Combined with advanced transportation management technology and real-time inventory visibility, Barrett helps customers optimize shipping performance while controlling transportation costs. Warehouse location is more than just a place to store inventory—it's a strategic advantage. Choosing the right location can shorten delivery times, reduce shipping expenses, and improve the overall customer experience. By partnering with an experienced 3PL like Barrett Distribution, businesses can build a distribution strategy that supports both operational efficiency and long-term growth.
As supply chains continue to evolve, more companies are looking beyond traditional distribution hubs—and Tennessee has become one of the country's most strategic logistics destinations. With its central location, world-class transportation network, and business-friendly environment, the state offers brands a cost-effective way to reach customers across the Southeast and across the United States. West Tennessee, in particular, has become a premier location for warehousing and distribution. The Memphis region provides direct access to major interstate highways, extensive rail networks, the Mississippi River, and the FedEx World Hub, making it one of the most connected logistics markets in North America. This combination enables businesses to reduce transit times, improve delivery performance, and optimize transportation costs while reaching a large percentage of the U.S. population within two days. Tennessee's continued investment in manufacturing, distribution, and industrial development has created a thriving supply chain ecosystem. From apparel and footwear to health and beauty, consumer packaged goods, and ecommerce, companies across industries are choosing the state to support growth, improve service levels, and build more resilient supply chains. Today's logistics providers help brands capitalize on these regional advantages through advanced warehouse management technology, real-time inventory visibility, omnichannel fulfillment, value-added services, and scalable distribution solutions. Barrett Distribution Centers' Tennessee operations provide businesses with the strategic location, technology, and operational expertise needed to support both direct-to-consumer and retail fulfillment while maintaining the flexibility to grow alongside their business. As customer expectations for faster delivery continue to rise, Tennessee remains one of the nation's strongest logistics hubs. For brands looking to improve transit times, strengthen their supply chain, and control fulfillment costs, Tennessee offers a competitive advantage—and partnering with an experienced 3PL like Barrett Distribution Centers helps turn that advantage into long-term growth.
