Logistics networks are working overtime to meet India’s festive surge, blending technology, last-mile solutions, and smart planning to ensure every gift and sweet reaches its destination.
Accurate forecasting and pre-positioned stock ensure timely deliveries during peak season.
As India gears up for its festive season, both e-commerce and retail channels brace for unprecedented demand. Months before Diwali or Raksha Bandhan, Haldiram Snacks begins meticulous planning. Surender Narwal, Head of Procurement, Haldiram Snacks, shares, “Our work begins months before Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, or Holi. Using past sales data, POS inputs, distributor feedback, and consumer trends, we forecast demand region by region.” Premium mithai assortments, gift hampers, and dry fruits dominate the festive shelves, with volumes expected to grow by 20–25% this year.
Logistics providers like UPS India are also preparing for this surge. Grégory Goba-Blé, Head of UPS India; Director, MOVIN Express, explains, “Advanced forecasting tools and predictive analytics allow logistics providers to plan capacity, streamline deliveries, and prevent bottlenecks, even when volumes surge across tier-1, 2, and 3 cities.” For him, precise demand planning is not just operational; it is the backbone of a resilient festive supply chain.
Predictive analytics and optimised networks prevent bottlenecks across tier-1, 2, and 3 cities.
Supply chain readiness
Meeting festive demand requires more than forecasting; it demands a robust supply chain. Narwal notes, “We scale up procurement of key ingredients like ghee, sugar, and nuts, while also securing speciality packaging such as vacuum-sealed packs and festive tins that require longer lead times. Production units operate extra shifts to maintain freshness and quality.”
Meanwhile, logistics networks are reinforcing infrastructure to match this surge. Goba-Blé highlights, “Expanding warehousing, optimising distribution networks, and reinforcing first- to last-mile operations are critical. By prepositioning stock and strengthening coordination with local partners, we ensure timely delivery, even in congested urban areas.”
Digital integration
Technology plays a pivotal role in synchronising this complex festive web. Narwal adds, “Tighter coordination with delivery partners, faster turnarounds, and contingency plans for last-mile disruptions are essential.” E-commerce and quick-commerce platforms rely heavily on real-time tracking, automated notifications, and integrated digital solutions. Goba-Blé observes, “These platforms not only enhance reliability but also provide transparency to customers, building trust in the delivery process.”
Consumer reach
Festive demand is expanding beyond metro hubs into tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Narwal explains, “We pay special attention to emerging markets, aligning distribution to meet regional consumption spikes and local preferences.” Goba-Blé adds, “Connecting urban hubs with growing regional markets allows businesses to capture new opportunities and maintain consistent service levels nationwide. Reliability and speed are as important as coverage.”
Innovation edge
For both leaders, innovation defines festive success. Narwal reflects, “Festive logistics is not just about moving goods; it’s about delivering joy while maintaining efficiency and trust.” Goba-Blé concludes, “The festive season serves as a testing ground for logistics innovations; automation, predictive analytics, and digital platforms, that later become standard practices across India’s supply chains.” Together, their insights highlight how meticulous planning, technology, and human touch combine to deliver festive joy across the country.
