Aditya Shah shares insights on tackling sustainability challenges, enhancing last-mile delivery, and adapting to evolving regulations in fashion logistics. His strategies focus on efficiency, transparency, and environmental impact.
Key strategies include real-time tracking, IoT, and AI-driven analytics for unified supply chain view
Aditya Shah, Executive Director, V-Trans (India), and CEO, V-Xpress (a division of V-Trans India), emphasises the evolving role of last-mile delivery in the fashion logistics industry. As the industry addresses challenges in sustainability and regulatory compliance, last-mile delivery remains crucial in shaping the customer experience. It goes beyond speed, focussing on reliability, transparency, and convenience. Companies are implementing advanced tracking systems, optimising delivery routes, and establishing local hubs to reduce delays. By ensuring seamless and dependable deliveries, businesses aim to exceed customer expectations, build trust, and enhance loyalty. These efforts significantly improve the overall fashion shopping experience, boosting customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
Sustainability challenges
A major sustainability challenge in fashion logistics is balancing speed with environmental impact. The industry’s demand for quick turnaround times often results in higher emissions and waste. Long global supply chains further increase the carbon footprint. Companies are addressing these issues by optimising routes, investing in eco-friendly transportation, and promoting circular logistics practices. These strategies aim to reduce waste, enhance efficiency, and create a more sustainable supply chain, aligning with the industry’s evolving needs while mitigating environmental impact.
Visibility boost
Improving supply chain visibility and collaboration in the fashion industry involves using advanced technology and fostering strong partnerships. Key strategies include employing real-time tracking, IoT, and AI-driven analytics for a unified view of the supply chain. Transparency builds trust among stakeholders, while alliances with suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers enhance collaboration. Bridging gaps with advanced APIs ensures real-time visibility and supports efficient logistics, including reverse logistics and order fulfillment. These efforts make the supply chain more agile, responsive, and efficient, better meeting the industry’s dynamic needs.
Regulatory impact
Evolving government regulations on sustainability, labour practices, and data privacy are transforming the fashion logistics industry. These regulations push for greener logistics solutions, ethical labour practices, and robust data security. Companies are not only meeting legal requirements but also using these changes to enhance operational integrity and build trust. Emphasising driver dignity, safety training, and creating supportive work environments are key strategies to align with these regulations, improving overall industry practices and fostering a more responsible approach.
Budget impact
The Union Budget 2024 has positively impacted the fashion industry by reducing customs duties and streamlining processes. Duties on MDI for spandex yarn have dropped from 7.5% to 5%, and real down filling material duties have decreased from 30% to 10%. The removal of duties on wet white, crust, and finished leather for exports, along with expanded exemptions for textile and leather goods, lowers production costs. Additionally, increased funding for the Ministry of Textiles is set to boost sector growth, employment, and global competitiveness. These measures are anticipated to enhance the fashion industry’s overall competitiveness and operational efficiency.
