Asset Tracking for Large-Scale Retail Distribution

Monitoring and Managing Mobile Assets

Efficient asset management is a crucial challenge for companies operating in the Large-Scale Retail Distribution (GDO). Each year, it is estimated that between 5% and 10% of roll containers used within the logistics chain are lost or stolen, with percentages varying significantly based on the quality of monitoring and management systems adopted. This phenomenon leads to significant economic losses, considering that the cost of a single roll container can range between €70 and €150, depending on the material used and structural strength.

The same issue is found in the management of other fundamental assets such as pallets and transported goods, further amplifying company losses. These inconveniences not only negatively impact company budgets but also represent an obstacle to the optimization of logistics processes.

Asset traceability is an indispensable solution to address these critical issues. It allows for real-time monitoring and management of mobile assets, such as roll containers, pallets, and goods, along the entire supply chain. Implementing an advanced traceability system means not only reducing losses but also improving operational efficiency, optimizing logistics flows, and ensuring sustainable asset management.

Adopting innovative solutions for logistics traceability is therefore a fundamental step for companies that want to remain competitive, reduce operational costs, and offer increasingly efficient and reliable service. Discover how to implement the best technologies for asset control and management in your GDO company and transform critical issues into strategic advantages.

Objectives for Large-Scale Retail Distribution (GDO)

1. Operational Efficiency

Helps ensure that stocks are always available where needed, reducing downtime and improving inventory management.

2. Loss Reduction

Traceability reduces the risk of asset loss or theft, a common issue in the GDO sector.

3. Visibility

Provides managers with a detailed and up-to-date view of asset locations at any time.

Competence Areas for IoT-Based Traceability in GDO

The integration of IoT technologies in GDO traceability is revolutionizing asset and logistics process management. Thanks to smart devices like sensors, beacons, and RFID tags, it’s possible to monitor in real-time the movement and status of roll containers, pallets, and goods along the entire supply chain. The main areas of competence include inventory control, shipment optimization, and loss management. These advanced solutions ensure greater transparency, reduced operational costs, and a significant improvement in business efficiency.

Competence Areas

  • Identification and Tracking of Roll Containers
    • Various technologies available, including detection antennas and gateways.
  • Identification and Tracking of Pallets

  • Electronic Security Seals

Challenges and Solutions for Traceability in GDO

Main Challenges for GDO

  • Identifying initial implementation costs of technologies.
  • Need for integration with existing systems (ERP, WMS).
  • Resistance to change from staff.

Main Challenges for GDO

  • RFID and IoT: Implement RFID tags and IoT sensors for real-time monitoring.
  • Blockchain: Ensure transparency and security in asset data flow.
  • Advanced Software Platforms: Use analytics tools to optimize asset rotation and prevent losses.
  • Staff Training: Educate operators on technologies and new procedures.

The Elision team can provide a customized and targeted project to cover all GDO needs, offering tailor-made solutions for every requirement.