In today’s episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss the imperative of leveraging innovation within the supply chain sector, particularly as it pertains to advancements in warehouse automation. Welcome to The Buzz! Today, hosts Scott Luton and Allison Giddens welcome special guest Kait Peterson, VP of Marketing for Locus Robotics, to the show. Listen as they discuss: The fascinating intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence, which is profoundly shaping the grocery fulfillment landscape Pressing industry challenges, including labor shortages and the necessity for businesses to adopt flexible operational strategies to navigate the tumultuous market environment The importance of leadership within the supply chain domain, and the necessity of cultivating authentic connections in leadership roles Supply chain sustainability, spotlighting Mars’ innovative approaches to cocoa cultivation through gene editing A holistic view of supply chain management that integrates technological innovation with ethical considerations and environmental stewardship Join us for a wealth of insights into the future of supply chain management, underscoring the criticality of adaptability and technological integration in achieving sustained success.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison Giddens, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the…

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Lushentha Naidoo, Managing Director of the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP), for a candid conversation on purpose-driven leadership and the business value of inclusive procurement. Drawing on a 14-year transformation career at Unilever and a personal journey from apartheid-era South Africa to global operations leadership, Lushentha shares how caring as a leadership “superpower” can fuel innovation, save jobs, and build psychologically safe teams. She explains how supplier diversity isn’t charity. It’s a competitive advantage that increases agility, strengthens resilience, and unlocks fresh thinking when disruption hits. She also breaks down how ESDP bridges corporates and diverse suppliers through a fast-growing database, networking events, and the Inclusive Procurement Academy, teaching pitching, storytelling, and “corporate readiness.” From real success stories (mentorship that kept a founder in the fight) to pragmatic guidance for senior leaders doubling down on DEI, this conversation offers actionable takeaways: define the why, build inclusive cultures, and widen the supplier funnel so the best partner wins.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during…