In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for a conversation on the future of supply chains. Mike explains why reverse logistics and returns management are now critical, how AI-powered demand sensing improves agility, and why organizations must treat reverse supply chains with the same discipline as forward ones. He also shares predictions on AI certification in hiring and the risk of losing soft skills as technology takes on a bigger role. Using football as a lens, Mike highlights resilience from the Buffalo Bills, core focus from the Ravens, and orchestration from the Patriots—lessons supply chain leaders can apply directly. He also previews Gartner’s Planning Summits, where strategy meets hands-on execution. From tackling fraud in returns to preparing talent for an AI-driven future, this episode offers clear takeaways for balancing technology, people, and process.   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 the show: Connect with Mike Griswold Learn more about Gartner Learn more about our hosts Want more Supply Chain Now? We know you can’t…

Early in 2023, the Reverse Logistics Association held its 19th Annual Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was their biggest event yet, with over 350 member companies and over 800 people registered for the event, which featured a pitch competition, awards ceremony, top notch content, and – of course – plenty of networking time. Tony Sciarrotta has been the Executive Director of the Reverse Logistics Association since 2016 and is a return guest and co-host in the Supply Chain Now Reverse Logistics Series. Tony has also held a variety of sales and marketing positions in the consumer electronics industry, including President of Reverse IT Sales & Consulting and 25 years at Philips Consumer Lifestyle. In this classic Supply Chain Now episode, Tony joins host Scott Luton to share his main takeaways from the event and to shine the spotlight on top trends in reverse logistics: • How new software is automating the business decisions about whether each return should be liquidated, resold into the secondary market, or sold via a special business channel • Why he is challenging business leaders to prioritize reverse logistics by appointing someone at the VP or even the C-level to own their management…