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…

Amazon Vendor Central is a cloud-based inventory management system that allows third-party sellers to upload their products directly to Amazon. Using technology and smart planning is crucial for businesses to expand and connect with more people, and Shawn Oleson, a Retail Insights Manager for Amazon at SupplyPike and former Amazon employee, suggests that before jumping into it, businesses should focus on creating solid plans, organizing data, and using technology to make their operations smoother. In today’s episode, hosts Scott Luton and Greg White welcome Shawn to the show and discuss: The significance of data-driven approaches and understanding retailer-vendor dynamics The challenges businesses face with Amazon Vendor Central, and the need for strategic planning, compliance adherence, and effectively managing claims and fines The evolving nature of e-commerce, the necessity of streamlined processes, and the pivotal role technology plays in adapting to changes in Amazon’s policies The complexity of Amazon’s ecosystem and the importance of having an intermediary or partner with expertise to navigate it successfully SupplyPike’s role in providing software solutions for brands, manufacturers, and consumer packaged goods Listen in and learn more about the various challenges and best practices in managing Amazon Vendor Central, and take away key insights into…