It has been said that the best way to test a system is to observe it during its most
stressful periods. When it comes to forward logistics, we witnessed the agility and
adaptability of supply chains throughout the early- and later-stage of the
pandemic. Early on, businesses struggled to provide alternative purchasing options
and distribution bandwidths were stretched thin. Weeks and months later, retailers
pivoted to or strengthened their online platforms while logistics firms increased the
capacities and delivery times of their networks. These necessary adjustments allowed us
to safely operate within the constraints of social distancing and health protocols.
However, as we come out of those uncertain times, we see an emerging trend that is not
only posing challenges to the bottom-lines of retailers but also affecting long-term
sustainability. What was once considered a periodic phenomenon during Holiday
shopping seasons has become a year-round issue. Increases in transportation costs,
product depreciation, product waste, crowded warehouses, and growing landfills are
but a few of its effects.
The problem: the return of goods.
Managing High Consumer Expectations
Brick-and-mortar retailers, while less convenient than online shopping, offer the ability
to see, touch, and try on dozens of items to ensure the best fit, size, and appearance.
With consumers avoiding physical locations, many have gotten into the habit of
purchasing ‘try on’ items with the intention of returning items they don’t like.
Research firm Statista estimates that between 15% to 30% of online purchases are
returned, a figure 2 to 3 times higher than items bought in-store.
And in an age where consumers expect same- or next-day delivery, as well as the ability
to return items at no-cost, retailers need to factor in a positive and risk-free buying
experience into their business models.
What are Reverse Logistics?
According to Wikipedia, “reverse logistics is for all operations related to the reuse of
products and materials. It is the process of moving goods from their typical final
destination for the purpose of capturing value, or proper disposal. Remanufacturing
and refurbishing activities also may be included in the definition of reverse logistics.”
Reverse Logistics firm Optoro estimates that:
Retailers require 4-7x more space during peak periods;
Online returns are 3x higher than brick-and-mortar returns;
$428B worth of inventory was returned in 2020;
5.8B lbs of returns ended up in landfills;
16M metric tons of CO2 emitted from transportation of returns;
E-commerce returns produce 14% more landfill waste than brick-and-mortar returns.
And when leveraging a reverse logistics solution:
4.68M lbs of carbon emissions prevented by reducing transportation and increasing
efficiency in the reverse supply chain
$3.23M of inventory donated to those in need; and
3.21M lbs of waste diverted from landfills by giving retailers solutions to manage and
resell inventory.
The Effects of Reverse Logistics on Commercial Space
For Retailers or 3PLs:
Short-term overflow space demand;
Need for long-term, strategically-located warehousing;
Demand for Class A space to fulfill forward logistics; and
Use of Class B space to process returns and reselling/recommerce.
For Landlord or Investors:
Increased general demand for industrial space;
Lower vacancies in Class B space;
Growing ecosystem and industry of returns processing;
Demand for Class A space built-to-suit or on spec;
Summary
Reverse logistics has emerged as a key process to recapture margin and
revenues through the reselling of inventory while, at the same time, providing a superior
experience to customers.
However, as e-commerce sales continue to grow, so does the issue of returned items.
Moving forward, retailers will need to look for elegant solutions that can solve for the
increases in transportation costs, product depreciation, and already-stressed supply
chains.
One thing is for certain, though. No matter where goods are bought, sold, returned, or
re-routed through distribution networks, demand for industrial real estate will continue
to strengthen.
Overall, a range of Tenants in the retailing, distribution, and logistics industries will be
looking to bolster their supply chains through their real estate portfolios while
Landlords and Investors continue to seek sound opportunities in which to invest.
Given the already historically-low vacancy rates in the Greater Toronto Area industrial
market, finding a warehouse or distribution facility to achieve these goals may
take several months or even years. Proactively staying in contact with a commercial real
estate agent can help you stay ready should the need or opportunity arise.
If you would like guidance on applying this strategy, or for an expert opinion on your
current situation, please contact us.
Let’s Connect:
MARK CASCAGNETTE,SIOR*
President, Managing Partner
markcas@lee-associates.com
D. 416-628-8146
LUIS ALMEIDA, SIOR*
Senior Vice President, Partner
lalmeida@lee-associates.com
D. 416-628-8151
Visit Leetoronto.com for more.
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