Six-Second Wins: Designing Waste Out of Supply Chains with Intelligent Automation
In this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I had a cracking chat with René Schrama, Chief Commercial Officer at Peak Technologies. We dug into the evolving landscape of supply chain automation and what it truly means to “leverage automation intelligently” today.
René shared how supply chain leaders are moving beyond full-scale automation projects and instead focusing on targeted improvements that actually matter. We explored why finding even six seconds to save in a warehouse process can add up to real gains, and how the Kaizen approach remains a solid guiding principle for continuous improvement.
We didn’t shy away from the challenges, either. René highlighted the impact of geopolitical disruptions like tariffs and shifting trade policies, and why adapting supply chain strategies has become more critical than ever.
A big takeaway for me? Automation isn’t about replacing people, it’s about striking the right balance between human creativity and machine precision. We also discussed the importance of designing out waste, re-harvesting resources, and why open systems, not closed silos, are key to future-proofing operations.
If you’re in supply chain, sustainability, or digital transformation, this one’s worth a listen. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts, or on my website at https://www.sustainablesupplychainpodcast.com/
#SupplyChain #Sustainability #Automation #Kaizen #IntelligentAutomation #Podcast
Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.
Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.
Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.
Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.
Act today. Influence the future.
Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev
Podcast supporters
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.
Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:
If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!
Finally
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.
If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it.
Thanks for listening.
Sustainable Supply Chain
Welcome to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, hosted by Tom Raftery, a seasoned expert at the intersection of technology and sustainability. This podcast is an evolution of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, now with a laser-focused mission: exploring and promoting tech-led sustainability solutions in supply chains across the globe.
Every Monday at 7 am CET, join us for insightful and organic conversations that blend professionalism with an informal, enjoyable tone. We don't script our episodes; instead, we delve into spontaneous, meaningful dialogues about significant topics, always with a touch of fun.
Our guests are a diverse mix of influencers in the field - from founders and CxOs of pioneering solution providers to thought leaders and supply chain executives who have successfully implemented sustainability initiatives. Their stories, insights, and experiences are shaping the future of sustainable supply chains.
While the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast addresses critical and complex issues, we aim to keep the discussions accessible, engaging, and, most importantly, actionable. It's a podcast that caters to a global audience, reflecting the universal importance of sustainability in today’s interconnected world.
We are always eager to hear from our listeners. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable to us, helping shape the podcast into a platform that truly resonates with its audience. Feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on social media to share your thoughts, ideas, or just to say hello.
Subscribe to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast and be a part of this crucial conversation. Together, let's explore how technology and innovation can lead the charge in creating more sustainable, responsible, and efficient supply chains for a better tomorrow.
- No. of episodes: 456
- Latest episode: 2025-06-30
- Business Technology
Where can you listen?
