Playing the game

摘要

Sony's logistics unit Sony Supply Chain Solutions is revamping its global network to tighten inventories and achieve a dramatically more nimble distribution platform. The first logistics restructuring targeted the US market. Freight spending on domestic US shipments has been trimmed back by USD42 million since fiscal 2000. There have also been substantial gains from cargo loss reductions and lower insurance payments. 'We been very active in logistics innovation in the US by reducing warehouses and increasing cross-docking. We are not the first to do this, but the improvements have been dramatic,' said Makoto Yashiki, representative director and president of the International Logistics Division at Sony Supply Chain Solutions. 'Our main challenge has been to eliminate reliance on inland warehouses. The main gateway is the Carson warehouse near Los Angeles, and we move cargoes by truckload and then cross-docking in a more concentrated hub-and-spoke system,' he added. The logistics executive himself is even impressed with the 30 minutes turnaround to unload a 40ft container into a truck. Then, using team drivers on cross-continental drives, the shipments arrive three days later at a US East Coast distribution point for quick transfer to major retailers.