Industry Leaders Unite to Solve Cost and Security Challenges in South Africa’s Growing Logistics Industry at Last Mile Leaders Event on 17 October

FarEye, an industry leader hosting the Last Mile Leaders (LML) event, is set to take on the most critical challenges facing South Africa’s logistics industry—rising costs and security concerns in last-mile delivery.

With the rapid expansion of e-commerce and retail, the complexity of ensuring timely deliveries to customers’ doorsteps has never been more daunting. The event will gather over 80 industry leaders, including top retailers and logistics giants such as Clicks, DANONE, HomeChoice, Massmart, Pepkor Lifestyle, Pick n Pay, Premier Foods, Woolworths and more, to develop innovative solutions and shape the future of last-mile delivery.

A highlight of the event will be a Fireside Chat with International cricket legend and celebrated coach Gary Kirsten, alongside Kushal Nahata, CEO and co-founder of FarEye. Together they will explore the fascinating intersection of sports and logistics: ‘Every delivery counts—on the field and on the road’, whether delivering a match-winning ball or a package to a customer’s doorstep.

With 20-25 delivery truck hijackings occurring daily, businesses are compelled to invest heavily in security, which drives up operational costs. South Africa’s last-mile delivery expenses are currently 50-100% above the global average. As the country’s e-commerce market is set to double in the next five years, fuelled by global giants like Amazon, Alibaba, Walmart and Shein, solving these challenges has become a critical priority.

LML South Africa: Shaping the future of last mile logistics

Hosted by FarEye, the Last Mile Leaders (LML) South Africa event will bring together over 80 supply chain visionaries to address cost reduction, enhance security, and elevate customer experiences. Through dynamic panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and exclusive networking with industry leaders, this event is set to drive transformative change in last-mile logistics.

The Last Mile Innovation Nexus promises to be a highlight of the event, spotlighting cutting-edge startups revolutionising logistics through AI platforms, drone deliveries, and electric vehicles for a greener, more efficient future. Adding to the excitement, a distinguished panel of expert judges, including leading VCs from Launch Africa, The Delta, and top industry executives, will assess these transformative solutions.

The event will also feature the exclusive launch of the “Eye on the Last Mile 3.0” Industry Report. In partnership with SAPICS, FarEye will launch a comprehensive report that offers in-depth insights into the current state of last-mile logistics in South Africa, emerging technology trends, and sustainability initiatives. This report is expected to serve as a valuable resource for companies looking to navigate the complex landscape of last-mile delivery in the country.

“Last-mile deliveries are a key part of the end-to-end supply chain that can significantly impact customer satisfaction and potentially save lives. Innovation is becoming increasingly critical for businesses to ensure transparency in driving super-fast order fulfilment, cost-efficient transportation methods and keeping the impact on the environment in mind,” says MJ Schoemaker, president of supply chain industry body SAPICS. “The last mile also holds the key to improving patients’ access to quality healthcare and lifesaving medicines. Recognising this, the last mile is an area of supply chain management that has been topping the SAPICS agenda for some time as it strives to elevate, educate and empower the community of supply chain professionals across Africa. We are honoured to have been able to contribute to this important industry report that will help businesses and supply chain professionals to navigate last mile challenges and opportunities.”

Key sessions include Inflation in Logistics on cost pressures, Advent of Global Giants examining the Amazon effect, and Winds of Change exploring new trends. Unlocking Ultra Experiences focuses on customer satisfaction through tech, and Safe Passage will address cargo security. With workshops to match, these sessions are set to transform last-mile operations.

This exclusive, invite-only event takes place on the 17th of October in Johannesburg, South Africa. For more information, visit the official Last Mile Leaders website.

We’re excited for you to be a part of the movement that’s transforming the future of last-mile logistics.

CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za.

Author: Nasreen Badrodien from Tinkwe on behalf of FarEye.