search

As the host of Supply Chain Unfiltered, I have the privilege of speaking with some of the brightest minds influencing and shaping the future of supply chain management. My latest standout conversation was with Conrad Mandala, Executive Vice-President, GTM and Strategic Operations at Kinaxis.

Unlocking New Routes in the Modern Supply Chain

During our dialogue, I pinpointed three pivotal learnings which underscore how new technologies are driving a profound shift in our industry. If you’re a supply chain leader—or aspiring to be one—these are the concepts that will shape your strategy in 2025 and beyond.

1. The Data Explosion: From Overload to Opportunity

One of the most immediate and overwhelming trends Conrad and I discussed is the sheer volume of data supply chain professionals are now dealing with. As he put it, “The biggest change has been ‘How much data?’”—a rhetorical question that captures just how dramatically the landscape has shifted.

But data alone isn’t enough. As Conrad emphasized, the challenge lies not just in accessing data, but in deciphering what’s relevant and actionable. We’re living in a world where supply chain planners, managers, and even leaders are inundated with inputs—from demand forecasts and supplier inventory levels to external geopolitical events and weather disruptions. The key lies in turning this flood into focused insight.

This is where technology, particularly AI, is making a difference. With solutions like supply.ai and demand.ai, Kinaxis is helping organizations sort signals from noise, using advanced algorithms to elevate the information that matters most. As someone who spent years in manufacturing, I know firsthand the pain of discovering too late that a key material shipment was delayed or a supplier had failed to even start production. Today, with solutions such as Kinaxis alongside Nulogy—which provides accurate, real-time external manufacturing data—that’s a problem that is much more preventable than in years past.

In fact, even shaving a few hours off the time it takes to make a decision can lead to millions in savings, as supported by thought leaders such as Lora Cecere of Supply Chain Insights in her 2024 research, “The Value of a Network-Based Approach.”

2. Connected & Concurrent Planning: Breaking Down Silos

Our second discussion theme was the transformative shift from siloed planning to connected and concurrent planning.

I spent the first two decades of my career in manufacturing, often frustrated by how disconnected departments and functions could be. You’d send out a master plan, and days later, someone in procurement would flag a major constraint—one they’d known about for a week. By then, it was too late: the plan was already being executed and changes were expensive or impossible to make, resulting in out of stocks, expedites, or cost overruns.

Connected planning eliminates this friction: it gives everyone—suppliers, planners, procurement, and operations—shared visibility into the same source of truth. As Conrad described, it’s like pulling a string that runs through the entire supply chain. When one part of the chain shifts—like a spike in demand during Black Friday—everyone feels it and can respond together.

Kinaxis takes this concept further with what they call “concurrent planning.” Imagine a circular, responsive planning process instead of a linear one. When demand signals shift, the entire system recalibrates in real time. Now, with Nulogy and Kinaxis working together, we’re extending that agility beyond the enterprise, bringing suppliers, including contract manufacturers and packagers, into the loop.

Together with our advanced planning partners, like Kinaxis, we’re enabling what I call “virtual vertical integration”—giving manufacturers the benefits of an integrated supply chain without owning every piece. It’s all about collaboration, visibility, and interoperability across multiple departments, functions and enterprises.

3. The Rise of the Ecosystem: Supply Chain as a Strategic Engine

The final learning—and perhaps the most transformative—is the realization that supply chain has evolved from a back-office function into a strategic, even existential, driver of business value.

As Conrad put it, “Supply chain is a critical value enabler.” And it’s not just us practitioners saying that—just ask any CEO or CIO. Whether it’s resilience, sustainability, or cost efficiency, the supply chain is now central to the business agenda.

This shift is part of a broader trend towards digital transformation, and I’m thrilled to see supply chain finally at the top of that priority list. It’s not just about using ERP, CRM, or HCM systems anymore. Supply chain is where companies are focusing their energy and investment in new and emerging technologies. Why? Because it impacts everything—from customer experience to environmental footprint.

Moreover, with the right technology, companies can now re-engineer their external ecosystems—not just their internal operations. That means tighter collaboration, smarter contracts, and shared value creation. Instead of squeezing suppliers for cost, companies are engaging in more mutually beneficial relationships, built on data, trust, and performance.

This isn’t theory—it’s happening. At Nulogy, we’re seeing large enterprises finally embrace the need to bring their suppliers along for the journey. It’s a shift from command-and-control to collaborative orchestration. And that mindset unlocks innovation across the network.

Looking Ahead: AI, Agility, and Accelerated Change

As we look to the rest of 2025 and beyond, Conrad shared Kinaxis’ roadmap—one deeply focused on leveraging AI to fuel real-time planning and execution. With new agent-based models and scenario capabilities, companies will gain even more agility to respond to change—not in days or weeks, but in minutes or hours.

Similarly for Nulogy, we have a lot of exciting news in store and we can’t wait to share in the coming months. It’s an exciting time to be in supply chain. We’re not just moving products—we’re moving businesses forward. We’re helping them survive disruptions, tap new markets, reduce waste, and support a more sustainable planet.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one thing I took away from my conversation with Conrad, it’s that we’re standing on the edge of something big. The convergence of data, AI, and ecosystem collaboration is giving us tools we never had before—and with them, the power to build better, smarter, more responsive supply chains.

At Nulogy, we’re proud to be part of this movement. And if you’re looking to evolve your supply chain from a cost center into a competitive advantage, now’s the time to act.

Connect with Christine on LinkedIn and watch past episodes of Supply Chain Unfiltered.

Case Study Colgate-Palmolive See how global CPG brand Colgate-Palmolive leverages Nulogy to drive agility and supply chain excellence across its Customization Partner network. More
Blog Post Become a Penguin: Unlocking First Mover Advantage Through External Supply Chain Synchronization Nulogy’s Christine Barnhart joins Lora Cecere to chat about why supply chain leaders should take the plunge into external supply chain synchronization. More
Stream Livestream: Supply Chain Unfiltered – Episode 13 ft. Matt Steiner Matt Steiner and Christine Barnhart discuss Agility, Digitalization & External Manufacturing at L’Oreal. More
Stream Livestream: Supply Chain Unfiltered – Episode 16 ft. Conrad Mandala Unlocking New Routes in the Modern Supply Chain - Insights from the Executive Vice President of GTM and Strategic Operations at Kinaxis More

April’s changes to minimum wage and National Insurance (NI) are driving even greater interest in digitalisation for manufacturers, contract packers, and logistics providers across the UK. Nulogy, the leading provider of purpose-built software for external manufacturing and contract packing operations, is seeing a surge in interest as businesses seek to offset the financial pressures of wage and national insurance hikes.

The UK government’s changes to both the National Minimum Wage and employer National Insurance contributions, are adding significant pressure to labour-intensive operations, particularly those operating on tight margins. With many unable to pass on costs through pricing, attention has turned to ensuring efficiencies in production and digitalisation is driving opportunities for improvement in many organisations. 

“Certainly, there are some headwinds for all employers at the moment,” said Michael Briggs, Managing Director of Marsden Packaging. “Those that trade on very tight margins are going to struggle if they can’t recover the extra cost through price increases or efficiency gains via automation or digitalisation. With Nulogy’s software for contract packing operations, we had a good year last year, and I am forecasting, despite the cost increases, another one this year.”

Digitalisation is gaining momentum as businesses look to reduce reliance on manual reporting, enhance workflow visibility, and make better use of labour. Real-time monitoring tools and data-driven platforms such as those available from Nulogy allow for tighter labour planning, improved resource allocation, and faster identification of bottlenecks and inefficiencies.

Ian Wright, Managing Director at Prism eLogistics, has recently chosen Nulogy to drive efficiencies and mitigate the impact of recent employment changes, “Labour cost increases hit logistics and fulfilment operations in a particularly hard way because they impact many points in the process, from goods receiving to packing and dispatch,” he said. “With wage and NI rises, we need to be more precise in how we plan and allocate our teams. Without greater visibility across the workflow, it’s easy for labour costs to creep up.”

In response, Nulogy has seen growing adoption of its Shop Floor solution, designed to provide real-time visibility into manual production environments, as well as its Smart Factory platform, which offers comprehensive monitoring for machine-intensive production lines. Together, these solutions help manufacturers, packers, and logistics providers improve efficiency, manage labour costs, and build more resilient operations.

“As the cost of employing people continues to rise, companies are looking for practical, data-driven ways to stay competitive without compromising on quality or service,” said Josephine Coombe, Chief Commercial Officer, Nulogy Europe. “The demand we’re seeing is a direct reflection of how urgent this need has become.”

With labour-intensive businesses under increasing pressure, the case for digitalisation has never been clearer. By embracing platforms that support visibility, agility, and smarter resource use, businesses can not only manage costs but also prepare for long-term resilience and scalability in a shifting economic landscape.

ABOUT NULOGY

Nulogy, a leading supplier of digital supply chain solutions, enables customers and their supplier communities to collaborate on a multi-enterprise platform in order to deliver with excellence to an ever-changing consumer market. 

The Nulogy Multi-Enterprise Supply Chain Business Network Platform optimises upstream supply ecosystems composed of brand manufacturers, contract manufacturers and packers, third party logistics providers, raw material and packaging suppliers to accelerate supply chain responsiveness and collaborate at the speed of today’s market. Nulogy’s Shop Floor solution is the leading software solution for contract packing operations.

For Nulogy sales enquiries please contact:

Josephine Coombe
Chief Commercial Officer, Europe
Tel: +44 (0)7423 753175
Email: josephinec@nulogy.com 

For Nulogy media enquiries please contact:

Simon Wildash or Rhiannon Hopper
Nielsen McAllister 
Tel: +44 (0)1332 293939
Email: info@nmpr.com  

Stream Playlist: Supply Chain Unfiltered with Christine Barnhart Join Nulogy’s Christine Barnhart every 3rd Wednesday for unfiltered conversations that will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving supply chain landscape. More
Webcasts & Webinars Enjoy Nulogy thought leadership, learning sessions, livestreams, workshops and interactive panel discussions virtually. More

Manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to optimize operations, reduce downtime, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). One way to achieve these goals is by leveraging advanced manufacturing solutions such as Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). Smart Factory software such as Nulogy Smart Factory are becoming more essential to a smooth operation. They fill in the gaps, providing a seamless and efficient way to manage manufacturing operations.

  1. Automated Data Collection
  2. Real-Time Factory Floor Visibility
  3. Comprehensive Manufacturing Dashboard
  4. Enhanced Performance Analysis
  5. Streamlined Workflow Management

Understanding the Difference Between MOM, MES, & Smart Factories

To appreciate the unique value Nulogy’s Smart Factory brings to manufacturing, it’s important to understand the distinctions between MOM, MES, and Smart Factories.

Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM)

MOM is a comprehensive approach to managing all aspects of the manufacturing process. It encompasses various functions including planning, scheduling, quality management, and performance analysis. MOM systems provide a holistic view of the manufacturing operations, enabling managers to optimize processes, ensure compliance with regulations, and improve overall productivity. Manufacturers typically integrate these systems with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to align their goals with business objectives.

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)

MES, on the other hand, is more focused on the execution phase of manufacturing. MES solutions monitor and control the production process on the shop floor in real-time. They collect data from machines, operators, and other sources to provide insights into production performance, quality, and efficiency. MES helps in tracking and documenting the transformation of raw materials into finished goods, ensuring that the manufacturing process is efficient, consistent, and meets quality standards.

Smart Factories

While both MOM and MES provide valuable functionalities, there is often a gap between the strategic oversight provided by MOM and the real-time control offered by MES. Both systems are good at PLANNING what should happen but slow to react to events in real-time. This is where smart factories come into play. Nulogy Smart Factory bridges this gap by providing an integrated solution that combines the strategic insights of MOM with the real-time monitoring capabilities of MES.

5 Ways to Maximize MOM with Nulogy

1. Automated Data Collection

Automated data collection is a cornerstone of Nulogy Smart Factory, offering several advantages over traditional manual methods:

a. Elimination of Human Error: Manual data entry is prone to errors, which can lead to inaccurate reports and misguided decisions. Automated data collection ensures that data is accurate and reliable, as it is captured directly from the source without human intervention.

b. Increased Efficiency: By automating the data collection process, manufacturers can save time and resources. This allows employees to focus on more strategic tasks rather than spending time on data entry and validation.

c. Enhanced Data Granularity: Automated systems can capture data at a much finer level of detail. This granular data enables more precise analysis and better insights into manufacturing processes. Areas of improvement are identified that might otherwise be overlooked.

d. Continuous Monitoring: Automated data collection allows for continuous monitoring of manufacturing processes, providing a steady stream of data that can be analyzed in real-time. This helps in quickly identifying and addressing issues as they arise.

2. Real-Time Factory Floor Visibility

Real-time visibility into factory operations is crucial for effective MOM. Nulogy Smart Factory excels in providing this visibility through its advanced monitoring capabilities:

a. Instantaneous Data Access: Nulogy provides real-time access to data from the factory floor. This enables managers to see what is happening at any given moment, allowing for immediate responses to any issues that arise.

b. Proactive Issue Resolution: With real-time data, potential problems can be identified and resolved before they escalate into major issues. This proactive approach helps in minimizing downtime and maintaining smooth operations.

c. Enhanced Decision-Making: Real-time visibility allows for more informed decision-making. Managers can base their decisions on the latest data, ensuring that actions are timely and relevant to current conditions.

d. Improved Communication: Real-time data can be shared across teams, fostering better communication and collaboration. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards common goals.

3. Comprehensive Manufacturing Dashboard

A powerful feature of the Smart Factory Solution is its comprehensive manufacturing dashboard, which consolidates all relevant data into a single, easy-to-use interface:

a. Centralized Data Access: The dashboard provides a centralized location for accessing all manufacturing data. This makes it easy for managers to get a complete overview of operations without having to navigate through multiple systems.

b. Customizable Views: Nulogy’s dashboard can be customized to display the most relevant information for different users. The dashboard can be tailored to meet specific needs such as OEE metrics or cycle times.

c. Actionable Insights: The dashboard not only displays data but also provides actionable insights. By analyzing trends and patterns, the dashboard can highlight areas that require attention and suggest potential improvements.

d. Simplified Reporting: Generating reports is straightforward with Nulogy’s dashboard. Users can easily create and share reports that provide a clear picture of manufacturing performance, helping in strategic planning and performance tracking.

4. Enhanced Performance Analysis

Performance analysis is key to continuous improvement in manufacturing. Nulogy Smart Factory offers robust tools for analyzing performance:

a. Detailed KPI Tracking: Nulogy tracks key performance indicators (KPIs) in real-time, providing detailed insights into various aspects of manufacturing performance. This helps in identifying strengths and weaknesses in the production process.

b. Root Cause Analysis: When issues arise, Nulogy’s analytics tools help in conducting root cause analysis. By understanding the underlying causes of problems, manufacturers can implement targeted solutions that prevent recurrence.

c. Benchmarking and Comparison: Nulogy allows for benchmarking performance against historical data or industry standards. This helps in setting realistic goals and measuring progress over time.

d. Predictive Analytics: Advanced analytics capabilities enable predictive insights, helping manufacturers anticipate potential issues before they occur. This proactive approach ensures that operations run smoothly and efficiently.

5. Streamlined Workflow Management

Effective workflow management is crucial for optimizing manufacturing operations. Nulogy aids in streamlining workflows through:

a. Automated Workflow Execution: Nulogy automates various aspects of workflow execution, ensuring that processes are carried out consistently and efficiently. This reduces the likelihood of errors and increases productivity.

b. Task Prioritization: Nulogy helps in prioritizing tasks based on real-time data and current conditions. This ensures that the most critical tasks are addressed first, optimizing resource allocation and time management.

c. Workflow Optimization: By analyzing data from various processes, Nulogy identifies opportunities for optimizing workflows. This can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and throughput.

d. Integration with Other Systems: Nulogy can integrate with other systems, such as ERP and MES, to provide a seamless flow of information across the entire manufacturing operation. This ensures that all systems are aligned and working towards common objectives.

Staying Competitive in Today’s Manufacturing Environment

Nulogy Smart Factory provides a powerful solution for achieving this goal through automated data collection, real-time factory floor visibility, and a comprehensive manufacturing dashboard. By leveraging these capabilities, manufacturers can enhance performance analysis, streamline workflow management, and ultimately achieve higher levels of efficiency and productivity.

For manufacturing executives and plant managers, investing in a smart factory system like Nulogy is not just about keeping up with the latest technology. It’s about transforming operations, unlocking new levels of performance, and securing a competitive edge in an increasingly demanding market. With Nulogy Smart Factory, the path to operational excellence is clearer, faster, and more attainable than ever before.

Interested in seeing if Nulogy Smart Factory is the right system for your factory? Talk to an expert today!

Industry Food & Beverage Nulogy provides visibility and control over production processes and QA to help companies manage and optimize their operations. More
Smart Factory Reduce downtime and maximize throughput with machine monitoring and automated data capture. More
Cycle Time Calculator Accurate cycle times are vital to optimizing operations. Try Nulogy’s free calculator to see what your current cycle time is. More
Stream Livestream: Supply Chain Unfiltered – Episode 9 ft. Bryan Sapot & Jason Tham Nulogy leadership discuss the game-changing acquisition of Mingo Smart Factory by Nulogy. More

When it comes to optimizing manufacturing operations, especially for automated lines on the factory floor, the most important consideration is using the right tool for the right job. Many manufacturers look to a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) as the first solution to this problem. After all, MES is designed to control, monitor, and track factory floor operations. It’s a tool built for complex manufacturing environments, where the need to track every detail—from raw materials to finished products—requires comprehensive oversight. But for many manufacturers, MES is not the best starting point.

While MES systems are powerful, they are also giant monoliths that require substantial resources, specialized personnel, and significant time to implement and maintain. MES implementations often demand months of effort, large capital investments, and detailed customization to fit unique factory needs. Furthermore, the user experience is often cumbersome, requiring extensive training for employees to fully understand how to operate it.

As a result, while an MES system promises enhanced control and visibility, its complexity may not always offer a proportionate return on investment (ROI), particularly for small to mid-sized manufacturers or those with less complex production needs.

The Misconception: Is MES the Right Place to Start?

The common misconception is that an MES is where manufacturers should begin their journey toward operational excellence. After all, the MES offers advanced features like production scheduling, tracking work-in-progress (WIP), resource management, and real-time data collection. In theory, an MES gives manufacturers total control over every step in the production process. However, for many, this level of control may be unnecessary—or, at least, it may not be the most efficient first step.

Instead of diving into a full-scale MES, manufacturers may benefit more from starting with a simpler solution. MES systems are often standalone platforms, or they can be integrated into Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, adding another layer of complexity. The integration between MES and ERP can streamline processes, but it can also complicate things further for manufacturers who don’t yet have visibility into basic operations. Before committing to an MES, it’s critical to ask: do you really need this?

The Pros and Cons of MES Systems

One of the biggest advantages of an MES is its ability to handle complexity. In industries such as pharmaceuticals, where traceability is critical, MES is often essential. Regulatory compliance in these fields demands minute-level detail about every product’s journey through the factory, making MES indispensable for ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. In these cases, MES delivers real value by reducing errors, ensuring compliance, and optimizing processes.

But for many other industries, MES may be overkill. If your factory floor doesn’t require such a high level of detailed tracking or doesn’t face stringent regulatory requirements, an MES can feel like using a sledgehammer to drive a small nail. Most manufacturers do not need that level of granular visibility or control to achieve significant improvements in efficiency, uptime, and productivity. In fact, even large automotive manufacturers, despite having complex production environments, may find that the level of detail offered by an MES is excessive.

Another issue with MES is that they often try to stretch their functionality beyond what they do well. While MES systems excel at providing a detailed overview of production processes, they are not designed to handle every aspect of manufacturing operations. Over time, manufacturers may attempt to use MES to solve problems it wasn’t intended to address, leading to a system that is bloated and does many things poorly.

Where Manufacturers Should Start Their Optimization Journey

For most manufacturers, the optimization journey begins with a simple request: “I need to understand what’s happening on my factory floor.” This is where many manufacturers mistakenly believe that an MES is the answer. What they actually need is real-time visibility into production processes, machine performance, and key metrics like downtime and cycle time. The goal should be to get immediate insights into what’s working and what isn’t—without the complexity of an MES.

Rather than jumping into an MES, manufacturers should consider starting with a production monitoring system that focuses on providing real-time data, without the complexities and overhead that come with a full-blown MES. This allows manufacturers to gain insight into key areas of the factory floor quickly, make improvements, and build from there. Starting simple enables a continuous improvement mindset where you can think big and move fast.

The Advantages of the Smart Factory Solution

This is where solutions such as Nulogy Smart Factory offer an attractive alternative to a traditional MES. Smart Factory provides core MES functionalities such as real-time production monitoring, data collection, and resource management, but without the overwhelming complexity and cost associated with full-scale MES implementations. Smart Factory allows manufacturers to incrementally implement the tools they need to improve visibility, reduce downtime, and boost capacity—all without over-investing in a system that may ultimately offer diminishing returns.

One of the biggest advantages of Smart Factory is its modular and flexible approach. Manufacturers can start with the most basic functionality—such as tracking downtime, monitoring cycle times, and collecting real-time data from machines—and expand as their needs grow. This incremental approach allows manufacturers to implement a solution quickly and begin seeing ROI almost immediately. Rather than waiting months for an MES to be fully integrated and functional, manufacturers can deploy Nulogy in a matter of days and begin gathering the insights they need to make impactful changes.

Nulogy Smart Factory also embodies the “start simple, think big, move fast” mentality. It gives manufacturers the ability to begin small, solving immediate problems like downtime and bottlenecks, and then build out more advanced features as needed. By focusing on the right tool for the right job, Smart Factory helps manufacturers improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), increase throughput, and optimize factory performance—without the complexity and bloat of an MES.

A New Era of Manufacturing Solutions

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, the old monolithic solutions like MES are being replaced by more agile, modular, and efficient systems that focus on solving specific problems quickly and effectively. Manufacturers no longer need to invest in massive, complex systems just to get real-time insights into their factory floors. Instead, they can use solutions like Nulogy Smart Factory to gain visibility, make improvements, and unlock capacity without being weighed down by unnecessary features and complexity.

So, if you’ve been considering an MES to improve your factory floor operations, it might be time to rethink your approach. Welcome to the new world of manufacturing optimization, where the right tool for the right job means fast implementation, quick insights, and measurable results. Nulogy Smart Factory offers the flexibility and functionality you need to compete in today’s market—without the overhead and complexity of traditional MES systems. See how it works or check out a demo today.

Industry Food & Beverage Nulogy provides visibility and control over production processes and QA to help companies manage and optimize their operations. More
Stream Livestream: Supply Chain Unfiltered – Episode 9 ft. Bryan Sapot & Jason Tham Nulogy leadership discuss the game-changing acquisition of Mingo Smart Factory by Nulogy. More
Smart Factory Reduce downtime and maximize throughput with machine monitoring and automated data capture. More
Cycle Time Calculator Accurate cycle times are vital to optimizing operations. Try Nulogy’s free calculator to see what your current cycle time is. More
Stream Playlist: Supply Chain Unfiltered with Christine Barnhart Join Nulogy’s Christine Barnhart every 3rd Wednesday for unfiltered conversations that will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving supply chain landscape. More
Webcasts & Webinars Enjoy Nulogy thought leadership, learning sessions, livestreams, workshops and interactive panel discussions virtually. More

For the latest episode of Nulogy’s Supply Chain Unfiltered livestream, I was delighted to welcome Thom Campbell, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Capacity LLC, to explore the intersection of technology, collaboration, and value-added logistics. 

As a logistics service provider serving key brand customers through the operation of several facilities across the U.S. and the UK, Capacity has seen business growth and success through a forward-thinking approach to technological adoption, which includes the onboarding of Nulogy’s platform. Their journey to becoming Powered by Nulogy underscores the importance of adaptability, advanced tools, and a willingness to embrace change in a rapidly evolving supply chain landscape.

Below, I share my 3 key takeaways from our insightful discussion. Let’s get started!

1. Value-Added Services Drive Customer Success

Thom emphasized that value-added services are essential to Capacity LLC’s operations. These services, including assembly, packaging, and customization, account for 10% of the company’s business and additionally play a critical role during peak seasons. Thom shared:

“It’s about creating flexibility in situations where it might not have otherwise existed. Many brands rely on us to ensure their products are ready for market quickly and efficiently.”

-Thom Campbell, Capacity LLC

Simply put, the more services Capacity is able to provide to its customers, the more flexibility and efficiency it can provide to their mutual schedules. With increasing complexity in global supply chains, companies such as Capacity can help brands adapt to seasonal demands, meet unique customer needs, and ensure product quality and compliance.


2. The Role of Technology in Streamlining Operations

Capacity’s partnership with Nulogy has transformed how the logistics provider handles assembly and other value-added services. For example, Nulogy’s platform enables them to digitally track and manage bill of materials, quickly update inspection data, and optimize workflows. In Thom’s own words:

“Nulogy is probably the single most important inflection point in the evolution of our value-added services. It has allowed us to scale and deliver efficiency and accuracy that simply wasn’t possible with our paper-based system.”

-Thom Campbell, Capacity LLC

Additionally, Nulogy’s cloud-based solution has improved data visibility, enabling faster quoting, better staffing, and seamless billing processes, delivering greater value to both Capacity and its clients.


3. AI and Robotics: Both Necessary and Overhyped

AI and robotics were recurring themes in our discussion, with Thom highlighting their growing importance in Capacity’s operations. From identifying products with precision to optimizing labor allocation, AI complements human efforts without replacing creativity. Thom noted:

“AI is overhyped and essential. You need to focus on the problems you’re solving rather than the technology itself.”

The company’s experimentation with robotics, particularly for repetitive tasks like sorting and packaging, has led to significant improvements in speed and accuracy, paving the way for scalable solutions during peak demand.


Nulogy’s Role in Capacity LLC’s Success

Nulogy’s platform has not only optimized internal processes but also enhanced client relationships by providing transparency and efficiency. Thom recalled a pivotal moment when Capacity transitioned from paper to digital systems, preventing data loss and ensuring consistent service quality. This shift has empowered Capacity to scale its services, support emerging brands, and deliver on promises even during the busiest periods, such as Black Friday.

By leveraging Nulogy’s tools, Capacity LLC has built a database that supports continuous improvement and sets the foundation for future innovations, including deeper AI integrations.


Tune in for Future Supply Chain Unfiltered Episodes

Thanks to Thom for sharing his time and offering a valuable glimpse into the evolving logistics market and how all partners are incentivized to adapt to an ever-changing landscape. Capacity LLC’s journey highlights the importance of adopting the right technology, fostering a culture of innovation, and focusing on the core needs of clients. 

With tools such as Nulogy and a strategic approach to applying advanced technology such as AI, I believe the folks at Capacity are well-positioned to navigate the challenges of today’s market and continue delivering strategic value to its brand partners.

Thanks for reading today’s summary! Click here to watch the full episode, and be sure to stay tuned for future episodes of Supply Chain Unfiltered.

Industry Food & Beverage Nulogy provides visibility and control over production processes and QA to help companies manage and optimize their operations. More
Case Study Colgate-Palmolive See how global CPG brand Colgate-Palmolive leverages Nulogy to drive agility and supply chain excellence across its Customization Partner network. More
Blog Post Unfiltered Insights: Navigating the Future of Supply Chain with Jason Tham Christine Barnhart is joined by Nulogy Co-Founder and CEO Jason Tham to discuss the evolution of Nulogy and the potential for AI in supply chain. More
Blog Post Become a Penguin: Unlocking First Mover Advantage Through External Supply Chain Synchronization Nulogy’s Christine Barnhart joins Lora Cecere to chat about why supply chain leaders should take the plunge into external supply chain synchronization. More
Stream Playlist: Supply Chain Unfiltered with Christine Barnhart Join Nulogy’s Christine Barnhart every 3rd Wednesday for unfiltered conversations that will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving supply chain landscape. More
Webcasts & Webinars Enjoy Nulogy thought leadership, learning sessions, livestreams, workshops and interactive panel discussions virtually. More
Stream Playlist: Supply Chain Unfiltered with Christine Barnhart Join Nulogy’s Christine Barnhart every 3rd Wednesday for unfiltered conversations that will empower you to navigate the ever-evolving supply chain landscape. More
Webcasts & Webinars Enjoy Nulogy thought leadership, learning sessions, livestreams, workshops and interactive panel discussions virtually. More