Message From The President

by Gailen Vick, Reverse Logistics Association

Reverse Logistics Magazine, Edition 14

Getting Back to Basics

In our last issue of Reverse Logistics Magazine, I expressed my concern about some companies not taking advantage of deploying “cash saving Reverse Logistics processes.” I hope that many of you took me to heart and had an “internal discussion on how to make changes at your company, fast.”

This month’s edition is focused on the basics of Reverse Logistics. I hope that you will enjoy reading our feature article by Carolina Logistics Services. This article could help make the difference between red or black to your bottom line. graph_hand

Here we are two months since our last publication and the economics couldn’t be worst around the world, just look at what is happening in China and the United States. Yet some companies are reporting record profits. Why is there such a chasm between similarly managed companies? Geoffrey Moore’s book, Crossing the Chasm, focuses on the specifics of marketing for adoption lifecycle in five main segments; innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority and laggards. So when it comes to your Reverse Logistics process, in which segment would you place your company, innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority and laggards? Take the time to grade yourself; it could make the difference in red or Gold at the end of the year.

I stated last month that, “Now is the time for 3PSPs to ramp up marketing efforts to increase visibility and gain attention of the manufacturers and retailers. Now is the time for 3PSPs Third Party Service Providers to ramp up, not slow down. Many OEMs will be looking for partners to help them solve their financial problems. Now is the time for companies in the 3PSP arena to get aggressive; now is the time to put forth full blown marketing effort and show OEMs and Retailers the cost savings that they are looking for. OEMs and Retailers are looking for solutions; please help them meet their financial missions.”

There are so many opportunities sitting right in front of each of us, just look around and try to help your clients and vendors.

Gailen Vick
President.
ReverseLogisticsAssociation.org
RLAShows.com