We outline the market outlook for microfulfillment in the retail industry — from investment trends and leading companies to recommendations for the players in the space.
What is microfulfillment?
Microfulfillment centers (MFCs) are small fulfillment centers, often located in “dark” warehouses or within stores themselves, that help retailers more quickly fulfill buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) or delivery orders. Many of these microfulfillment options use robotics to automate order picking and preparation. Currently, MFCs are most efficient with consumer packaged goods, which tend to be relatively uniformly shaped and durable, making them easier for robots to handle.
Features & capabilities
Microfulfillment provides retailers with several capabilities, including the following:
- Online learning management system
- eGrocery management solutions
- Customizable text communication
- Stock keeping unit level demand forecasting
- Intelligent order management
Benefits
Microfulfillment companies offer these substantial benefits to retailers:
- Improved revenue per store
- Increased delivery speed
- Increased repeat purchase rate
- Reduced costs of online grocery fulfillment
- Reduced need for labor
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