Human-first warehouse solutions with Nicki Benfold, ASDA

In this episode of the Logistics Podcast, Bonnie Cliff chats with Nicki Benfold, Lead Strategic People Partner at Asda, about what really happens when tech shakes up the logistics world. We dive into the human side of automation: how to tackle workforce worries, keep unions on board, and create a culture where people feel safe and heard. Nicki shares down-to-earth tips for balancing slick efficiency with keeping your team happy and motivated. You’ll find out why tech only works if people buy in, how HR can lead the charge, and what skills will matter most as warehouses go high-tech. If you’re driving change or just curious about how humans and automation can work hand-in-hand, this episode is packed with practical insights you’ll actually use.

Solar panels on industrial building rooftops is a no-brainer: 9 in 10 members of the public support it. So, why is it that only 5% of warehouses have installed them? Warehouse owners and operators cite issues such as complex financing models and constantly changing regulations.The UKWA has been instrumental in helping warehouse occupiers navigate these challenges, and, at IMHX 2025, launched their Solar Toolkit. This free resource provides step-by-step instructions for every stage of solar installation, and shines a light on the latest developments in legislation and technology.This episode was recorded live at the Future Zone at IMHX 2025. Guest host Harry Watts of SEC Storage discusses the realities of rooftop solar with Deanna Greenhalgh of SAS Energy and Clare Bottle of the UKWA, including real-world case studies and the best strategies to kick-start your journey to energy independence.Download the free UKWA Solar Tooklkit: https://www.ukwa.org.uk/solar-toolkit-2025/SEC Storage: https://sec-group.co.uk/storage/SAS Energy: https://www.sas-energy.co.uk/

IMHX 2025 opens its doors tomorrow, Tuesday 9 September! Join over 10,000 logistics professionals in discovering the latest technologies and strategies to revolutionise your operations, 9-11 September at the NEC Birmingham. This week, Bonnie interviews Simon Houghton of Geek+. He discusses how businesses can meaningfully integrate AI into their operations, and covers the benefits of warehouse automation for retailers hoping to scale-up their operations.Register for your free ticket to IMHX here.Geek+: https://www.geekplus.com/en/

The countdown to IMHX 2025 has begun! Join over 10,000 logistics professionals in discovering the latest technologies and strategies to revolutionise your operations, 9-11 September at the NEC Birmingham. This week, Bonnie interviews Pranav Verma of SAS Energy. He discusses how adopting solar energy can help businesses meet SDG goals, and the reasons why the upfront costs and ROI may be better than you think.Register for your free ticket to IMHX here.SAS Energy: https://www.sas-energy.co.uk/

The countdown to IMHX 2025 has begun! Join over 10,000 logistics professionals in discovering the latest technologies and strategies to revolutionise your operations, 9-11 September at the NEC Birmingham. This week, guest host Emma Howell, content director at Seatrade Maritime, catches up with the co-founder of Women in Logistics (WiL), Ruth Waring. She explains the origins of WiL and gives her view on how both women and male allies can drive the industry forward through thoughtful networking environments and mentoring exchanges.Register for your free ticket to IMHX here.Women in Logistics: https://www.womeninlogistics.co.uk/

The UK-wide HGV driver shortage has disrupted supply chains, impacted businesses, and highlighted the need for an industry-wide change in attitudes towards employment and retention. This episode introduces Road to Logistics, an organisation linking logistics businesses with hard-working people who are searching for employment.Road to Logistics: https://roadtologistics.org/KBC Logistics: https://kbclogistics.com/IMHX 2025: https://imhx.net/

Recorded in collaboration with Körber Supply Chain Software, this episode explores the concept of gamification and its importance in managing the warehouse workforce. Our guests discuss the basics of gamification, its importance in the warehouse sector, and how it can be used to improve worker satisfaction and retention.Guests:Nick Retzmann, Chief Growth & Product Officer at VaibeAnton du Preez, Executive Vice President Sales Software EMEA, Körber Supply Chain SoftwareMatt Gregory, Managing Director for Northern Europe, Körber Supply Chain Software. Vaibe:https://vaibe.com/Körber:https://www.koerber.com/en/supply-chain

This week we sit down with Saul Resnick, CEO, DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland. He gives us unique insights into how DHL maintained incredible levels of service during disruption caused by coronavirus restrictions. Saul details the benefits of forming strategic partnerships with other supply chain businesses and offers his advice on how to remain committed to ambitious sustainability targets without compromising on operational efficiency.

Following on from last week’s episode about the impact of the conscious consumer on warehouse operations, our panel of experts discusses the opportunities for investment in the latest automation technology. We explore the benefits of robotics solutions, including the role of AI and software in improving efficiency, as well as a look at the potential for warehouses to play a pivotal role in the circular economy. Guests:Kim Baudry, Global Market Development Director, DematicClare Bottle, CEO, UKWADave Berridge, Secretary, AMHSA

Join us for an engaging discussion on the impact of the conscious consumer on the apparel industry. Our guests, all experts on warehousing, will share their insights and expertise on how consumer behaviour is driving change in logistics, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by the growing demand for sustainable and ethical practices, and how companies are adapting to meet the needs of the conscious consumer. Guests:Kim Baudry, Global Market Development Director, DematicClare Bottle, CEO, UKWADave Berridge, Secretary, AMHSA