DigiKey’s senior director of logistics, DeAnna Alby, guides readers through the rapidly evolving world of logistics and explains how DigiKey is innovating to meet customers’ needs
Over the past decade, the way consumers purchase and receive goods has transformed. What used to be one or two deliveries per month is now several per week and customer expectations around speed, accuracy and visibility have grown in response.
The rise of e-commerce and marketplace platforms has expanded how and where goods are shipped. Products now cross borders more frequently, requiring a more complex and responsive logistics network. That’s the space my team works in every day—ensuring our global deliveries move efficiently, both domestically and internationally.
To meet growing demand, DigiKey has scaled quickly and become more digital. Big data and analytics now drive many decisions, from improving customer service to reducing costs. The company relies on data to guide shipping operations and develop strategies that support a better customer experience.
I’ve been with DigiKey for 29 years and, for the past eight, have focused on logistics. In that time, I’ve worked closely with courier partners and internal teams to develop diverse shipping programs and service options that meet the needs of customers worldwide.
Customer demands always evolve. Today’s buyers expect a localized experience, firm costs at the time of order, no surprise fees at delivery and fast, trackable shipping.
For example, DigiKey recently opened a new distribution center with advanced automation to increase visibility, improve storage efficiency and help optimize capacity. Sensors are used to route product trays for picking, packing and shipping. The system also contributes to energy efficiency by activating lighting only when needed.
Last mile delivery has also seen major improvements. Carrier tools like zone skipping, consolidations and expanded partnerships have improved accuracy and speed. Drone delivery continues to generate interest, but in Northern Minnesota, with variable weather and high volume, trucks and planes remain essential.
Today’s buyers must be well-versed in the full supply chain, from receiving goods and checking components to storage, shipping and tracking. Success also depends on staying informed about global factors—port delays, capacity issues, tariffs and regulatory changes.
Procurement doesn’t operate in isolation. It’s closely tied to inventory management, supply chain visibility and transportation. Buyers need to be organized, tech-savvy and ready to adapt to evolving systems and expectations.
Big data and AI are already helping us forecast demand, optimize delivery routes and reduce costs. Real-time dashboards offer insight into weather, carrier performance and goods in transit. Emerging technologies like RFID, electric vehicles and automation continue to improve transparency, sustainability and security.
As logistics evolves, DigiKey’s focus remains on anticipating needs and aligning strategies with customers, suppliers and carriers to deliver exceptional service—today and in the future.
www.digikey.com
