Digital Transformation & Last-Mile Logistics with Mike Robinson

In this episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins sit down with Mike Robinson, a seasoned retail executive, board member, and startup advisor with over 30 years of experience in consumer products, digital transformation, and logistics.

Mike shares key insights from his career, including how he helped scale Macy’s online business from $700M to $7B, and his ongoing efforts to optimize last-mile logistics through his company, The Eighth Notch. He discusses how retail and e-commerce have evolved, emphasizing that traditional last-mile delivery models are inefficient and need synchronization and consolidation to reduce costs and environmental impact.

A major theme in the conversation is rethinking last-mile delivery. Mike explains how consumer expectations—shaped by Amazon—have forced retailers to focus on speed, often at the cost of efficiency and sustainability. The discussion also explores emerging technologies like micro-fulfillment centers, autonomous vehicles, and drone deliveries, as well as new approaches to food and ride-sharing logistics that could improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Mike also shares his perspective on transitioning from operational roles to advisory positions, highlighting the power of asking the right questions rather than always having the answers.

Key Takeaways:

1. Retail & E-Commerce Evolution – Success in e-commerce stems from timing, investment strategy, and consumer behavior insights, not just technology.

2. Logistics as a Differentiator – Speed is not the only priority; convenience, synchronization, and traceabilityare just as critical for customer satisfaction.

3. Solving Last-Mile Inefficiencies – The Eighth Notch focuses on consolidating deliveries to reduce redundant stops, lower costs, and cut carbon emissions.

4. The Role of Micro-Fulfillment Centers – Stores can act as inventory hubs, integrating with autonomous vehicles and drones for more efficient last-mile solutions.

5. The Future of Rideshare & Delivery Models – Logistics innovation could incentivize commuters to act as couriers, reducing delivery costs and environmental impact.

6. Amazon’s Influence on Consumer Expectations – Many retailers blindly chase Amazon’s speed model, but the future lies in coordinated, sustainable deliveries.

7. Sustainability as a Business Advantage – Companies should focus on operational efficiency that naturally reduces waste and carbon footprints, rather than just meeting government mandates.

8. The Shift to Advisory Roles – Mike’s transition to advising has reinforced the importance of guiding companies by asking the right questions rather than dictating solutions.

This episode provides valuable insights for retailers, logistics professionals, and entrepreneurs looking to innovate within last-mile logistics while balancing efficiency, sustainability, and customer expectations.

LinkedIn: Mike Robinson

LinkedIn: T8N

T8N Website

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