Challenges & Changing Role of Modern Retail, Wholesale, and E-Commerce Channels in FMCG Retailing

On October 13, SDSB hosted a panel discussion on "Challenges & Changing Role of Modern Retail, Wholesale, and E-Commerce Channels in FMCG Retailing." The panel was an assembly of industry luminaries from the FMCG sector, offering invaluable insights into the industry's response to hyperinflation in the modern era.

Moderated by Qaiser Raza Sheikh, an adjunct faculty member at SDSB, the panel had an impressive lineup, including Marek Minkiewicz, CEO & Managing Director of METRO Pakistan Pvt. Limited; Saad M. Khan, Senior Director of Franchise, Trade Marketing & Key Accounts at Pepsi Pakistan; Syed Muhammad Ali, Sales Director at Reckitt Benckiser; Shamyle Javed, Head of Commercial Development Team at Nestlé Pakistan; Haroon Saleem, Head of Activations, Trade Marketing & Distribution at British American Tobacco; and Khurram Javaid, Chief Commercial Officer at Fauji Foods.

The discussion revolved around key themes of adaptability, customer-centric strategies, and technology-driven growth. Within the beverage industry, they underscored the pivotal role of brand loyalty and innovation in maintaining market dominance. For consumer health and hygiene, the focus was on the critical factors of quality maintenance, accessibility, and affordability in turbulent economic times.

Furthermore, the panel delved into the dairy industry's challenges, which encompassed dealing with inflation, supply chain disruptions, and shifting consumer preferences. The insights drawn from the FMCG sector emphasized the paramount importance of cultivating and safeguarding customer trust and brand integrity in the face of economic uncertainty. The significance of an agile distribution network and effective marketing strategies was also emphasized for upholding brand presence amid economic uncertainties in the tobacco industry.

The panel's discussion transcended the conventional boundaries of business, delving into topics such as sustainability, innovation, and the role of digital transformation in FMCG. In a time when hyperinflation challenges every facet of the industry, these experts explained the path forward, highlighting the importance of adaptability, innovation, and a customer-centric approach.

As the discussion drew to a close, tokens of appreciation were presented to the panellists. This event was a testament to LUMS-SDSB's commitment to experiential learning, where industry experts are invited to share their real-world experiences with students, bridging the gap between academia and the corporate world.