Workforce agility in the warehouse: Lessons from the American Supply Chain Summit

Dallas, TX — At the 2025 American Supply Chain Summit, logistics leaders, warehouse operators and tech innovators gathered to tackle a common challenge: how can modern supply chains adapt to ongoing disruption, shifting demand, and growing labor pressures?

For those of us in workforce management (WFM) — especially in warehousing — the takeaway was loud and clear: efficient scheduling and connected systems are no longer optional. They're a competitive necessity. 

Efficiency over glamour: Warehouses that put the customer first

One keynote speaker, a senior executive at a major U.S. retailer, described a mindset shift underway in their organization: moving away from measuring what they thought mattered, and instead focusing on what the customer values most.

Their warehouse operations may not be glamorous, but they're designed for speed, accuracy, and scale. Aligning labor, deliveries, and product flow has become the backbone of on-time, in-stock, customer-focused operations. 

For workforce management, the message is critical: efficient warehouses aren't just storage hubs — they're enablers of seamless delivery, swift restocking and downstream efficiency in stores. 

Timing is everything: Syncing schedules and deliveries 

Another standout insight was the importance of aligning warehouse schedules with store operations. Stores plan their teams around expected deliveries, so late shipments don't just cause inventory gaps — they waste labor hours, disrupt workflows, and dent team morale.

Warehouses need WFM systems that integrate tightly with delivery and logistics tools. Platforms like Quinyx help managers anticipate where and when labor is needed, cut idle time, and ensure every shift drives real value.

Smarter deliveries, smarter schedules

Innovative supply chain teams shared how they're rethinking delivery organization — packing shipments in ways that speed up unpacking and floor placement. This small shift delivers big impact: frontline teams work faster, shelves are restocked sooner, and customers get a smoother experience. 

But these innovations only pay off if scheduling tools can keep pace. Warehouses need intelligent solutions that adjust shifts in real time, based on throughput and productivity needs. 

Why connected warehouses win in turbulent times

With demand swings, lean inventories, and rising global complexity, warehouse operations face relentless pressure. Siloed systems — where scheduling, inventory, and logistics tools operate separately — can't keep up. 

The answer? Integration.

By connecting WFM platforms like Quinyx with warehouse management and logistics systems, operations gain the agility to adjust labor in real time. Whether demand spikes or drops, integrated systems allow warehouses to reallocate labor, minimize downtime, and stay aligned with business needs. 

This level of agility doesn't just improve warehouse efficiency — it protects the customer experience by keeping shelves stocked, deliveries flowing, and teams properly supported. 

Still struggling to optimize? You're not alone

Many summit attendees openly admitted they're still grappling with labor forecasting and lack the tools to schedule productively. This matches what Quinyx's own State of the Frontline Workforce Report found:

• 50% of frontline workers have considered quitting in the past year.
• 66% report feeling stressed at work — up 5% from the prior year.

Stress, poor scheduling, and weak communication are major turnover drivers. Warehouses can't afford to ignore the cost of disengaged teams.

Modern WFM solutions can ease the burden by simplifying shift swaps, improving communication, and aligning schedules with real demand. Another proven retention strategy? Promoting from within. Several summit speakers emphasized the long-term value of identifying and developing high-potential frontline employees into supervisory roles. 

This approach not only reduces hiring costs and preserves institutional knowledge — it also gives staff a reason to stay and grow. Workforce management platforms that enable communication and employee engagement can support internal mobility programs, helping business build stronger teams from the inside out.

Navigating labor shortages, inflation, and global uncertainty

Inflation, labor shortages and geopolitical shifts are all reshaping supply chain operations. Warehouses are under pressure to do more with less: streamline costs, retain talent, and stay operational even as margins tighten.

Flexible, intelligent scheduling tools are no longer just about efficiency — they're a form of risk mitigation. Platforms like Quinyx enable managers to cross-train employees, adjust staffing quickly, and adapt to workflow changes, creating a buffer against disruption. 

Forward-looking companies are using this moment to create leaner, more agile operations. Automation and workforce optimization aren't just cost-saving strategies — they're investments in supply chain resilience and responsiveness.

The bottom line: People power the supply chain

While AI, robotics, and automation were big topics at the summit, the real story was about people. The warehouse workforce remains the backbone of the supply chain — and the tools we provide them matter. 

By investing in smart scheduling, seamless communication, and real-time labor optimization, warehouses can reduce turnover, improve performance, and deliver a stronger customer experience. 

Ready to tackle your workforce challenges?

Warehouses today face more pressure than ever: unpredictable demand, labor shortages, and operational complexity. At Quinyx, we help businesses meet these challenges head-on with smarter scheduling, real-time labor insights, and tools that empower your frontline teams. 

Want to see it in action? Our low-risk pilot makes it easy to test Quinyx in one or more locations before scaling across your network. 

Connect with a Quinyx expert today to explore how we can help you boost efficiency, reduce stress, and build a stronger, more resilient workforce.