In today’s distribution landscape, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it’s a business imperative. Distributors are increasingly held accountable not just for speed and accuracy, but also for environmental and social impact. Sequoia Group helps distribution businesses build resilient operations – and today that includes sustainability at its core.
Why Sustainable Distribution Matters
Supply chain sustainability is gaining urgency as businesses face growing regulatory pressures, consumer scrutiny, and climate-related disruptions. For distributors, this means rethinking operations from inbound sourcing to outbound fulfillment. Efficient use of packaging, reducing carbon-intensive logistics, and minimizing waste are now strategic levers that directly impact cost, brand reputation, and operational resilience.
Sequoia Group has long supported reverse logistics optimization through digital transformation initiatives which is an essential pillar for both recycling and sustainable returns strategy. But deeper sustainability goes beyond returns, and involves embedding ESG principles throughout distribution operations.
Four Strategies to Create a Greener Distribution Chain
- Analyze and Optimize Packaging + Transportation
Sustainable packaging reduces material use and improves load efficiencies – helping you lower costs and emissions simultaneously. Transitioning to recyclable, right-sized packaging and routing optimization (supported by a modern WMS like Infor or Tecsys) directly supports green goals while enhancing delivery accuracy. - Source with ESG in Mind
Choosing suppliers who meet environmental and social performance standards (not just cost criteria) is vital. Green Supply Chain Management emphasizes supplier selection based on environmental practices, certifications (e.g. ISO 14001), and transparency throughout the chain. Sequoia advises distributors on how to build these metrics into procurement workflows and vendor scorecards. - Leverage Automation to Cut Waste and Improve Accuracy
Robotics platforms like Locus Robotics help reduce picking errors and extras – which lowers returns and rework. This improves order accuracy while reducing unnecessary transportation and packaging waste. - Track, Report, and Improve
Sustainability is measurable. With the right systems in place, distributors can monitor carbon emissions per shipment, packaging material usage, and reverse logistics rates. A scalable ERP/WMS setup like Infor CloudSuite Distribution or Tecsys enables real-time tracking and dashboards, empowering continuous improvement.
Long-Term Value: Resilience, Reputation, and ROI
Consumers and B2B buyers increasingly prefer partners who align with ESG goals. A transparent and sustainable supply chain attracts new business, fosters loyalty, and helps you lead from a values-based position in your industry.
Moreover, operational waste is expensive: excess returns, inefficient routes, and packaging overhead erode margins. Reducing them benefits both profit and planet.
How Sequoia Group Helps You Take Action
Sequoia Group doesn’t just sell software, we guide distributors across four key areas:
- Technology alignment: We help you evaluate whether Infor, Tecsys, or Locus Robotics best supports a sustainability-focused roadmap.
- Process redesign: We help structure workflows that minimize packaging waste, improve accuracy, and streamline returns.
- Supplier engagement: We advise on ESG-aligned procurement strategies, supplier scorecards, and audit frameworks.
- Data & metrics: We configure systems to track sustainability KPIs – so you can demonstrate impact internally and externally.
It’s Time to Lead with Purpose
Perfect order performance and sustainable operations aren’t in conflict – they’re complimentary. When you reduce waste, improve accuracy, and automate processes, you’re not just checking an ESG box. You’re building a smarter, more resilient business.
If you’re ready to explore how a greener distribution strategy can work for your business, let’s start a conversation.
