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In the constantly changing logistics landscape, few stories are as compelling as that of Deliverzen and its founder, Drew Horner.
From humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the 3PL sector, Drew's journey is a testament to innovation, resilience, and customer-centricity.
We sat down with Drew to understand the driving forces behind DeliverZen and his vision for the future.
Journey from Marketing to Mastering Logistics
Drew's foray into logistics was not conventional. Initially working in marketing and customer service, he experienced firsthand the challenges of misshipments and inventory mishaps. "I started getting more involved with in-house operations in their 40k square foot warehouse," Drew recalls, emphasizing his hands-on approach in learning about pick and pack and inventory control. This deep dive into logistics was the genesis of DeliverZen.
The Vision and Mission of Deliverzen
For Drew, DeliverZen was more than a business venture; it was a mission to revolutionize order fulfillment. "Our mission slowly formed to be 'To deliver the best service in the order fulfillment industry'," he shares. This mission became the guiding principle, driving DeliverZen to focus on excellence in every aspect of its service.
Growth and Achievements: The DeliverZen Way
Under Drew's leadership, DeliverZen has hit remarkable milestones. From a leadership team that transformed operations to a significant jump in order volume, the company has shown impressive growth. "Going from 12k orders a month to averaging 35k orders a month was a tough milestone," Drew states, highlighting the effort and strategy behind this growth. The company has aspirations to continue this growth in 2024 as well.
Staying Ahead: DeliverZen's Unique Business Strategy
Drew's strategy for DeliverZen hinges on two pillars: innovation and customer service. The company has stayed competitive by refining customer service and maintaining lean operations. "Our differentiator is our service," Drew points out, underlining how DeliverZen sets itself apart in a crowded market.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Drew's advice to budding entrepreneurs in the 3PL sector is straightforward and impactful: "Get one customer and serve them outstandingly well!" He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and networking within the industry. Customer retention > customer acquisition.
Embracing the Future: Drew's Outlook on 3PL and Logistics
Looking ahead, Drew is keenly aware of the technological shifts poised to transform logistics. "AI and robotics will take over fulfillment operations," he predicts, stressing the importance of being prepared for these changes. To date, DeliverZen has had huge success leveraging AI platforms such as Rabot.
Personal Insights: Leadership and Work-Life Balance
Drew's leadership philosophy is about serving his team so they can, in turn, serve customers. He also candidly shares his views on work-life balance, remarking, "I regularly audit my time to ensure my Faith, Family, and career are prioritized correctly."
Conclusion
Drew Horner's journey with DeliverZen is a blueprint for success in the 3PL industry. His focus on customer service, innovation, and strategic growth has not only shaped DeliverZen but also provides valuable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in logistics.
