Warehouse worker retention is an area that’s become increasingly fractious in recent years, as the COVID-19 pandemic threw the entire supply chain into a state of gridlock and upheaval, and factors including a labor shortage and bogged-down channels in the Suez Canal and elsewhere have made everyone familiar with the concept of shortages of products that were once thought to be in unlimited supply.

And, while the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are slowing, the looming economic recession, high inflation rates and labor shortages across the U.S. represent just a few challenges that could continue to make warehouse worker retention a challenge well into 2023 and perhaps beyond.

The growing dominance of the omnichannel supply chain requires a more flexible and efficient approach to order picking.

Supply chains need to look at technologies that can impact efficiency and productivity across multiple functions and tasks. One often-overlooked technology is wireless network connectivity.

Vacancy rates are ticking up, but the increases have been slim, and space in big markets remains scarce.

As warehouse workers race to meet ever rising shipping targets, reports of accidents, repetitive stress injuries, and debilitating muscle and joint conditions are skyrocketing.

Recent survey reveals investing in workplace safety technology is critical for employers’ ability to recruit, train and retain a workforce.

The growth of e-commerce orders is creating a challenge for retailers, brands and distributors that operate legacy warehouse systems designed for a wholesale/distribution or replenishment model.

COVID-19 triggered a radical transformation of the workforce across all industries, but the impact on the supply chain sector has been especially acute.

Following are the top challenges that warehouses and distribution centers face in the e-commerce and retail sector.