As supply chains grow more complex and technology led, companies are prioritising visibility, resilience, and sustainability across operations. At Canon India, this evolution is anchored in data-driven planning, long-term partner ecosystems, and the steady adoption of technologies such as AI, IoT, and automation.
In this conversation, Ashutosh Varshney, Senior Director, Supply Chain Management & General Affairs Division, Canon India, shares how Canon is strengthening demand forecasting, enhancing real-time visibility, and securing its digital backbone, while building a responsive, future-ready supply chain. Read on for exclusive excerpts.
Predictive analytics has become central to modern supply chains; how does Canon use data to plan product demand and manage inventory better?
At Canon, our data-driven approach is central to how we anticipate market needs, optimize inventory, and deliver customer value efficiently. We monitor critical KPIs such as delivery timelines, inventory levels, and supply chain disruptions through advanced analytics. Key systems like the Integrated Information System (IIS) and Electronic Data Interchange System (EDIS) enable seamless data exchange with suppliers, improving order management and delivery tracking. Additionally, Canon also collaborates with logistics partners using IoT sensors, vehicle telematics, and automation to ensure better coordination and faster response rates. Leveraging technologies such as AI, ML, Big Data, and IoT, Canon has enhanced transparency, real-time tracking, and demand forecasting.
Moving forward, automation and data analysis will continue to play a vital role in ensuring efficient inventory management, better demand forecasting, Canon will continue to evolve its supply chain strategy, with a focus on leveraging smart technologies to drive accuracy, and customer-centricity, that supports scalable growth and operational excellence.
Could you share some insights of a successful partnership with logistics players or tech partners that significantly enhanced Canon’s supply chain visibility?
Canon strongly believes in building long term, sustainable partnerships. Most of our partners, who support us in areas such as general trade warehousing, packaging, and distribution, have been associated with Canon for many years. These enduring collaborations have strengthened our supply chain and enabled us to deliver customer delight across geographies.
With the rising emphasis on sustainability, how is Canon making its supply chain more eco-friendly? Would you like to highlight some initiatives or energy efficient operations that Canon has taken forward.
At Canon, sustainability is a key priority in our logistics operations. We have introduced paperless workflows across multiple functions, and all our material handling equipment (MHE) operates on battery power to reduce carbon emissions. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible practices across our supply chain.
This is an abridged version of the interview published in the April edition of the Logistics Insider Magazine. To read the complete interaction, click here.
