The Unsung Heroes of Black Friday: How Ofload and Logistics Tech Power Australia’s Biggest Shopping Month

‍Sydney, Australia – November 29, 2024 – Black Friday has evolved from a single day event into "Black November," overtaking December as Australia’s biggest shopping month. 

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This shopping phenomenon, expected to drive $6.7 billion in sales in just four days, owes its success to innovations in logistics and transport technology. 

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At the forefront of this transformation is Ofload, Australia’s leading digital freight platform, ensuring supply chains keep up with unprecedented demand.

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Without advancements like milestone tracking, route optimisation, and digital capacity management, the logistics sector would struggle to meet consumer expectations for faster deliveries and seamless service. 

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Here’s how Ofload (and others) is supporting Australia through a record-breaking Black November:

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Black November Boom

Black Friday is no longer confined to a single day. November’s shopping frenzy has overtaken December as the country’s busiest retail period, with sales projected to grow by 5.5% this year. Ofload’s platform has seen a corresponding surge in shipping activity, with Black Friday-related shipments up:

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• 32% compared to previous months.
• 47% compared to last year’s Black Friday event.
• Retailers, including top brands like H&M and other leading names, are leveraging Ofload’s technology to prepare for this unparalleled shopping demand.

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Beyond retail: FMCG joins the party

While Black Friday started as a retail event, it has expanded into categories like fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), including beverages and household goods. These sectors are now running significant Black Friday promotions, driving even greater logistics demand.

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Tech to the rescue

Meeting the surging demand of Black November requires cutting-edge technology:

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Digital transformation - Until recently, Australia’s logistics industry relied on analogue processes, like booking shipments by phone. Ofload’s platform has revolutionised these practices, enabling businesses to streamline operations and meet peak-season demands with confidence.

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Real-time tracking and route optimisation - These tools ensure efficient, responsive logistics despite unplanned demand spikes.

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“Logistics is the backbone of Black November,” said Geoffroy Henry, CEO of Ofload. “Without smarter, tech-enabled solutions, supply chains couldn’t handle the immense volume and speed consumers now expect.”

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Addressing the carbon impact

The environmental cost of Black November is significant. With articulated trucks producing 50 times more CO2 than a family car, the surge in logistics activity poses a serious emissions challenge. 

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Ofload’s Carbon Analytics Platform (CAP) is helping businesses mitigate this impact:

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• Significant reduction in emissions - Insights from CAP have enabled companies to optimise freight routes, consolidate shipments, and collaborate across sectors, achieving significant emissions reductions.
• For instance, an alcohol brand reduced emissions by 20% by combining orders with a competitor. Similarly, a collaboration between an alcohol and a paper company resulted in 25% fewer trucks on key routes, cutting emissions and costs alike.

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The future of smarter logistics

As Australia’s leading digital freight platform, Ofload connects retailers and FMCG brands with small and medium-sized carriers, ensuring every journey is efficient and sustainable. The platform helps reduce waste, slash emissions, and support the nation’s $66 billion road freight industry.

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“Black November highlights the critical role of technology in logistics,” added Henry. “By leveraging data and insights, Ofload is not only keeping the supply chain moving but also building a more sustainable future for the industry.”

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ENDS

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About Ofload

Ofload is Australia’s leading digital freight provider, transforming logistics through technology. With a nationwide network of carriers, Ofload helps businesses achieve efficient, flexible, and sustainable supply chains. Its Carbon Analytics Platform empowers customers to reduce emissions while meeting the demands of modern commerce.

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