India's logistics industry, a vital component of its flourishing economy, is entering an epoch of profound change. Traditionally, logistics providers moved goods through bulk operations and manual methods. However, they are facing unprecedented pressure today, with skyrocketing e-commerce and rapid urbanization. In this fast-running market, operational efficiency and flawless omnichannel delivery stand as pivotal keys to success.
In this episode of the Analytics Insight Podcast, host Priya Dialani speaks with Ajay Rao, founder and CEO of Emiza, about how AI and automation are reshaping order fulfillment, warehouse management, and delivery across India.
Priya opens the discussion, highlighting the major roadblocks distributors face: complex multi-channel operations, unpredictable demand, and customers seeking faster and more reliable service. Ajay Rao agrees and points out that traditional and manual approaches alone cannot keep up in a world shaped by quick commerce and digital-first brands.
Emiza’s answer is a plug-and-play logistics platform designed to empower India’s small and medium consumer brands. Emiza, with its integrated warehousing, fulfillment, and delivery services, allows brands to expand through channels such as Amazon, Flipkart, and their own websites without a big capital investment.
Ajay Rao defines three critical pillars for success in India’s evolving logistics sector:
Hardware & Software Automation: Modern logistics rely on some form of automation. For example, conveyors and automated sortation systems organize parcels at scale, and software such as warehouse management systems (WMS) and warehouse control systems (WCS) provides flow, storage optimization, and coordinates all processes from picking to packing.
AI-Driven Inventory and Forecasting: AI is reforming how logistics companies make decisions. Traditional forecasts relied solely on sales history; AI engines now create new patterns in demand based on social trends, supplier announcements, and sudden market disruptions, enabling strategic and efficient inventory management to avoid overstocking, shortages, and errors.
Flexible, Omnichannel Fulfillment: In the era of e-commerce, SMBs seek multi-channel distribution solutions. Here comes Emiza, which helps brands to fulfill orders wherever shoppers are: outlets, stores, marketplaces, fast commerce, and more.
Ajay Rao's career reflects this broader industry shift: from bulk-focused, B2B logistics to more agile platforms designed for digital-native brands. Emiza’s philosophy is to eliminate the complexity and high capital costs that once held SMBs back, replacing them with a nimble, tech-powered foundation for growth.
The future of logistics is no longer about trucks and warehouses alone. Today’s market leaders leverage technology, planning, and data-driven execution to achieve operational excellence. In Ajay Rao’s words, logistics companies that break from tradition and embrace tech-first solutions are not only prepared to scale, they’re poised to set new industry standards.