#185: AI, Automation, and Coca-Cola Bottling with Robert Gaffney

Hosted by Santosh Sankar on August 28, 2024

Summary

During this episode, guest host Madelyn O'Farrell is joined by Robert Gaffney, Corporate Sr. Director, Supply Chain Planning and Optimization, Coca-Cola Bottling United. During the episode, Madelyn and Robert discuss the company's operations, emphasizing the role of technology and innovation in the supply chain. Key topics include the use of AI and automation to streamline processes, the daily workflow of Coca-Cola Bottling, and the potential for AI to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. The episode also highlights the importance of employee engagement and collaboration in adopting new technologies to improve the supply chain and so much more.

Show Notes

Highlights from their conversation include:

  • Robert’s Background and Journey to Coca-Cola (0:41)
  • Background on Coca-Cola Bottling United (1:03)
  • Introduction to Kona (1:32)
  • Current Trends in Supply Chain (3:12)
  • Coca-Cola's Workflow Overview (4:01)
  • AI Integration in Operations (5:09)
  • External Collaboration for AI (6:14)
  • AI Opportunities in Supply Chain (8:27)
  • Building vs. Buying AI Solutions (9:58)
  • ROI Considerations for AI Solutions (10:47)
  • Demand Forecasting Capabilities (12:32)
  • Cost-Cutting Focus (13:41)
  • Barriers to AI Adoption (14:18)
  • Final Thoughts and Takeaways (15:10)

Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.

Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/

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