Zespri is advancing its digital transformation by implementing a data-driven, AI-enabled strategy through its ongoing Horizon Programme. This initiative focuses on digitizing Zespri's global supply chain, led by chief digital officer David Scullin, and is currently in its second phase.
The cooperative's annual report emphasizes that the transformation is more than just replacing outdated systems. It aims to establish a platform for agility and innovation. Zespri states, "This will enable Zespri to operate faster, smarter and more sustainably in a rapidly evolving global environment. AI and data are foundational to this vision."
Zespri is leveraging AI-powered tools in areas such as innovation and grower enablement. This includes implementing generative AI search within its "Canopy" portal, enhancing how growers access information. The cooperative notes, "These are the first steps in a broader strategy to embed AI into how we operate, how we serve growers and customers, and how we make decisions."
The introduction of AI-driven search tools has been embraced by users, offering an intuitive means of navigating complex data. Additionally, Zespri has deployed Clarifresh in Europe, a mobile inspection tool aimed at setting the stage for future AI-based quality assessments. The company also reports advancements in its global customer claims platform, particularly in China, with the use of process automation.
Amid digital transformation, Zespri is strengthening its approach to data privacy and cybersecurity, which it considers essential for maintaining operational trust and regulatory compliance on a unified SAP S/4 HANA platform. The company explains the importance of these investments in "protecting Zespri's licence to operate and in maintaining trust with growers, customers and regulators alike."
The second phase of the Horizon Programme aims to transition from legacy systems to a scalable, modern digital platform. Unlike the first tranche, which involved a large-scale global system update, this phase focuses on modular projects executed over three years. Efforts concentrate on modernizing the fruit supply chain, enhancing grower interactions, and meeting regulatory demands.
The Horizon Programme, originally budgeted at $160 million, had $143.2 million spent by March 2024. The execution is managed by Deloitte, with support from Zag and Sysdoc. Zag has been under Accenture since October 2020.
Source: Reseller News
