PcComponentes, a major e-commerce player, has been quietly building a fulfillment service for other businesses. Jordi Codina, Business Manager at PcComponentes, spoke about the company’s journey into this new area.
The Birth of PcComponentes Fulfillment
The idea for PcComponentes Fulfillment wasn’t new, but the opening of their massive 40,000-square-meter logistics center in Alhama de Murcia in early 2023 was a turning point. Codina joined the project around that time and was impressed by the facility’s advanced technology, including robots and a Skypod system that can handle around 3,200 orders per hour. Initially, the focus was on serving PcComponentes’ own needs, but it soon became clear that the infrastructure could support other businesses.
The first major client was Platanomelón, a well-known e-commerce company. This partnership generated media attention, but PcComponentes prefers to keep a low profile with such announcements. Many clients prefer the discretion, as being “invisible” to end-users is a sign of effective service.
How PcComponentes Fulfillment Works
The service handles various aspects of logistics, from receiving and storing goods to preparing and shipping orders. PcComponentes offers flexible packaging options, including branded boxes and neutral packaging. They also manage returns and rejections, providing a comprehensive solution for their clients.
A key feature is their digital platform, which gives clients real-time insights into inventory, orders, and shipping. This platform integrates with various sales channels, including marketplaces and e-commerce platforms, to streamline order management.
Challenges and Opportunities
One of the main challenges is building strong relationships with clients. PcComponentes is selective about the businesses it partners with, ensuring they can meet specific needs. For example, they might not be the best fit for a company planning to introduce refrigerated or frozen products.
As PcComponentes expands into new markets, such as France, Italy, and Germany, the fulfillment service is likely to benefit. The company is considering establishing hubs in Europe to support local businesses and ensure fast, cost-effective shipping.
The growth of PcComponentes Fulfillment has been significant. During the last two Black Fridays, the service has handled a substantial number of orders, and the company is preparing for further expansion. Codina emphasizes that the key to success is careful planning and a deep understanding of client needs.
- PcComponentes Fulfillment is designed to be highly flexible, handling various product types and client requirements.
- The service is backed by advanced logistics infrastructure and technology.
- PcComponentes is selective about its clients, ensuring it can meet their specific needs.
A Closer Look at Operations
PcComponentes has a dedicated team for preparing different types of orders, and they use technology like robots and software to optimize the process. All orders, whether from PcComponentes or its fulfillment clients, are treated with the same priority. The company controls nearly every aspect of its operations, allowing for quick adjustments and high-quality service.
In terms of pricing, PcComponentes is competitive, but Codina believes that the quality of service is just as important. The company’s integrated approach, managing everything in-house, builds trust with its e-commerce clients. They understand the market, sales patterns, and seasonal campaigns like Black Friday and Christmas.
One notable aspect is PcComponentes’ extended cutoff times. They work late on weekdays and are active on Sundays to process Saturday orders, ensuring fast turnaround times and improving the customer experience.