Industry engagement · Automation & technology
Automation, data and design: lessons from the FORTNA Industry Leaders Forum
A practical perspective on building efficient, resilient and scalable healthcare supply chains.
By Irshad Joosub · Member update: 8 October 2025
Forum presentations dated 1 October 2025 · Johannesburg
Representing PLASA and APDA, Irshad Joosub attended an Industry Leaders Forum hosted by FORTNA in Johannesburg. The gathering brought together logistics leaders from across sectors, including representatives of Massmart, Mr Price, DHL, DP World, SPAR and Dis-Chem.
The discussion explored how automation, data and design thinking can support efficiency and growth. FORTNA shared its experience in designing, building and operating distribution systems across industries and markets.
Start with the business problem
Labour availability, cost pressures and expectations for faster fulfilment are encouraging investment in automation globally. South Africa has a different labour and infrastructure context: resilience, operational stability, safety and compliance are also important considerations. The appropriate level of automation depends on each organisation’s volumes, service requirements and investment case.
Plan for growth in phases
The INTERSPORT Europe case study illustrated a phased approach to expanding logistics capability while operations continued. The lesson for healthcare logistics is to align investment with a long-term roadmap, allowing for changing product ranges, customer profiles and order volumes. Flexibility and scalability should be designed into the operation from the outset.
Make data readiness a core capability
Reliable data is the foundation for effective system design. Product and SKU information, throughput, order profiles, labour requirements and site constraints need to be accurate, organised and understood before choosing a solution.
Cross-functional participation helps ensure the design reflects real operating conditions. After implementation, organisations should track productivity, accuracy, service performance and return on investment, then adapt as requirements change.
Apply the lessons to life sciences
Dr Iain Barton’s presentation considered growth, changing market economics, regulation, quality management and cold-chain demands in life sciences. The healthcare discussion highlighted the importance of affordable access, traceability, technology integration and collaboration as supply chains evolve.
For pharmaceutical wholesalers, distributors and logistics providers, the question is how to modernise while protecting quality, continuity and patient access. Investment in systems should be matched by investment in people, operating disciplines and partnerships.
Continuing the industry dialogue
In his October 2025 member update, Irshad reported that PLASA had initiated a relationship with FORTNA to facilitate discussions for interested members. Members can contact PLASA to discuss automation, data readiness or introductions to relevant innovation partners.
Source: Irshad Joosub’s member communication dated 8 October 2025. Forum and speaker references are acknowledgements of the event, not claims of sponsorship or endorsement.
The Healthcare Logistics Association for South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa