Patrick Daly Interlinks Podcast

In this episode of Interlinks I’m joined by Clemens Schoeller, VP of Global Consulting and Business Development at AutoStore — a global pioneer in modular, cube-based warehouse automation systems, with over 1,600 systems deployed in 60+ countries.We explore:Clemens’ personal journey through engineering, consulting, and automation leadershipHow AutoStore balances its identity between software intelligence and hardware performanceThe impact of labor shortages, real estate pressures, and customer service demands on logisticsEmerging models like robotics-as-a-service, flexible system scaling, and AI-driven predictive pickingThe role of integrators and the importance of early cross-functional alignment in implementation successThis conversation reveals how demographic shifts, societal expectations, and rapid technological advancement are pushing companies toward more modular, adaptive automation. From labour retention challenges to the rise of speculative AI-driven order fulfillment, it’s clear: resilient operations now require systems that are not only efficient but responsive, scalable, and integrated. Leaders must move beyond cost optimization and embrace automation as a strategic enabler of agility and business continuity.📲 Find me on LinkedIn or join the conversation on Reddit r/InterlinksPodcast. If your business is facing challenges with automation — strategically or tactically — reach out. I’m always open to a conversation about how I can help you bridge global complexity and local execution.Episode HighlightsWhy Modular Automation is Gaining GroundLabour scarcity, retention risks, and negative job perception in logisticsUrban real estate constraints demand higher density, smaller-footprint systemsEvolving SLAs and customer expectations call for faster, more precise fulfillmentAutoStore’s Market PositionStraddles hardware (robotics, bins) and software (routing algorithms, uptime AI)Operates via global partner integrator network — never sells directly to end usersOffers an agnostic consultancy layer for complex, multi-tech projectsShift from Efficiency to ResilienceFrom ROI based on labour replacement to ROI based on volatility responseDemand for “breathing” systems that flex with throughput changesIncreased use of vehicle-based robotics, AMRs, and modular capacity scalingFinancial Innovation in Automation AdoptionGrowing interest in leasing, RaaS (Robotics-as-a-Service), and asset-light modelsQuestions of asset resale, residual value, and upgrade pathways becoming centralPitfalls and Best Practices in ImplementationAvoid siloed decisions — logistics must engage IT, security, and finance earlyIT is now often a gatekeeper in automation decisions (security, integration)Use external consultants where internal capability is thinAI and the Future of FulfillmentPredictive picking based on weather, seasonality, and demand AIEnhanced inventory positioning and dynamic slottingGreater integration between order systems and robotic workflows

In this episode of Interlinks, I explore the rapidly growing strategic importance of India — now the world’s fourth-largest economy and a critical pole in the emerging multipolar global order. From a macro perspective, India’s re-emergence as a global economic heavyweight is not just a historical correction — it is a fundamental shift in global supply chains, trade flows, and investment priorities. With GDP growth exceeding 6% annually, a population surpassing 1.4 billion, and growing influence in trade, tech, and geopolitics, India is no longer the future — it is the present.I dive into why this matters for Irish companies right now. As the EU–India Free Trade Agreement progresses toward a likely 2025 signing, the playing field is tilting in favour of EU exporters. But the key to success lies in early mover advantage. I unpack the deep cultural and institutional commonalities between Ireland and India — from language and law to diaspora links — and highlight actionable opportunities for Irish businesses in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, premium food and drink, med-tech, ICT, clean tech, and engineering. I also discuss risk factors and how to navigate them with proper preparation and local partnerships.If you’re an exporter, importer, investor, or strategic partner, this episode is your call to action. Don’t wait for the ink to dry on the FTA — the time to build presence, partnerships, and pipeline in India is now. Connect with me, Patrick Daly, via albalogistics.com, on LinkedIn, or join the conversation on Reddit at r/InterlinksPodcast. Let's turn macro shifts into micro strategy — and seize the India opportunity before others do.

In this episode of Interlinks, Patrick Daly is joined by Eoin Conway, CEO of Canary 7, a warehouse management systems software solutions provider based in Cookstown, Northern Ireland. Canary 7 services 3PLs across the U.K., U.S., Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland, and specializes in integrating systems, labour and order management, and increasingly advanced AI and automated decision‑making tools.The conversation explores how recent developments—Brexit (especially the Windsor Framework), labour scarcity, e‑commerce volatility, and advances in technology—are reshaping what it means to run efficient, resilient warehouses and logistics networks in the island of Ireland and beyond.We dig deep into what 3PLs are getting right and where they often misstep: starting with technology first rather than process, guessing rather than defining the problem, under‑estimating internal change management, and over‑investing in automation without clear ROI. Eoin walks us through use cases already live—machine learning models for clustering and slotting, integration of automated systems with WMS, and the promise (and limits) of what might soon be “autonomous decision‑making” in the warehouse.We also contrast the size, specialization, and flexibility challenges of smaller Irish operations versus U.K./U.S. fulfillment centres, particularly around handling demand spikes and balancing generalist versus specialist models.From a macro‑to‑micro strategist lens, this episode illustrates how geopolitical constructs (e.g. the trade status of Northern Ireland, shifting trade barriers from Brexit) cascade down into operational realities—labour costs, warehousing location, cross‑border flows. But it’s in the micro‑decisions where competitive advantage is really made or lost: how you redesign your processes, cleanse your data, define precisely what you want to solve, choose when automation or AI makes sense, and how you build flexibility or elasticity into systems.If you’re interested in exploring how macro-level dynamics can be translated into actionable strategies for your business, I invite you to connect with me via LinkedIn or through my website at www.albalogistics.com.You can also join the conversation on this episode and others in the Interlinks series on Reddit at r/InterlinksPodcast.

In this episode of Interlinks, I’m joined once again by Lisa Anderson, President of LMA Consulting Group and one of North America’s foremost supply chain advisors. Lisa brings deep expertise across ERP systems, SIOP processes, and manufacturing transformation, and is widely recognized for her work helping manufacturers and distributors modernize operations and enhance customer responsiveness. With her pragmatic approach and clear-sighted industry perspective, Lisa is a valuable voice on how emerging technologies—particularly AI—are reshaping the operational landscape.Our conversation explores the strategic imperative of supply chain visibility in today’s turbulent business environment, with a focus on how AI tools can deliver actionable insights. We discuss the foundational systems—such as ERP, MES, and CRM—that enable AI to function effectively, and how organizations of different sizes can adopt and scale visibility solutions. A key theme is the need to balance innovation with discipline: while large enterprises may have scale and systems, smaller firms often outperform through agility, experimentation, and faster decision-making cycles. Lisa also offers practical guidance on pilot projects, process transformation, and the role of human judgment in ensuring AI delivers real business value.Zooming out, the episode situates AI-powered visibility within the broader context of global supply chain transformation. As manufacturing and logistics networks become increasingly digitized and dynamic, visibility is no longer a luxury but a necessity. AI has the potential to move firms from reactive to predictive operating models, enabling smarter allocation of resources, faster customer response, and more resilient planning. But Lisa is clear: technology alone is not enough. The winners will be those who embed these tools within disciplined processes and informed decision-making cultures—where strategic intent meets operational execution.

In this episode of Interlinks I’m joined by Howard Knott, Project Director at the Irish Exporters Association and columnist at Fleet Transport magazine—one of Ireland’s most experienced commentators on freight, logistics, and trade. We unpack how recent shocks and policy shifts are reshaping Ireland–UK–EU connectivity and what that really means for shippers, carriers, and supply-chain leaders.In this episode we talk about the following:LHolyhead port’s full reopening: timetable changes, capacity effects, and competitive responses (e.g., direct Ireland–EU services and CLdN’s Liverpool frequencies)Landbridge vs. direct-to-continent: post-Brexit frictions, emerging UK–EU facilitation, and decision criteria for exportersStructural shift from Ro-Ro (driver-accompanied) to Lo-Lo (containerised): reliability, tracking tech, cost-to-serve, and reduced driver dependenceHGV driver shortages and how unaccompanied/container flows plus cross-border partnerships are bridging capability gapsRail freight in Ireland: new rolling stock, Waterford’s intermodal traction, Limerick–Foynes reopening, current bottlenecks (drivers, terminals, Dublin rail access), and what it would take to lift modal sharePort strategy and resilience: Fishguard redevelopment, Rosslare/Waterford/Cork/Foynes roles, shore-power and alternative fuels readinessPractical new routings: Brittany Ferries + Cherbourg–Spain rail link as a viable Spain solution during peak ferry constraintsThis episode translates big shifts—Brexit recalibration, infrastructure disruptions, sustainability targets—into concrete choices: diversify routings and modes, lean into Lo-Lo with modern visibility, build continental partnerships, prepare for rail where feasible, and press for policy that prices carbon and supports rail economics. In short, it’s a playbook for turning volatility into optionality—so Irish and international manufacturers can protect service levels, lower end-to-end cost and risk, and hit ESG goals without sacrificing competitiveness.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist™╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽

In this latest episode of Interlinks, I sit down with Hamish Mackenzie, founder of Newspace AI, to explore how supply chain leaders can cut through the hype surrounding artificial intelligence and start leveraging its real potential—today. With a pragmatic lens, Hamish breaks down how generative AI differs from past tech waves, why it's not just another buzzword, and how it can be harnessed to drive actual business value, particularly in operations, planning, and decision-making.Together, we tackle the myths, risks, and actionable opportunities that AI presents in the supply chain context. From practical use cases like truckload optimization to deeper reflections on ethics, compliance, and the shifting skillsets required of future professionals, this episode is a candid conversation for leaders who want to move from theory to execution. If you’re wondering where to start, how to experiment safely, and what pitfalls to avoid, you’ll find strategic guidance here.From the Macro to Micro Strategist™ perspective, AI is not just a technical upgrade—it’s a strategic inflection point. In a world shaped by geopolitical turbulence, economic realignment, and systemic uncertainty, AI offers the potential to transform noise into signal, and inertia into action. As a strategic lever, it enables faster scenario planning, sharper decision-making, and the agility needed to stay competitive in volatile global markets.Hamish and I will also be co-hosting an Interlinks Breakfast Forum on “AI in the Supply Chain: A Pragmatic Approach,” taking place online at 8:30am (Dublin time) on September 30th. If you’d like to join this interactive session, please email me at pdaly@albalogistics.com to request an invitation. You can also continue the conversation on Reddit at r/interlinkspodcast. And if you're a manufacturing or distribution leader navigating global complexity, connect with me—I'm Patrick Daly, the Macro to Micro Strategist™. Let’s turn turbulence into clarity.

In this episode of Interlinks, I speak with Adam Goldman, franchise consultant, former franchisee, and specialist in helping international investors enter the U.S. market through proven franchise models. From a supply chain standpoint, franchising offers a unique lens on operational excellence—combining global brand standards with local execution to deliver consistent quality and service across multiple geographies. Adam shares how the best franchises design systems, governance structures, and supply partnerships that ensure reliability, resilience, and scalability over time.From a Macro to Micro strategist perspective, we explore how franchisors codify a winning business model into repeatable processes, enabling franchisees to focus on execution while maintaining brand integrity. This dynamic mirrors the global-to-local balancing act faced by multinational manufacturing and distribution networks—where strategic frameworks guide day-to-day operational decisions. Adam’s experience illustrates how strong operational discipline, coupled with well-defined supply and support systems, underpins franchise success.For manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain leaders, the conversation reveals why franchising is more than a retail concept—it’s a case study in systematizing quality at scale. Whether in food service, senior care, logistics, or restoration, the franchise model demonstrates how disciplined processes, shared knowledge networks, and strategic supplier relationships can be leveraged to consistently meet customer expectations, safeguard brand reputation, and deliver profitable growth in diverse markets.You can also join the conversation on this episode, as well as previous episodes of Interlinks, on Reddit at r/InterlinksPodcastPatrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist™╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽

In this episode of Interlinks, I’m joined by Ronan Guest, Business Consulting Partner at EY Ireland, to explore how procurement is evolving from a traditional cost-cutting function into a critical driver of strategic value.With over 20 years of global experience in procurement, logistics, and supply chain strategy at companies like Intel, Dell, and Stryker, Ronan brings a wealth of insight into how leading organizations are responding to today’s complex environment.We cover:Why procurement is no longer just about getting the best price, but about building resilience, embedding sustainability, and forging strategic partnershipsHow to redefine supplier relationships for long-term value creationThe shift from managing third-party risk to building true supply chain resilienceHow Ireland fits into the new geometry of global supply chainsThe digital tools and human capabilities that are shaping the future of procurementIf you’re involved in supply chain, procurement, or strategic decision-making, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and thought-provoking ideas on how to modernize and future-proof your function.Listen now to learn what the new procurement playbook looks like when strategy meets reality.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist™╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽

Berlin: Strategic Logistics Hub and European Pivot PointEpisode of Interlinks with Patrick Daly, The Macro-to-Micro StrategistIn this special episode of Interlinks, the guest isn’t a person — it’s a city. Join me, Patrick Daly, as I take you on a whistle-stop tour of Berlin, Germany’s capital and a dynamic symbol of freedom, innovation, and geopolitical importance.But beyond the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate lies a critical dimension often overlooked: Berlin as a strategic logistics and supply chain hub at the heart of Europe.In this episode, we explore:Why Berlin is a continental pivot point in the EU’s logistics network.The role of Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Europe’s largest multilevel rail hub.The legacy of Tempelhof Airport and its lessons for modern logistics.How Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) connects to global trade flows.Adlershof Technology Park as a hotbed of supply chain innovation.Westhafen Inland Port as a sustainable urban logistics node.How startups at Factory Berlin and MotionLab are reshaping supply chains with AI, blockchain, and additive manufacturing.And what the East Side Gallery tells us about the past and future of divided trade systems.Whether you're in manufacturing, distribution, or logistics services, this episode will help you see how Berlin’s infrastructure, location, and innovation ecosystem make it a vital component of Europe's resilient, agile supply chains.If you’re a business leader navigating uncertainty and complexity across international supply chains — and you're ready to move from reaction to resilience — get in touch.Visit albalogistics.com or connect with me directly on LinkedIn.Check out the companion video series filmed on-location in Berlin on TikTok: @thesupplychainadvisorInterlinks — where strategy meets reality. Stay sharp. Stay strategic. And keep connecting the dots from macro to micro.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist™╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽