ANZ distributors embracing AI

Nearly four in five (78%) distributors in Australia and New Zealand plan to adopt or expand the use of AI in enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, according to research released by Epicor.

The study, conducted in partnership with Nucleus Research, found that businesses worldwide are scaling AI workflows, hiring for AI-specific roles and investing in data-centric platforms to allow them to more effectively manage disruption.

Currently, 35% of distributors in the region have implemented AI in their business processes, the research suggests. Globally, 56% of supply chain businesses report high AI readiness, with more than 90% hiring for AI-specific roles such as AI data scientists and automation engineers.

Digitally mature organisations are meanwhile investing in platforms that connect and analyse operational data, with over half of global respondents using these tools to accelerate AI adoption. These organisations are 1.4 times more likely to deploy AI applications.

Meanwhile, expectations around returns on investment on AI are evolving, with most businesses expecting returns within 6–18 months.

Epicor Regional VP for ANZ Graeme Evans said the findings suggest that AI is becoming an essential part of how distributors in Australia and New Zealand make, move and sell.

“We’re delighted to support this journey by equipping businesses with the right tools and services to unlock productivity and efficiency through intelligent ERP,” he said.

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