Business students go behind the scenes at Amazon

MBA students at the University of South Wales have gained valuable insights into how robots and humans work side by side to deliver thousands of parcels daily, during a visit to Amazon’s BRS2 fulfilment centre in Swindon.

The visit was part of a collaboration between USW, Amazon and logistics company Junction 4, where students were tasked with real-life projects exploring sustainability and operational efficiency at the global marketplace giant.

While at the centre, the students met Amazon’s Heads of Purchasing, Operations and Sustainability, discussing topics such as supply chain optimisation, carbon footprint reduction, and sustainable procurement practices.

MBA course leaders Peter Murphy and Moizzah Asif, together with lecturer and project supervisor Graeson John Clarke, joined the students on the visit to the 550,000 square ft centre, where Amazon uses state-of-the-art robots to carry items to employees.

Moizzah said: “The visit provided our students with new perspectives on the relationship between sustainability and operational efficiency. They have now successfully completed their projects, and are equipped with the knowledge to tackle future business challenges, offering innovative solutions and recommendations.

“This experience highlighted the value of collaboration between academia and industry in preparing future business leaders, by demonstrating the practical application of theoretical concepts and the importance of experiential learning.”

Zahara Azhar, one of students on the visit, added: “Our experience at the Amazon BRS2 warehouse added tremendous value to our final project. Stepping into the bustling hub of Amazon's operations allowed us to witness first-hand the innovative technologies and efficient processes driving the success of one of the world's leading e-commerce giants.

“It not only provided us with invaluable insights into the intricacies of e-commerce logistics, but also strengthened our project outcomes by grounding our recommendations in real-world observations. The visit was definitely a highlight of my MBA course.”

Wasana De Silva, another of the students who took part, said: “The immersion into Amazon’s warehouse and pallet operations helped us to understand its advanced application of cutting-edge technology, and how that works hand in hand with the critical role of skilled personnel in optimising logistics operations.

“This experience helped refine our abilities in a variety of fields, bringing them into line with modern business practices and the opportunities presented by the ever-changing corporate environment.”

The ongoing collaboration between USW, Amazon and Junction 4 will see more MBA students take on projects in the autumn.