477: 3PL Insights with Bulu CEO, Paul Jarrett
Today, we dive into a conversation that reshapes how we think about logistics and 3PL selection. We’re talking with Paul Jarrett, CEO of Bulu. They’re not just a logistics company; they’re revolutionizers of the “tricky ship” model. From a unique start to leading logistics innovation, Bulu’s story is nothing short of inspiring. Paul’s passion for helping brands succeed and improving logistics is evident as he offers honest advice for 3PL selection.
The Origin Story of Bulu
Bulu started with a problem. A big one. “What we do now is actually the very first problem that we encountered about 12 years ago,” says Paul. This journey from a fledgling subscription box to a logistics titan is a masterclass in evolution. He adds, “Not having external third parties… impacting decision-making was the thing, where after ten years, we really saw a path to have a great long-term business that solves hard problems for people just like us”. Training with big brands taught them “the hardest sort of logistics” and funded their Ph.D. in logistics. Their story? It’s about growth. It’s about learning.
Enter the “Tricky Ship”
“Imagine if we worked with brands of any size and could offer them unlimited sales channels,” Paul muses. This idea birthed the tricky ship model. It’s not just about sending packages. It’s about breaking free from old chains. It’s about setting brands up for unimaginable growth. As Paul shares, this strategy is paying off: “We’ve landed like 30 additional clients in the past 60 to 90 days.” With a passion for leveling the playing field for small brands, Paul finds there’s nothing better than “Truly helping people with a good product compete in the market.”
Removing the Complexity
Paul insists on simplicity: “There’s a lot of things out there where software people neer experience a warehouse floor, and it just doesn’t work that way. You can’t give somebody something complicated.” Their tech? It’s as easy as your favorite app. “It’s gotta be no more complicated than whatever the most popular social media app is.” This approach makes their system approachable. It’s for everyone, from warehouse staff to top executives.
Gazing Into the Future with Bulu
Paul sees a future rich with AI and automation. “I think a lot of the traditional issues that have happened in logistics are going to be solved through AI.” Yet, he believes in the power of the human touch. “At the end of the day, somebody or something has to pick something up and get it where it’s gotta go.” He envisions a workspace where technology elevates human effort. “People walk into a warehouse, they put on glasses, and they can just follow what the screen says.” It’s about making the future accessible today.
Key Takeaways from Bulu
- Bulu’s beginnings show innovation born from necessity.
- The tricky ship model is changing the game in logistics flexibility.
- Bulu uses tech to simplify, not complicate.
Listen to the episode and leave your thoughts in the comments.
Guest Information
For more information on Bulu, click here.
To connect with Paul on LinkedIn, click here or email him at paul@bulugroup.com.
For more information about 3PL services, check out the podcasts below.
466: Outerspace Empowers Brands with Personalized 3PL Services
459: Managing Rapid 3PL Growth and Insights into the 3PL Landscape with Renewal Logistics
453: Charting New Paths in E-Commerce and 3PL with Yong-Soo Chung
