Operations

The Importance of Customer Service in the Age of Automation

February 19, 2025
Simon Kidner
4 Minutes

In the click-and-collect world we live in, is customer service still a defining factor of who we do business with?

In an era where convenience reigns supreme, it’s easy to assume that customer service has taken a backseat to speed and efficiency. Digitalisation has shifted the focus to instant gratification, with businesses offering click-and-collect, same-day delivery, and seamless online transactions. Many organisations now prioritise operational speed over personal interactions, leaving some to question whether customer service still plays a decisive role in choosing who we do business with. However, beneath the digital facade, one truth remains: exceptional customer service is not only relevant but is often the defining factor in ensuring loyalty, trust, and long-term relationships.

Key Account Manager, Asha Kallah, with her clients RFA Tech.
"We've worked with Unsworth for so long thanks to Asha"

While automation and technology simplify processes, they cannot replace the human connection. The reality is that mistakes happen, even in the most efficient systems. Orders get delayed, products are out of stock, or miscommunications occur. When customers face these challenges, their experience hinges not on the speed of technology but on the empathy and problem-solving capabilities of the customer service team. Studies consistently show that customers are more likely to return to a business even after an issue if the service they receive is prompt, understanding, and solution driven. This underscores that in a digital-first world, human interaction remains a vital differentiator.

Moreover, the complexity of industries such as global logistics further elevates the importance of customer service. With intricate supply chains, international compliance requirements, and tight deadlines, businesses cannot afford to rely solely on automated systems. Clients demand not just transactional efficiency but expertise, adaptability, and proactive communication. This is where companies like Unsworth excel. By combining cutting-edge digital tools with a commitment to personalised service, Unsworth ensures its clients enjoy not just fast solutions but also the confidence that comes from working with experts who truly understand their needs.

Customer expectations have evolved alongside technological advancements. While speed and convenience are prerequisites, they are not the sole criteria for long-term partnerships. In fact, businesses that fail to provide a high level of service risk being seen as interchangeable or replaceable. The most successful organisations distinguish themselves by building relationships based on trust, offering guidance during challenges, and delivering consistent value beyond the transaction. Exceptional service transforms customers into strategic partners, a competitive edge that no algorithm can replicate.

Loyal clients Kerry Group gifting Unsworth a 'Congrats on 50 Years' Plaque

At Unsworth, we believe that service is more than just a department – It’s the cornerstone of our identity. In the fast-paced world of global logistics, we understand that every shipment represents a promise to our clients. By pairing technological innovation with an unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, we consistently provide a best-in-class service experience. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, businesses must recognise that while convenience attracts, it is exceptional service that retains. In a click-and-collect world, service is - and will always be - the defining factor.

In a world where businesses compete on convenience, it’s exceptional service that truly sets us apart. Ready to experience the difference? Get in touch today.

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