Blue Yonder, a global leader in end-to-end digital supply chain transformation, announced the acquisition of Optoro, Inc., a leading returns technology provider. The move significantly enhances Blue Yonder’s returns management capabilities, equipping retailers, brands, and logistics service providers (LSPs) with a more comprehensive and efficient solution to manage one of retail’s most pressing challenges.
Returns management has become a critical issue in modern retail, with 9.5 billion pounds of returns ending up in landfills each year. Optoro brings industry-leading technology for streamlining warehouse and in-store returns—particularly for enterprise retailers managing high volumes. By integrating Optoro’s solutions with Blue Yonder’s portfolio, businesses will benefit from a unified, end-to-end returns platform that improves efficiency, enhances visibility, and reduces waste.
“As e-commerce sales continue to grow, retailers must prepare for returns, which are expected to reach $890 billion last year, representing 16.9% of annual retail sales and more than double the return rate in 2019,” said Tim Robinson, Corporate Vice President of Returns at Blue Yonder. “We are excited to acquire Optoro and provide our clients with enhanced capabilities to manage returns with greater efficiency and results to meet consumer needs. This strategic acquisition reaffirms Blue Yonder‘s commitment to leading the industry with comprehensive returns solutions, providing clients with unparalleled opportunities to improve their operations and drive successful business transformation.”
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Industry analysts also highlighted the strategic significance of the deal.
“Blue Yonder’s acquisition of Optoro expands and enhances its comprehensive returns management solution offering,” said Jordan K. Speer, research director at IDC Retail Insights. “With the addition of Optoro, Blue Yonder will be able to offer even more capabilities to address the complexities of the returns lifecycle. This strategic move not only unlocks opportunities for operational efficiency gains but also addresses the growing need for sustainable business growth. Traditional returns processes often result in poor profitability and decreased customer satisfaction. Blue Yonder’s comprehensive service approach addresses these shortcomings by taking a transformative, dynamic approach to improving the entire end-to-end supply chain. The combined offering has the potential to deliver even greater value to users.”
For Optoro, the acquisition represents the next stage in its journey to redefine retail returns.
“Optoro was founded at the dawn of e-commerce, determined to solve the problem of returns. Over the years, we’ve built an enterprise-grade returns solution to meet the needs of even the most recognizable retail brands,” said Amena Ali, CEO of Optoro. “Now, with Blue Yonder’s growing customer base as a foundation, we can fully realize our vision and help thousands of businesses around the world overcome their returns challenges. With the seamless integration with Blue Yonder, it’s easier than ever for businesses to optimize their returns processes, improving the shopping experience, inventory planning, and overall profitability.”