Ep. 2 - Two Businesses, One Supply Chain Gauntlet - Gene Boyarov

In this episode of Chain Reaction, Michael Ostroumov speaks with Gene Boyarov, co-founder of Bioglo and director of Energian, about the supply chain challenges of delivering specialized energy products - from domestic heating fuels to off-grid solar and battery systems. Gene shares how his companies navigate complex logistics environments, from remote Scottish islands to hazardous battery handling, all while scaling two distinct operations with drastically different requirements.The conversation dives into the evolution of logistics partnerships, why robust IT integration is a must for survival, and how predictive analytics and data standardization can solve persistent delivery failures. This episode offers a practical look into the operational realities of physical product businesses - and the tech that keeps them moving.Guest BioGene Boyarov is the co-founder of BioGlo, a provider of domestic biomass heating fuels, and Energian, a supplier of solar panels, batteries, and off-grid power solutions. With nearly a decade of experience in logistics-heavy industries, Gene has built two thriving companies that serve customers across the UK, including remote and rural areas.An advocate for smart logistics and operational efficiency, Gene brings a rare dual perspective: hands-on understanding of bulky, specialized freight and deep technical knowledge of how to use data and automation to streamline last-mile delivery and inventory management. He’s passionate about bridging the gap between modern tech and traditional logistics.TakeawaysRunning logistics for heating fuel vs. solar tech requires two distinct, tailored operations.Address accuracy and delivery accessibility in rural areas remain major hurdles.Logistics success depends heavily on IT integration - manual processes aren’t scalable.API readiness among carriers is mixed; many rely on customers to do the heavy lifting.Predictive analytics could dramatically reduce failed deliveries and improve efficiency.Chapters00:00 Introduction to BioGlo and Energian  01:36 Why Proximity to Customers Matters  03:03 Handling High-Value, Hazardous Energy Products  04:44 Partner Challenges and IT Readiness  06:26 Data Visibility and Stock Accuracy  09:30 Why They Built a Custom Rules Engine  11:42 Rural Address Challenges & Delivery Mapping  14:33 Predictive Analytics for Last-Mile Success  18:36 What the Logistics Industry Must Improve  20:30 Attitude and Agility in Logistics PartnershipsFollow Gene Boyarov on LinkedIn Follow Michael Ostroumov on LinkedIn