AkzoNobel Case

Customer challenge

AkzoNobel Coatings, a leading global manufacturer of paint and coating products, faced the complex challenge of optimizing and integrating their supply chain processes. The company operated with multiple planning and logistics operations that operated separately, leading to inefficiencies and increased operational costs. In addition, there was a need to improve the customer service organization in order to better respond to the wishes and expectations of customers. AkzoNobel asked UC Group for support in restructuring their supply chain and ensuring continuity during this transition.

Approach

To reduce operational costs and increase efficiency, UC Group proposed integrating all planning and logistics operations into a centralized distribution center. At the same time, the customer service organization was optimized to improve customer satisfaction. The approach consisted of the following steps:

• Supply Chain Mapping: An in-depth analysis of existing supply chain processes to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
• Logistics Engineering: Designing and planning the new distribution center, taking into account the integration of stocks, inventory planning and logistical operations, with the aim of organizing operational costs and processes more efficiently.
• Interim Management: Deploying experienced interim managers to supervise daily operations and ensure a smooth transition to the new way of working.
• Project Management: Coordinating the various project phases to ensure that the new distribution center was completed within the set timelines and budgets.
• Change Management: Implementing effective change management strategies to guide and support employees during the transition, with the aim of a smooth and structured transition and improving customer focus within the customer service department.

Through this integrated approach, AkzoNobel was not only able to improve operational efficiency, but also to increase customer satisfaction through a more streamlined and responsive supply chain and customer service organization.

Results

• Supply chain analysis and braunfield engineering of a new distribution center, built within budget and timelines
• Smooth and structured transition of the logistics operation, making it possible for employees to continue the work seamlessly
• Effective change management during supply chain integration and improved customer focus in the customer service department

Our solution

Engineering a distribution center where stocks, inventory planning and logistics operations could be integrated. In such a way that the operational costs and processes were organized more efficiently. UC carried out this assignment with a number of experienced engineers and logistics interim managers, allowing both the project (supply chain integration) and continuity in the workplace to continue.

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