21.05.2025 | By Alexander Koltermann and Dr. Alexander Klaas
Business Challenge
A leading retail group in Germany was faced with the challenge of successfully handling stable, sustained growth in a logistics network that was already operating at full capacity. Strong international growth, a continuing shortage of staff and rising costs made strategic planning with a long-term horizon essential.
The challenges included:
Implemented solution
Miebach developed a logistics master plan based on data-driven models, innovative tools and strategic expansions:
Strategic planning & network analysis:
The strategic planning and network analysis included the modelling of over 30 network scenarios, taking into account future growth options. The result was the expansion of the network to include an optimal number of new locations and the expansion of existing locations.
Intralogistics optimization:
To optimize intralogistics, numerous expansion measures were planned for the existing central distribution center, including new automated picking and outgoing goods buffers.
In addition, a new warehouse specially tailored to the foreign locations was designed to meet the strong growth with new logistical resources.
Innovative web-based tool:
A digital, web-based tool was implemented to help improve planning. This enables automated data updating and scenario modelling as well as regular updates for the 10-year plan. The user-friendly interface and seamless integration into the customer's processes are further advantageous attributes.
Image: Screenshot of the Planning tool
Partnership
The long-standing collaboration between Miebach and the customer enabled the formulation of specific requirements and their precise implementation. Close coordination and a continuous exchange, especially in tool development, are success factors that accompany the implementation with long-term added value.
Benefits
Innovation and added value
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The developed tool offers the customer not only strategic flexibility, but also a competitive advantage through automated data extrapolation and scenario modelling, simplified planning without license costs and long-term support through regular updates and maintenance." Dr. Alexander Klaas, Senior Principal, Miebach |
Outlook
The successful expansion measures and the introduction of a digital master plan provide a blueprint for future projects - also internationally. The flexibility and adaptability of the tool promote long-term sustainability and strategic growth.
Are you planning a project to digitalize your logistics planning or do you have questions or comments on this topic? Do not hesitate to contact us!
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