Consumer product manufacturers constantly struggle with the unique supply chain challenges posed by complex products, unpredictable demand, and intricate multi-channel orchestration. For CPG planners, the pandemic years have flipped some traditional best practices on their heads, such as consumer buying behaviors shifting toward e-commerce, bulk buying, and more mutable brand loyalties. CPG companies must resolve the meaning of such shifts within the context of their specific subsectors and customer bases. One thing is certain: charting a course to maximize business performance will require advanced capabilities in areas such demand planning, inventory optimization, replenishment, production planning, sustainability, and other areas—a transformation that can only be achieved by plugging well-known capabilities gaps inherent in MRP/ERP systems.
Here we will take a quick look at four specific supply chain planning disciplines that are key to CPG companies creating immediate bottom-line benefits and achieving a lasting business advantage for the future.
