Operations and supply chain excellence

Rising material costs were putting pressure on margins across a fragmented supplier base, with limited transparency on pricing and purchasing structures.

We consolidated, structured and analyzed the available purchasing data, clustered spend into relevant category and commodity groups, and benchmarked key cost positions. Based on the findings, we launched a structured negotiation campaign, challenging incumbent suppliers through benchmarking while qualifying alternative and new sources.

A 5% reduction in addressable spend, achieved without compromising delivery reliability or quality.

A Southeastern European industrial manufacturer faced increasing cost pressure from its customer while sourcing primarily from European suppliers.

We conducted a structured sourcing market analysis in China, developed a longlist and shortlisted potential suppliers based on the client’s requirements and applicable industry standards. We then visited, audited, and qualified the selected suppliers on-site, placed initial orders and supported their development into reliable, long-term supply partners.

A qualified supplier network covering multiple procurement categories now supplies the client’s European operations, achieving double-digit percentage cost savings while strengthening long-term competitiveness.

A German industrial manufacturer faced increasing market pressure and needed to reassess its existing manufacturing and sourcing structures to identify opportunities for greater cost competitiveness.

We supported the client’s make-or-buy assessment by screening and scouting the Western Balkan supplier market across selected categories, based on technical documentation and defined requirements. We obtained and benchmarked supplier quotations, presented the results to the client and jointly selected potential suppliers for on-site visits. Following these visits, the client initiated supplier nominations and placed initial trial orders.

The project established a structured basis for sourcing decisions and opened up new regional supply options. Initial supplier relationships are developing, with trial orders marking the first step towards an expanded supplier base in the Western Balkans.