Supply Chain Success Stories At Exel

Case studies that show Exel solutions in action.

It would be easy to judge our success by statistics, but it's far more relevant to judge it by the success of our clients. So that's how we do it. We take pride in the process improvements that make our customers more efficient. We celebrate the economies of scale that save our clients money. We applaud the production improvements that impact their KPIs.

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Supply Chain Integration
Nike teams up with DHL Supply Chain in Brazil to improve service and reduce costs

To ensure continued rapid growth in Brazil, Nike teamed up with Exel’s sister company, DHL Supply Chain, to integrate and provide visibility to the company’s supply chain operations. DHL Supply Chain implemented a customized logistics solution that responds dynamically to order requests, and has reduced supply chain costs, significantly increased service levels and exceeded performance expectations for Nike.

read the case studyPDF, 133K

Managed Transportation
Managed transportation solution adds control, improves visibility and removes costs from inbound freight program

On behalf of a global oilfield services customer, Exel designed and executed a comprehensive managed transportation solution that removed inefficiencies in the inbound shipping process and improved management of a large number of vendors. Solution components included order management, shipment creation and execution, and freight audit and payment. And the customer now benefits from increased visibility, a more orderly distribution network and lower costs.

read the case studyPDF, 205K

Consumer Goods Secondary Packaging
Co-locating customization and distribution activities reduces costs, improves service and quality for consumer packaged goods giant

Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are increasingly challenged to find supply chain solutions that meet retailer needs without incurring additional costs. With an acute understanding of this dynamic, Exel designed and implemented a solution for a CPG customer that located secondary packaging within the existing distribution center and integrated all associated activities. Results included significant cost and service benefits, as well as improved flexibility to better serve retailers.

read the case studyPDF, 209K

Cross-Border Solution
Manufacturer of medium, heavy-duty and specialized trucks optimizes cross-border supply chain and bilingual visibility

Part of the manufacturing and sourcing strategy for North America’s leading manufacturer of medium, heavy-duty diesel and specialized trucks was to grow its truck assembly operations in Mexico. To optimize its cross-border supply chain, the company turned to DHL for an end-to-end solution. DHL managed all cross-border functions including infrastructure, consolidation/deconsolidation and brokerage, which simplified management and reduced costs for the customer.

read the case studyPDF, 969K

Consumer Goods Primary Packaging
Pet food packaging solution takes bite out of supply chain inefficiencies, improves quality

A leading consumer packaged goods company wanted to better control transportation costs and quality for one of its pet food brands by co-locating primary product packaging with secondary packaging and distribution operations. The company called on Exel to design and execute a packaging line that met the quality and safety standards expected by customers. Seamless integration of the operation slashed both transportation costs and order lead times, allowing the company to better satisfy retail customer demands.

Read the case studyPDF, 230K

Consumer Goods Packaging
Global food and beverage manufacturer establishes leadership in thriving new market with innovative packaging solution

A global leader in consumer packaged goods wanted to capitalize on the exploding bottled water trend. So it partnered with Power Packaging, Exel’s food and beverage manufacturing unit, to launch an innovative stick pack powered beverage format in North America. As the business expanded, Power helped its customer fully automate the packaging operation and bring together three divisions on the same manufacturing platform. The solution gave the customer the manufacturing capacity to keep up with demand, while achieving additional cost savings.

Read the Case StudyPDF, 256K

Supply Chain Flexibility
Pharmaceutical manufacturer's Rx for shifting market forces: Strategic Outsourcing

Novartis, a leading global pharmaceutical manufacturer, recently recognized the need for a more flexible supply chain that could support varying and expanded distribution strategies. Collaboratively, Novartis and Exel developed a supply chain repositioning plan without disrupting the continuity of supply to customers. Novartis relocated its warehouse, optimized IT processes, and implemented customer-centric initiatives. Volume ramped up quickly, while total costs and cost per unit declined sharply. And, the flexibility achieved enabled Novartis to remain focused on its core objective: patient care.

read the case studyPDF, 330K

Improving Facility Efficiency
High-tech sensor manufacturer improves quality and reduces cost through streamlined cross-border supply chain

As part of an effort to streamline its supply chain and reduce costs, a leading manufacturer of highly engineered sensor devices sought to improve efficiency at its U.S. cross-dock and distribution center. DHL launched several initiatives to improve the use of proper shipping documentation, reduce congestion and improve quality control. The customer realized a significant reduction in customs noncompliance, improved cycle times and a 7 percent drop in cost-per-case. Systems implemented were so successful that the customer adopted them as best practices in facilities around the world.

read the case studyPDF, 1013K

Strategic Partnership
True business partnership helps keep Owens Corning's evolving supply chain in the pink for more than 20 years

What began as a transactional relationship in 1988, has today evolved into a close partnership where Owen’s Corning and Exel operate from a shared vision and foundation of mutual trust. This active, strategic business partnership has also delivered results including substantially reduced order fulfillment times and transportation costs, as well as operational and market expertise for new distribution channels.

Read the case studyPDF, 222K

Home and Business Delivery
A delivery model that flexes with demand enables a global office products supplier to reduce costs, continue national delivery coverage and better serve customers even during an economic recession

In an increasingly competitive and volatile economy, controlling costs has never been more difficult. Like many successful retailers, a leading office supply retailer recently found itself in unfamiliar circumstances as the economy slipped into a recession and volume and revenues began to decline. To maximize its home and business delivery supply chain, Exel Direct proactively presented a new solution to the company. The result included both dedicated and network delivery components, as well as centralized delivery management and customer service. The retailer benefited from a predictable cost-per-delivery, more precise delivery times, lowered fulfillment costs and increased delivery service area.

read the case studyPDF, 164K

Real Estate - Operations
Integrated solution helps global leader in air conditioning reduce complexity, manage risk and minimize costs

For the global leader in residential air conditioning, new government-mandated efficiency standards necessitated changes to product design that significantly impacted storage and distribution processes. Because of its expansive resources and expertise, Exel was able to deliver a solution for both real estate and operations that helped dramatically reduce complexity and time. Exel served as the single point-of-contact for both facility and operations projects, allowing the customer to focus on its business goals.

read the case studyPDF, 272K

Sweet Solutions
A leading candy maker's distribution center achieves award-winning performance and operational excellence with the help of Exel

Since 1999, Exel has managed a large distribution center for one of the world’s largest candy producers. In support of the customer's new strategic objectives, the facility was challenged to boost already-high performance to new levels. Exel held a series of workshops and performance-management campaigns, which better aligned business and associate objectives with customer satisfaction. Even with an already impressive track record, Exel uncovered new efficiencies, enhanced systems and empowered associates, leading to measurable business results.

read the case studyPDF, 160K

Refrigerated Warehousing
Unilever enhances Mexico distribution by locating warehouse next to manufacturing

To protect and expand its market share in Mexico, Unilever sought to trim distribution costs and speed time-to-market by locating a second refrigerated warehouse next to its manufacturing plant. DHL Supply Chain went beyond the traditional 3PL role and became the single point of contact for end-to-end project management, significantly simplifying the process for the customer. The new facility was completed in record time, and now delivers lower distribution costs and an inventory accuracy rate of 99 percent.

read the case studyPDF, 321K

MRO Supply
Reducing MRO costs for a leading petrochemical company

A leader in the petrochemical industry wanted to streamline maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supply across the company without jeopardizing existing operations. After a detailed supply chain analysis, Exel designed and delivered a unique solution that met these needs and reduced on-site inventory and transportation costs.

Read the case studyPDF, 456K

Product Launch
Fast supply chain response helps pharmaceutical giant win race to market

Nowhere is speed-to-market more crucial than in the pharmaceutical industry. While one drug manufacturer awaited FDA approval for a generic medication, Exel designed a flexible, responsive product launch solution that was deployed within hours. The drugs were delivered next day to distributors, capturing the majority market share for Exel's customer.

Read the case studyPDF, 257K

Home Delivery
Home delivery bolsters retailer's online and catalogue businesses

A leading retailer selling stylish furniture, crockery and household items needed to establish a flawless home delivery experience for customers nationwide. It was imperative for the solution to provide "white glove" service synonymous with the brand. Exel designed and implemented a full-service solution that reached every ZIP code and met their service goals.

Read the case studyPDF, 312K

Consolidating Operations
Network consolidation improves supply chain efficiency

Companies' needs change as they grow, and sometimes this means an outdated distribution network requires immediate attention. A leading manufacturer of indoor and outdoor cleaning equipment selected Exel to consolidate the current network into one high-velocity center that improved customer service, reduced overhead and eliminated redundancies.

Read the case studyPDF, 365K

Supply Chain Consolidation
Efficiency now part of the program for leading computer manufacturer

For one computer manufacturer, explosive growth led to an increasing need for supply chain support and performance. It was a constant challenge to keep costs and cycle times down while meeting increasing consumer demand. Exel answered the call by transforming the company's approach to inbound transportation and managing outbound moves. The customer realized cost and efficiency benefits immediately.

Read the case studyPDF, 936K

Transportation Management
Transportation solution helps a leading premium beverage company raise the bar on service

For one high-end beverage company with a portfolio including spirits, wine and beer brands, great service starts with having the right products on the shelves at the right time. Prior to engaging Exel, the company’s service levels were acceptable, but it lacked fully integrated systems and consistent service measures. Exel stepped in to manage the company’s transportation networks across North America. It established a central Transportation Management Center and implemented systems that assured exceptional service. As a result, the customer increased on-time deliveries by 4 percent and reduced transportation costs by 10 percent.

read the case studyPDF, 1084K

Supplier Park Logistics
DHL Supply Chain's expertise in supplier park operations helps Ford's newest plant in Brazil generate higher sales volume and profits

Ford Motor Company’s latest success in Brazil is a model for global expansion. The company determined it could cut costs and increase sales by offering a new line of economy cars designed for, and built in, the local market. To support the initiative, DHL Supply Chain helped Ford consolidate its existing assembly operations, move into a new facility, and establish new supply chain operations. The result was a leaner, more flexible operation that helped Ford double its market share in Brazil.

read the case studyPDF, 566K

Network Optimization
Streamlining processes and consolidating facilities helps Xerox reduce supply chain costs

Over the years, Xerox’s spare parts supply chain had grown to support its North American customer base, but the resulting system was overly complex. So the company tapped Exel to standardize and modernize its supply chain. Exel streamlined locations, integrated systems and implemented new technology, leading to a 15 percent cost savings across the entire network.

read the case studyPDF, 202K

Stand-Alone Distribution Center Start-Up
Seamless execution smoothes the way for leading yogurt manufacturer to meet growing market demand

With the market for yogurt experiencing dynamic global growth, one leader in the category had to significantly increase production to meet demand. This increase naturally affected the supply chain, so the company looked to its logistics partner, Exel, to start up a new distribution center. An extremely compressed timeline and isolated location not near other Exel operations were substantial challenges; however, Exel applied its deep customer knowledge and project management methodology to seamlessly start up a highly productive distribution center on time and on budget.

read the case studyPDF, 212K

Cargo Consolidation
Manufacturer collaboration is key to unlocking better service and lower costs

The success of five automakers working with DHL Supply Chain to consolidate cargo and share aftermarket parts delivery services in Mexico proves that when it comes to increasing service and reducing costs, even competitors can collaborate.

Read the case studyPDF, 129K

Oil & Gas
Integrated Supply Chain Improves Up-Time and Reduces Complexity for One of the World's Largest Oil Corporations

Located in the Middle East, an oil industry leader faced challenges keeping up with growing demand and maintaining control over an increasingly complex and geographically dispersed operation. Armed with strong energy-sector expertise, DHL Supply Chain designed and implemented reliable solutions for maintenance, repair and operations supplies replenishment, as well as transportation, workforce development and HSSE procedures. The customer significantly improved service levels and visibility, thereby reducing costs.

read the case studyPDF, 223K

Fresh Customer Service
Driving growth strategies for one of the world's leading retailers by focusing intensely on what stores need

A key contributor to success for any retailer is ensuring the right mix of products is available for purchase by customers. When a leading convenience store chain experienced operational challenges in keeping stores fully stocked with the right mix of products for customers, it tapped Exel to address the situation. The team designed and executed a solution that included daily store deliveries, consolidation of preferred providers and a focus on the individual needs of stores. Fill rates improved by nearly 4 percentage points, substantially improving the customer experience.

read the case studyPDF, 211K

Technology Innovation
Exel deploys RFID technology to drive down yard management costs and transportation delays, improve product security

When it comes to emerging technologies, Exel continuously pilots and adopts new applications that benefit its customers by driving supply chain innovation and flexibility. One such example is at a multi-customer deconsolidation, where Exel created a cost-effective and attainable emerging technology solution to address the practical challenge of streamlining yard management. By integrating WiFi, RFID and GPS, customers benefit from increased productivity, visibility and better process control. And, the project ultimately served as a platform for Exel’s participation with GS1 EPCglobal to establish global RFID standards.

Read the case studyPDF, 240K

Labor Management Program
Increased operational productivity and cost savings are sweet treats for The Hershey Company

By implementing labor management programs through its U.S. distribution center network, The Hershey Company wanted to standardize performance improvements that would result in higher productivity, improved and repeatable processes, and lower costs. One facility in particular, managed by Exel, was already highly productive with a tenured workforce. Implementing Exel’s structured labor management program, coupled with a commitment to continuous improvement, incentivized associates and led to substantial productivity increases and cost savings for the customer.

read the case studyPDF, 266K

NHS Supply Chain
Innovative procurement and logistics model drives substantial savings for UK's National Health Service

As the cost of quality healthcare continues to escalate, governments and private enterprises alike struggle to find new and innovative ways to curb this upward trend. In response, the U.K.’s National Health Service (NHS) took an innovative outsourcing approach for its logistics and procurement functions. By reorganizing procurement teams, integrating the supply chain and renegotiating supplier contracts, DHL Supply Chain’s solution is projected to save NHS $1.2 billion over 10 years.

read the case studyPDF, 739K

Labor Management
Exel implements flexible labor strategy to help global provider of measurement solutions stay profitable during economic recession

As major world economies began sinking in 2008, a leading measurement and technology company called on its partners to help it adapt proactively to potentially shrinking revenues. Exel met the charge with a flexible labor solution that successfully flexed labor up and down with volumes and continuously improved processes. Ultimately, Exel exceeded the customer’s goals, saving the company almost $600,000, while reducing floor associates and maintaining service levels.

read the case studyPDF, 965K

Supply Chain Management
Unilever builds healthy market presence in Puerto Rico by streamlining supply chain

Puerto Rico presents unique supply chain challenges given its location and limited warehouse capacity. On this densely populated island, Unilever needed a reliable, streamlined transportation, warehousing and retail replenishment strategy. It turned to long-time partner, Exel, and the team focused on process, integration and technology. The results included improved on-time deliveries and return logistics processes, as well as reduced employee turnover — leading to better customer service and efficiency.

read the case studyPDF, 213K

Real Estate Solutions
A creative approach powers top battery brand's acquisition strategy

A company well known for its consumer battery products was charged up about its acquisition of a prominent personal care products brand. To maximize its new supply chain and real estate footprint, the company called on Exel. Experts in operations, real estate, contracts and other disciplines determined that consolidating brands into one warehouse yielded the best return on investment. And, Exel helped the company overcome obstacles with its current lease and moving to a new facility that met its expanded needs. The result was a solution that eliminated current lease liability, secured lease concessions, and ensured a cost-effective move with no customer service disruptions.

Read the case studyPDF, 180K

Cross-Border Fulfillment
Leveraging a 3PL's expertise and operations along the U.S.-Mexico border makes a leading printing company even more competitive

A leading provider of imaging products sought to streamline its retail and consumer supply chain by relocating fulfillment centers closer to its Mexican manufacturing facility. The challenges of moving operations south of the border were considerable, compounded by the manufacturer’s 90-day timeline. DHL demonstrated both the strength of its logistics network and its on-the-ground ability to get things done. The new fulfillment center opened within 30 days, and the customer has now realized streamlined inventory levels and fewer stock-outs.

read the case studyPDF, 948K

Global Efficiency
DHL Supply Chain streamlines Sun Microsystems' complex international supply chain for after-market products

Sun wanted to improve supply-side consistency across the globe by consolidating its supply chain vendors, establishing consistent processes and reducing costs. The company chose DHL Supply Chain to fill the warehouse role and still meet client delivery demands. Within four months, a major piece of the solution was in place resulting in initial cost reductions. Today, the partnership has reduced costs even further, lowered reverse logistics cycle time and established a unified structure.

read the case studyPDF, 152K

Indirect Supply Management
A creative and comprehensive approach to MRO supply supports up-time goals for an oil sands producer in northern Alberta

A leading oil sands producer needed an integrated maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supply chain to meet higher production and maintenance targets. After plant and design audits, Exel formulated a comprehensive solution that included a new logistics network, dedicated transport, package tracking technology, and strategic procurement. This leaner supply chain improved performance, while reducing MRO stock-outs by 100%.

read the case studyPDF, 174K

Warehousing and Distribution
Streamlining warehouse operations a calculated success for one technology company

For one technology manufacturer, the back-to-school season is the most vital to its success. Product must be on retailers' shelves before and during the sales season. The manufacturer was increasingly pressured to meet retail customer demands on product deliveries and custom packaging - all within very narrow windows of time. Exel's comprehensive solution included enhanced warehousing and distribution services that delivered cost efficiencies and, ultimately, helped the company improve its customer relationships.

Read the case studyPDF, 378K

Emerging Markets
Supply chain solutions for entering emerging markets

A pre-eminent American automobile manufacturer wanted to expand into China, and needed to identify and evaluate supply chain requirements for entering this fast-growing, competitive market. Exel's experience and knowledge in global logistics infrastructures and trade financing led to a solution that went from supplier and order management to product delivery.

Read the case studyPDF, 387K

Project Management
Fast fulfillment supports new product line for pharmaceutical company

After strategic acquisitions, companies face the challenge of integrating and consolidating operations — without disrupting current productivity and service levels. A leading pharmaceutical manufacturer encountered just this issue and turned to Exel to manage a fast, effective warehousing and fulfillment solution.

Read the case studyPDF, 257K

Making Business More Sustainable
Continuous improvement drives energy-saving effort at Goodyear

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has long considered conservation a key to sustaining its world operations. So, when an Exel-initiated lighting analysis at one of Goodyear's facilities revealed a startling opportunity to conserve electricity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the team seized the opportunity. Exel drove the project from inception to implementation. In the end, it ultimately surpassed expectations and projected savings.

Read the case studyPDF, 289K

E-Commerce
E-Commerce fulfillment solution brightens holiday for toy retailer

One of the nation's leading toy retailers generates as much as 50 percent of its sales in the fourth quarter alone, and a growing percentage of that business is being done online. When problems arose with the retailer's third-party e-commerce provider, the company created a completely new online infrastructure and looked to Exel to design and quickly implement a warehousing and order fulfillment solution.

Read the case studyPDF, 195K

Energy Efficiency
Green lighting initiative brightens the way toward electricity savings, employee satisfaction

Reducing corporate carbon footprints is challenging — programs need to achieve real value for both the environment and a company’s bottom line. Exel and its EV Logistics joint venture partner, Versacold, identified an opportunity that accomplished both: a high-output facility lighting project. The team analyzed and implemented high-efficiency warehouse lighting that conserved electricity, improved safety and reduced costs.

read the case studyPDF, 1199K

Dynamic Inventory Control
Increasing inventory efficiency helps a leading automaker streamline production in Mexico

For one leading international automaker, increasing the efficiency of inbound-to-manufacturing materials flow was the fundamental step in driving peak production performance. With several suppliers and sub-assemblers all supporting the production schedule, collaboration was a major challenge. Exel customized its supplier integration system, which included a specialized in-house IT platform, and provided support and training at implementation and ongoing operation stages. The innovative solution improved material flow, increased visibility and led to a 30 percent reduction in inventory.

read the case studyPDF, 336K

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