Procurement and Supply Chain Solutions for Consumer Packaged Goods

Speed to market pressures impact key strategic categories in the apparel, footwear and accessories space. Procurement professionals in multi-channel firms need to establish systematic means of engaging with partners that remain flexible as a brand grows and can be developed to meet consumer trends. Marketing, supply chain, direct materials and retail categories all require unique supplier characteristics and procurement management techniques, specifically:

• An agile marketing supply base that can quickly scale to meet the cyclical needs of a fashion-driven industry
• Flexible supply chain partners that can respond to shifting consumer demographics and manufacturing hubs
• An emphasis on direct material review and evaluation that ensures that suppliers meet the brand's quality standards while simultaneously controlling cost
• Centrally managed suppliers and procurement processes that ensure consistency amongst owned retail locations

Additionally, diverse supply market dynamics necessitate customized solutions for industry-agnostic procurement categories in the apparel, footwear and accessories sector. These more “commoditized” product and service offerings lend themselves to rate-based evaluations and high levels of supplier competition.

At GEP, we understand these types of challenges and help our apparel, footwear and accessories clients meet them through diverse procurement strategies and solutions. By facilitating closer relationships between manufacturers and suppliers, GEP helps reduce wasteful spend and realize savings.
 

Food and beverage companies face a competitive market, with constant challenges to keep consumers engaged and loyal, while also finding innovative ways to keep costs down. Ingredients, marketing and logistics are key areas of focus when looking for opportunities for increased service and quality, cost reduction and overall value.

One of the most severe challenges procurement faces is tracking and managing commodity indices. Unforeseen spikes in prices necessitate a reliable backup of suppliers able to meet the high-quality standards expected — and on short notice. Diversification of the supplier base to ensure supply continuity is a key concern and balancing this need with traditional supplier consolidation strategies to drive incremental savings is essential.

Marketing drives consumer loyalty, purchases, and sales for food and beverage companies. Procurement must adapt to review marketing investments, optimizing costs and return on investments for greater value through efficient marketing programs.

Identifying alternative and innovative solutions within logistics is more important than ever. Proactive management of distribution channels and continuous review for network efficiencies are vital to combat the volatility in fuel and other costs

GEP’s dedication to providing real value includes the understanding that cost reduction is not the only benefit we offer — and nor should it be.
We bring a keen understanding of the dynamics affecting the industry, and the ability to adapt core procurement strategies to obtain the best value for you. GEP can help synergize teams to streamline processes, raise service levels, meet quality standards and reduce cost.
 

Personal and household goods companies face pressure to stay ahead of consumer trends, develop innovative products and control brand image. Purchasing professionals must develop strategic supplier relationships in key spend areas to keep the company competitive and industry-leading, while negotiating advantageous agreements. Direct sourcing and logistics require unique supplier capabilities and partnerships.

Strict evaluation of raw materials is essential to ensure they meet quality standards. Staying competitive and innovative may require a unique chemical or raw material that only one supplier can provide, creating negotiation challenges. 

Building strong partnerships with sellers and ensuring consistent, on-time delivery of products is critical. Significant savings can also be achieved by challenging long-standing supplier relationships in key categories.

GEP's comprehensive supplier evaluation and negotiation process ensures all factors are considered in the sourcing process. Beyond price, we evaluate supplier capabilities, experience, service levels and competitive differentiators.

By considering these factors, GEP consistently helps personal and household goods companies partner with suppliers that meet their competitive needs while delivering the best total value to the company.