Effectively managing warehousing and logistics solutions is paramount in today’s dynamic business world. It offers a comprehensive approach to streamlining core processes and drives optimal supply chain performance. FairPrice Group Supply Chain (FPGSC), a beacon of excellence in the industry, stands as a shining example of how such strategic integration can revolutionise the supply chain landscape and deliver unparalleled service. In this context, there are two key factors that are worth mentioning: capacity management and data-driven approaches. Read on for further insights.
1. The Significance of Capacity Management
As the pivotal force behind FairPrice Group, the largest supermarket operator in Singapore, FPGSC recognises the significance of capacity management in operations. Each facet of the process should constantly run at its optimal capacity to meet operational timelines. This is only achievable through meticulous optimisation of resources and assets.
With that in mind, FPGSC deploys the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) together with the Caddy Pick system. The ASRS is a key contributor to the overall capacity management as it optimises warehouse space utilisation, facilitating efficient retrieval of goods. Supported by robotics, autonomous vehicles and monorail system are leveraged for warehousing operations.The implementation took place in 2014, marking a remarkable breakthrough as the warehouse logistics solution was the first of its kind in the Asia Pacific region.
ASRS is an advanced computer-directed infrastructure that coordinates efficient storage and retrieval of goods from designated positions. It eliminates the need for conventional shelving arrangements, where ample aisle space is needed for manual retrieval of items from shelves. This practice not only takes up space, but also compromises inventory accessibility.
By leveraging vertical spaces within facilities, accommodating tightly configured bins and specialty holders is made possible to achieve optimal capacity. ASRS’ equipped storage and retrieval machines can navigate intricate racking systems with precision, ensuring that items are placed in the most strategic and space-efficient position. As such, FPGSC managed to obtain more ambient storage space, while personnel are able to locate, retrieve and transport items to retrieval points in a timely manner. This reduces disruptions in the supply of goods, contributing to On Time In Full (OTIF) Delivery.
2. Data-driven Approaches for Optimised Business Operation
FPGSC’s industrial experience in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)/grocery retail industry translates to a core strength in 3PL services. Furthermore, the data-driven approach taken by FPGSC’s end-to-end supply chain has paved the way for optimised business operations as well. It provides real-time visibility into the movement of goods, ensuring cost-effectiveness and faster deliveries for customers. Data and analytics is harnessed to provide upstream services in monitoring, clearance, and tracking of containers, warehouse inventory and management, among others.
This gives FPGSC the competitive advantage, outperforming other supply chain companies that may still rely on traditional data reporting methods, or simply overlook the importance of data analytics. By utilising tables, charts, heat maps, plots and various visualisation, FPGSC designs user-friendly business intelligence dashboards to present valuable data for expediting efficient decision-making processes. Through this multifaceted and interactive dashboard experience, FPGSC empowers stakeholders with a holistic understanding of intricate supply chain dynamics, as well as logistic and warehousing services. Most importantly, it facilitates agile responses to challenges and opportunities, bolstering the company’s ability to remain adaptive and proactive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
FPGSC constantly researches and leverages cutting-edge analytics tools and forecasting models for FairPrice Group’s needs and other partners’ use cases. The dedication and passion in applying data science to support predictive and prescriptive needs is still ongoing. This includes sales volume forecasting, demand and supply data simulation, as well as geospatial analytics with triggers and alerts.
Learn more: Harnessing the Best of Data for Supply Resilience
Ultimately, it is this focus on efficient processes and data-driven insights that enables FPGSC to streamline core processes and optimise supply chain performance.
FairPrice Group Supply Chain Business (FPGSC) is the supply chain arm of the largest supermarket operator in Singapore. Our core service is to design, manage and operate end-to-end supply chain solutions for your daily logistics needs, across all our retail stores and online businesses. For more information, contact us now.
