A leading apparel producer leverages Dynamics 365 F&O and increases supply chain agility by 40%

About the client

Founded in 2003, the client is a leading global wholesale supplier of premium blank apparel. Recognized for their exceptional quality, they specialize in shirt production. Their commitment to innovation began by addressing a specific customer need: a lightweight, comfortable t-shirt with a smooth surface ideal for sublimation printing.


Client challenges

Inconsistent supplier and customer data, coupled with manual processes and disorganized workflows, created bottlenecks in order fulfillment and hindered productivity at Next Level Apparel. Employee frustration was high due to cumbersome daily tasks, data silos from external files, and a system that was difficult to use. These factors, along with redundant data, limited visibility, and error-prone manual processes, compromised data quality and hindered informed decision-making. In addition, misaligned business processes and a lack of training on the D365 F&O features limited the system’s potential, creating a barrier to overall business growth.

Solution
  • Resource optimization: Redesigned MRP (Material Resource Planning) for efficient resource use to maximize production needs by determining the exact quantity of materials needed for various orders, which optimized production and reduced overstocking.
  • Demand alignment: Improved production planning ensured we align manufacturing with actual customer demand.
  • Material optimization: Optimized Raw Material Planning through the Landed Cost module.
  • Minimized Waste and Reduced Carrying Costs: Improved inventory management and MRP implementation significantly reduced waste and overstocking, eliminated rush orders, and mitigated the risk of material obsolescence and write-offs.
  • Strategic planning: Strategized improvement plans through sessions with leaders, analysts, and business heads. Improved collaboration between different departments involved in the supply chain, such as procurement, finance, production, and logistics.
  • Scalability enhancement: We enhanced business and process scalability and process scalability to meet evolving demands, ensuring seamless adjustments in manufacturing to accommodate fluctuations in production volumes, new product introductions, or shifts in market conditions.
Results at a glance
30% reduction in forecasting errors 50% decrease in application downtime 40% increase in supply chain agility
Benefits

The new system has transformed operations at Next Level Apparel, enhancing manufacturing productivity through optimized inventory levels and reduced waste. The improved visibility and control enable proactive decision-making, minimizing rush orders and ensuring timely product delivery. Streamlined processes and enhanced communication across facilities facilitate smoother collaboration while the system’s scalability adapts to changing demands. In addition, greater visibility into supplier resources and raw material movement effortlessly connects Raw Material Planning to production, which ensures strategic resource allocation and optimal utilization.

Technology

D365 F&O, Azure Machine Learning