Redesigning logistics network: key to sustainable growth at Solucious

Discover how Solucious optimised its logistics network to support growth, improve efficiency, and meet evolving customer needs.

Strategic challenge

Solucious, a leading distributor of dry, fresh and frozen foods, set an ambitious goal: a significant increase in sales within five years. Achieving this required a fundamental shift in both the customer and product portfolios, including the introduction of new market segments and an adaptation of the product offering, among other changes.

However, this growth objective brought with it a major logistical challenge. The existing distribution network was not equipped for such rapid expansion. To ensure long-term efficiency and scalability, a comprehensive supply chain optimisation was required. This involved a complete overhaul of the logistics infrastructure, taking into account multi-temperature storage and transportation needs, evolving customer expectations and the optimisation of last-mile delivery solutions in increasingly complex urban environments.

Möbius brought together various areas of expertise that quickly provided us with the necessary insights to make informed decisions regarding the (re)design of our supply chain.

Tim Verheyen Strategic advisor & Business Development manager

Approach

In the first phase of the project, concept development, potential network concepts were developed through meetings, brainstorming sessions, and workshops with stakeholders to align with the company’s strategic objectives. During these sessions, various ideas and strategies were discussed, focusing on identifying the most effective ways to optimise the logistics network.

Advanced techniques such as simulation, clustering, and gravity analysis were applied to evaluate different network concepts such as consolidation, centralisation, and automation. These techniques helped visualise potential scenarios and predict their impact on operational efficiency and costs. Additionally, a decision-support model was developed to simulate various network configurations, analysing factors such as cost, service levels, warehouse locations, number of hubs, and throughput. This model served as a tool to support informed decision-making.

In the second phase, evaluation and implementation planning, the proposed concepts were evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively, with compatibility with the existing infrastructure and organisational capabilities as a minimum requirement. Detailed analyses and assessments were conducted to ensure that the selected concepts were not only feasible but also had the potential to deliver the desired improvements.

The most effective network concept was selected based on the outcome of a thorough evaluation and an assessment of the impact on current resources (infrastructure, IT, personnel) per scenario.

Results

By redesigning its logistics network with a future-proof strategy in mind, the company is now well-positioned for sustainable growth, ensuring operational efficiency while supporting ambitious revenue goals. This was achieved through:

Logistics network redesign - an optimised (transport) infrastructure: a data-driven approach to location strategy, ensuring both cost-efficiency and service quality.
Smarter last-mile solutions: innovative delivery concepts designed to meet evolving customer needs in urban environments.