Flowerpot and planter retailer Elho was struggling to reach its growth potential. Demand for their popular products was outpacing forecasts, creating a complex inventory management challenge that required a smarter approach to supply and demand. Working closely with the team, we developed a unified platform that streamlined their operations and gave them a solid foundation for long-term business growth.
The success of a few flagship products was creating a dynamic inventory puzzle that the Excel-based workflow couldn't keep up with.
A thorough selection process that led to the selection of a unified, data-driven S&OP platform.
Elho's supply chain now runs from a single source of truth, simplifying its multi-location operations and driving efficiency across the board
Elho has been crafting beautiful, sustainable flowerpots in Europe for over 60 years. With an annual turnover of €117 million, a global team of around 300 people, and products distributed to over 75 countries, they're a true global force in the world of planters. Every single one of their products is made from 100% recycled plastic, with everything managed in-house to support a truly circular future. It's a pretty impressive operation, and one we were thrilled to be a part of.
Elho was facing challenges with planning and alignment as their in-house innovation, production, and logistics grew increasingly complex. An over-reliance on Excel was preventing cost-driven planning and creating conflicting truths across the business. Recognizing the need for improvement, they sought a solution to streamline operations and better meet business demands.
We stepped in to thoroughly analyze Elho’s current systems, facilitating discussions to uncover their core needs and translating abstract goals into a clear roadmap for implementing a better fitting planning system.
Instead of rushing in, we mapped out Elho's options and guided the software selection process. We provided a detailed tender documentation tailored to Elho's unique operational needs, such as managing over 2,000 SKUs.
"They added the right level of detail so we could really test if a system could do what we needed," said the CFO Jeroen Beljaars.
This rigorous process helped Elho look past vendor pitches to confidently shortlist software partners. Ultimately, it allowed us to replace gut-feel decisions through the implementation of a unified, data-driven S&OP platform.
Today, Elho operates from a single source of truth, enabling accurate, cost-driven planning and simplifying its complex, multi-location supply chain. A streamlined workflow that boosts efficiency at every level.
Their story is a clear reminder that taking the time to find the right software, rather than rushing the decision, pays off in the long run. And with the right technology and the right partner in place, the results speak for themselves.
At Elho, where entrepreneurship and a "can-do" mentality are prized, Quicksilver’s proactive, critical attitude resonated deeply. Instead of a traditional client-consultant dynamic, they functioned as a unified team.
"I felt like we were forming a real team," recalled an Elho executive. "It wasn't just 'we helped you, now we're moving on.' The commitment to achieve results was absolutely there."
This partnership gave Elho the confidence to make bold decisions. For example, when the initial software shortlist didn't feel quite right, Elho took a step back with Quicksilver's support to add a third option. Prioritizing long-term success over speed laid the groundwork for a successful platform implementation.
Elho's collaboration with Quicksilver highlights the importance of flexibility and thorough decision-making in implementing effective planning solutions. By taking a strategic step back and prioritizing a robust final choice over immediate speed, we set the stage for long-term success. Elho's example demonstrates how innovative technology and a partnership grounded in confidence can drive impactful results.
As Jeroen Beljaars, CFO at Elho, put it:"You have people at the table who don't bring bullshit. They come to help you, and they understand what they are talking about."
Rico can answer all your questions!
rico.de.heer@quicksilverconsultancy.com
06 23 27 31 94
