In recent times, FOR Partnership has been at the forefront of supporting organisations in their journey towards enhanced competitiveness and efficiency. Through a range of strategic initiatives and operational implementations, we have successfully enabled our clients to adapt to the evolving business landscape. In this article, we highlight some of our recent assignments and the impactful outcomes they have produced.

 

Delivering a Turn-key Solution for Global Retailer's Fulfilment Operation

 

One of our notable achievements was providing end-to-end support for a major global retailer's fulfilment operation through a third-party logistics company (3PL). This comprehensive solution involved multiple key features. We began by specifying the necessary size and type of property required for the operation. Next, we sourced a new 320,000 square feet footprint building that met the client's needs. Collaborating closely with the client, we designed all aspects of the operation and conducted a meticulous fit-out process, including tendering and selecting contractors. As the fit-out program lead, we ensured seamless execution and also formed and managed the operational team responsible for the site's day-to-day activities. Additionally, we successfully implemented a warehouse management system and handled all aspects of the client relationship, including negotiating the logistics services contract. The operation went live on time and within budget, becoming the client's largest new operation at the time. Within just 12 months, it employed 1,500 individuals at peak capacity and effectively served one of the retailer's largest multi-channel markets.

 

Selecting a New Logistics Provider for Retailer's Outsourced Distribution Operations

 

We were entrusted by the executive directors of a specialist retailer to oversee the selection process for a new third-party logistics provider. Our involvement encompassed collecting and organizing detailed data to create a comprehensive tender document that covered all fulfilment and distribution requirements. We evaluated numerous 3PL providers and created a shortlist for further consideration. Throughout the tender process, we managed communication, provided necessary information, and ensured clarity for all parties involved. To facilitate the evaluation, we devised a comprehensive scorecard to assess the 3PLs' responses. Collaborating with the executive team, we ultimately selected the preferred provider and led the contract negotiation process. Alongside the tender process, we provided valuable advisory work on supply chain strategy to the executive team, resulting in an enhanced operational solution. This assignment successfully delivered a new logistics provider, established a new operation in a fresh site, and established a new contract.

 

Cost Reduction through Innovative Automation for UK Retailer and 3PL

 

In another impactful assignment, we helped one of the UK's largest retailers achieve significant cost reductions through the implementation of innovative automation. The retailer's highly seasonal manual operation posed challenges due to substantial demand variations between peak and off-peak periods. Conventional automation approaches would not have been cost-effective. However, leveraging our expertise, we devised an automated solution that incorporated a high-speed sorter and complementary technologies, enabling the retailer to handle high peak capacities while minimizing capital expenditure. This approach delivered a rapid return on investment. As part of the assignment, we led a larger program that involved fitting out a new 300,000 square feet site. This comprehensive program encompassed the installation of a large three-tier mezzanine, piling, and other necessary components.

 

Delivering Operational Cost Reductions in Fulfilment and Distribution

 

FOR Partnership has consistently achieved significant cost reductions across various operations. Our approach involves analyzing the existing operations, benchmarking against best practices, and identifying improvement opportunities. We prioritize these improvements and implement tailored solutions with a strong focus on delivering rapid returns on investment. The range of solutions we employ spans from low-cost shelving and racking enhancements to complete site redesign, major automation, and system implementations. In the realm of transport solutions, we leverage detailed modelling of distribution patterns and compare costs between in-house and third-party operations to optimize efficiency.

 

Warehouse Management Systems for Global Fashion Platform's International Operations

 

One of the world's most successful branded platforms engaged FOR Partnership to create a comprehensive warehouse management system specification for their distribution centres across the East and West coasts of the USA, Europe, and the UK. After thorough assessments of all operations, we collaborated closely with the client's logistics team to develop a universal warehouse management specification. Drawing upon our extensive experience in multi-channel operations, we crafted a best-in-breed solution that aligns with the platform's global operations.

 

Exploiting Multi-channel Market Opportunities with Distribution Property Developers

 

FOR Partnership has partnered with major UK and international distribution property developers to capitalize on the burgeoning multi-channel and urban fulfilment market. Our approach involves leveraging our in-depth knowledge of the multi-channel landscape to design properties that precisely meet the end users' requirements. By reducing the level of tenant fit-out required, we enhance demand for the property, increase investment yield, and elevate long-term asset value. One notable assignment involved designing an urban fulfilment centre within a 100-year-old listed wine warehouse, demonstrating our ability to blend historical preservation with modern logistics requirements.

 

Driving Value through Logistics Utilisation of Retail Property

 

Working closely with one of the UK's largest retail property owners, FOR Partnership conducted a thorough review of their portfolio, assessed existing facilities, and identified a plethora of logistics and urban fulfilment opportunities. These opportunities were subsequently showcased in the investor's presentation as strategic avenues for growth and value creation.

 

In summary, FOR Partnership has been instrumental in facilitating organisational transformations, driving efficiency, and maximizing value for our clients. Through our turn-key solutions, meticulous selection processes, innovative automation strategies, cost reduction initiatives, and expertise in warehouse management systems and property utilization, we consistently deliver impactful results. Our client-centric approach and commitment to rapid returns on investment set us apart as a trusted partner in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.