Managing short-term production planning and call-offs at a Belgian food manufacturer

At a glance

Lanark supported a Belgian food producer on 3 levels: as a line scheduler managing short-term production planning, as a supply coordinator handling the packaging materials call-offs, and as a process improvement specialist.

The challenge?

This Belgian food manufacturer wanted to ensure its production goals were met as accurately and efficiently as possible, while minimising downtime and waste. Furthermore, the company wanted to optimise the packaging materials call-off process, such that the right packaging was available in the right quantities at the right time.

Lanark’s solution

The Lanark supply chain engineer took on 3 different roles at a Belgian food manufacturer, all within the production planning domain. As a line scheduler, he was responsible for the short-term production planning. The goal? To run smooth and efficient daily operations without any material shortages. This involved adjusting the production schedule based on real-time information and communicating quickly and clearly to production, logistics, and quality control.

He was also in charge of the packaging materials call-off process. Having the right materials on time and in full for production required working closely with the external suppliers. A clear, transparent communication and a proactive follow-up of deliveries were essential to avoid production delays.

On top of these operational tasks, the Lanark supply chain engineer was involved in strategic improvement projects. He analysed the root causes of high production costs and developed corrective actions. He ensured the raw materials stock levels were under control, thereby optimising available warehouse space. Finally, he developed a detailed process map including roles and responsibilities, improving transparency, collaboration, and efficiency.

A smooth production process requires having the right materials at the right place and time, while keeping close attention to cost. Transparent and respectful interaction between all stakeholders, both internally and externally, plays an important part.

“Through proactive follow-up, consistent communication and root cause analyses it was possible to streamline the production planning process, define clear roles and responsibilities and reduce overall costs.”

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