Holt Renfrew Essay

552 Words3 Pages
Major Issues The biggest issue facing Holt Renfrew’s distribution network is the need to improve the operations at the distribution center to reduce stock outs at the stores. Firstly, there is improper forecasting of the supply of goods that leads to unpredictability, confusion and inefficient use of resources at the DC. Secondly, there is a disorganized warehouse management system that inhibits their ability to locate goods for shipping leading to delayed shipments. Finally, the outbound logistics to the stores is not properly managed which is causing complaints from store managers. I believe there is need to improve overall operations and logistics at the distribution center to reduce the level of stock outs and increase overall sales. Analysis Exhibit 1 depicts the cost of stock outs to Holt Renfrew. There is an immediate need to improve the operations at the distribution center that is potentially causing lost revenues to the order of $48M annually. The assumptions made in this case are: 1. Industry Stock out rate of 8% 2. 50% customers choose not to buy in case of stock outs 3. Annual revenues of $800M 4. Gross margin of 50% Exhibit 2 depicts the impact of the consolidation of the warehouse operations. In this case, the only cost saving is approximately $500k. However, the addition of an extra level to an already mismanaged distribution center will not help in improving the problems of stock outs and may further deteriorate performance. The assumptions made in this case are: 1. Inventory carrying costs of 25% 2. The average salary of supervisors is $60,000 annually 3. There are 20 working days in a month 4. The second warehouse operates 1 shift per day 5. The mezzanine level would not have any extra costs such as heat, light etc. Recommendations Short Term: In order to improve overall operations at the distribution center, I

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