(photo credit: Microsoft Stock Images)
Even the best-organized supply chain faces challenges in managing seasonal food demand. Whether it’s caused by the holidays or the need for summer produce, consumer preferences change quickly. To be able to meet these demands requires planning and adjustments to meeting seasonal food demand.
Forecasting Seasonal Demand
A key area that accurate forecasts are linked to is seasonal planning. Businesses need to use past sales data and other factors, such as weather, to make projections about the increase in demand that is to come. For instance, bakeries might need to increase the sales of flour and dairy products due to winter holidays, while beverage companies will need to make provisions for the increase that will be felt during summer. Businesses can use more accurate analysis to make these projections if past data about regional variations is considered.
Incorporating Agility within the Supply Chain
Flexibility is essential in food market management. In this regard, companies that are diversified with suppliers from other areas are better placed during shortages and transport delays within different regions. In the manufacturing sector, companies with inventory that comprises fresh goods, such as produce, and stable goods, such as packaged items, are best placed. Additionally, inter-department communication in procurement, production, and logistics ensures that rapid responses are made depending on the changed conditions.
Managing Storage and Transport
Storing and transporting goods are critical during peak seasons. Temperature-sensitive items such as dairy products, fruits and vegetables, and meat need to be transported through effective cold logistics. Delays and difficulties in the supply chain can lead to degradation as well as increased costs. Companies implement technologies such as automation in warehouses and smart unloading to ensure that there are no delays in the supply chain during peak seasons.
Coordinating with Retail and Distribution Partners
Strong collaboration with the retail sector ensures that products get to the correct shelves and arrive there at the correct time. The retail sector provides the suppliers with data from point-of-sale transactions that enable them to modify production timelines. The creation of collective goals regarding inventory turnover and the minimization of wastage allows them to increase efficiency. This is more significant during peak seasons.
Leveraging Professionals’ Support
In supply chain management, companies can alleviate stress caused by peak seasons through outsourcing some supply chain functions. Fulfillment and distribution services aid in managing peaks without compromising product quality. They enable companies to concentrate on product innovation instead of focusing on supply chain constraints.
Preparing for Next Season
The cyclic variations in demand are such that every year has fresh threats. Organizations must review demands every season to know areas to improve on. Those that continually improve tend to be more robust and are best prepared to face demands. The fulfillment of demands in terms of food during seasons needs planning, versatility, and collaboration.
Companies that are data-driven in planning and flexible with operations can live up to customers’ expectations while ensuring that supply chain continuity is maintained throughout the year. For more information, feel free to look over the accompanying infographic below.
