Two companies work through a significant system change with good communication and an already strong relationship. The result? In the case of Lorillard and logistics partner, DSC Logistics, the result was error-free service.

The change came about because Lorillard wanted to have tighter control over their inventory and distribution system; they wanted to save costs by ensuring that they were producing the correct amounts and type of product, and that it was moving efficiently through the supply chain. They chose to establish the tighter control by replacing their out-dated legacy system with their new Enterprise Requirements Planning (ERP) software, SAP. DSC partnered with Lorillard to make the transition as smooth as possible.

With a clearer vision of their inventory level versus sales forecasts, Lorillard was able to reduce inventory levels across the country. Of course, as inventory levels shrink, the importance of accuracy increases. With a smaller inventory, a misplaced case could lead to an incomplete order. And, due to the expense and federal regulation of cigarettes, their inventory accuracy is critical. Because of this, DSC conducts daily 100 percent inventories of their product. In monthly meetings and daily communication, we continuously discuss problems and potential problems.

We’ve shown we’re dedicated to our customer’s success by working with them to have a successful transition to SAP and also to be able to use it to pinpoint and correct shipping errors in a timely manner. We’ve become experts on SAP, having helped dozens of Fortune 500 companies over the years convert to the SAP platform. We used this expertise to provide Lorillard with the longest error-free stretch of service in the history of the partnership of our companies. DSC’s collaboration with Lorillard is an example of what a true partnership can accomplish.