Heineken is transforming its supply chain planning by centralizing processes while maintaining local flexibility. Learn how the world’s second-largest brewer uses technology to harmonize operations and enhance global efficiency.
Balancing Decentralization with Centralized Planning
With 160 breweries spread across 80 operating companies (OpCos) worldwide, Heineken has historically operated through a decentralized structure to remain close to its markets. However, the increasing need for scale efficiency has driven Heineken to adopt a centralized approach to supply chain planning. By leveraging technology and harmonizing processes across its global network, Heineken is striking a balance between local autonomy and centralized efficiency.
Heineken’s adoption of the AIMMS software platform has been pivotal in this transformation. AIMMS allows Heineken to standardize planning methods across its OpCos, building digital products that enhance planning capabilities. These tools surpass the capabilities of localized systems, enabling greater value generation from improved resource allocation and optimized supplier relationships.
Optimizing Tactical Planning for Global Scale
A prime example of Heineken’s centralized planning success is in tactical material planning, where the company faced challenges in efficiently allocating packaging materials among suppliers. By introducing an AIMMS-based solution, Heineken can now optimize the timing of marketing-driven design changes while managing stock levels and supplier capacity. This technology has already been rolled out to 10 OpCos, handling 1,500 design changes and enhancing communication with suppliers through a single point of contact.
Furthermore, Heineken’s move towards centralized planning was accelerated by the closure of several European breweries, which increased the complexity of inter-brewery flows. To address these challenges, Heineken developed tools that provide visibility into brewery capacities and interactions, allowing the company to maximize the efficiency of its network.
Conclusion: The Future of Centralized Planning at Heineken
Heineken’s centralized planning strategy demonstrates how a global company can effectively leverage technology to optimize operations while maintaining local market focus. By implementing advanced planning tools, Heineken has improved resource allocation, streamlined communication, and enhanced operational efficiency. For supply chain leaders, this case study offers valuable insights into how centralized planning can unlock new value in global operations.
