Logistics Outsourcing: Rhiem group scores at FC Schalke 04

Multichannel logistics in blue and white, or how the Austrian Arbor Management Consulting has hit a home run in merchandise logistics

With more than 135,000 members, 150,000 fan-members and 1,500 Fan Clubs worldwide, FC Schalke 04 is second-largest sports association in Germany. Via various distribution channels around 2,500 merchandising products are offered to fans worldwide.

In order to improve the delivery and service quality and to identify potential for optimisation Arbor Management Consulting was charged to analyse the logistics processes. As a result, the Austrian consulting company has laid the foundation for a successful outsourcing projectwith the tender and the selection of the fulfilment service provider Rhiem.

The location of Rhiem in Voerde is about 40 kilometers away from the club’s headquarters in Gelsenkirchen. This is close enough to supply the outlets within the region flexibly and efficiently with goods several times a week. Rhiem has established itself as fulfilment and e-commerce provider, organising warehousing, shipping and returns management for brands such as L’Oreal, Remember, Verbatim and Build-a-Bear, and also has extensive experience in customising products.

Together with Arbor management all processes have been redesigned. Rhiem’s own warehouse management system was tailored according to the needs of FC Schalke 04. In the test run the complete warehouse was relocated. Within just three days the entire business – including all processes and even individual labelling of jerseys – was booted from the new warehouse. The conclusion: logistics costs were significantly reduced, delivery times and service quality was improved significantly and returns management was optimised by a faster return to the circulation.

One and a half year ago, the situation was different, says Wolfgang Minarik, CEO Arbor: „A somewhat obsolete logistics hall and infrastructure could not keep up with the continuous growth and the complex requirements of multi-channel commerce.“

FC Schalke 04 offers its fans many opportunities to purchase merchandising products. Apart from the classic mail order, it is all about a quick supply of webshop customers. But also retailers, designated fan shops and kiosks at stadiums or club coaches, which are used in away games, must be adequately supplied with goods. And of course the Schalke 04 fans can order with jerseys their desired name.

www.arbor.co.at      www.schalke04.de

Quelle: LogEastics
Portal: www.logistik-express.com