APAC Planning team rebuilding for cosmetics D2C company
The Challenge
The Avon Cosmetics APAC Branch faced supply chain disruptions due to high rotation in the planning department. Key issues included:
Local team lacked maturity to rebuild and stabilize planning functions
Rising costs from overstock and shortages
Inability to meet global planning standards
What We Do
A planning expert was deployed to APAC and undertook:
Process Audit – Reviewed existing planning processes and identified inconsistencies
Team Training & Development – Guided team members and created personal development roadmaps
Cross-Department Collaboration – Aligned planning with other functions
Performance Monitoring – Implemented KPIs and evaluation systems
Product Life Cycle Management – Established processes in line with global requirements
System Improvements – Corrected planning system set-up errors and closed knowledge gaps
Results
Team Stabilization – No further replacements needed within 6 months
Operational Improvements – Overstock decreased by 4p.p., service level increased by 2p.p. during the project, with an additional 7p.p. improvement in overstock the following year
Productivity & Monitoring – KPIs allowed regional executives to monitor system use and planning timeliness
Sustained Stability – Planning team remained stable for 3 years, enabling focus on business priorities
Summary
Avon APAC overcame supply chain challenges by:
Conducting a full audit of planning processes
Stabilizing the planning team within 6 months
Reducing overstock and increasing service levels
Maintaining a stable, productive team for 3 years
This project highlights the value of process audits, team development, and system improvements in stabilizing regional supply chain operations.
