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Protected: Retail Supply Chain & Logistics
Enhancing, developing, and supporting retail supply chains across the UK with innovative, efficient, and scalable solutions. Our expertise ensures optimised inventory management, streamlined distribution, and seamless logistics operations tailored to meet the evolving demands of your business and customers.
Sectors we work in
Creating flexible, reliable retail supply chains
Retailers face increasing supply chain and logistics challenges due to complex global dynamics and rapidly evolving consumer expectations. Meeting demand now requires managing a growing product range while adapting to new and flexible delivery methods.
Many retailers are still developing their networks to accommodate eCommerce growth, which is projected to account for 25% of total retail sales by 2027. As a result, warehouses are turning to automation to support increased throughput, often requiring additional space and resources. At the same time, global uncertainty and tighter margins mean minimising operational expenditure is a priority, with a greater focus on productivity improvements that require minimal capital investment.
Customer expectations continue to drive supply chain efficiency. Studies show that 25% of shoppers abandon their carts if delivery is too slow, making a streamlined warehouse and transport operation crucial for competitiveness. In physical stores, stock availability is equally vital – 30-40% of customers may switch brands or retailers if an item is out of stock.
Striking the right balance between cost control and availability requires accurate forecasting to maximise stock efficiency while optimising working capital. At Hatmill, we help retailers achieve this by implementing data-driven demand planning, optimising warehouse operations, and enhancing logistics networks to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure products reach customers seamlessly – whether online or in-store.
Our services
Retail supply chain & logistics services
At Hatmill we have decades of experience in optimising and designing supply chain and logistics, supporting clients in solving complex problems to benefit the end customer. Our services range from managing tenders for forecasting systems, through to managing the design and build of fully automated warehouses.
End-to-End Supply Chain Review
We’ll review your current supply chain and logistics network and develop alternatives, conducting ‘what if’ scenario planning across a 5-10 year timeframe to help you understand what capacity you have to support volume growth.
Demand Forecasting & Inventory
By generating improved demand forecasts, we’ll help you to maintain optimal inventory levels, preventing both overstock and stockouts. This helps in unlocking working capital tied up in excess inventory, allowing you to reinvest in growth opportunities.
Warehouse Automation
At Hatmill, our expert automation consultants work with businesses to design and implement tailored automation strategies. We assess current operations, select the right technologies, and manage the entire process to ensure seamless integration.
eCommerce Fulfilment
Our expert e-fulfilment consultants will help to streamline your online order processing to ensure fast, efficient, and accurate deliveries. We’ll help to optimise every aspect of your e-commerce logistics, from warehouse design and layout to workflows and system integration.
Transport & Logistics
At Hatmill, our transport and logistics services will help you to optimise routes, improving delivery reliability, and reducing operational costs. Our expert logistics consultants will also ensure efficient resource allocation, compliance with regulations, and the integration of advanced technologies.
Warehouse Inventory Management
Our warehouse inventory management services will help to improve your supply chain efficiency. Our expert consultants provide tailored solutions to improve inventory accuracy, optimise space utilisation, and reduce operational costs.
“Hatmill operational support has been utilised on specific projects over the last 2 years and has included warehouse layout review, stock management systems, and process guidance. It is always useful to have an expert independent view on best practice.”
– Jo Richardson, Finance Director, Hugh Rice Group
About us
The benefits of working with Hatmill
In the dynamic landscape of retail and eCommerce, businesses face numerous challenges that necessitate the expertise of seasoned professionals.
Our team boasts decades of experience in supply chain and logistics, enabling us to support clients in solving complex problems that ultimately benefit the end customer. Our wealth of knowledge ensures that businesses receive informed, effective guidance tailored to their unique needs.
Expertise & experience
At Hatmill we bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in retail logistics management. We offer insights and strategies tailored to the unique challenges of the industry, and have proven success in optimising retail delivery networks and warehouse automation projects.
Efficiency & cost savings
By optimising supply chain processes, we help retail businesses reduce operational costs and improve efficiency. This includes streamlining inventory management, enhancing transportation logistics, and implementing advanced warehousing technologies.
Scalability & flexibility
We assist retail and eCommerce businesses in scaling their operations to meet growing demand. We provide flexible logistics solutions that adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences.
Industry compliance
We have extensive knowledge of the retail sector, including a deep understanding of industry regulations, compliance standards, and best practices. This expertise allows us to help businesses navigate regulatory requirements while ensuring operational efficiency.
Innovation & technology
We stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in logistics. We’ll help you implement innovative solutions such as automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to enhance your supply chain operations.
Customer satisfaction
By improving logistics efficiency and reliability, we’ll help you enhance customer satisfaction. This includes ensuring timely deliveries, maintaining product quality, and providing excellent customer service.
FAQs
What should you know?
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Do Hatmill offer sustainable supply chain and logistics solutions?
Yes, we offer sustainable supply chain and logistics solutions that focus on carbon-efficient transportation methods and minimising environmental impact. We aim to reduce waste, optimise energy use, and support our clients in achieving their sustainability goals while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness throughout the supply chain.
Find out more on our dedicated Sustainable Logistics page.
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Can Hatmill help to minimise overstocking and avoid stockouts?
Yes, we can help to minimise overstocking and avoid stockouts by implementing data-driven demand forecasting, real-time inventory tracking, and efficient replenishment strategies.
We analyse sales trends, seasonality, and supply chain variables to optimise stock levels, ensuring products are available when needed without excessive inventory holding costs. Our approach improves stock accuracy, reduces waste, and enhances supply chain efficiency, helping retailers maintain a balanced and cost-effective inventory.
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Can Hatmill help to integrate our supply chain to support both in-store and online sales?
Yes, we have a wealth of experience in integrating supply chains to seamlessly support both in-store and online sales through optimised omnichannel logistics.
We design agile distribution networks, implement real-time inventory visibility, and streamline fulfillment processes to ensure efficient stock allocation across all sales channels.
By leveraging automation, data-driven insights, and advanced warehouse solutions, we help retailers enhance customer experience, reduce costs, and improve overall supply chain efficiency.
Ideas & Insights
Related Insights
Our guides, ideas and views. Explore our insights to deliver tangible improvements to your supply chain and logistics operations.