T ese tools reduce waste, speed up operations and support
competitive advantage. To maximise logistics efficiency, lean manufacturing and
5S principles remain highly eff ective. T ese methods promote organisation and eliminate waste, especially in high-throughput environments. Standardised work instructions and value stream mapping
streamline operations by identifying and eliminating non-value- adding activities. If packaging delays are aff ecting dispatch, for example, a process review could repurpose labour or restructure workfl ows. Quick changeover techniques (e.g. SMED) reduce downtime
between product runs, helping you meet customer deadlines more reliably.
Enhancing supply chain resilience Resilience is now a key part of logistics strategy. Dual sourcing, local supplier relationships, and fl exibility in transport routes help protect your operations from disruptions. Working closely with suppliers through collaborative
planning enables better alignment with production schedules, reducing the risk of stockouts and late deliveries. Diversifying logistics channels – using road, rail, and sea
– also allows faster adaptation to market changes and avoids reliance on a single mode of transport. Today’s manufacturing logistics are powered by data.
Dashboards and KPIs help track warehousing and shipping performance. Real-time analytics quickly identify bottlenecks or underperformance, enabling faster decision-making. Predictive analytics, powered by machine learning, take this
further. They forecast demand, suggest optimal stock levels, and predict equipment failures. Used effectively, they lead to: Manufacturers using predictive analytics have reported:
■ 15–20% reduction in quality-related costs ■ 10–25% improvement in delivery performance ■ Increased customer retention from more reliable fulfilment
Sustainable warehousing and logistics Sustainability isn’t just about doing the right thing – it’s a sound fi nancial strategy. From energy-effi cient lighting and heating in warehouses to solar-powered logistics hubs, many green invest- ments pay for themselves within a few years. Energy storage solutions allow you to use cheaper off -peak
electricity during production, cutting bills by up to 20%. Eco- friendly packaging can also reduce freight weight and appeal to environmentally conscious customers. Closed-loop systems – where packaging or materials are recov- ered and reused – further reduce waste and disposal costs.
25
Bring your accountant into the conversation early While logistics technology can transform your operation, it’s crucial to consider how these systems integrate with your fi nancial processes. We often see businesses adopt new stock management or supply
chain tools without syncing them with their accounting systems — missing out on valuable data insights or tax-saving opportunities. For instance:
■ If your new tech tracks stock, make sure it integrates with your accounting platform for accurate reporting and stock valuation.
■ Many systems used to improve internal processes may qualify for R&D tax relief.
■ Green upgrades like solar panels or energy-saving equipment might qualify for capital allowances or sustainability-linked fi nance.
At Cottons, our dedicated team supports manufacturers and
logistics fi rms going digital. As part of our digital advisory service, we help ensure any new tech investment works in tandem with your fi nance function. We’ll assess:
■ Where integrations are needed between operations and fi nance ■ Eligibility for relevant tax savings or government support ■ How to structure your systems for smarter forecasting and reporting
Bringing your accountant into the conversation early can
save time, reduce manual duplication, and improve return on investment.
Unlocking more value Ultimately, profitable logistics is about more than moving
goods — it’s about designing a connected, efficient, and agile system that links every part of your business. Whether you’re investing in automation, upgrading your supplier network, or implementing green solutions, each step forward should also support your financial health. At Cottons, we work with manufacturers across the UK to
uncover inefficiencies, improve processes, and make sure your digital transformation delivers measurable gains. Thinking about optimising your logistics and warehousing?
Let’s talk. We’ll help you make smart investments — and ensure they align with your financial strategy for long-term growth.
Contact Cottons Group at
www.cottonsgroup.com
LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68
