CASE STUDY
Challenge
A leader in wind energy construction faced significant challenges managing safety inventory across its remote and fast-paced jobsites. Its manual inventory process lacked real-time visibility, making it difficult to track consumption and ensure timely replenishment of critical safety materials.
Solution
The Wesco customer materials management team and sales team worked closely with the company to understand its needs and goals. To address the challenges, Wesco deployed its eStock solution, including the eStock by Wesco app and on-site safety Conex containers loaded with consigned PPE inventory from Wesco. Consigned inventory provided convenience and cost-savings by allowing the company to pay for only what was used but still have inventory on hand when needed. The eStock solution digitized and automated inventory management. The pilot program demonstrated strong results, leading to implementation at 12 sites, with additional deployments planned as new projects launch.
Wesco’s eStock solution allows users to scan an item-specific QR code at the point of consumption, which then accurately drops the on-hand quantity. Once the on-hand quantity falls to or below the minimum threshold, it is automatically sent to a shopping cart for replenishment. Along with auto-replenishment of consigned safety materials, the eStock solution provides real-time visibility into inventory levels and supports digital cycle counts.
Results
The implementation of the eStock solution improved operational efficiency and inventory accuracy across multiple remote locations. The eStock solution allowed for standardization of safety materials, and standardization led to better pricing opportunities. Enhanced data capture enabled better payable reconciliation and reporting processes.
Along with these productivity and cost gains, the new digitized solution has made safety compliance easier for employees, now that safety materials are available where and when needed. With its scalable design, the eStock solution is positioned to support the construction company’s future project expansions for up to 25 remote sites.
Summary
- Automated inventory management across multiple remote sites
- Real-time visibility, digital cycle counts and improved reconciliation
- Auto-replenishment of critical safety materials
- Cost-savings up to $90K per year due to consignment
- Scalable solution
- Significant time-savings for buyers