The Flemish ornamental plant cultivation sector is strongly export-oriented and world market leader for specific products. The sector consists of relatively small, family-owned companies that produce various plants and flowers with specific requirements regarding shelf life, packaging and format. The current supply chain is relatively complex and inefficient. Moreover, increasing foreign competition and the growing demand for e-commerce, both in the B2B and B2C markets, pose additional challenges to the sector.
Only through increased cooperation, application of a smart logistics model and further digitalization can the Flemish floriculture industry meet these challenges and convert them into new opportunities for growth.
Goal
VIL wants, in collaboration with PCS (Proefcentrum voor Sierteelt), to design an optimal future-oriented omnichannel model for the Flemish floriculture sector, taking into account the implantation of growers, traders and customers. The model will allow the sector to increase the profitability of current activities and to maximize the opportunities of the growing e-commerce.
To make the efficiency gains clear, a sector-wide business case calculation of the model will be done based on predefined scenarios. Also, a business case calculation tool will be developed that will allow the individual floriculture companies to determine the financial impact of the model on their logistics costs.
Finally, a digital supply chain platform will be designed, starting from the existing range of digital tools. This platform will act as a neutral matchmaker for supply and demand. It will allow to manage stock management, transportation planning, sales and traceability in a paperless logistics environment.
