Charlie Delta: Optimises Supply Chain with Centre of Gravity Analysis

25 February, 2025

Optimising Supply Chain Efficiency with Data-Driven Analytics

How Supply Chain Analytics Transformed a Leading Food and Beverage Company

A leading food and beverage company faced growing challenges in managing its logistics network. Limited supply chain visibility created inefficiencies, leading to higher costs and delivery delays. Without clear insights, identifying bottlenecks and making informed decisions remained difficult.

By applying supply chain analytics, Charlie Delta Ltd provided a data-driven solution. Using Centre of Gravity analysis, logistics footprint evaluation, and customer distribution mapping, a new warehouse strategy was developed. This approach created a clearer view of operations, exposed hidden inefficiencies, and enabled smarter planning. The results? A streamlined operation, lower costs, and faster, more efficient deliveries.


Uncovering Hidden Inefficiencies Through Supply Chain Analytics

The client initially operated with multiple distribution hubs, which led to unnecessary transport miles, rising fuel costs, and inconsistent lead times. Without a full picture of its supply chain analytics, inefficiencies remained unnoticed, and decision-making was reactive rather than strategic.

To change this, Charlie Delta conducted a deep analysis of logistics, warehouse locations, and customer demand. The key objectives included:

  • Reducing transport distances to cut costs and emissions
  • Shortening delivery times for better customer satisfaction
  • Optimising warehouse placement to improve efficiency
  • Ensuring future scalability to support business growth
  • Aligning operations with sustainability and ESG goals

By using data-driven supply chain analytics, Charlie Delta helped the company move from assumptions to facts. The analysis revealed where inefficiencies occurred and provided a roadmap for improvement.


The Impact of Centre of Gravity Analysis on Supply Chain Optimisation

One of the most effective tools in supply chain analytics is Centre of Gravity analysis. This method determines the best warehouse location by analysing transport distances, order volumes, and cost variables. Instead of relying on guesswork, businesses gain a clear, strategic direction.

Key factors in the analysis included:

  • Proximity to high-demand areas – Ensuring customers receive orders faster
  • Transport cost savings – Cutting haulage expenses through more efficient routes
  • Room for future growth – Supporting business expansion without logistical issues
  • Sustainability improvements – Reducing fuel consumption and carbon footprint

The analysis showed that consolidating into a single, centralised site near Leeds would maximise efficiency. Moving away from a fragmented two-hub model simplified operations, reduced waste, and improved overall performance.


The Measurable Benefits of Strategic Warehouse Relocation

Relocating to a centralised hub near Leeds delivered substantial financial, operational, and environmental benefits. Through supply chain analytics, inefficiencies that previously went unnoticed were resolved, leading to:

900,000 fewer miles driven each year – Cutting transport distances by 33%
£0.9 million in fuel savings annually – Reducing operational costs significantly
3,000 metric tonnes fewer CO₂ emissions per year – Improving sustainability efforts
18% lower inventory holding costs – Optimising stock management and reducing waste
42% staffing overhead reduction – Enhancing workforce efficiency

These numbers demonstrate how data-driven supply chain analytics can uncover hidden cost-saving opportunities while boosting overall efficiency.


Future-Proofing Growth with Data-Driven Supply Chain Analytics

Looking ahead, the financial impact of this strategic shift continues to grow. By Year 3, cumulative savings are expected to reach £5.8 million, with additional efficiencies driving long-term cost reductions.

The supply chain analytics approach ensures:

📌 Faster deliveries – Reducing lead times and improving customer experience
📌 Stronger transport networks – Enhancing connectivity to key markets
📌 Sustainable operations – Supporting ESG goals through lower emissions
📌 A competitive edge – Lower costs and faster service strengthen market position

With supply chain analytics guiding decision-making, the company has secured a future-proof logistics strategy that supports long-term success.


Why Supply Chain Analytics is a Competitive Advantage

Many businesses struggle with limited visibility of their supply chain, making it difficult to identify inefficiencies. Without the right data, bottlenecks remain hidden, and opportunities for optimisation go unnoticed. By using supply chain analytics, companies gain:

A clear view of operations – Moving from guesswork to fact-based decisions
Lower costs through optimised logistics – Identifying unnecessary spending and reducing waste
Better customer service – Ensuring faster, more reliable deliveries
Greater sustainability – Cutting emissions and improving environmental impact

Charlie Delta’s expertise in supply chain analytics and Centre of Gravity analysis has helped this client create a leaner, more agile logistics network.


Unlocking Your Business Potential with Supply Chain Analytics

For companies looking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and build a sustainable supply chain, analytics provide the key to success. Gaining full visibility of logistics operations allows businesses to make informed, strategic decisions that drive profitability.

With a data-driven approach, Charlie Delta Ltd helps businesses optimise their supply chains, eliminate inefficiencies, and secure long-term growth.

Are you ready to transform your supply chain? Contact Charlie Delta Ltd today to discover how supply chain analytics can take your business to the next level.

For more on how Charlie Delta Ltd can modernise your supply chain, https://www.charlie-delta.co.uk/services/data-analytics