CASE STUDY
How did Danone UK merge three divisions into one SAP IBP system?
About the project

In the United Kingdom, a leading company launched a strategic initiative to consolidate its operations by merging three business divisions – Dairy, Waters, and Specialized Nutrition – into a single, integrated system. The ambitious project aimed to transition from three separate SAP systems to one unified SAP Integrated Business Planning (SAP IBP) solution.

This initiative was driven by the need for a harmonized data set, a flexible, cloud-based statistical planning tool, and the integration of new business flows with external systems.

Project Goals and Challenges
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SAP IBP Implementation
Transitioning from SAP APO to SAP IBP to configure a tailored planning solution, including user authorizations, permission filters, and IBP task customization.
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Business Consolidation
Merging separate divisions – Dairy, Waters, and Specialized Nutrition – into one technical solution, consolidating three SAP systems into a single platform.
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Harmonized Data and Forecasting
Establishing a cloud-based statistical planning tool to unify demand planning across all divisions.
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Alpro Supply Integration
Integrating Alpro’s demand planning (previously managed in an external system) with the client’s system and setting up a data flow to transfer forecasts back to Alpro for production.
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Technical Integration and Adjustments
Adapting SAP APO BW for integration with external systems, resolving technical issues, and configuring APO to receive data from the new SAP cloud tool.
Key Outcomes
SAP IBP Implementation
Successfully developed and customized the SAP IBP core solution, including master data configuration and historical data loading.
User Training and Support
Conducted on-site user training for the new SAP tool, including preparation of presentations, task execution, and assessments.
Technical Issue Resolution
Managed several high-priority technical challenges during go-live and hypercare, marking this as the first project of its kind.
System Integration and Business Consolidation
Successfully integrated APO to receive data from SAP IBP, aligned three business configurations into one, and onboarded the new business into the planning tool.
Automated Data Processing
Enabled automated interfaces for loading master and transactional data, automatic forecast publishing from SAP IBP to SAP APO, and automated file generation for external tools.
Summary
In the UK, the project delivered a new cloud-based forecasting tool (SAP IBP) for demand planning and successfully consolidated three previously independent business units into one system. Automated data interfaces and forecast distribution enhanced flexibility in managing products across categories and significantly improved the scalability and efficiency of planning operations.
Any questions?
Let’s talk!
konsultant
Luke Krukowski
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+48 533 622 952 [email protected]
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