CASE STUDY
How Nutricia improved its supply chain through the EAGLE Fulda project?
About the project
The EAGLE Fulda Project was a major initiative undertaken by Danone to implement the EAGLE model (Enhanced Agile and Lean Execution) in one of its largest European factories producing Early Life Nutrition (ELN) for infants and children, as well as Advanced Medical Nutrition (AMN) for patients with medical conditions, including cancer.
The project’s core objective was to integrate various business functions and systems at the factory’s supply points, with a strong focus on achieving operational excellence, improving data accuracy, and creating a fully efficient end‑to‑end supply chain. This required redesigning and rebuilding all IT systems supporting production and logistics.
Project Goals and Challenges
Ensuring Full Transparency, Control, and Quality Assurance
Using a quality by design approach, the project aimed to strengthen process control and ensure strict adherence to quality standards across the entire supply chain—from production to distribution.
Optimizing Supply Chain Performance
EAGLE Fulda sought to streamline and automate multiple processes, including requirements consolidation, to enhance operational efficiency. By optimizing the supply chain, Danone aimed to reduce costs, shorten lead times, and improve responsiveness to market needs.
Increased Data Transparency and Availability
Digitalization played a crucial role. With improved data accuracy and real‑time availability, stakeholders gained better decision‑making capabilities and greater operational visibility.
Key Achievements
Extensive Workshops and Training
The project team conducted detailed workshops and training sessions to ensure all stakeholders were fully prepared for the new EAGLE‑based processes and systems.
Detailed Project Plan
A comprehensive plan was developed, tailored, and validated to capture the core principles of the EAGLE model while meeting the factory’s specific needs.
Collaboration With External Partners
Adaptation sessions were held with third‑party logistics providers (3PLs) and external warehouse partners to enable smooth integration and cooperation throughout the supply chain.
Customized SAP System
The project team adapted SAP specifically for the requirements of the EAGLE Fulda initiative, aligning it closely with overall project goals.
Rigorous Testing and Hypercare Support
The project underwent extensive testing, including unit tests, IT integration tests, and User Acceptance Testing (UAT). After go‑live, hypercare support ensured quick issue resolution and smooth system stabilization.
Business Benefits
Streamlined Communication and Automation
Processes were automated and a unified communication model was established through Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). This improved collaboration and significantly reduced manual work.
Increased Warehouse Capacity
Optimized warehouse space management enabled the factory to store an additional 15,000 pallets, greatly expanding capacity and operational efficiency.
Greater Transparency and Control
Improved visibility made it possible to track pallets seamlessly throughout the supply chain while ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
Cost Savings
Process optimization and standardized systems delivered measurable cost reductions, improving competitiveness and financial performance.
Summary
The EAGLE Fulda project spanned 18 months from initiation to successful completion. The dedication and commitment of the project team played a crucial role in achieving the desired outcomes. In summary, the EAGLE Fulda initiative demonstrates Danone’s strong commitment to continuous improvement and modernization of its supply chain processes—strengthening operational excellence, efficiency, and long‑term readiness for future challenges.
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Łukasz Krukowski
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