Danone, a global leader in the food and beverage industry, has embarked on an ambitious project to reorganize its operational structure in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Aimed at increasing efficiency, streamlining processes and supporting growth through a comprehensive organizational and technological restructuring.
Consolidation for efficiency
Danone’s path to transformation in the “DACH” region



The main goal of Danone’s transformation was to change the current business model while addressing several key challenges:
Automation of key operational processes
Introduce automation to increase efficiency and reduce manual errors in core processes.
New interfaces and connections
Developing new interfaces and enhancing existing ones with partners to ensure seamless integration.
Organizational consolidation
Merging multiple business units and legally independent companies into one cohesive unit.
Simplification and harmonization of processes
Preparation of processes for subsequent migration to S/4 HANA. Consolidation and simplification of processes, while abandoning duplicative solutions.
Data cleaning and harmonization
Ensure consistency and accuracy of data across all tools and departments.
The project covered a wide range of strategic tasks:
Introduction of new interfaces
Develop new interfaces with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) to streamline logistics and supply chain operations.
Organizational design and team alignment
Restructuring the organizational framework to support the new operating model, including the establishment of new teams.
Warehouse optimization
Setting up new warehouses and unifying communications between different locations in the company.
Strategic process changes have yielded numerous tangible benefits, significantly increasing the company’s operational efficiency and positioning it for future growth:
Unified ERP system
Implementing a single model in the DACH region to facilitate better data management and decision-making.
Consolidation of companies
Transformation into a single unit. Simplification of administrative and personnel processes.
Integrated financial reporting
Integrated financial reporting Simplify financial reporting, balance sheets and tax processes under one unified system
Standardized delivery processes
Harmonize delivery processes across locations, improving customer service and satisfaction.
Compliant process model
Establish a unified process model for different locations to ensure consistency and efficiency.
Improved manageability and growth opportunities
Consolidation and standardization efforts have not only improved management efficiency, but also laid a solid foundation for future expansion.
Danone’s transformation project in the DACH region is a testament to the power of strategic vision and execution. Through comprehensive organizational restructuring, technological improvements and process harmonization, Danone has successfully positioned itself as a more cohesive, efficient and growth-oriented company. This case study underscores the importance of embracing change and innovation to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global marketplace.