AWT International d.o.o., one of the leading FMCG distribution companies for Croatia, Serbia and Macedonia, has selected Paragon Software Systems to supply advanced routing and scheduling software that integrates seamlessly with its ERP system. AWT will use Paragon Multi Depot to optimise routes, schedules and loads for its distribution operation within Croatia, thereby reducing transportation costs by at least 10%.
The new automated distribution system will simplify daily planning and scheduling of 3,500 individual deliveries to retailers in Croatia from AWT’s four large regional warehouses and two supporting depots in Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, Osijek, Zadar and Varaždin. Using a fleet of around 120 trucks and vans – 80% of which are subcontractors – AWT delivers a wide range of products from leading brands, including Barilla, Chipita, Colgate-Palmolive, Henkel, Hipp, Jomo, Kelly’s, Kotanyi, Krauthaker, Mars, Pfanner, Rauch, Red Bull, Ricola, Sara Lee, SCA, Schneekoppe and Schwarzkopf.
Jovica Mandarić, Operations Director AWT Group says there were some extremely important reasons for choosing Paragon’s routing and scheduling software: “We were looking for an established, tried and tested solution as we simply do not have the time to go through lengthy cycles of software development. Paragon’s software stood out as being the best on the market, with the experience and knowledge of the support team finally guiding our choice.”
“It is clear that by using the software we will be able to optimize our daily planning and improve the general efficiency of our fleet. Paragon’s routing and scheduling software will also enable us to establish standardised procedures for how we handle our distribution processes – from taking orders to despatching the items from our warehouses. We are looking forward to the improvement in our overall efficiencies which will see us cut our transport costs by at least 10%,” he adds.
AWT has a clear development path for the system and is aiming to integrate live vehicle tracking with Paragon Route Execution, as well as use the software to plan routes for its sales team.
“The system provides the flexibility we need to take the business forward. With GPS vehicle tracking providing full visibility of the fleet we will be able to react in real time. This will enable us to recalibrate our plans and keep our customers informed of any changes to their deliveries. In addition, we are also looking at the possibility to improve the efficiency of our sales force by using the software to enhance the accuracy of their routes,” concludes Mandarić.
