Case Background
Our client’s leadership issued a directive that its Polybags and Poly Mailers be sourced from sustainable materials with the highest possible recycled content. Our expertise was sought to achieve this goal, specifically regarding:
- Potential Savings or Minimize the Incremental Spend
- Certification and Quality Identification
- Ordering Timeline
- Logistic Options
Our Approach
Phase 1
We reviewed annual usage, researched requirements on current E-Com packaging, and coordinated implementation of this sustainability goal across all relevant departments. We then conducted an RFI with potential vendors to identify available options aligned with market needs.
Phase 2
We developed final specifications with several alternatives, providing choices between various certificate requirements and testing protocols. We hosted an auction bidding session with all qualified vendors, selecting the top three domestic and international bidders to proceed with test runs and quality identification.
Phase 3
We reviewed the printed test samples from all selected final top bidding vendors with the appropriate teams. We identified all certifications and selected the two most qualified vendors, one domestic and one international. We negotiated with both vendors to create the best timeline for ordering and delivery. Simultaneously, we continued to explore other sustainable options with both vendors to achieve the highest savings for the most environmentally friendly packaging.
Results
- We obtained $150,000.00 in savings, with Polybags changing from 50% to 100% Recycled Content and Poly Mailers from 50% to 80% Recycled Content; All were GRS Certified.
- Our involvement drastically improved the client’s procurement processes, including order fulfillment and business alignment.
- We maintained a list of backup vendors for urgent request and emergency incidents to minimize the effect of force majeure on costs and delivery timing.
- Transactional records and packaging footprint data were maintained and analyzed for future modifications and adjustments to the client’s procurement process.
- By leveraging our expertise in packaging sourcing, combined with our experience with sustainability, ESG and GRC considerations, we managed to source more sustainable products at lower costs. We minimized the operational impact for our client and improved the overall fulfillment process.
