Increased inventory transparency due to end-to-end logistics processes
With the implementation of SAP EWM, Daiichi Sankyo Europe is laying the foundation for business growth.
Daiichi Sankyo is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. For over 100 years, the company has been synonymous with scientific excellence and a pioneering spirit—and has made a significant contribution to improving the lives of millions of people worldwide through its ground-breaking medicines. Daiichi Sankyo is represented in 14 countries across Europe and employs approxi-mately 2,500 people. The headquarters of Daiichi Sankyo Europe (DSE) is located in Munich. Just a few kilometers away, in Pfaffenhofen, is one of the world‘s most innovative manufacturing facilities.
Following the discontinuation of WM, Daiichi Sanyko has decided to implement its successor product, SAP EWM. With this innovative and flexible warehouse management system, DSE is laying the groundwork for further growth and, through high inventory transparency, integrated end-to-end logistics processes, and optimized workflows, is establishing the foundation for a future-proof and scalable logistics operation.
Fewer Stockouts and Improved Delivery Capabilities
Project Objectives
The goal of the project was to implement a decentralized SAP EWM system at the Pfaffenhofen site and seamlessly integrate it with the existing automated high-bay warehouse and pick-by-light system. In addition, SAP EWM was closely integrated into the existing system landscape to ensure consistent end-to-end processes, particularly with the new SAP S/4HANA ERP and SAP DM (Digital Manufacturing) systems.
With the introduction of SAP EWM, production logistics were also migrated to the new system. To connect a courier service provider, a new CEP solution was integrated with SAP EWM.
The implementation was rounded out with a mobile solution for logistics processes, which sustainably increases efficiency, transparency, and process reliability in day-to-day operations.
Project Methodology
The project was based on the SAP Activate methodology, tailored by CONSILIO, and was characterized by a clearly structured approach. To ensure quality and prepare for go-live, three test conversions (sandbox, development, quality assurance) were performed in different systems.
The implementation of SAP EWM presented us with significant challenges due to the parallel projects and complex requirements. Consilio provided us with expert and reliable support throughout this demanding phase, which contributed significantly to the project’s success.
Challenges
The following factors placed high demands on the project team, processes, technology, and organization during the project:
Regulatory and technical complexity
- Managing best-before dates and batch requirements in a highly regulated GxP environment
- Increased validation and documentation requirements compared to traditional industrial companies
System-wide Challenges
- Migrating an existing high-bay warehouse to SAP EWM without interrupting operations
- Integrating SAP EWM with multiple SAP and non-SAP systems
Process and Change Challenges
- Introducing new terminology, processes, and working methods in logistics and production
- Ensuring user acceptance and the necessary expertise
Project Organization and Time Management
- High time pressure due to concurrent projects
- Increased need for coordination, including due to the simultaneous implementation of SAP DM and the S/4HANA transformation
Greater Transparency through Batch Traceability in Production with SAP EWM
Key Benefits for Daiichi Sankyo
- Resilient, future-proof logistics: SAP EWM provides a modern system that actively supports business growth and efficiently and flexibly maps the system landscape required to meet increasing demands.
- Seamless end-to-end processes: All logistics processes are tightly integrated into business operations, significantly increasing transparency, controllability, and responsiveness.
- Maximum inventory transparency: Real-time information on inventory levels enables informed decisions, reduces stockouts, and improves delivery capability.
- Efficient logistics processes: Optimized workflows reduce costs, increase productivity, and free up resources for strategic tasks.
