supply-chain-360

Supply Chain Strategy & Design for Sustainable Growth

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:20:10 GMT

Supply Chain Strategy & Design for Sustainable Growth

A supply chain that “just works” rarely happens by accident.

As FMCG businesses grow, supply chain decisions directly impact cash flow, service levels and resilience. Poor design can lead to excess stock, frequent stockouts and rising costs.

Intentional supply chain strategy covering demand planning, inventory policies, logistics and warehousing will help create a scalable foundation that supports growth while protecting DIFOT and working capital.

The Industries, Categories & Business we work with

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:16:47 GMT

The Industries, Categories & Business we work with

One of the strengths of sc3sixty is the diversity of businesses we support.

We work across a broad range of FMCG categories including grocery, liquor, pharmacy, chilled and ambient products - supporting both emerging brands and established suppliers.

From businesses entering national retail for the first time to mature organisations looking to optimise performance, our experience allows us to tailor solutions that reflect real-world FMCG complexity.

sc3sixty Service Offerings Across Australia & New Zealand

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:05:55 GMT

sc3sixty Service Offerings Across Australia & New Zealand

sc3sixty supports FMCG businesses operating across Australia and New Zealand, working with suppliers, retailers and logistics partners at a national level.

Our services span supply chain strategy, replenishment planning (VRP/ISP), inventory management, logistics coordination, warehousing, retail account management, and fractional CFO & COO support.

Whether you’re supplying major supermarkets, servicing independents, or managing complex cross-border supply chains, we help bring structure, clarity and control to fast-moving operations.

What Is Fractional Support & Why It Matters

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:00:39 GMT

What Is Fractional Support & Why It Matters

Fractional support is about accessing senior expertise when you need it, without the cost or commitment of a full-time executive.

For growing FMCG businesses, challenges often appear faster than internal capability can scale. Whether that’s supply chain complexity, inventory pressure, retailer demands or cash flow strain.

Fractional models allow businesses to bring in experienced leaders across supply chain, finance, operations and retail account management, aligned to outcomes rather than headcount. It’s a practical, flexible way to grow capability, reduce risk, and make better decisions as the business evolves.

How Vendor Replenishment Planning Improves DIFOT and Reduces Write-Offs

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 22:08:34 GMT

For FMCG brands, nothing damages retailer trust faster than missed deliveries or excess write-offs. Vendor Replenishment Planning (VRP) is one of the most effective ways to improve DIFOT (Delivered In Full, On Time) while reducing costly waste.

DIFOT – The Retailer Benchmark

Retailers like Coles and Woolworths measure suppliers by their ability to deliver stock exactly when needed. A consistently high DIFOT score means:

Stronger supplier-retailer partnerships
More opportunity for promotional activity
Reduced penalties and fewer compliance issues

How a VRP and ISP can Improve DIFOT

VRP’s and ISP’s provided real-time replenishment insights, allowing suppliers to:

Respond quickly to changes in demand
Prevent out-of-stock situations before they occur
Avoid over-ordering by maintaining lean inventory

When used effectively, a replenishment planner keeps shelf availability high and protects sales revenue.

Cutting Write-Offs With Smarter Planning

Excess stock often leads to heavy write-offs, particularly in categories with short shelf lives. By aligning replenishment orders with real demand signals, VRP helps brands:

Minimise overproduction
Reduce excess warehouse storage costs
Improve working capital utilisation

A Strategic Advantage for FMCG Suppliers

Adopting the VRP/ISP model isn’t just about compliance - it’s about profitability. When suppliers embed replenishment into their overall supply chain strategy, they unlock cost savings and reduce business risk.

For many brands, this means bringing in a Vendor Replenishment Planner (VRP) , Integrated Supply Planner (ISP) or leveraging Fractional Supply Chain Management expertise to drive results.

Final Thought

VRP is more than a retailer requirement - it’s a competitive advantage. Suppliers who embrace VRP see higher DIFOT scores, stronger relationships, and fewer write-offs which is a winning formula for growth.

Vitadrop + sc3sixty: Fractional CFO/COO Partnership

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 21:36:59 GMT

Vitadrop + sc3sixty: Fractional CFO/COO Partnership Driving Growth

At sc3sixty , we’re proud to partner with Vitadrop , a forward-thinking Australian functional hydration brand, as their Fractional CFO/COO .

From day one, Vitadrop impressed us with its scientifically formulated, TGA-approved products and strong vision for growth. Backed by a passionate leadership team including Charles Wood and Dan Concannon , the brand has carved out a space in the wellness category with authentic, no-shortcuts functional hydration.

Why Fractional CFO/COO Support Matters for Vitadrop

Scaling a consumer brand requires more than just great products — it takes financial clarity, operational structure, and supply chain discipline . That’s where sc3sixty comes in.

Through our Fractional CFO & COO Leadership services , we help Vitadrop :

Build robust financial forecasting models to support investment and scaling.
Strengthen supply chain and operations for efficient fulfilment.
Support go-to-market strategies with retail partners.
Lay the foundation for profitable, sustainable growth .

The sc3sixty Difference

Our fractional model gives brands like Vitadrop big-business expertise without the overhead of a full-time executive team . It’s about plugging in at the right time, with the right level of support, to accelerate growth.

We’re genuinely excited about the journey ahead with Vitadrop . This partnership is a great example of how fractional support helps FMCG brands punch above their weight and seize opportunities in a competitive market.

Stay tuned - Vitadrop has some impressive things coming, and we’re thrilled to be part of the story.

Foodpreneur Podcast Ep 138: Scaling FMCG with sc3sixty

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 21:04:37 GMT

Why Landing a Major Retailer Is Just the Beginning

For FMCG founders, winning a listing in Coles or Woolworths is a huge milestone. But while it feels like the finish line, it’s actually the starting point. Without strong logistics and financial systems , your “big win” can quickly turn into sleepless nights, empty shelves, and cashflow crises.

That’s why Chelsea Ford , host of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast , invited Cameron Aboud and Joel Alderden from sc3sixty to share what brands must do immediately after landing their first major retailer order.

�� Listen to the full episode here:
Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford – Episode 138

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

The Strategic Moves After Your First Big Order

Don’t assume landing a retailer means smooth sailing.
Put systems in place right away for inventory, compliance, and cashflow.

Avoid the Biggest Cashflow Traps

Long retailer payment terms can choke liquidity.
Miscalculating stock needs ties up working capital unnecessarily.

Inventory Planning – The Goldilocks Principle

Not too much, not too little.
Stock must be balanced to avoid write-offs and stockouts.

Why DIFOT Is Non-Negotiable

Delivering in full and on time is the metric that keeps shelf space safe.
Poor supply performance opens the door for competitors.

Fractional Support Is a Smart Move

Not every brand can afford full-time logistics or finance experts.
Fractional solutions give you expertise at the scale you need.

At sc3sixty , we help FMCG brands prepare for the realities of national retail. From Fractional CFO support to manage cashflow, to Fractional COO leadership for supply chain execution, our mission is to ensure suppliers scale without risk.

Landing a major retailer is a huge achievement. But staying on the shelf requires:

Smart forecasting and replenishment ( Vendor Replenishment Planning ).
Disciplined cashflow management to survive long payment cycles.
Operational leadership to prevent costly compliance failures.

With the right support, emerging brands can not only survive their first big order — they can use it as a platform for long-term growth.

Landing Coles or Woolworths is a milestone worth celebrating. But it’s what comes next that determines your brand’s future. By mastering logistics and finance, and seeking expert support where needed, FMCG suppliers can turn a breakthrough listing into a lasting success story.

�� Listen to the full conversation with Chelsea Ford here:

Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford – Episode 138

And explore how sc3sixty can help you scale smarter.

New Strategic Partnership: sc3sixty 𝘅 Thrive-Collective Consulting

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 20:58:01 GMT

sc3sixty and Thrive-Collective Consulting: New Strategic FMCG Partnership to Scale Brands Across ANZ

We’re excited to announce two major milestones that mark the next chapter in our mission to help FMCG brands grow and scale across Australia and New Zealand.

1️⃣ �� : sc3sixty �� Thrive-Collective Consulting

sc3sixty and Thrive-Collective Consulting to help FMCG brands scale smarter across Australia and New Zealand. By combining Thrive’s retail-facing sales and account management expertise with sc3sixty’s supply chain, finance, and replenishment planning services, we’re building a complete growth engine for consumer brands.

��, �� -��-�� :

✔️ Retailer-Facing Account & Category Management
✔️ Business Development & Go-to-Market Strategy
✔️ Supply Chain, Replenishment & Retail Planning
✔️ Integrated Warehousing Solutions
✔️ Executive-Level CFO & COO Support

Looking for a partner who can cover both retail account strategy and supply chain execution? Contact us today to learn more.

This partnership positions sc3sixty and Thrive-Collective Consulting to deliver unmatched FMCG growth support - from shelf strategy to supply chain. We look forward to helping more brands expand across Australia and New Zealand in 2025 and beyond.

2️⃣ �� – ��

Explore our modular services and see how we help FMCG brands scale smarter across Grocery, Pharmacy, Liquor, or Independents : �� https://www.sc3sixty.au

Yo u ’ll find our full suite of fractional support services, including:
�� New Business Development
�� Account & Category Management
�� Commercial Strategy
�� Supermarket Replenishment Planning (VRP/ISP)
�� Data, Reporting & Process Automation
�� Supply Chain Management
�� Warehousing Solutions
�� CFO / COO Leadership

We’ve designed our service model to grow with you - ��, �� and ��-�� where it counts.

Thanks to our partners George Gabriel & Christian D'Andrea ( Thrive-Collective Consulting ), Travis Kemble & Matt Pranic ( EA&I ), Joel Alderden, CPA (Fractional CFO & COO), �� (Head of Inventory Planning), and our CEO Cameron Aboud for bringing this vision to life.

Is your team spending more time reporting than actual decision making?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 21:41:38 GMT

FMCG Data Automation: Spend Less Time Reporting, More Time Making Decisions

At sc3sixty, we help FMCG brands map and untangle their internal data and information flows, transforming them into lean, smart, and automated reporting systems. From supply chain to finance to operations, our data automation services free your team from manual reporting so you can focus on growth.

Whether you're managing operations, finance, or strategic planning, we've seen firsthand how scattered data leads to bottlenecks, misaligned teams, and wasted time.

Our work focuses on:
�� Identifying where data originates and how it moves across systems
�� Pinpointing manual touchpoints and duplication
�� Designing streamlined reporting architectures
�� Automating repetitive reporting tasks
�� Enabling real-time visibility across key metrics

T he result?

Save 10+ hours per week on manual reporting
Get real-time dashboards with instant KPI visibility
Make faster, smarter decisions with accurate data

�� Want to eliminate reporting bottlenecks? Explore our Data & Reporting Automation services

If your FMCG business is scaling and your team is stuck in spreadsheets, it’s time to modernise. With sc3sixty’s reporting automation, you’ll free up time, improve accuracy, and empower better decision-making. Contact us today

Business Doesn’t Have to Be Held Together with Gaffa Tape

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 21:44:48 GMT

Lean, Practical Advice That Drives Lasting Transformation

Running or scaling a business isn’t glamorous. It’s not the glossy highlight reel you see on LinkedIn - it’s time pressures, tight budgets, and decisions that never seem to stop.

And when things break, too often the fix is like patching a leak with gaffa tape. Quick, messy, temporary. The problem isn’t solved - it’s just hidden until the next weak point bursts.

At sc3sixty , we believe it doesn’t have to be that way.

The Perception vs. Reality of Business Advice

Many leaders avoid seeking support because they think:

Advice is expensive.
Consultants will only tell you what you already know.
Change is too hard or too costly.

But the reality is different. The most impactful, transformative advice is often the least costly when applied early.

Fractional Support That Scales With You

From acting as your fractional CFO, COO, or strategic advisor , we’ve seen firsthand how a few hours of the right support can unlock clarity and momentum:

Smarter financial forecasting and cash flow management
Supply chain processes that scale without breaking
Leadership bandwidth freed up for growth
Proven lessons from FMCG brands who’ve been there before

Some of our most successful client relationships began with small, startup-friendly retainers and grew into long-term partnerships as the business scaled.

Why sc3sixty?

✅ Flexible support — short-term, project-based, or long-term retained
✅ Experience across FMCG , supply chain , and retail strategy
✅ Practical, no-nonsense advice that pays for itself
✅ A partner who grows with you

It’s not about spending big. It’s about making the right moves, at the right time, with the right partner.

Don’t Wait for the Tape to Fail

Every month spent patching up problems is time lost. The cost of inaction is always higher than the cost of smart, early intervention.

�� If you’re ready to stop holding your business together with gaffa tape, explore our Fractional CFO & COO services today.

New Hire Alert: Welcome Greg Heaven to sc3sixty

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 21:50:09 GMT

New Hire Alert: Welcome Greg Heaven to sc3sixty ��

We’re excited to announce the newest addition to the sc3sixty team – Greg Heaven , who joins us as Senior Coles VRP (Vendor Replenishment Planner) .

With extensive supply chain management and replenishment planning experience , Greg brings a wealth of knowledge to strengthen our Coles VRP team and support our growing FMCG client base.

Why This Matters for Our Clients

Greg’s appointment reinforces our commitment to helping FMCG brands succeed with:

Smarter vendor replenishment planning (VRP) for Coles
Stronger collaboration with retail partners
Improved demand forecasting and stock optimisation
Faster, more reliable supply chain outcomes

A Warm Welcome

Please join us in welcoming Greg to the team – we’re thrilled to have him on board! ��

�� Learn more about our Vendor Replenishment Planning services .

From Pallets to People: A True One-Stop Supply Chain Partner

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 21:54:09 GMT

Storage, freight, transport, finance and strategy - all under one roof to help consumer brands scale with clarity and efficiency.

�� Some key facts about sc3sixty’s transport & warehousing capabilities:

✅ 4,500 pallet spaces of ambient storage at our own Noble Park VIC facility
✅ Chilled & frozen storage capability
✅ Bonded space for alcohol storage
✅ International FCL / LCL freight capability – both import and export
✅ Transport reach nationwide, across all states & territories – for DC, Direct to Store and Direct to Consumer deliveries

Coupled with our fractional support services – we are a true one-stop �� shop for your Supply Chain, Finance, Operations, Strategy & Replenishment needs.

Created and geared specifically to help your Consumer Products business to scale ��

Struggling for the clarity, bandwidth and cost efficiency to scale your business? Reach out and see how we can help. We’ll welcome you with open arms……..

Contacts:
�� Cameron Aboud (CEO) – Logistics Management & Warehousing Solutions + 61 402 392 180
�� Travis Kemble – Replenishment Planning + 61 423 493 480
�� Joel Alderden, CPA – COO / CFO & Inventory Management +61 466 848 054

From Delist Risk to Buyer Confidence

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 21:57:21 GMT

How weekly forecast alignment transformed supply issues into stable growth.

�� , ��-�� ?

Don’t give your buyer a reason to de-range you!

At sc3sixty , we recently helped a client who was �� from major retailer shelves due to ongoing supply issues and poor on-shelf availability.

We did this by embedding our simple but powerful �� and we turned things around fast!

✅ Improved forecast accuracy
✅ Reduced gaps
✅ Less admin, not more

What looked like a delist risk is now a ��-��, �� with �� than ever.

If your brand is under pressure, reach out directly:

�� Travis Kemble +61 423 493 480
�� Cameron Aboud +61 402 392 180

Do You Really Need a CFO, COO… or Just a Grown-Up Accountant?

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 22:07:53 GMT

How to match senior talent to your actual business needs - without overpaying for the wrong three letters.

If you’re an SME, or even a ‘small large business’ - maybe you’ve thought about hiring a CFO, COO or some other expensive 3-letter expletive. But are you clear on what you want, or need from your ‘C’? Do you need one, both, one who is both? Or none at all?

Is it a really senior accountant, an operations manager, or a leader who will make sure your strategy and financial direction is sound?

Will they oversee execution, fulfilment, lead your entire operational function or drive your strategy and long range plans?

There isn’t a wrong answer - even if one sounds fancier.

What you need is reflective of your situation, existing support structure and talents.

If you’re bleeding on the basics, hemorrhaging cash by poor cost control and sketchy books- then find that really senior accountant to whip the place into shape.

If you’re struggling to understand where you’re making money- on which customers, and why. If you’re trying to set a plan for 3 years from now which capitalises on your opportunities, or shapes you up for an exit- then find yourself a strategic CFO.

If your inventory losses, transport costs, or warehousing structure are creating inefficiency, missed opportunities & deliveries- find an Ops Manager. If you want to create an operational structure which scales with you, gets more efficient with size and delivers your overall strategy- find a leader.

If you’re lucky, you can partner with a company that will evolve this with you. Continuity is valuable. Every new relationship and familiarisation takes time, and bandwidth.

If you don’t have this, then you will need to actively manage and spot this inflection point.

No matter your way of approaching it- take the time to be clear upfront. Bringing in senior talent at any discipline is high stakes. Showing up with a knife to a gunfight might sound like a guarantee- possibly just a guaranteed mess.

Pick your battle. Then the instrument.

Backing the Next Generation of Foodpreneurs

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 22:17:37 GMT

From alumni brands to tomorrow’s innovators - sc3sixty is proud to fuel growth with fractional support and full-stack expertise.

We couldn't have been happier to support this years Foodpreneurs Festival festival as an official partner.

Not that long ago, sc3sixty got its start by helping out some of what are now 'alumni' Foodpreneur brands. We grew and succeeded with them. Both took a leap into the unknown and made some pretty awesome things happen.

Something we will continue long into the future, as we help tomorrow's consumer products innovators break through.

Thanks Chelsea Ford for having us, and to you and the team for everything involved.

As your Fractional Support partner - sc3sixty will be there every step. We deliver full-stack business support in:
* Inventory Management
* CFO, Financial & Strategic Planning
* Replenishment Planning
* Account Management

Delivering sustainable returns, strong working capital & reliable fulfilment to help you concentrate on growing.

Foodpreneurs Festival Pump Creative

Scaling Sparkle with Sodasmith

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 22:21:42 GMT

sc3sixty’s fractional management suite helps brands like Sodasmith scale smoothly and sustainably.

Been a big week so far already at sc3sixty - and more coming!

We're all about helping our partners reduce their complexity, keep their fulfilment & operations working smoothly and gearing them up for scale.

We've been fortunate to work with Sodasmith for some time now - and with great products, a super strong brand and huge potential across both their retail base and beyond - Joel Alderden, CPA and the sc3sixty team are busy pulling together a Commercial & Channel strategy which will power Sodasmith into their next phase of scale.

Artisan sparkling for any occasion - coming in fast.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Foodpreneurs Festival tomorrow!

�� sc3sixty's Fractional Management suite gives you big-brand capability without the overhead.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with Cameron Aboud (+61 402 392 180), Joel Alderden, CPA (+61 466 848 054) and the team at sc3sixty.

Fueling the Next Stage with Bae Juice

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 22:24:04 GMT

sc3sixty steps in as Fractional CFO & Finance Ops partner to power smarter growth and stronger outcomes.

We’re excited to be extending our partnership with Bae Juice ��

It’s been a pleasure working alongside Liam Gostencnik , Tim O'Sullivan and the team over the past few years—we’ve grown together, and we’re just getting started.

We’re proud to now step into the role of Fractional CFO & Finance Ops, led by Joel Alderden, CPA .

We’ll be supporting Bae Juice through their next stage of growth with the same ambition, energy, and commercial edge they bring to everything they do ��

Our Fractional CFO & COO service focuses on delivering:
✅ Smarter cashflow and working capital management
✅ Clear visibility of performance, KPIs, and key levers
✅ Strong P&L management & value-add on operating results
✅ Organisational design and structural support as they scale
✅ Transactional support to drive strong day-to-day outcomes

In short: we’re your business partner in growth—so you can stay focused on what you do best.

The lads have big plans. We’re pumped to help bring them to life.��

�� sc3sixty's Fractional Management suite gives you big-brand capability without the overhead.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with Cameron Aboud (+61 402 392 180), Joel Alderden, CPA (+61 466 848 054) and the team at sc3sixty.

sc3sixty Lands in New Zealand

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 22:27:23 GMT

Bringing ISP, VRP, and full-stack supply chain support to help FMCG brands grow with clarity and control.

✈️ sc3sixty is further expanding into �� ! ✈️

We’re excited to announce that sc3sixty is officially launching �� (��) and �� (��) services in New Zealand.

This builds on our existing Freight Forwarding, Warehousing and Logistics Operations, which we’ve successfully delivered across the region for the past two years.

Our mission has always been to help businesses �� and �� — and now we’re strengthening that mission abroad! Whether it’s designing your supply chain, refining your inventory strategy, or managing replenishment into retail — we’re here to help brands grow with clarity and control.

sc3sixty will now be supporting FMCG brands in NZ with the following services:

��
�� (�� / �� / ��)
��
��
��
�� / ��

Whether you're launching, growing, or evolving — we’re here to help.

If you're a business in New Zealand looking to transform your Operations then get in touch directly with Travis Kemble (+61 423 493 480) or Cameron Aboud (+61 402 392 180).

Internal Reporting vs. Retailer-Facing Reporting: What to Prioritise

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:18:46 GMT

Internal Reporting vs. Retailer-Facing Reporting: What to Prioritise

You might be proud of your internal metrics—but retailers only care about the numbers that affect their shelves.

In FMCG, it’s easy to obsess over internal KPIs—costs, margin, forecast accuracy. But the fastest way to damage your relationship with Coles or Woolworths? Poor visibility, slow updates, or misaligned data on their end. Retailers expect proactive, clean, timely reporting. If you’re not making their job easier, someone else will.

Here’s how to balance both sides:

Start with the end user —retailers. Align your reports with their expectations: stock flow clarity, DIFOT tracking, promotion summaries.

Automate internal-first views of the same data (e.g. weeks cover, margin erosion, forecast misses) using tools like Power BI or Excel dashboards.

Bridge with a single source of truth —your internal reports should feed your retailer-facing ones, not conflict with them.

Review timing and cadence . Weekly summaries for retailers are not optional anymore. Neither is the ability to drill down. Prioritising outward-facing reporting sharpens your reputation and feeds internal clarity.

Are your reports doing double duty—serving your business and your customers? Or are they slowing you down? Let us know how you’re navigating this challenge in the comments.

About us :

At sc3sixty, we specialise in helping FMCG brands grow with confidence through end-to-end Fractional Services tailored to the Australian and New Zealand retail environment. Our flexible support spans everything from Vendor Replenishment Planner (VRP) and Integrated Supply Planner (ISP) solutions to full Fractional Supply Chain Management and Fractional Data & Reporting Support.

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGAustralia #RetailReporting #Coles #Woolworths #DataToDecisions #SupplyChainStrategy #SC3Sixty

Why Poor Communication Kills Supermarket DIFOT

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:16:10 GMT

Why Poor Communication Kills Supermarket DIFOT

Late trucks. Shorted deliveries. Angry buyers.

Most of it stems from one root cause: communication failure—not operational failure.

DIFOT ( Delivery In Full On Time ) is the supermarket scorecard that keeps sales teams awake at night. But behind every missed DIFOT target is usually a misstep in communication. Whether it’s a late forecast change, an unclear promotion brief, or silence between supplier and 3PL—communication gaps compound fast and hit the shelf harder than you think.

Try using the following framework to strengthen cross-functional visibility:

Clarify what’s needed: Don't assume Ops or Logistics knows promo intent—brief it.
Align with internal teams early: Bring planners and 3PLs in before final orders drop.
Share exception risk: Missed MOQ? Strike risk? Don’t hide it—flag early.
Track feedback loops: Build post-mortem reviews into your cycle and act on the learnings.
Poor DIFOT isn’t just a supply chain issue—it’s a leadership communication issue.

If DIFOT is falling apart in your business, start by auditing the conversations, not just the data.

What part of your supply chain communication needs tightening most?

About us :

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGLeadership #SupermarketSuccess #SupplyChainVisibility #DIFOT #FMCGAustralia #KeyAccountExcellence #RetailReady

Fixing Information Flow from Factory to Shelf

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:10:28 GMT

Fixing Information Flow from Factory to Shelf

Your product might be great—so why isn’t it always on shelf?

The answer often lies in broken information flow

From production to point-of-sale, FMCG success hinges on how clearly and quickly information moves. When data is siloed across departments or partners, delays happen, costs rise, and customers walk away. What’s needed isn’t more data—it’s better data movement.

To fix your flow from factory to shelf, focus on these three levers:

✅ Visibility – Ensure all parties (factory, warehouse, retail, finance) are working from the same, real-time data. This might mean rethinking your reporting tools or centralising your data access.

✅ Velocity – Reduce lag between events and decisions. If a sales spike happens Monday, can your factory respond by Tuesday?

✅ Value Translation – Align insights to outcomes. Forecasts should link directly to orders. Supply gaps should trigger replenishment logic, not just meetings.

This doesn’t require a full system overhaul. It starts with mapping where the gaps are and building processes that close them—fast.

Where are the blockages in your information flow costing you the most?

Drop a comment or message—we’ve helped plenty of brands solve this, and we’re happy to share ideas.

About us :

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGStrategy #SupplyChainExcellence #DataToDecisions #RetailExecution #ANZFMCG #OperationsLeadership #FactoryToShelf

The Link Between Data Clarity and Better Customer Service in Retail

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:05:04 GMT

The Link Between Data Clarity and Better Customer Service in Retail

Customer complaints aren't always about the product—they’re often about the process. And more often than not, the root cause is data chaos, not bad service.

In today’s FMCG landscape, operations teams are expected to act fast, resolve accurately, and pre-empt issues before they arise. But without clean, consistent data on inventory, orders, or shelf status, even the best teams are left guessing. Data clarity isn’t just for analysts—it’s the frontline fuel for great customer experiences.

If you're scaling or selling into major retailers, here’s how to connect data to service:

Align Metrics Across Teams : Sales, supply chain, and service need to use the same data points—like DIFOT, fill rate, or stock-on-hand—from one source of truth.

Make Data Accessible, Not Just Accurate : It’s not enough to have dashboards. Service teams need simplified snapshots: “Where’s the stock?”, “Has the order moved?”, “What’s the ETA?”

Use Data to Be Proactive, Not Just Reactive : Look for patterns—late delivery, out-of-stocks, invoice mismatches—and trace them back to your process, not the customer.

Is your data helping or hindering your operations? What one change could make the biggest difference today? Drop your thoughts or message us—we’d love to hear what’s working (or not) for you.

About us :

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGInsights #RetailCustomerService #DataClarity #SupplyChainSupport #CustomerExperienceANZ #ANZFMCG #sc3sixty

Building a Data Strategy for FMCG That Actually Helps Sales

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:02:35 GMT

Building a Data Strategy for FMCG That Actually Helps Sales

Is your data strategy just reporting the past—or actively shaping your next win at Coles or Woolies?

Too many FMCG teams are drowning in dashboards but still guessing when it comes to what will drive the next sale. A data strategy shouldn’t just track what’s happened—it should empower account teams to act faster, respond smarter, and sell more. The difference between high-performing suppliers and the rest often lies in how data is used on the ground with retailers.

A smart FMCG data strategy needs to move beyond static reports and into daily decisions. Try this:

Simplify what matters : Don’t overload sales teams—focus on the 3–5 metrics that truly move volume or prevent loss (e.g. store-level gaps, promo execution).

Activate insights : Integrate reporting into account team rhythms—weekly retailer meetings, promo reviews, and mid-cycle checks.

Link sales with supply : Ensure planners and NAMs see the same truths, not competing dashboards.

What’s one metric your team tracks that rarely translates into action? Or better yet—what data insight helped you win shelf space this year? Share below ��

About us :

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGstrategy #SalesEnablement #RetailExecution #FMCGAustralia #SupermarketInsights #DataToDecisions #sc3sixty

Becoming a Best-in-Class FMCG Supplier in 2025

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:58:31 GMT

Becoming a Best-in-Class FMCG Supplier in 2025

Retailers like Coles, Woolworths, and the Independents have raised the bar—and in 2025, only the most capable, responsive, and insight-driven suppliers are keeping up.

�� It’s not enough to turn up with product. Retail teams want partners who solve problems, bring data to the table, and align to their end-to-end goals.

So, what does best-in-class really look like in the Australian FMCG landscape today?

��️ It Starts with Process, Not Just Product

1. Embed Planning Discipline Early

From forecast inputs to promo lead times, top suppliers have airtight internal processes. They’re not caught off guard by range reviews, they proactively flag risks, and they work backwards from retailer expectations—not internal comfort zones.

2. Automate Retail Reporting and Insights

Retailers are pressed for time and drowning in data. Best-in-class suppliers make insights easy to digest—think availability heatmaps, store-level trends, and waste summaries that drive action. You can’t lead the conversation if you’re still emailing spreadsheets.

3. Be First, Not Fast

Coles and Woolworths want to see suppliers who anticipate issues before they hit the store floor. That means fast feedback loops, direct communication with buyers, and clear processes to escalate service risks or supply constraints—before they become problems.

4. Build Teams That Think Beyond Their Function

Supply teams need to understand trade calendars. Sales teams need to understand DIFOT. Retail engagement is cross-functional now, and the best suppliers are breaking silos to deliver results.

Retailer expectations are evolving—are your internal systems and people evolving with them?

If you're unsure whether your reporting, planning, or retailer engagement is truly best-in-class, it might be time to take a step back and rethink how you're supporting your key accounts.

�� Let’s connect if your team is ready to upgrade how you work with retail.

About us:

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGExcellence #RetailExecution #Coles #Woolworths #Independents #SupplierPerformance #ANZFMCG #SupermarketSuccess #sc3sixty

Data, AI & CX Tech That Will Reshape FMCG in ANZ

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:51:48 GMT

Data, AI & CX Tech That Will Reshape FMCG in ANZ global retail game is changing—and fast.

Retailers overseas are no longer just testing tech—they’re building their businesses around it. Think AI-driven demand forecasting at Walmart, digital twins at Carrefour, and store-specific pricing models at Tesco.

Australia and New Zealand may be behind the curve, but the gap is closing—fast. With Woolworths’ Everyday Market, Coles 360, and a growing investment in retail media, ANZ supermarkets are gearing up to expect more from their suppliers—more insights, more agility, and more customer-centric strategies.

So, what should FMCG businesses be doing right now to stay competitive?

Here are the tools and systems already reshaping the game in 2025:

�� AI-powered forecasting & replenishment tools

Platforms like Relex, Snowflake, and o9 Solutions are helping suppliers and retailers collaborate on smarter demand planning, real-time inventory visibility, and store-specific replenishment. Even Excel-based models are evolving with Copilot and ChatGPT plugins, reducing time spent on manual forecasting.

�� Dynamic dashboards & self-serve reporting

Power BI, Looker, and Tableau are now standard for turning raw data into sales action. The best-performing FMCG teams are embedding these tools into weekly workflows—tracking SKU trends, price elasticity, promo ROI, and store-level gaps.

�� Retail media + loyalty insights

With Cartology (Woolworths) and Coles 360, suppliers now have access to deeper basket-level insights than ever before. Plugging this data into campaign targeting, NPD performance, and activation planning is becoming essential—not optional.

�� Process automation & reporting workflows

Tools like Power Automate, Zapier, and Make are being used to automate sales reporting, alerting, and compliance checks. No more 10-tab spreadsheets—these systems help you scale without growing headcount.

�� Team enablement: analytics, not just admin

It’s not just about tools—it’s about people using them well. Leading businesses are upskilling their teams in data interpretation, business storytelling, and insight-driven decision making. Tools like Prysm, Coursera, and even AI copilots inside Excel are making this more accessible than ever.

Where to next for ANZ FMCG?

Retailers will continue to raise the bar. They'll expect suppliers to come to the table with smarter data, sharper execution, and scalable solutions.

�� If your business could use a hand building that future—whether it’s upgrading your reporting, automating workflows, or transforming your sales and supply data into action—let’s talk.

About us :

By embedding directly into your team, we transform complexity into clarity—improving forecasting, streamlining reporting, and unlocking performance from warehouse to shelf.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

�� Partnering with FMCG brands across Australia and New Zealand

�� www.sc3sixty.au

#FMCGTech #RetailAI #ANZSupermarkets #RetailMedia #SalesEnablement #RetailReporting #PowerBI #Automation #CXStrategy #Coles #Woolworths #sc3sixty

Unlock the potential of your Consumer Products business

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:30:50 GMT

‘We’ve got a great product - great potential, but if we could just…' �� Unlock the potential of your Consumer Products business ��

The 50% of businesses that fail in their first few years are a stat we all know. But the same issues confront start and scale-ups alike. Early momentum, strong traction - rapid expansion - can be every bit as challenging. Fortunately - they can be even more rewarding too!

There’s room on shelf - and in the customer's life for bold ideas, even in saturated markets. Consumers crave innovation, and competition.

But here's the thing - if your route-to-market is an afterthought, that innovation can so easily go to waste.

So what does this waste look like?
�� Cashflow - lumpy cashflow = leakage + headaches. Effective cash planning doesn’t shut down opportunities - it creates them.
�� Inventory - poor DIFOT, no / low safety stock - or - expensive warehousing, lost inventory, expired product. Use your working capital to water seeds, not fight flames.
�� Transport - low volume freight, last minute bookings, poor route planning. Better outcome - effective transport can double net margin
�� SKU & product performance - do better than averages - they weren’t created equal. Invest in product potential - but don’t chase expensive products into an abyss
�� Overheads - the $ spent fixing avoidable problems, hiring non-value roles, poor investment in trade activation. Instead - deploy variable spend for maximum impact.
�� And of course…no profit! Excessive COGS and compounding costs eroding strong margins into loss. Know your levers - which to pull, in which direction - and when. Capitalise on opportunity, then course correct when needed.

Fundamentals require constant focus - they're a compliment to the creative process and potential of your business. Three simple lessons here:
✅ One Size Doesn’t Fit All : Your route-to-market needs to fit your business - and your customers. Don’t copy/paste what looks successful for someone else
✅ Visibility might be key - but don’t drown in ‘insights’: A small suite of key metrics and information is enough. Quality =/ quantity
✅ ROI : From your most critical materials to your most expensive management hires, every cost needs a clear return-on-investment. Be ruthlessly focused, not short sighted.

Complex? Overwhelming? Expensive? Not if you find the right help.

��sc3sixty: Your Fractional C-suite and Supply Chain Partner

We've proven expertise in delivering scale, across:

⚡ Logistics Management
⚡ Supply Chain Strategy & Design
⚡ Inventory and Retailer Replenishment Planning / VRP / ISP Services
⚡ Data Analytics & Support

and now, with our expansion into a full stack of Fractional COO and CFO services, we deliver comprehensive solutions at a 'fraction' of the cost of a full-time team.

�� Potential, fulfilled.

Ready to transform your business? Connect, follow, or reach out at
joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au or call +61 466 848 054 .

What’s your definition of success? No…not theirs, yours. Let’s start from there

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:30:49 GMT

What’s your definition of success? No…not theirs, yours. Let’s start from there .

They say the best diet is the one you stick to. Somewhat reductionist I guess, but sure.

Personally I reckon it’s better to figure out why you’re putting yourself through a diet in the first place. Figure out why it’s worth sticking to, then find one that’s fits. Tip: the ones that stick are almost always motivated intrinsically. Within, not without. How someone else appears is neither a reliable source of inspiration, nor a truthful one. Much less realistic for your life.

Tip 2: Seems to me the longer it takes to explain a diet to someone, the less likely it’s going to be the ‘one you stick to’…complexity is the death of inspiration.

I'm not giving diet advice (unless anyone wants to pay me for it?). I am a Fractional COO & CFO who finds the analogy useful, particularly at an SME / owner & founder level.

You started a business, maybe bought in, jumped on board with a powerful, if a little fuzzy desire for ‘success’. A whole organisation is now tethered to it. But can you or anyone else honestly define success? Or better, use it to make actual decisions?

When I finally asked myself what professional success is (only took 20 years), it was actually really simple -helping. Actually helping companies reach their success by supplementing what they may lack - or lack bandwidth for.

Analytically minded, financially ‘bent’, pragmatic, measured, deeply practical. I love to hear about your vision, but my mind goes straight to finding a route- to action, one foot in front of the other. Finding pathways is my ‘success’. The journey is the destination, as they say.

The reason it’s so important? Well as it relates to me at least (it’s my post after all) is that without a genuine, intrinsic, base motivation - I can’t do my part well.

Does improved cashflow, better results, a faster growing business mean the chance to open a new location? Invest? Acquire? Find the talent that’ll turn this joint into the powerhouse of its potential? Is it material motivation? (that’s ok btw). Or something more personal, more legacy.

Now we know where to start. Top line or bottom, COGS, overheads, org design, margins, marketing & activation, trade spend, capital deployment. Options I’d love to help with. But wrong motivation = wrong symptom = wrong treatment.

Careful though, even wrong treatment can bring some short term relief. ‘Caffeine highs’ masquerading as success, which won’t last. And to the point about complexity - things get complex real fast when no one understands success.

I’m not in this for the short term. If you’ve made it this far- neither are you.

So if you’re interested in making your business successful, with someone who will invest the time & energy to find what that really means, then START from there, reach out. I’d love to chat.

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

#CFO #COO #ConsumerProducts #FMCG #Retail #Logistics #Scale #Growth #SupplyChain #Fractional #InventoryPlanning #SupplyPlanning #Cashflow

A case for - and against - outsourced expertise - Joel Alderden

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:19:29 GMT

A case for - and against - outsourced expertise.

Probably half the posts on successful leadership reference one basic concept. Get out of your own way. Decide the parts you - and the team around you can best play. Then, fill the gaps.

Like a lot of catchy statements around leadership, startups, scaling etc- it could do with some nuance - to avoid being a trap of it's own.

Your ‘gaps’ are likely to be 1 of 4 types:

Short term, high priority - infrequent or non-recurring
Areas you should hire for - indispensable, long term
Areas you could probably cover, if it makes sense
And lastly - not full time (maybe ever), but where you need maximum impact, over an extended time, for a lesser outlay. Enter the fractional.

Some of the most beneficial outsourcing opportunities:

Finance- bookkeeping, tax, payments, payroll. All table stakes- not to be messed with. Knowing how you make margin, why, where…and better, what to do about it- that’s how you grow.
Strategy- not a synonym for expensive consultants. A simple, clear, written plan. One that serves you and keeps you honest when shiny things beckon
Reporting - almost no one suffers from a lack of data now. More likely to drown in volume, or struggle to make sense of it
Inventory & production Planning - effective planning is an art and a skill. One that can prevent expensive mistakes, and uncover opportunities.
Supply Chain - a complexity across every facet that seems almost designed to confuse and trap even the most seasoned veterans

The list goes on. The risk - in a flash you've a quasi payroll of hired help, costing $ and requiring as much bandwidth as DIY.

So, a few callouts - whilst remaining firmly pro-fractional - in order to avoid death by a thousand day rates:

Recommendations are gold- but not a guarantee. One size doesn't fit all. Test against your needs.
Seek efficiency- leverage skills that help you solve multiple challenges in multiple areas
Be clear on expectation. Don’t let scope creep become your burden
Balance your load - neither a completely 'hands off' approach, nor one which monopolises your attention will serve well, long term
Lastly - there are likely things you're better off doing with your existing resources. Risk, familiarisation time, complimentary skills, general interest - all factors.

Be wary of help which doesn’t actively question its own relevance. One that tailors a package to fit your requirements. Not the inverse.

At sc3sixty, we’ve built a fractional network to help consumer product organisations achieve their goals. We span:

Fractional CFO / COO services
Inventory, Supply & Replenishment Planning
Cashflow
Warehousing & 3PL
Transport & Logistics
Finance & Accounting

Data led, integrated, cost-effective.

Don’t stand in your own way. Don’t let anyone else do it either.

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

#CFO #COO #ConsumerProducts #FMCG #Retail #Logistics #Scale #Growth #SupplyChain #Fractional #InventoryPlanning #SupplyPlanning #Cashflow

The economics of Big Retail - golden ticket, or troubled brew?

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 14:37:39 GMT

The Economics of Big Retail - golden ticket, or troubled brew?

Why choosing your channel strategy wisely makes all the difference.

Major retailers & FMCG chains - no matter where - are always on the hunt for innovation. The newest, freshest, first, most disruptive, the greatest thing since…

But as a founder, a brand owner, or an FMCG startup - is it always the win it seems?

Let’s unpack the real economics behind major retail contracts—and why your channel strategy could be the most important decision you make.

The Allure of National Retail

No wonder most new brand owners & FMCG startups are dazzled by the bright lights of ‘national ranging’ - 1,000 stores, the fame, fortune & notoriety that comes with holding up a gondola end, taking a coveted promo slot, or appearing on-shelf right at eye line.

Well, not to rain on anyone’s parade (seriously, it can be a huge game changer) but let's take a brief pause before shoving all of those very expensive eggs in one basket.

Table Stakes - the real cost of entry

Here's a simplified, but realistic scenario

You sell into National Retailer A - for a contract starting price of $9.00 per unit
Your COGS (before selling costs) are 45% - $4.05. Not bad so far.

Now here comes the kicker. Below will be some - probably not all - of your selling costs:

Fixed Rebates
Listing Fees
Marketing Fund contribution
Promo funding
Supply Chain Fees
Scan Data Costs........

Pretty quickly we’ve probably added somewhere around $4.20 (47%) - more than your actual COGS, to the ‘cost of selling’

Your Gross Margin - $0.77. Or 9% per unit.

At an average of 6 units per store per week (UPSPW) across 1,000 stores - there’s around $4,600 in Gross Margin.

If you’re running a very lean overhead, you might get away with 10% which comes below GM.

Flex these figures which way and that - but at best then you’re likely breaking even, all said & done. Hard work for $0.

Depending on your category however, that 6 UPSPW might just see you up for the axe come next range review.

Busting your butt to break even, and still being sliced in a quarter’s time doesn’t sound like fun to anyone of sound mind.

But what about on-shelf? Well, assuming a 33% blended retailer margin, that's an average shelf price of $7.22. You sold your hard conceived creative breakthrough for $9 starting, made 9%, and now it's selling for way less on-shelf and making the retailer roughly 4x more than you.

A Better Play

Let’s consider an alternative. One which leans on the 'less is more' theory.

Fewer units
Higher margin
Healthier cashflow
Fewer sleepless nights

Specifically, by diversifying your strategy, selling into an Independent Retailer network(s), distributors and other retail channels.

We still start at $9 and 45% COGS, but our cost of selling changes dramatically.

Instead of 47% 'cost of selling' (Retailer A), by removing things like supply chain & scan fees, reduction in marketing, promo funding & fixed rebates, Gross Margin increases from $0.77 per unit (9%), to $2.52 per unit (28%). That >3x your previous margin.

Ok, but your rate of sale will be lower - sure. But lets assume you sell 1/3rd - 2,000 units instead of 6,000 units. Your total Gross Margin is $5k, higher than the $4,600 you can generate by selling 3x the volume.

Moreover, less production requirement = less overhead, meaning your Net Profit / positive cashflow (the bit that counts) are much healthier.

To make that even more attractive, with lower markups / margin expectations, your product will be on shelf for much closer to the $9 you started with.

By preserving your price, you preserve your brand, your need to discount, your product lifecycle, your long term profitability.

You're far less likely to get trapped in the on-off 50% promo cycle doom-loop that quickly washes away brand equity and sees consumers just waiting for the next sale to buy.

We can extend this all the way into a full Direct to Consumer / Online model - which generates great margin %’s, but will be much harder (but not impossible) to scale at speed.

It’s not all binary choices though.

Best of both worlds? A hybrid option

By splitting your volume dependency, with major retail selling 4,000 units, supplemented by 'adjacent' retail avenues generating another 2,000 - the same starting volume could see your Gross Margin at $1.50 per unit - and your overall Gross Margin $ increase by around 95% vs a single 'Big Retail' focus.

And your shelf price? Much more sustainable at $8.33 - and much less likely running a race to the bottom.

Now you have solid volume, stronger margin, and a diversified distribution base.

That extra margin is now yours to invest in your brand, upgrade your packaging, make some smart hires to grow new markets, or flow into retained earnings.

It also goes a long way to covering the support costs for a multi-channel, multi-point approach. Ensuring you've secured the right distribution channels, inventory planning, replenishment strategy and the like. Even finding the right support for retail buyer discussions - so you don't leave margin on the table.

Now you've a complimentary, controllable, diversified and higher margin way to feed the flywheel.

The Final Take: Strategy v Scale

Your channel strategy should reflect more than volume goals. It should reflect the kind of business you want to run—and it's lifecycle stage.

'Big' retail distribution is a fantastic anchor. It builds scale, volume, recognition, efficiencies etc. But that comes with a price - that you must first realise, but importantly - leverage.

Remember as well that a channel strategy is a living thing - there's no set & forget. Find the help- and spend the time making sure your strategy is still fit for purpose - and delivering. Changing too often won't give you a clean understanding of impact - but you should be incorporating your channel spend into detailed monthly P&L reviews.

Clear, consistent formats and KPI's make this efficient - and actionable.

I've spent 20+ years building financial frameworks and strategies - driving profitable scale & growth for consumer product businesses of all sizes.

If you’re navigating these choices and want an experienced perspective:

- Follow me for more content like this: Joel Alderden, CPA

- Get in touch if you’d like to learn more about how I can help your company grow profitably and sustainably: joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

Keep Your Promises: Building Trust with Retailers, Investors, and Customers in FMCG Scale-Ups

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:47:19 GMT

Chapter 6 - Keep Your Promises

Would you invest your own money in a company that seems to be forever missing their forecasts? Maybe they’re up, maybe they’re down. Rarely on target.

If you did, you’d want a premium right- why risk it otherwise?

If a retailer , investor , or a customer isn’t sure if your product will show up, your offer materialise, or your numbers to hold- your terms will reflect it. If they engage at all.

This doesn’t mean a degree in fortune telling. It means planning. What can happen, what’s likely, what’s not. What you’ll do in each. Plan for more than just your ideal.

It demonstrates maturity , control , confidence .

If you’re looking for strategic guidance across the Commercial Finance & Planning spectrum

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

#ConsumerProducts #FractionalCOO #FractionalCFO #FMCG #RetailInnovation #ConsumerGoods #ConsumerProducts #Strategy #Startup #Scaleup #CPG #SupplyChain #Growth

Flexibility in FMCG Scale-Ups: Balancing Control, Strategy, and Long-Term Growth

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:26:51 GMT

Chapter 5- Flexibility .

Might not sound like rocket science- but loss of flexibility, of control - is often masqueraded in opportunity.

MOQ’s / minimums, volume discounts, exclusivity, prime placement. Nothing to say these aren’t properly good outcomes. Be aware though - they’re not free.

Understand exactly the implications when ‘ what happens if… ’ happens.

Tether to your strategy - try to balance short and long term priorities- and if in doubt, seek advice. Objectivity will be a premium.

If you’re looking for strategic guidance across the Commercial Finance & Planning spectrum

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

#ConsumerProducts #FractionalCOO #FractionalCFO #FMCG #RetailInnovation #ConsumerGoods #ConsumerProducts #Strategy #Startup #Scaleup #CPG #SupplyChain #Growth

Be Realistic but Ambitious: FMCG Scale-Up Strategies to Build Investor and Retailer Trust

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:50:17 GMT

Chapter 4 – Be realistic , but ambitious ...

The age old over promise / under deliver conundrum.

It’s tempting to dazzle, promise growth figures in the ‘x’s’ that no one would refuse. Trust however is hard earned and easily lost. At a scaleup stage – understanding your numbers is now implicit.

Being consistently off your projections – up or down – implies a lack of understanding, of control.

It’s what customers will look at when deciding if they trust you with that seasonal promo. Whether investors back your growth projections. Whether you’ll be laid up with slow moving or obsolete stock because you over-ordered for a unit price reduction.

Time & experience is the greatest teacher here. Even then – and definitely before, scenarios are your friend. If your ‘low’ scenario is a bloodbath and your ‘mid’ scenario just makes sense – test your confidence.

Avoid paralysis – but ignorance is rarely bliss.

Plan. Be realistic . You’ll be better for it.

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If you want to talk details, or discuss how we can partner with your growing CPG / FMCG company to deliver successful scale, drop me a message.

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

Quality Over Quantity in FMCG: Building Long-Term Brand Value Through Smarter Scale-Ups

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:29:57 GMT

Want a stable brand, predictable revenue, a stronger story to sell, solid consumer presence, smoother working capital, easier funding access, better profitability ? A compelling narrative for investors, retailers, consumers? So, like, all of it?

Take 3 in Operating Principles for Successful Scale-Ups - Quality > Quantity

Go for shape, for quality . Don't sell yourself short. Everyone buys into quality. It's not about being the most expensive, never discounting or having a binary approach - its about matching your strategic actions with your goals. Sacrificing what might be a short term fix for a longer range outcome will be uncomfortable - but is a decision any operator in a consumer goods space will be faced with.

If you want to talk details, or discuss how we can partner with your growing CPG / FMCG company to deliver successful scale, drop me a message.

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

Customer Diversity in FMCG: Building Resilient Growth Through Smart Scale-Ups

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:14:09 GMT

Next up in this sprint on Operating Principles for Successful Scale-Ups: Customer Diversity .

Landing your first big customer deal feels like winning the lottery. The instinct is to double down, stay loyal, and hope for the best.

The smart play - spreading your bets early. In FMCG and Packaged Goods (and beyond), building customer diversity isn’t just risk management—it’s leverage. It helps to smooths out the wild swings of customer cycles, creates FOMO, and keeps you in control.

Play it right, and every customer still feels like a priority —but you’re shaping a healthier , more resilient business underneath it all.

If you want to talk details, or discuss how we can partner with your growing CPG / FMCG company to deliver successful scale, drop me a message.

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

#ConsumerProducts #FractionalCOO #FractionalCFO #FMCG #RetailInnovation #ConsumerTrends #Startups #Scaleups #CPG #Growth

FMCG Scale-Up Principles: How Consumer Goods Brands Navigate Growth Challenges

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:13:43 GMT

If you’re brave [unhinged?] enough to decide being a founder in the consumer goods space is your ticket to fulfilment – then you deserve nothing but respect.

✅Tight margins?

✅Ultra competitive?

✅ Large, aggressive retailers?

✅High innovation burden?

✅ Logistically challenging?

✅ Fickle consumers?

✅ Price conscious?

✅ Discount driven? I could go on…

Again, respect ��

Assuming you’ve hustled your way to some early success, the scale-up journey is your next big test. To make that a little easier, here's some tangible, actionable principles to navigate a little more smoothly.

Packed into bite-sized snippets - perfect for short attention spans.

Get your moneys worth. Use data - the retailer language of truth - to tell a story about why you should be front of mind. Make sure you’re giving the terms you’re paying the chance to deliver the right outcome.

If you want to talk details, or discuss how we can partner with your growing CPG / FMCG company to deliver successful scale, drop me a message.

�� : https://lnkd.in/g8XvzYYJ

�� : joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au

�� : +61 466 848 054

Foodpreneur Podcast Ep 106:Supply Chain By Design: How to Get Stock to Stores.

Thu, 01 May 2025 23:07:50 GMT

Why Supply Chain Design Matters for FMCG Brands

In the fast-moving world of FMCG, a great product and strong retailer listings aren’t enough. If your supply chain isn’t designed correctly, stock won’t reach shelves, cash gets tied up in warehouses, and promotions fall flat.

That’s why Chelsea Ford , host of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast , recently invited Cameron Aboud and Joost Bekker from sc3sixty t o talk about how to design supply chains that deliver results for FMCG brands.

�� Listen to the full episode here:
Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford – Episode 106

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

Plan Early, Don’t Wait to Scale
Many FMCG businesses wait until they hit Coles or Woolworths shelves before thinking seriously about supply chain. By then, it’s often too late. Planning ahead protects both margin and relationships.

Understand the Steps of Supply Chain Design
The essentials include:

Storage – the right warehouse type.
Transport – moving stock efficiently into DCs.
Inventory Planning – ensuring stock is in the right place, at the right time.

Know Your Cost per Carton

True profitability comes from understanding exactly what it costs to move each unit through the chain. This transparency helps avoid hidden costs that erode margin.

Don’t Let Stock Sit Idle
Stock in warehouses ties up cashflow and risks expiry. Stock on shelves, however, drives sales. Supply chain design is about balancing just enough cover without overinvesting.

Speak the Supply Chain Language
The episode demystifies acronyms like DIFOT, 3PL, 4PL, FTL, LCL, and POD. Knowing these terms helps FMCG founders build credibility and communicate effectively with partners.

At sc3sixty , we see every day how FMCG brands can struggle with supply chain execution when planning is overlooked. From Vendor Replenishment Planning (VRP) within Coles and Woolworths , to Fractional COO support for scaling operations, we help suppliers design systems that protect DIFOT and profitability.

Our advice echoes Chelsea’s episode: start thinking strategically about supply chains before you scale. Build forecasting, warehousing, and logistics into your growth plans early, and you’ll avoid costly penalties and stock gaps later.

Supply chain design isn’t just about logistics — it’s about profitability, trust, and growth . FMCG brands that master it get stock on shelves reliably, impress retailers, and build sustainable businesses.

�� Listen to the full conversation with Chelsea Ford here:
Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford – Episode 106

And if you’re ready to strengthen your supply chain strategy, explore how sc3sixty can help.

supply-chain-360

Supply Chain Strategy & Design for Sustainable Growth

Supply Chain Strategy & Design for Sustainable Growth

The Industries, Categories & Business we work with

The Industries, Categories & Business we work with

sc3sixty Service Offerings Across Australia & New Zealand

sc3sixty Service Offerings Across Australia & New Zealand

What Is Fractional Support & Why It Matters

What Is Fractional Support & Why It Matters

How Vendor Replenishment Planning Improves DIFOT and Reduces Write-Offs

Vitadrop + sc3sixty: Fractional CFO/COO Partnership

Vitadrop + sc3sixty: Fractional CFO/COO Partnership Driving Growth

Why Fractional CFO/COO Support Matters for Vitadrop

The sc3sixty Difference

Foodpreneur Podcast Ep 138: Scaling FMCG with sc3sixty

Why Landing a Major Retailer Is Just the Beginning

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

New Strategic Partnership: sc3sixty 𝘅 Thrive-Collective Consulting

sc3sixty and Thrive-Collective Consulting: New Strategic FMCG Partnership to Scale Brands Across ANZ

Is your team spending more time reporting than actual decision making?

FMCG Data Automation: Spend Less Time Reporting, More Time Making Decisions

Business Doesn’t Have to Be Held Together with Gaffa Tape

Lean, Practical Advice That Drives Lasting Transformation

The Perception vs. Reality of Business Advice

Fractional Support That Scales With You

Why sc3sixty?

Don’t Wait for the Tape to Fail

New Hire Alert: Welcome Greg Heaven to sc3sixty

New Hire Alert: Welcome Greg Heaven to sc3sixty ��

Why This Matters for Our Clients

A Warm Welcome

From Pallets to People: A True One-Stop Supply Chain Partner

Storage, freight, transport, finance and strategy - all under one roof to help consumer brands scale with clarity and efficiency.

From Delist Risk to Buyer Confidence

How weekly forecast alignment transformed supply issues into stable growth.

Do You Really Need a CFO, COO… or Just a Grown-Up Accountant?

How to match senior talent to your actual business needs - without overpaying for the wrong three letters.

Backing the Next Generation of Foodpreneurs

From alumni brands to tomorrow’s innovators - sc3sixty is proud to fuel growth with fractional support and full-stack expertise.

Scaling Sparkle with Sodasmith

sc3sixty’s fractional management suite helps brands like Sodasmith scale smoothly and sustainably.

Fueling the Next Stage with Bae Juice

sc3sixty steps in as Fractional CFO & Finance Ops partner to power smarter growth and stronger outcomes.

sc3sixty Lands in New Zealand

Bringing ISP, VRP, and full-stack supply chain support to help FMCG brands grow with clarity and control.

Internal Reporting vs. Retailer-Facing Reporting: What to Prioritise

Internal Reporting vs. Retailer-Facing Reporting: What to Prioritise

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

Why Poor Communication Kills Supermarket DIFOT

Why Poor Communication Kills Supermarket DIFOT

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

Fixing Information Flow from Factory to Shelf

Fixing Information Flow from Factory to Shelf

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

The Link Between Data Clarity and Better Customer Service in Retail

The Link Between Data Clarity and Better Customer Service in Retail

Customer complaints aren't always about the product—they’re often about the process. And more often than not, the root cause is data chaos, not bad service.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

Building a Data Strategy for FMCG That Actually Helps Sales

Building a Data Strategy for FMCG That Actually Helps Sales

Is your data strategy just reporting the past—or actively shaping your next win at Coles or Woolies?

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

Becoming a Best-in-Class FMCG Supplier in 2025

Becoming a Best-in-Class FMCG Supplier in 2025

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

Data, AI & CX Tech That Will Reshape FMCG in ANZ

Data, AI & CX Tech That Will Reshape FMCG in ANZ global retail game is changing—and fast.

If your business needs sharper insights, faster execution, or scalable supply chain support—we’re ready when you are.

Unlock the potential of your Consumer Products business

‘We’ve got a great product - great potential, but if we could just…' �� Unlock the potential of your Consumer Products business ��

Ready to transform your business? Connect, follow, or reach out at joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au or call +61 466 848 054 .

What’s your definition of success? No…not theirs, yours. Let’s start from there

What’s your definition of success? No…not theirs, yours. Let’s start from there .

So if you’re interested in making your business successful, with someone who will invest the time & energy to find what that really means, then START from there, reach out. I’d love to chat.

A case for - and against - outsourced expertise - Joel Alderden

A case for - and against - outsourced expertise.

Don’t stand in your own way. Don’t let anyone else do it either.

The economics of Big Retail - golden ticket, or troubled brew?

The Economics of Big Retail - golden ticket, or troubled brew?

The Allure of National Retail

Ready to transform your business? Connect, follow, or reach out at
joel.alderden@sc3sixty.au or call +61 466 848 054 .