Introduction
Walton Seed Company is a high quality seed company whom is selling grass, flower, and vegetable seeds. The demand for the seeds is increasing. In order to fulfill orders for different customer need, Walton nowadays must provide various services to satisfy customers. Walton should achieve the 7Rs in logistics concept, right product of right quality and right quantity delivered to the right customer in right time and right place with the right cost.
The seed business is such that sales are traditionally very heavy in the spring and early summer and drop off dramatically for the rest of the year. During this period, Walton faces shortage problem with certain types of seeds. It is because the wholesalers and retailers buy large quantities prior to start of the season without evaluate the customer need.
With the growth of Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and others of similar size, Walton does not sell to those stores, directly or indirectly because she targets distribute through small, family owned hardware and variety stores.
Facing demanding customers, Walton must equip herself well with customer services in order to offer the best tailor made services, provide fast, stable supply and reliable delivery and make up close relationship with customers.
Brief description of the case / business
The case is based on the current situation of Walton. The company CEO, Lisa William requests Jason Greaser, the new director of logistics to improve the customer service levels and inventory turns. Walton also wants to increase late summer and fall sales of grass seeds and perennial flower seeds, to spread out demand and avoid stockouts.
The aims of this case study are
1. Improve in-season sales forecasting and develop a l ...