SUCCESS STORY

60% store visit savings

European Retailer:
Store Cost Efficiency Programme

Reducing maintenance and construction costs across a fast-growing network

Outcomes

60% savings on store visits

Achieved by reducing frequency and phasing integration of new stores

10% maintenance savings

Through improved HVAC rates and revised store guidelines

7% construction savings

Through specification reviews and supplier cost challenges

consistent standards

Service levels aligned with market benchmark

BACKGROUND

A fast-growing European lingerie retailer partnered with 4C to address rising maintenance and construction costs across its rapidly growing network of 200 stores in Germany.

With around 200 stores and 30–40 new openings each year, internal reviews showed that maintenance services were over-specified and out of line with market standards.

the challenge

The retailer needed to understand why maintenance and construction costs were significantly higher than expected and ensure service levels were aligned with market norms. The goal was to reduce cost without compromising operational quality or the customer experience across a rapidly-growing store estate.

SOLUTION

4C conducted a detailed benchmarking and optimisation programme covering maintenance, construction, and store operations:
  • Analysed internal and external benchmarks for preventive HVAC maintenance, corrective maintenance and technician visit frequency
  • Reviewed construction pricing, specifications and material standards
  • Negotiated with incumbent suppliers based on benchmark insights
  • Rationalised service specifications and updated store guidelines
  • Reduced technician visits and phased integration of new stores to manage costs more effectively

We’ve partnered with 4C for more than 10 years.

They’ve driven improvements across our cost base, managed our procurement function, and most recently delivered substantial savings on the build and robotic infrastructure for our global distribution centre. Their team is proactive, practical and relentlessly results-driven.

Former CEO

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