SUCCESS STORY
Strategic 3PL Roadmap
UK Restaurant Group:
Distribution Network Review
Outcomes
strategic 3PL roadmap
Phased plan for a future integrated model
supply chain stability
Short-term contract extensions recommended to protect continuity
cost-to-serve insight
Detailed analysis of distribution and warehousing costs
reduced operational complexity
Optimised use of intermediaries and simplified network
informed decision making
Enabled by cost transparency and scenario analysis
BACKGROUND
A leading UK restaurant group operating a nationwide estate sought support to understand its true cost-to-serve, simplify its distribution network and prepare for upcoming contract decisions.
With costs rising and operations becoming increasingly complex, the organisation needed clarity and a strategy for both immediate stability and long-term transformation.
the challenge
The supply chain was fragmented, with multiple intermediaries, opaque cost structures and critical contracts approaching renewal. The business required a clearer view of warehousing and import costs, reduced operational complexity and a contracting strategy that could support future growth while mitigating supply chain risk — all under tight timelines to avoid disruption.
SOLUTION
4C conducted a detailed assessment of the distribution network and provided a structured roadmap for improvement:
- Identified simplification opportunities and developed negotiation scenario planning for upcoming contract renewals
- Recommended short-term extensions to key logistics contracts to maintain continuity during strategic redesign
- Disaggregated pricing to reveal true distribution costs and optimise the use of intermediaries
- Proposed a phased approach to stabilise current operations and evolve toward an integrated 3PL solution