NANOLIKE: LEVERAGING AI FOR AUTOMATED INVENTORY MANAGEMENT
The challenge
Matching cement replenishment deliveries with customer demand poses an operational challenge for our business. The process is done manually without any quantitative insight into the fill level of the silos. When a silo is estimated to approach a low fill level, new orders are placed over the phone based on existing customer orders. This can result in missed sales opportunities due to mismatches between production equipment and delivery terminals.
The solution
Through the use of the Nanolike solution of real-time data and sensors attached to the silos in a non-invasive way, Holcim is automating the replenishment process. Real-time information on inventory levels can flow between parties and systems to level up efficiency.
The result
Starting with a pilot project Holcim Greece through our Venture Client approach, the team in Greece piloted the Nanolike solution on their cement silos in Holcim Ready-Mix sites. By gaining insights into their actual inventory levels, they could optimize deliveries and gain efficiencies in the coordination of their cement deliveries and concrete demand planning.
Mobile application to track silo levels on the go.
The strain gauge sensor set up outside its thermal housing which is placed on the silo foot.
Application of a Nanolike sensor in Holcim operations in Greece.
After successful tests in Greece, the solution was rolled out further in Greece as well as in Germany and France. Additionally, Holcim is now using the Nanolike technology to gain insights into silo levels at Holcim cement customers to offer a vendor-managed inventory solution to our customers.
Driving further opportunities from the close collaboration, Holcim invested into Nanolike in 2023 to initiate a strategic partnership for Nanolike to take the construction sector by storm.
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