How to manage seasonal demand when everyone is out of the office

With Zoryana ZagorodnyaSAP

In the business world, August is known as the peak month for “out of office” messages arriving in your inbox, especially in Europe. While everyone is enjoying their cocktails on the beach, how can you simultaneously adapt to a reduced workforce and prepare to meet peak demand? And most importantly: how can you ensure that your supply chain remains resilient against seasonal fluctuations?

Planning for the summer rise

Regardless of the size of a company or the nature of its products, managing seasonal demand can pose significant challenges, creating the need for efficient demand planning and forecasting. During peak periods, demand can shift to specific areas, requiring informed and responsive planning decisions that incorporate real-time business and operational data.

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By leveraging predictive analytics, businesses can analyze a myriad of factors—from inventory levels and supply partner risks to weather changes and market fluctuations. This enables them to anticipate and plan for contingencies such as late raw materials, inventory and potential supply chain disruptions.

The emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, IoT monitoring and cloud services are game changers in this area. These tools help businesses stay on track demand forecasting and preparing for unplanned events. For example, demand forecasting and inventory optimization strategies in manufacturing allow companies to stay proactive and mitigate unexpected disruptions.

Especially for better planning All included it has the potential to serve as a powerful tool for predicting events and making strategic decisions.

Logistics management in the heat of summer

As temperatures soar, the world of summer logistics heats up with challenges, especially when it comes to protecting temperature-sensitive products like food and medicine. The heat turns the cold chain into a high-stakes game where every point counts.

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Cutting-edge logistics technology is emerging as the lifesaver we need. With Powered by AI monitoring systems for your precious cargo, monitoring every temperature fluctuation in real time. It’s like having a prop to make sure your ice cream doesn’t melt and a burn lotion hitting the shelf just in time to save someone who said they needed to chill to apply sunscreen. By embracing cloud-based logistics solutions, you gain a better view of your entire supply chain. From planning to execution, editing to monitoringyou are in control of every process.

Sustainability under the sun

As you navigate the business marathon this summer, it’s important to keep the planet’s well-being front and center. Incorporating sustainable practices isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity that’s reshaping the business landscape.

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Integrating renewable energy, sustainable packaging, responsible sourcing and choosing an electric vehicle for your supply chain operations isn’t just good for the environment – it’s good for your business. While adopting these environmentally friendly practices to meet regulatory requirements and corporate social responsibility goals can be challenging, here’s the truth: 84% Customers say bad environmental practices will alienate them from a brand or company. Sustainability is no longer an add-on. it must be integrated into every business process.

As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) regulations evolve, staying flexible is key. AI-enabled ESG reportingProduction can significantly reduce the effort spent on periodic reporting, allowing you to integrate your sustainability strategy directly into program execution. This will enable the elimination of waste, the optimization of resource use and the innovation of regenerative business models, creating transparent and sustainable supply chains. By identifying problematic products and materials, you enable your business to switch to more sustainable solutions.

Investing in smart energy-saving technologies isn’t just good for your products – it’s a game-changer for your bottom line. By anticipating unexpected costs and boosting customer satisfaction, you’ll be ready for any peak summer demand.

Are you ready to upgrade your business this summer? Download the infographic: “Powering Operations with AI-Embedded Cloud ERP”