{"id":12367,"date":"2025-01-16T10:24:48","date_gmt":"2025-01-16T18:24:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.qad.com\/blog\/?p=12367"},"modified":"2025-01-16T11:31:53","modified_gmt":"2025-01-16T19:31:53","slug":"kion-group-ag-transforms-procurement-processes-with-qad-srm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.qad.com\/blog\/2025\/01\/kion-group-ag-transforms-procurement-processes-with-qad-srm","title":{"rendered":"KION Group AG Transforms Procurement Processes with QAD SRM"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”12368″ img_size=”full”][vc_column_text]Running a business in today’s environment is increasingly complex, with supply chain challenges, geopolitical tensions, evolving regulations, and other disruptions becoming standard. This complexity is amplified for organizations like <\/span>KION Group AG<\/span><\/a> with a global footprint, necessitating strong relationships and clear communication with suppliers at every level to respond proactively to shifting market conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Based in Frankfurt, Germany, KION is a global leader in material handling equipment and supply chain solutions. Established in 2006, KION operates a multi-brand business portfolio, including renowned brands like Linde Material Handling, STILL, Dematic and Baoli. With operations spanning over 100 countries, KION has deployed more than 1.8 million units worldwide, making it a key player in modern supply chains and warehouse automation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite its success, KION faced significant challenges in managing its extensive supplier network and procurement processes. \u201cFor the <\/span>mitigation of supply chain and business risks<\/span><\/a>, we need closer integration and easy collaboration with our suppliers,\u201d said Jens Brethauer, VP of e-Procurement & Digitalization at KION.<\/span><\/p>\n

To achieve an optimal level of connectivity, KION turned to <\/span>QAD Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) <\/span><\/a>to support the global manufacturer in cultivating strong relationships and maintaining clear communication with suppliers across all levels.<\/span><\/p>\n

Overcoming Manual Processes and Disconnected Systems<\/span><\/h2>\n

KION\u2019s procurement process relied heavily on manual communication methods, such as emails and phone calls, to interact with suppliers. This approach was increasingly insufficient for a company of its scale. The inefficiencies of manual data management hindered KION’s ability to create sourcing events quickly and maintain <\/span>seamless supplier relationships<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Key challenges included:<\/span><\/p>\n