Innovation and exceptional customer service have defined Virgin Atlantic since its inception in 1984. By combining SEKO’s global freight & fulfilment footprint with Slimstock’s advanced supply chain planning technology, a key transatlantic airline operator has transformed its inflight supply chain operation with the launch of an innovative 4PL control tower.
Headquartered in London, Virgin Atlantic employs more than 8,500 people worldwide, flying customers to 30 destinations across four continents annually. Alongside shareholder and Joint Venture partner Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic operates a leading transatlantic network with onward connections to over 200 cities worldwide.
Challenge
Virgin Atlantic has been pioneering sustainability leadership for more than 15 years, committing to Net Zero by 2050 and continuous action that reduces environmental impact. The airline operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the skies, with an average age under seven years.
As part of its vision to be the world’s most loved travel company, Virgin Atlantic continues to innovate its supply chain to minimise its environmental impact while providing an outstanding customer experience.
Virgin Atlantic identified an opportunity to create a leaner warehousing and logistics operation across its global network. Joining forces with Seko and Slimstock, the leading airline operator, took bold steps to enhance the supply chain processes that underpin its inflight services, airport stationery and Clubhouse operation.
Results
By collaborating with Slimstock and Seko Logistics, Virgin Atlantic implemented an innovative control tower solution encompassing advanced forecasting, demand planning, order optimisation, and dynamic fulfilment. With a tighter grip on its supply chain, Virgin Atlantic has impressive performance improvements:
- Enhanced end-to-end visibility for better service
- Increased agility to adapt to market changes, new routes, and onboard service updates.
- Improved operational efficiency via optimised order management
Streamlined decision-making
As a trusted partner in supply chain excellence, Slimstock’s AI-powered technology empowers Seko and its 4PL control tower structure with robust data-driven insights.
“Through our strategic partnership with SEKO Logistics and the successful implementation of Slimstock’s technology, we have significantly improved our supply chain operations, says Andrew Smith, Senior Manager, Inflight Services Product Supply Chain at Virgin Atlantic.
“Slimstock optimises workload distribution, tracks product demand history, and provides robust reporting: streamlining decision-making between Virgin Atlantic and SEKO.”
“Slimstock provides SKU-level insights, product-supplier links, and direct purchase order capabilities enhancing visibility and operational efficiency. Additionally, by providing order alerts, lead times and buffer stock optimisation capabilities, Slimstock helps us maintain optimal inventory levels and prevent disruptions,” adds Andrew.
Service with a smile
Leveraging Slimstock’s powerful planning capabilities, SEKO’s 4PL control tower team now manages Virgin Atlantic’s orders, proactively preventing overstock or understock situations, which can require costly returns or emergency orders.
Utilising this tool, SEKO can classify create robust forecast and demand plans, calculate the impact of operational constraints, and optimise orders, all while maximising value for Virgin Atlantic’s customers.
“SEKO and Slimstock play a critical role in ensuring zero stock outs, aligning with the high standards that our customers expect. Their combined expertise ensures we can swiftly resolve issues, contributing to seamless operations and reinforcing our commitment to excellence,” concludes Andrew Smith.
For more information, click here