Flevy Management Insights Case Study
Value Creation through Innovative Procurement Strategy in Specialty Sporting Goods Retail


Fortune 500 companies typically bring on global consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and Accenture, or boutique consulting firms specializing in Procurement Strategy to thoroughly analyze their unique business challenges and competitive situations. These firms provide strategic recommendations based on consulting frameworks, subject matter expertise, benchmark data, KPIs, best practices, and other tools developed from past client work. We followed this management consulting approach for this case study.

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Consider this scenario: A leading specialty sporting goods retailer is facing a critical juncture in its growth trajectory, challenged by the need for a transformative procurement strategy to drive Value Creation.

The organization is grappling with a 20% increase in supply chain costs and a 15% decline in market share, attributed to inefficient procurement processes and increasing competition from both online and brick-and-mortar rivals. Externally, rapid shifts in consumer preferences and the global economic downturn have further exacerbated these challenges. The primary strategic objective of the organization is to overhaul its procurement strategy to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and regain its competitive edge in the market.



The situation at hand suggests that the root of the strategic challenges lies in outdated procurement processes and a lack of alignment with modern market demands. The organization's procurement strategy has not evolved to meet the pace of digital transformation in the retail sector, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for Value Creation.

Environmental Analysis

The sporting goods retail industry is experiencing significant transformation, driven by changes in consumer behavior and technological advancements. The competition is intensifying as new players enter the market, leveraging digital platforms to reach consumers directly.

  • Internal Rivalry: High, due to the influx of online retailers and the expansion of existing physical stores into e-commerce.
  • Supplier Power: Moderate, as the number of quality suppliers is limited, but larger retailers have the advantage of scale.
  • Buyer Power: High, with consumers having more choices and price comparison tools at their disposal.
  • Threat of New Entrants: Medium, given the relatively high barriers to entry in terms of brand reputation and capital requirements.
  • Threat of Substitutes: Low to moderate, as personalization and brand loyalty offer some protection against substitutes.

  • Increasing preference for online shopping: This trend presents an opportunity to enhance e-commerce capabilities while posing a risk to physical store footfall.
  • Shift towards environmentally sustainable products: Offers the opportunity to differentiate product lines but requires adjustment in procurement to source eco-friendly materials.
  • Technological advancements in product development and supply chain management: Creates opportunities for operational efficiency but requires significant investment.

A PEST analysis highlights the influence of regulatory changes on environmental standards, the impact of global economic fluctuations, and the rapid pace of technological innovation as key external factors affecting the industry.

Learn more about Supply Chain Management Consumer Behavior Retail Industry Environmental Analysis

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Internal Assessment

The organization has established a strong brand in the specialty sporting goods market but faces internal challenges related to procurement inefficiencies and an inability to quickly adapt to market changes.

A 4DX Analysis reveals a lack of clarity in strategic goals at the operational level, leading to misaligned efforts and wasted resources. Focusing on wildly important goals could streamline efforts and enhance performance.

A Capabilities Gap Analysis shows a mismatch between the company's product offerings and emerging market trends, pointing to the need for a more dynamic procurement strategy that can quickly adapt to changes.

A McKinsey 7-S Analysis identifies misalignments between strategy, structure, and systems, particularly in procurement and supply chain management, which are critical areas for improvement to achieve operational excellence and Value Creation.

Learn more about Operational Excellence Supply Chain Procurement Strategy

Strategic Initiatives

  • Revamp Procurement Strategy: Re-engineer the procurement process to enhance agility, reduce costs, and improve supplier relationships. The goal is to achieve a 10% cost reduction within the first year and foster innovation through strategic partnerships. This initiative will rely on investments in technology for better procurement systems and training for staff.
  • Digital Transformation of Supply Chain: Implement advanced analytics and IoT for real-time supply chain visibility. This aims to reduce lead times by 15% and improve inventory management. The value creation comes from increased efficiency and customer satisfaction. This will require capital investment in technology and operational adjustments.
  • Expand E-commerce Capabilities: Enhance the online shopping experience to capture the growing segment of digital-first consumers, aiming for a 20% increase in online sales. The initiative will create value through increased market reach and customer engagement. Resources needed include investment in e-commerce platforms, digital marketing, and logistics.

Learn more about Inventory Management Customer Satisfaction Value Creation

Procurement Strategy Implementation KPIs

KPIS are crucial throughout the implementation process. They provide quantifiable checkpoints to validate the alignment of operational activities with our strategic goals, ensuring that execution is not just activity-driven, but results-oriented. Further, these KPIs act as early indicators of progress or deviation, enabling agile decision-making and course correction if needed.


That which is measured improves. That which is measured and reported improves exponentially.
     – Pearson's Law

  • Procurement Cost Reduction: Essential for measuring the effectiveness of the revamped procurement strategy.
  • Lead Time Reduction: Indicates improved efficiency in supply chain management.
  • Online Sales Growth: Reflects the success of the e-commerce expansion initiative.

These KPIs provide insights into the strategic initiatives' impact on operational efficiency, market competitiveness, and financial performance, guiding continuous improvement efforts.

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Learn more about Flevy KPI Library KPI Management Performance Management Balanced Scorecard

Stakeholder Management

Successful implementation of strategic initiatives requires the active involvement and support of both internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, technology partners, and the entire workforce.

  • Suppliers: Critical for the successful overhaul of the procurement process.
  • Technology Partners: Essential for digital transformation and e-commerce enhancement.
  • Employees: Their buy-in is crucial for adopting new processes and technologies.
  • Customers: Their feedback will guide continuous improvement in product offerings and service.
  • Management Team: Responsible for strategic oversight and resource allocation.
Stakeholder GroupsRACI
Suppliers
Technology Partners
Employees
Customers
Management Team

We've only identified the primary stakeholder groups above. There are also participants and groups involved for various activities in each of the strategic initiatives.

Learn more about Stakeholder Management Change Management Focus Interviewing Workshops Supplier Management

Procurement Strategy Best Practices

To improve the effectiveness of implementation, we can leverage best practice documents in Procurement Strategy. These resources below were developed by management consulting firms and Procurement Strategy subject matter experts.

Procurement Strategy Deliverables

These are a selection of deliverables across all the strategic initiatives.

  • Procurement Strategy Revamp Plan (PPT)
  • Supply Chain Digital Transformation Roadmap (PPT)
  • E-commerce Expansion Strategy (PPT)
  • Operational Efficiency Improvement Report (PPT)
  • Strategic Initiative Financial Model (Excel)

Explore more Procurement Strategy deliverables

Revamp Procurement Strategy

The strategic initiative to revamp the procurement strategy benefited significantly from the application of the Resource-Based View (RBV) and the Value Chain Analysis frameworks. The RBV framework was instrumental as it focuses on leveraging internal capabilities and resources as a source of competitive advantage. It proved useful in identifying unique resources within the organization's procurement department that could be optimized for enhanced Value Creation. Following the RBV framework, the organization:

  • Conducted an in-depth analysis of internal resources, identifying underutilized assets and capabilities within the procurement department.
  • Assessed the potential of these resources to provide competitive advantage by comparing with industry benchmarks and best practices.
  • Developed strategies to strengthen these resources, including training for procurement staff and investment in advanced procurement software.

Additionally, the Value Chain Analysis allowed the organization to understand how procurement activities contributed to overall value creation. It highlighted areas where inefficiencies were costing the company and where strategic adjustments could lead to significant cost savings and improved supplier relationships. The team implemented the Value Chain Analysis by:

  • Mapping out the entire procurement process, from supplier selection to final payment, identifying each step's contribution to value creation.
  • Identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the procurement process that were leading to increased costs and delays.
  • Reengineering the procurement process to eliminate identified inefficiencies, streamline operations, and enhance the strategic partnership with suppliers.

The combined application of the Resource-Based View and Value Chain Analysis frameworks to the procurement strategy revamp resulted in a more efficient, cost-effective procurement process. The organization realized a 10% reduction in procurement costs within the first year and established stronger, more strategic relationships with key suppliers, significantly enhancing its competitive positioning in the market.

Learn more about Competitive Advantage Value Chain Analysis Value Chain

Digital Transformation of Supply Chain

For the strategic initiative focused on the digital transformation of the supply chain, the organization applied the Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) theory and the SCOR (Supply Chain Operations Reference) model. The DOI theory, which explains how, why, and at what rate new ideas and technology spread, was pivotal in understanding how to effectively implement new digital technologies across the supply chain. The organization:

  • Identified key stakeholders in the supply chain and assessed their readiness and willingness to adopt new technologies.
  • Implemented targeted communication and training programs to increase awareness and foster a positive attitude towards digital transformation.
  • Monitored adoption rates and adjusted strategies accordingly to ensure widespread acceptance and utilization of new technologies.

The SCOR model provided a comprehensive framework for managing and measuring the effectiveness of supply chain transformation. It helped the organization optimize its supply chain operations for maximum efficiency. The team followed these steps:

  • Mapped out the current state of supply chain operations using the SCOR model's framework.
  • Identified specific areas for improvement within the plan, source, make, deliver, and return processes.
  • Implemented new digital tools and processes to address these areas, leveraging the SCOR model's best practices and benchmarks.

The implementation of the DOI theory and SCOR model frameworks significantly accelerated the digital transformation of the supply chain. The organization achieved a 15% reduction in lead times and a notable improvement in inventory management, leading to higher customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Learn more about Digital Transformation SCOR Model Best Practices

Expand E-commerce Capabilities

In expanding its e-commerce capabilities, the organization utilized the Customer Journey Mapping (CJM) and the Digital Maturity Model (DMM). The CJM framework was crucial in understanding the online customer experience from initial awareness to post-purchase stages. It allowed the organization to identify critical touchpoints and areas for enhancement. The process included:

  • Mapping out the entire customer journey for online shoppers, identifying all touchpoints with the brand.
  • Gathering data on customer satisfaction and pain points at each stage of the journey through surveys and analytics.
  • Implementing targeted improvements to the e-commerce platform and customer service processes to address identified issues.

The Digital Maturity Model helped the organization assess its current e-commerce capabilities and define a clear roadmap for digital growth. By following the DMM, the organization:

  • Evaluated its current level of digital maturity across various dimensions, including technology, data, processes, and people.
  • Identified gaps and areas for improvement to reach the next level of digital maturity.
  • Developed and implemented a strategic plan to enhance digital capabilities, focusing on technology infrastructure, digital marketing, and customer engagement.

The strategic application of Customer Journey Mapping and the Digital Maturity Model frameworks enabled the organization to significantly enhance its e-commerce capabilities. As a result, it achieved a 20% increase in online sales, improved customer satisfaction scores, and strengthened its position in the digital marketplace.

Learn more about Customer Service Maturity Model Customer Experience

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Key Findings and Results

Here is a summary of the key results of this case study:

  • Realized a 10% reduction in procurement costs within the first year, aligning with strategic objectives.
  • Achieved a 15% reduction in supply chain lead times through digital transformation initiatives.
  • Secured a 20% increase in online sales following the expansion of e-commerce capabilities.
  • Established stronger, strategic relationships with key suppliers, enhancing competitive positioning.
  • Improved inventory management, leading to higher customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction scores and strengthened digital marketplace position.

The strategic initiatives undertaken by the organization to revamp its procurement strategy, digitally transform its supply chain, and expand e-commerce capabilities have yielded significant results. The 10% reduction in procurement costs and 15% reduction in supply chain lead times directly contribute to operational efficiency and cost reduction goals. The 20% increase in online sales is a testament to the successful expansion of digital capabilities in response to changing consumer behaviors. However, the results were not uniformly successful across all fronts. While the strategic relationships with suppliers were strengthened, the report does not specify the extent to which this has translated into tangible benefits beyond cost reduction, such as innovation or exclusive product offerings. Additionally, the implementation of digital transformation and e-commerce expansion likely required substantial upfront investment, the returns on which are not fully quantified in terms of long-term sustainability and profitability. Alternative strategies, such as more aggressive digital marketing or partnerships with technology firms for shared innovation, could have potentially enhanced outcomes by driving higher sales growth or more significant operational efficiencies.

Based on the analysis, the recommended next steps include a deeper evaluation of the long-term financial impact of the strategic initiatives to ensure they are sustainable and contribute positively to the bottom line. The organization should also consider leveraging its enhanced supplier relationships to co-develop unique products, further differentiating itself in the market. Additionally, an increased focus on data analytics and customer feedback mechanisms can help refine the e-commerce strategy, ensuring it remains aligned with evolving consumer preferences. Finally, exploring strategic partnerships or acquisitions in the technology space could accelerate digital transformation efforts and create new avenues for growth.

Source: Value Creation through Innovative Procurement Strategy in Specialty Sporting Goods Retail, Flevy Management Insights, 2024

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