Scaling FMCG processes for your own small business needs

We've recently been considering the rise in use of DIY tool control products to achieve and exceed tool control requirements amongst some of the bigger players in the FMCG sector that we work with. So how can these principles be scaled to be applied elsewhere? Is it possible that smaller businesses in other fields outside that sector can take lessons from FMCG processes to apply to their own businesses?

We certainly think so, and here are what we consider to be the key take-aways that can really benefit anyone, in any walk of life:

Regular, scheduled maintenance:

If you use any sort of equipment, machinery, tools or tech in your business, and let’s face it these days, who doesn’t then this is for you.

FMCG lesson: Regular maintenance of tools and equipment is a standard practice to prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure consistent quality.

Applying it to other businesses: Establish routines and make time to service and audit any business-critical tools and equipment. This proactive approach will extend the lifespan of your assets giving you savings further down the line.  As will using a product like Shadow Foam to protect your valuable equipment. Plus it should prevent costly downtime in the event of breakdowns or essential servicing and repair.

Standardisation of procedures:

We all need to work on the fly, or in an ad hoc manner sometimes.  Flex and adaptability is important.  But standardising many processes can be really beneficial.

FMCG Lesson: Standard operating procedures (SOPs) ensure consistency and efficiency in tool usage and maintenance.

Applying it to other businesses: Apply your own SOPs for tool usage, maintenance, and storage. Training any staff on these procedures can improve efficiency and reduce errors. This is where a product like Shadow Foam can really come into it’s own.

Invest in Quality Tools:

Note, we say 'quality', not 'expensive'. If our bargain tool kit projects have taught us anything it’s that good doesn’t always have to equal costly.

FMCG Lesson: High-quality tools are less likely to fail and can withstand rigorous use, which is essential for maintaining production quality.

Applying it to other businesses: In some things, the adage “buy cheap, buy twice” can come into play. But that’s not always true. Investing in high-quality tools can result in long-term savings through reduced downtime and fewer replacements longer time, so research and buy smart. And consider Shadow Foam the perfect way to protect the lifespan of those investments too.

Track Tool Usage and Inventory:

Easier said than done when there are many hands or multiple work areas at play.  However this is key, and organisational products like Shadow Foam will really help you with this.

FMCG Lesson: Effective tracking methods are used to monitor tool usage and inventory, helping to prevent loss and ensure availability.

Applying it to other businesses: Implement a tool control system to keep tabs on tool inventory and usage. This helps in planning purchases and ensuring tools are available when needed. With Shadow Foam as part of this strategy, you need never lose a tool again.

Adopt “Lean” Principles:

As a small business ourselves, we at Shadow Foam like to apply our lean values in how we work too, so these big business methods really are scalable elsewhere.

FMCG Lesson: Lean manufacturing principles like minimising waste and optimising processes, are not only applied to things like tool control but to  many other areas of the organisation too.

Applying it to other businesses: Start easy by applying lean principles to your own tool management – use of Shadow Foam will mean you can find the right tool first time every time saving you hours longer term not hunting for lost or misplaced items.

Focus on Continuous Improvement:

Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement among employees by using methods like Shadow Foam tool organisers can make for a more cohesive, harmonious workspace and dynamic amongst colleagues.

FMCG Lesson: Continuous improvement processes help in regularly assessing and enhancing tool control measures.

Applying it to other businesses: Regularly review and improve your own tool control practices based on the needs of your team, customer demands, and ongoing experiences.

In summary...

By adopting even just some of these practices, small businesses in many walks of life can see a big difference. Enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, improve product quality, and ensure a safer working environment, much like any larger counterpart in the FMCG sector.

Clearly Shadow Foam and employing lean, controlled approaches to your organisation and storage is just a small step in this journey but it’s an important, inexpensive and easy one to apply.  So try Shadow Foam today as a quick, easy win in your move towards replicating big-industry processes within your own small business.