From depot to shelf: The insider’s guide to check and improve distributor performance

Picture of Sean Tennent

Sean Tennent

Growth Director – Macmobile

Welcome to the first article in our series on assessing key players in your route-to-market. In this series, you’ll discover practical ways to improve distributor performance across your FMCG supply chain, from distributors to retailers.

Part 1: How to ace your distribution

In this article, we explore how to evaluate your distributors – the vital link between your products and the market – and improve distributor performance. You’ll learn how to empower them to meet and exceed expectations and become champions in your success story.

Understanding the distributor’s role

Distributors do more than move products; they connect your brand to customers. They manage inventory, fulfil orders, and sometimes market your products. Their performance directly affects your efficiency, making it essential to assess how well they operate within your route-to-market.

What to look for

To evaluate distributors effectively, focus on clear and measurable key performance indicators (KPIs).

Order accuracy

Track how often orders are fulfilled correctly. High accuracy ensures reliability and trust between your business and your customers.

On-Time deliveries

Measure delivery reliability. Consistent on-time performance helps maintain product availability and customer satisfaction.

Inventory management

Assess how efficiently distributors manage stock levels to avoid overstocking or shortages that disrupt sales.

How to measure distribution performance

Regular performance reviews

Schedule consistent reviews to identify challenges, align objectives, and maintain open communication. These meetings reinforce collaboration and accountability.

Feedback from retailers and customers

Collect feedback from retailers and customers to gain insight into distributor reliability and service quality. Use this input to refine operations and improve performance.

Improve Distributor Performance Continuously

Encourage distributors to aim higher through clear expectations, performance tracking, and recognition for excellence. Rewarding success fosters motivation and long-term loyalty.

Give gold stars on the go with Macmobile

Save time and money with FIELDService, our ISO/IEC 27001 Certified distribution management solution. It streamlines stock management and optimises delivery processes in real time.

FIELDService provides accurate data on order accuracy, delivery timing, and inventory control. Its intuitive dashboard lets you track KPIs, generate instant reports, and pinpoint areas for improvement.

Replace manual tracking with automated, data-driven insights. Simplify your distribution operations and improve distributor performance with Macmobile.

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