Optimierung des Bestandsmanagements in der Bauzulieferindustrie: Erfolgsfaktoren und empfohlene Maßnahmen für die SynthesaGruppe

Abstract

The construction supply industry is characterized by volatile demand, economic uncertainty and increasing product diversity. This results in complex challenges in inventory management. For the SynthesaGruppe, a leading company in the Austrian building materials industry, there is potential for optimization in inventory management: Overstocks tie up capital, shortages impair delivery capability. Internal factors such as inaccurate forecasts, lack of integration of the product life cycle and inconsistent planning parameters meet external influences such as economic fluctuations, supply bottlenecks and raw material price jumps. The aim of the thesis is to identify effective measures for inventory optimization in order to improve service levels and profitability. The thesis is divided into three main chapters: First, internal and external factors influencing inventories are analysed - including scheduling parameters, product variety, the bullwhip effect as well as construction activity, financing costs and material availability. In the second part, classic and modern inventory management tools are presented (ABC/XYZ analysis, forecast planning, ordering procedures, portfolio analysis). Building on this, the third chapter provides concrete recommendations for action for the SynthesaGruppe. Methodologically, the work is based on a systematic literature review and an analysis of company-specific challenges based on internal data and practical examples. The analysis shows that the inventory problem at Synthesa is due to a combination of systemic, organizational and market-related factors. The key measures recommended included Introduction of a consistent ABC/XYZ classification, standardization of MRP parameters, implementation of a structured Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process and integration of the product life cycle into the system logic of SAP 4HANA. In addition, forecasts are to be improved, cross-departmental coordination institutionalized, and reporting tools used for inventory control. The proposed measures support needs-based, flexible warehousing and strengthen the company's ability to react - especially in a challenging construction environment.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Gerald Schönwetter (Supervisor)