Warenbestandsmanagement eines Handelsunternehmens am Beispiel dm drogerie markt GmbH

Abstract

This bachelor thesis deals with inventory management in the retail sector, using the example of dm drogerie markt Austria. The objective was to analyze key influencing factors, system-based control mechanisms, and process-related interdependencies in order to derive practical insights for efficient inventory control within the company. The starting point was the practical question of how inventory levels can be managed to ensure high product availability while keeping capital commitment as low as possible—an everyday challenge in business practice. A two-part methodological approach was chosen to address this question. The theoretical section is based on well-established primary literature and covers the fundamentals of inventory management, key performance indicators (e.g., inventory turnover, stock coverage, service level), as well as distinctions from other logistics disciplines. The practical section is based on internal company documents, process descriptions, and expert discussions with colleagues from various dm departments. The analysis focused on processes such as goods receipt, disposition, store and online fulfillment, cross-docking, cross-border store supply (LÜFB), and the large customer process. The results show that dm uses SAP Forecasting & Replenishment (F&R) as a highly reliable system for forecasting and demand planning. The intervention rate in automated order proposals is below one percent, indicating high forecast quality and stable system parameters. Nevertheless, there are existing challenges, such as the coordination of cross-border supply chains, transparency in information flow, and the handling of fluctuating demands and products with shelf-life expiration date. In conclusion, successful inventory management in retail strongly depends on forecast accuracy, system maintenance, and internal coordination. This thesis provides concrete approaches for reviewing and further developing existing processes—with the aim of balancing product availability, delivery performance, and economic efficiency.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Veronika Kalkgruber (Supervisor)