Logistics consulting with an open mind

In 'De Pen', the regular column at the front of this magazine, we gave Jan De Kimpe, manager of Logisol Pro, a platform to explain trending topics in warehousing and logistics. With his consulting firm Logisol Pro, he and his team have both feet firmly on the ground. "By means of quick scans, redesign of distribution networks and process optimization tools, among other things, we put logistics entrepreneurs on the right track toward excellence and cost optimization," says De Kimpe.

In "The Pen," you can read how today's logistics sector continues to evolve at lightning speed. "In 2024, the job of operator in a warehouse environment requires the necessary learning and adaptability," De Kimpe points out. "Employees in warehousing and logistics must learn to work in the same environment as and with partial automation integrated into the manual process. They must also be able to continuously adopt new technologies and solutions."

"In addition to these operational adjustments, there are strategic challenges you need to focus on as a logistics player," says De Kimpe. "As part of a multi-year plan, it is necessary that you select the best outsourcing partners, redefine the future macro layout of your production or warehouse site and invest to the maximum in smart logistics solutions."

Communicating vessels

"With Logisol Pro we want to be a valuable sparring partner for every customer to translate the operational-strategic focus into targeted working methods, correct working concepts, good organization and the right measurement and evaluation tools." 

"Here we see logistics as communicating vessels, with customer service, inventory, purchasing, transportation and warehouse operations as some of these vessels. Together with the customer, we look for the best balance between these areas, in accordance with the company and operational objectives. Thorough cost optimization is high on our agenda."

Operational excellence and cost optimization

As independent consultants, De Kimpe and his team of experts use recognized methods and tools to guide companies toward excellence and cost optimization. De Kimpe explains: "We can get started in two ways: through a study or consultancy assignment and through the continuous improvement of existing processes. In the first case, we focus on flow and process research, complemented by substantiated quantitative analyses. This approach usually leads to investments in infrastructure or cooperation with partners.
If we choose the second option - improve and adjust - we use quick scans and assessments to thoroughly review an existing logistics environment and find and implement opportunities for improving its operation. We complement these methods with targeted data analysis and benchmarking to substantiate the feasibility and desirability of these adjustments."

Fresh outside view

Based on these working methods, the Logisol Pro team has already guided many entrepreneurs from various sectors. "For example, we already advised a fast-growing food company that was struggling with space problems, or a logistics player that required an adjustment to its automated warehouses," De Kimpe confirms. "These cases show that optimization does not have to be complex. The smart use of new logistics technologies and a fresh look from outside are already part of the solution."