Stora Enso and Hygiene Products Manufacturer Streamline Logistics Through Joint Supply Chain Initiative

Stora Enso has reported the results of a logistics optimization project conducted in collaboration with a global hygiene products manufacturer that sources fluff pulp from the company’s Skutskär production unit.

The initiative began with a joint workshop involving cross-functional teams from both organizations to assess existing operations and identify areas for improvement. According to Stora Enso, logistics emerged as the area with the greatest potential for creating value.

The companies found that the logistics network supporting deliveries to the customer’s production facilities had become increasingly complex over time. Additional warehouses and parallel transportation flows had been introduced to address operational constraints, but these measures also contributed to higher costs, inefficiencies and reduced predictability.

Rather than making incremental adjustments, the teams undertook a broader review of the logistics setup. Stora Enso said the process was supported by a high level of transparency between the two companies, including the sharing of transport cost information by the customer.

Following the review, the organizations agreed to simplify the logistics structure by consolidating flows through a single warehouse and aligning delivery planning and management processes. The revised model was implemented in stages to maintain operational continuity.

According to Stora Enso, the new arrangement resulted in lower logistics costs and improved working capital while maintaining service levels. The company also said the project strengthened the long-term relationship between the two businesses.

“The biggest gain is trust. The customer sees that we care about their business, not just our own. Our success is tied to our customers’ success — when we improve together, both businesses become stronger,” said Johan Flybring, Network Design Manager at Stora Enso’s Biomaterials Business Area.

Stora Enso stated that additional details, including quantified results from the project, are available in a separate case study.