The new year is the perfect time to refocus on efficiency and productivity. It’s an opportunity to look at your business operations and find ways to streamline processes. Whether that means optimizing your supply chain, upgrading your cleaning programs or refining your packaging and inventory systems, small changes now can set you up for an efficient and productive new year. Here are some tips:

Reassess and Streamline Your Supply Chain

Take a look at your supply chain to determine whether there are any inefficiencies that have been leading to delays or increased costs over the past year. Evaluate whether you’re using a single-source supplier or juggling multiple vendors. Consider partnering with a single-source solutions partner, like Veritiv Pollock, to simplify the procurement process and streamline operations. Review your ordering, shipping and receiving procedures to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. Addressing bottlenecks now will help you avoid entering the new year with an unreliable, inefficient supply chain.

Upgrade Your Cleaning Program

Unhygienic, disorganized facilities are often inefficient ones. Cleanliness and organization are essential to maintaining productivity. If your cleaning program hasn’t been updated in a while, it’s time to reassess it. Evaluate the products, tools and frequency of cleaning routines to ensure they align with your facility’s current needs. Industrial-grade cleaning products are better equipped to handle the dirt, grime and grease that build up in commercial spaces. They’re highly concentrated, meaning you have to use less product to get a stronger clean. They’re also helpful for cutting the time spent on cleaning. Make sure your team is properly trained and equipped to follow safe, efficient cleaning procedures.

Optimize Inventory Management

Along with streamlining your supply chain, you should also optimize your inventory management practices, because accurate inventory management is key to smooth operations. Use automated systems and real-time tracking to monitor supply levels and avoid understocking or overstocking. Demand forecasting helps you anticipate needs ahead of time, reducing downtime, waste and costs. A clear view of your inventory ensures your team always has what they need to get the job done and keep operations running smoothly.

Improve Packaging Design

Packaging plays an important role in customer satisfaction and your overall business operations. Review your packaging design to ensure it’s efficient, properly fits the dimensions of your product and has enough protective padding to keep your products safe during transit. Beyond being a protective layer, packaging functions as a key component to the customer experience, as it is a reflection of your brand. From the colors and visuals to the functionality, make sure your packaging speaks to your brand identity while optimizing shipping and storing costs.

Incorporate Sustainable Practices

Nowadays, sustainability and efficiency work hand in hand. From choosing eco-friendly packaging and green cleaning products to reducing excess waste and optimizing supply chain management, sustainable practices help your business operate with intention and efficiency. Sustainability is important for minimizing your environmental footprint while resulting in long-term savings and a stronger brand reputation, which has invaluable benefits.

Improving efficiency and productivity in the new year doesn’t require a complete overhaul; it just requires the right strategies and solutions partner. Veritiv Pollock can help you streamline operations through our comprehensive business solutions. Contact us today to learn more!