STRATEGIC OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT IN FMCG: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF BEST PRACTICES AND INNOVATIONS
Authors: David Olanrewaju Olutimehin  , Ekene Ezinwa Nwankwo  , Onyeka Chrisanctus Ofodile  , Chinonye Esther Ugochukwu  
Published: March 2024

Strategic operations management (SOM) in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry plays a crucial role in driving efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. This paper presents a comprehensive review of best practices and innovations in SOM within the FMCG sector, aiming to provide insights into how companies can optimize their operations to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable growth. The review begins by examining the key challenges faced by FMCG companies, including demand volatility, short product life cycles, and complex supply chains. It then explores how strategic operations management practices can help address these challenges and improve overall performance. One of the key areas of focus in SOM for FMCG companies is inventory management. Best practices such as demand forecasting, lean inventory principles, and just-in-time (JIT) inventory systems are discussed, highlighting their importance in reducing stockouts, minimizing waste, and improving overall supply chain efficiency. Another critical aspect of SOM in the FMCG industry is production planning and scheduling. The review outlines how advanced planning tools, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and advanced analytics, can help FMCG companies optimize production processes, reduce lead times, and enhance flexibility to respond to changing market demands. Furthermore, the paper discusses the role of technology and innovation in enhancing SOM practices in the FMCG sector. It explores how technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming FMCG operations, enabling companies to achieve higher levels of efficiency, quality, and sustainability. The review also highlights the importance of collaboration and partnerships in SOM for FMCG companies. It discusses how strategic alliances with suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders can help FMCG companies optimize their supply chains, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of best practices and innovations in strategic operations management for FMCG companies. It emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to SOM, integrating people, processes, and technology to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable growth in the dynamic FMCG industry. This review paper systematically examines existing literature on operations management within the FMCG sector, highlighting effective strategies for coordinating operations, crew scheduling, and logistics to uphold professionalism and achieve peak performance. It aims to aggregate insights on process improvement opportunities, conflict management techniques, and cross-functional team dynamics that have led to world-class customer experiences and increased product sales. The review will also discuss the role of technology in maintaining operational records and facilitating continuous improvement in FMCG logistics and supply chain management.

Keywords:  Innovations, Best Practices, SOM, FMCG, Comprehensive.