Situation
- Family owned business operating at a loss, competitors taking share
- Management blames losses on commodity swings
- Lacks reporting & analytical tools to guide decisions
- Lacks product innovation process and capabilities
- Outdated go-to-market processes with static distribution
- Older factories, which are not SQF certified
FortéOne Process
After initial diagnostic phase, FortéOne presented recommendations and detailed 180-Day Action Plan to return the company to profitability. We were hired to implement this Plan.
Establishing a Foundation for Performance
Leadership
- Worked with existing leaders, then assumed CEO and COO roles—hired a new CFO Operations
- Changed production processes, gained SQF certification on both plants
- Developed financial and operational tools, established “culture of accountability” throughout company
- Ensured managers in all positions were “on board” with the change needed
Organization
- Replaced low performers, provided hands-on training and support for managers at all levels, and during all shifts
Product Innovation & Sales
- Introduced multiple “trend positive” products, eliminated low margin SKUs
- Introduced new account communication and product innovation processes to address client specific product innovation needs
- Expanded sales beyond the current region and into new distribution channels; opened up new regions and distribution with Big Box accounts
Financial
- Moved monthly financial close from 8 weeks to 5 days
- Introduced new product pricing process, and “took pricing” on a case by case basis across the product lines