Northwind maps a three-tier supply chain in one quarter
Northwind created a clear view of its three-tier supplier network, improving supply chain visibility, identifying hidden dependencies.
Supply chain visibility
Northwind needed a clearer view of its increasingly complex supply network. With suppliers spread across multiple regions and limited visibility beyond direct partners, the team struggled to understand where materials originated and where potential risks existed. The goal was to create a practical supply chain map that could support better decisions without slowing down day-to-day operations.
As the business continued to grow, understanding the connections between suppliers became increasingly important. Northwind wanted to move beyond a simple list of vendors and build a connected view of its supply ecosystem, showing how materials moved through each tier.
The challenge
Northwind's existing supplier data was fragmented across spreadsheets, internal systems, and partner records. While the company had strong visibility into its direct suppliers, information about second- and third-tier relationships was inconsistent or unavailable. This made it difficult to identify dependencies, assess risks, and respond quickly to disruptions.
The team also faced challenges in standardizing information collected from different suppliers and regions. Inconsistent naming, incomplete records, and disconnected data sources made it difficult to build a reliable picture of the full network.
The approach
We worked with Marlow to review its packaging workflow from production to delivery. By identifying areas of material waste and optimizing packaging formats, we helped introduce more efficient processes that reduced unnecessary materials without disrupting existing operations. The new approach also made packaging easier to manage across different product lines.
We analyzed packaging sizes, material usage, and production requirements across Marlow's product range to identify where improvements could be made. Instead of replacing the entire system, we focused on practical changes that could be introduced gradually and integrated into existing workflows.
The results
The changes helped Marlow significantly reduce packaging waste while maintaining its existing margins. More efficient material usage lowered operational costs, while streamlined packaging processes improved consistency across the business. The result was a more sustainable system that supported both environmental goals and long-term commercial growth.
By reducing unnecessary materials and simplifying packaging operations, Marlow was able to make measurable progress toward its sustainability targets without adding complexity to its production process. The improved system also gave the team greater visibility into packaging.
We came for the packaging fix. We stayed because for the first time our numbers had somewhere to live. Our board quotes their ledger back at us now.
Elena Hart
Founder, Marlow & Co.
