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The Solution
ABF turned to Keelvar to address the challenges and to enable the execution of large-scale tenders across multiple lanes more efficiently and effectively, regardless of lane size.
“We needed a tool that could handle complex sourcing while allowing us to scale our operations. With Keelvar, we can execute tenders for 600+ lanes, instead of 100 for example,” said Maddy. “This has been crucial in ensuring that even smaller lanes, which might otherwise be neglected, are optimized for best cost and value.”
Keelvar provided ABF with the flexibility to run tenders efficiently and effectively, reducing cycle times and data errors associated with more manual and cumbersome tools and processes, and using intelligent scenario modeling to balance cost savings with other strategic priorities, such as sustainability.
The Results
- Cycle times (from event launch to award) have decreased by 47% in the last 4 years
- Events (from launch to bid completion) were launched 50% faster in the last 4 years
- In 2024, bidder engagement was 10% higher than peers (~80% of bidders invited to events)
- $3.5M of benefits in 2024 in ocean freight alone
Since adopting Keelvar, ABF has seen tangible improvements in several key areas:
Increased Tender Volume and Speed:
ABF has seen a significant increase in the number of events processed, with the average time to bidding reduced by 50% and cycle times shortened by 47% compared to previous methods.
Cost Savings:
ABF’s use of Keelvar has helped unlock significant benefits, despite the complexity of the market. Maddy emphasized, “Keelvar’s scenario analysis and automation has allowed us to unlock savings we wouldn't have otherwise identified.”
Improved Supplier Engagement:
With Keelvar’s easy-to-use platform, suppliers have responded positively. Maddy shared that suppliers appreciate the clear, transparent process, making them more willing to engage in tenders. “Keelvar’s interface has been a big plus with our suppliers—they’ve given us great feedback.”
The Benefits
Resilience and Agility
By decreasing cycle times by 47%, ABF is now able to react more swiftly to market fluctuations and supply chain needs. The increased speed allows for faster decisions, enabling ABF to make more agile sourcing choices in response to dynamic market conditions – such as shifting fuel costs or sudden supply shortages – without being bogged down by outdated manual processes.
Strategic focus
The 50% decrease in event launch speed has also allowed ABF procurement teams to refocus their time on strategic activities and scale. With the ability to manage more events in a shorter time frame, ABF can now tender more trade lanes, and most importantly, capture savings and opportunities which may have previously been overlooked, such as smaller freight lanes that were once too complex to manage.
Competitive advantage
The improved bidder engagement also brings strategic advantages. With more suppliers actively participating, ABF gains a competitive edge through greater visibility into potential value opportunities and vendor relationships. ABF’s network of suppliers is also more engaged because Keelvar facilitates transparent and expressive bidding which helps creates win-win scenarios.
Closing quote
As ABF continues to optimize its procurement strategy, Keelvar’s ongoing innovation and support remain key to their success. Maddy concluded:
“Keelvar allows us to scale and leverage insights, including expanding our use of the tool into other sourcing areas such as Road Transport, Packaging, MRO, FM, and Ingredients, without compromising on quality. It has transformed the way we approach sourcing, and we’re excited to continue this partnership as we grow and adapt to new challenges.”
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