From knowledge to action – in small, independent steps to
Digitalization with SAP Business One Cloud in the food retail sector
Bringing a little piece of France to Germany is the FAIVRE DISTRIBUTION GmbH. This is a young company that, within just a few years, has been able to establish a considerable reputation in the food industry as an importer, sales representative and marketer of authentic French specialties made in France.
Gaëtan Faivre, a native Frenchman and founder of FAIVRE DISTRIBUTION GmbH, began building his startup in 2019, driven by his passion for commerce and the market expertise he gained working for renowned global players. The father of three came to Germany around 20 years ago and, prior to starting his own business, worked as an analyst, department head, head of merchandising, and managing director in German and international retail. During this time, he met, grew to appreciate, and fell in love with his wife, Donata, and Germany became his adopted home. "With our professional know-how, coupled with a passion for quality products, our network at the manufacturer and retailer levels, and our understanding of both cultures and languages, we can offer our customers excellent all-round service as a reliable partner," Faivre explained when asked what sets the Düsseldorf-based company apart from its competitors.
„I wanted to follow my heartfelt wish and build another bridge between France and Germany, from which both countries would benefit. After I had gathered enough courage and the business plan was in place, I took the risk – and I haven't regretted it to this day.“
Gaetan Faivre, Founder and CEO FAIVRE DISTRIBUTION
Digitalization as the key to success
Based on his many years of management experience, he knew he needed to establish an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system as soon as possible. Nevertheless, he deliberately waited almost two years until he was certain he had successfully mastered the initial steps and that his company could compete in the market long-term.
Donata Faivre, who has always had a particular affinity for IT and supported her husband during the implementation, looked into two possible ERP systems in 2021. The decision was subsequently made in favor of SAP Business One.
Once the solution was determined, the young entrepreneur contacted SAP directly to obtain recommendations on which consulting firm would be suitable for implementation.
„"Do It Yourself!" – Independence often pays off.
SAP itself recommended conesprit directly to the start-up as an SAP service provider and supplier of the SAP Business One Cloud. "We immediately felt comfortable with and at conesprit," reports Donata Faivre, who is just under forty years old.
Once it became clear that they could implement the system almost entirely independently, thereby saving immense costs, the decision to rely on SAP and conesprit was confirmed. With its "Do It Yourself Implementation Package," conesprit provides a clearly defined scope of software and services, including detailed training materials and an implementation guide, enabling largely self-sufficient system implementation. The implementation effort thus shifts away from the primary cost burden and towards independence, resulting in cost savings. Many founders also view this positively, as it allows them to examine existing processes more closely and potentially optimize and digitize them directly.
The human factor is still the most important for success.
„"With SAP Business One Cloud, you have a real-time overview of orders, contracts, and outstanding invoices. This means you're always and everywhere informed about the current status of your company's business activities. That's immensely important in this line of work," the young mother of three describes the added value of the system in daily use.
„During the pandemic, consumers sometimes treated themselves more in retail stores because restaurants were closed. Many also ordered online. On the other hand, sales slowed. Now inflation is hitting. It remains to be seen. I’m glad that we’re already so well positioned in the market and receive a lot of IT support,“ the native Breton describes the current situation.
With conesprit as a strong partner at its side, plans FAIVRE DISTRIBUTION They are constantly evolving. Currently, they primarily utilize the inventory management processes from SAP Business One. Integrated accounting is also planned for the near future. "Our goal is to attract employees in the medium term with whom we can grow together and to whom we can offer an appreciative work environment," the affable Frenchman explains his aim and motivation. With so much enthusiasm, knowledge, and genuine passion, this young family is sure to succeed. That would be a benefit to society in every respect – not just in the culinary field.
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