Roca Group, a global leader based in Barcelona specializing in bathroom products, has encountered numerous challenges over recent years, such as disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and fluctuating energy prices. Established in 1917, Roca operates in 170 countries, employs 21,000 individuals, and features 79 production sites worldwide. This extensive network highlights its role as a significant player in the global market.
According to Jacques Nieuwland, the Digital Transformation Director at Roca Group, the company has tackled challenges inherent to various industries during this period. His focus is on utilizing technology to align with the company’s strategic objectives, which emphasize growth, innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability.
Roca Group has developed a global supply chain that necessitates agile planning, given the reliance on diverse components. Nieuwland emphasizes the importance of updating planning methodologies and incorporating buffers to enhance supply chain resilience. The company utilizes technology to ensure comprehensive visibility across the supply chain, fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
SAP serves as the backbone of Roca’s operational landscape, facilitating essential processes such as order processing and reordering through its solutions. This integration allows Roca to understand and scale its operations effectively. By leveraging SAP Integrated Business Planning for Supply Chain, Roca can anticipate product demand and adjust production schedules accordingly, thereby optimizing stock levels and enhancing service quality.
The partnership with SAP is rooted in a long-standing history of collaboration, which has proven successful for Roca. Early this year, Roca initiated the adoption of RISE with SAP and plans to implement SAP S/4HANA Cloud in early 2025, marking a significant milestone in their digital transformation journey. Nieuwland believes that this cloud-based solution will unlock further innovation potential due to SAP’s continuous focus on cloud innovations.
Additionally, the integration of SAP’s generative AI copilot, Joule, into the cloud ERP promises to drive productivity and enhance customer interactions. Nieuwland asserts that such advanced technologies will support Roca in achieving operational excellence while addressing sustainability by targeting emissions and aspiring for carbon neutrality by 2045.
In terms of lessons for other manufacturers, Nieuwland advises addressing specific business challenges while leveraging technology to generate real business value. He emphasizes the importance of cross-functional collaboration and designing an enterprise architecture that aligns with broader organizational goals, rather than merely acquiring disparate solutions.
This approach not only underscores Roca Group’s adaptability in navigating challenges but also highlights a commitment to sustainability and innovation that other companies can aspire to emulate. By focusing on strategic planning and technological integration, Roca is setting a positive example for the industry, paving the way for a resilient future and enhanced customer experiences.
In summary, Roca Group is actively transforming its operations to tackle global challenges while prioritizing sustainability and innovation—an inspiring model for businesses aiming to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.