The Company:
Polypipe CGU, a key player in the UK construction industry, is renowned for its innovative approach in replacing traditional materials with advanced plastic solutions for civil and infrastructure projects.
With a commitment to delivering their products “anytime, anywhere” across the UK, the company operates a fleet comprising 29 units and 87 trailers.
The Challenge
Polypipe CGU faced a significant challenge with its longstanding debt issue, exacerbated by its traditional approach to invoicing and payment collections.
Products were delivered, but invoices were not issued immediately, leading to considerable delays in payments and complications in handling discrepancies.
The Approach
Having a strong, decade-long relationship with Microlise influenced Polypipe CGU to extend its partnership with the technology expert. The company already used the Group’s ‘Vehicle Tracking’ and ‘Driver Performance’ modules and had confidence in their solutions.
After a thorough exploratory process, Polypipe CGU decided to further integrate Microlise’s technologies, including electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD), and Vehicle Utilisation systems.
The implementation, though extensive, ran smoothly and was handled by a dedicated Microlise project team. This close collaboration allowed for a customised solution that fit Polypipe CGU’s requirements exactly. The rollout was phased and first tested through User Acceptance Testing (UAT) systems, ensuring a seamless transition to the live environment.
The successful implementation was also extended to Polypipe Building Services.
The Result
Adopting Microlise's solutions revolutionised Polypipe CGU’s operational capabilities. The new system enabled real-time responses to logistical activities, immediate invoicing upon service completion, and a dynamic interface with its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This integration improved operational visibility, ensured immediate discrepancy resolutions, and supported the documentation process by allowing images to be attached to delivery records.
The real-time functionalities not only streamlined processes but also significantly reduced the age-old debt – from approximately £2 million to £240,000 – thereby improving the financial health of the company. Furthermore, the shift towards a more digital approach reduced paperwork and enhanced efficiency for the transport administration team.
Return on Investment:
The introduction of Microlise technology led to notable enhancements in error reduction and administrative efficiency, directly impacting the company's bottom line.
The Future and Sustainability:
Looking ahead, Polypipe CGU aims to provide clients with direct access to order tracking through a web portal, marking the next phase in their digital evolution.
Sustainability remains a core focus, aligning with Genuit Group’s strategy to offer low-carbon solutions. Efforts are underway to update the fleet with modern, more efficient technologies and transition on-site vehicles to electric power, significantly reducing fossil fuel reliance.
Immediate invoicing upon service completion
Debt reduction - from approximately £2 million to £240,000
Enhancements in error reduction and administrative efficiency
Conclusion:
Polypipe CGU’s journey with Microlise is a testament to how strategic partnerships and advanced technological integrations can profoundly transform business operations.
The company anticipates even greater returns as it continues to expand its use of Microlise products and is confident in the benefits of an all-inclusive logistics management solution.