In the face of rising supply chain disruptions and an ever-increasing demand for sustainable materials, many industries are grappling with the challenge of adapting their operations. Halcor, the copper and alloys extrusion division of ElvalHalcor, has not only navigated these challenges but has emerged stronger, thanks to its focus on innovation and a customer-centric approach. Today, Halcor operates with an end-to-end supply chain mentality, where procurement, planning, logistics, and order management are integrated into one function. Through this transformation, aims to increase market share, expand into new market segments, and address customer needs more effectively.
Halcor’s ability to navigate global supply chain challenges stems from its strategic use of technology and ground-breaking solutions. One of the biggest challenges in today’s supply chains is managing disruptions at the source, such as delays in raw material shipments. To mitigate these risks, Halcor has adopted a range of technologies that enhance supply chain visibility and agility. “We use a software solution to gain real-time visibility of the transportation of our raw materials, a solution that we plan to expand to all inbound and outbound shipments,” Anastasia Toupali, Halcor’s supply chain director explained. This digital transformation has improved Halcor’s ability to track shipments, anticipate disruptions, and respond quickly when issues arise.
To optimise operations, Halcor uses advanced systems like SAP’s ERP and Asprova for production scheduling, ensuring efficient production planning and execution. Additionally, SAP’s Transportation Management System is being implemented to enhance logistics operations. Furthermore, Halcor is also working on cloud solutions for efficient fleet management of its vehicles and automations in warehouse operations and loadings as well as manufacturing.
Innovation at Halcor extends beyond basic digital solutions. The company is increasingly incorporating robotic process automation (RPA) and artificial intelligence (AI) into its supply chain and manufacturing processes. “One of our most recent applications in this area is automation through SAP BTP, where we use AI to automatically allocate purchase requisitions of uncoded materials and services to the responsible buyers,” explains Anastasia Toupali.
By automating routine tasks and leveraging AI in more complex decision-making processes, Halcor has improved its efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness. These technological advancements are not only streamlining internal processes but also improving customer satisfaction by enabling faster and more accurate responses to client needs.
Despite the progress, the journey of digital transformation is ongoing. “I don’t believe that one can ever say that a technology plan is fully realised,” said Anastasia Toupali. “With every step forward, new requirements emerge, and new ideas are generated.” Halcor’s focus on continual improvement means that it is constantly exploring new ways to leverage technology and partnerships to enhance competitiveness and drive sustainable growth in the international landscape.
The company’s collaboration with PwC has been particularly beneficial in driving its supply chain transformation. “PwC helped us define key initiatives and supported us with knowledge and expertise in more follow-up projects, helping us accelerate our way to transform our end-to-end value chain,” Anastasia Toupali said.
In an increasingly complex and volatile business environment, Halcor has demonstrated that innovation and resilience are key to supply chain success. By integrating advanced technologies, fostering strong partnerships, and prioritizing sustainability, Halcor has built a supply chain that is agile, responsive, and future-ready. As the company continues to evolve, its focus on innovation will remain at the heart of its strategy, ensuring long-term competitiveness and sustainable growth.