Five signs that it’s time for a new ERP

In today’s fast-paced food and beverage industry, staying competitive requires more than just great products and dedicated staff. Companies need efficient, streamlined operations powered by an effective Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Many food and beverage companies rely on a patchwork of applications for their operations. However, this often leads to inefficiencies and limits the company’s ability to grow and adapt. Here are five critical signs that it’s time for your business to transition to a more integrated, cloud-based ERP system like NetSuite. 

1. Lack of real-time business insights 

If your current systems make it challenging to get a comprehensive, real-time view of your business, it’s a clear sign that you need an upgrade. Many legacy systems require data consolidation at the end of each month, leading to outdated information and delayed decision-making. As your business grows, the complexity of managing multiple locations and more employees makes this even more challenging, making timely and accurate data retrieval crucial.

2. Reliance on manual processeset

Manual data entry and reconciliation across disparate systems not only waste time, but also increase the risk of errors. For example, paper-based sales orders and invoicing processes can lead to significant inefficiencies and customer dissatisfaction due to inaccurate or delayed information. If your employees spend more time handling paperwork than engaging in value-added activities, our FoodQloud consultants can advise you on a new ERP solution.

3. Inability to meet customer expectations

In the food and beverage industry, customer satisfaction hinges on timely and accurate order fulfillment. When your systems are unable to provide real-time stock levels or update order statuses promptly, it can lead to unhappy customers. If your customer service team struggles to provide quick answers due to outdated information, an integrated ERP system with a CRM is essential.

4. Extensive use of external accounting systems

Standalone financial systems often lack the capability to handle complex transactions, multiple sales channels, and evolving business needs. This can force your finance team to use additional software or spreadsheets, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors. If adapting your current financial systems to new business requirements is a constant struggle, it’s a sign that your business has outgrown its existing financial solution. 

5. Overwhelming technology management 

Maintaining multiple systems can be both time-consuming and costly. Frequent server failures, data security issues, and the need for regular backups can divert attention from core business activities. A cloud-based ERP like NetSuite eliminates these concerns by providing a scalable, secure, and always up-to-date solution. Let FoodQloud handle the IT, so you can focus on your core business. 

If your food & beverage business is experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, it may be time to consider a (new) ERP solution. NetSuite offers a comprehensive, cloud-based ERP system that can help streamline your operations, improve data visibility, and support your growth. By embracing the cloud, your business can stay ahead of the competition and better meet the demands of today’s dynamic market. Get in touch with one of our FoodQloud experts. 

This article is based on a whitepaper. Download the full whitepaper here.