Does a resilient supply chain really need more stock?
A pump can run reliably for years before a component need replacing. A valve can perform exactly as expected until an unexpected failure brings production to a stop.
In both situations, the challenge is the same. How quickly can you get the right replacement?
For food and beverage producers, keeping production running depends on having the right components available when needed. But holding large inventories comes at a cost. It ties up capital, adds storage requirements and increases the risk of keeping parts that may never be used.
The answer isn't necessarily to keep more parts on hand. A more connected approach to sourcing, stock planning and logistics can help protect reliability without keeping everything on your own shelves.
When components fail, speed is essential
Even with well-planned maintenance, unexpected failures can happen. And when they do, access to the right replacement can determine how quickly production resumes. A component that isn't available locally may need to be sourced elsewhere or manufactured to order, potentially causing significant delays. Access to a wider distribution network creates more options.
Tetra Pak's supply chain includes a main hub in Lund, Sweden, and distribution centres around the world. This makes it possible to check stock across locations and source components from elsewhere when they aren't available locally.
For urgent requirements, a dedicated 24/7 SOS service helps identify and dispatch critical spare parts as quickly as possible. And if an exact component isn't available, technical specialists can explore alternative configurations that meet the same requirements.
Together, these capabilities can help shorten the time between identifying a problem and finding a suitable replacement.
Thinking like the customer changes the priorities
When a critical component is needed, you want more than a supplier who fulfils an order. You want someone who understands your situation and helps keep production moving. If a component isn't available, the team can check other distribution centres, work with suppliers to find alternatives or prioritise the parts you need most urgently. And the support doesn't stop when your order leaves the warehouse. Tetra Pak follows the delivery, helping resolve issues along the way.
It's about giving you greater flexibility, less uncertainty and confidence that your production needs remain the priority.
More stock isn't always the answer
Keeping spare parts in stock provides reassurance. But how much is necessary?
Some components are replaced regularly. Others may remain unused for years or become obsolete before they are needed. A more selective approach starts by understanding which components are critical, how often they're needed and how quickly replacements can be sourced.
Tetra Pak's Services Supply Network plans inventory according to factors such as demand, geographical location, component value and supplier lead times. Rather than keeping every component everywhere, the aim is to make stock available where it's most likely to be needed. For producers, access to this network can reduce the need for extensive on-site inventories. Planning maintenance and ordering ahead of scheduled service events can further improve availability.
This helps balance operational reliability with lower inventory costs, potentially freeing up capital for other priorities.
Your one-stop equipment shop simplifies sourcing
The cost of a component doesn't end with its purchase price. Sourcing, ordering, shipping and managing spare parts all require resources. And working with multiple suppliers can add complexity through different ordering systems, delivery schedules and spare part references. Bringing these activities together can simplify the process.
Through Tetra Pak® Plant Components, producers can source pumps, valves, instrumentation and other components from one place, supported by technical expertise and established supplier relationships. For many standard components and spare parts, the e-business platform also makes ordering and tracking deliveries easier. Behind this sits a coordinated warehousing and logistics network. Centralised stock management and global inventory visibility can help improve availability, streamline shipments and reduce unnecessary freight costs.
Together, these efficiencies can help lower the total cost of ownership throughout the equipment lifecycle.
Resilience starts with better planning
A large spare parts inventory can help protect production. But it isn't the only way to build resilience.
The right balance depends on understanding which components are critical, where vulnerabilities exist and how quickly replacements can be made available. For some producers, that means keeping selected parts close to production. For others, it means relying more on a wider supply network.
Tetra Pak's distribution infrastructure, stock planning and logistics capabilities can help producers find that balance.