29 August 2025
Au Forum du Bâtiment (AFDB) is an independent French network specialising in the distribution of building hardware and supplies. Since 1991, AFDB has supplied a wide range of products and services, from tools and industrial supplies to plumbing, locksmithing, heating, and air conditioning.
Stéphane Jarry, Inventory Manager at Au Forum du Bâtiment, shared how the company moved from outdated, ERP-based calculations to a more agile and accurate inventory planning process using Slimstock’s supply planning platform, Slim4.
Q: How were you managing stock before using Slimstock?
“We relied entirely on the Net Requirements Calculation (CBN) within our ERP system. It was a basic, one-size-fits-all approach, and everything had to run through this rigid model. But over time, it became clear that this method wasn’t giving us the control we needed. Stock levels were either too high or dropped too low without warning. The data wasn’t refined enough for the business’s fast-growing pace, which started causing real issues in day-to-day operations.”
Q: What’s changed since you implemented Slim4?
“The first thing we did was completely rework our stock setup. We rebuilt it using a Min/Max strategy to stabilise our inventory, which had become far too volatile. Now, we have gone from firefighting to proper planning. Stock levels are under control, and we are no longer facing the kind of fluctuation we were used to. Slim4 has brought much-needed structure and visibility to our supply chain. It’s not just about better numbers; it’s about having confidence in the system.”
Q: What are your next priorities for Au Forum du Bâtiment?
“One of our initial goals was to reduce the overall value tied up in stock. That’s still a big focus for us. But beyond that, we are now looking to optimise further. We want to ensure every item is in the right place at the right time without carrying excess. With Slimstock, we’re now able to take those next steps and keep building on the progress we have made.”
