How DFI Retail Group Strengthened Its Own Brands Program Through Digital Enhancement

DFI Retail Group, one of Asia’s leading retailers, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings, and restaurants in 12 markets. With a portfolio of more than 10 Own Brands —spanning product categories such as packaged foods, beverages, personal care, household goods, and general merchandise —DFI manages more than 2,000 products with varying regulatory, quality, and packaging requirements.

To orchestrate these complex operations, DFI used TradeBeyond’s multi-enterprise platform to manage product specifications, allow better information exchange between multiple internal and external parties with version control for better product management, and ensure data integrity across its complete Own Brands portfolio.

The Challenge: Transforming Opportunities for Efficiency and Collaboration

Before adopting TradeBeyond, DFI identified opportunities for improvement in managing its Own Brands product information. While the previous system served its purpose, while functional, it presented several challenges as the complexity of product management processes evolved!

• The system's accessibility constraints highlighted the need for improved communication and collaboration with external suppliers.

• The time spent on manual checking on product specification updates pointed to an opportunity for streamlining processes.

• The reliance on manual follow-ups and data entry emphasized the importance of integrating supplier data for more efficient operations.

As DFI expanded its Own brand business, addressing these challenges became essential for optimizing processes and driving future growth.

How TradeBeyond Addressed DFI’s Challenges

Centralized Specification and Product Data Management

TradeBeyond serves as DFI’s central point for product specifications of all Own Brands, including ingredients, nutritional panels, packaging claims, regulatory certifications, and supplier data. The platform ensures that all stakeholders access and work from the latest version of product information.

Improved Collaboration and Version Control

TradeBeyond enables seamless collaboration between internal teams and suppliers by eliminating location and time zone barriers. The platform provides shared visibility into certifications, packaging details, and specification data. Version control maintains accuracy throughout the development process, reducing errors and minimizing rework.

Key Outcomes

Strengthened Supplier Collaboration: Suppliers and DFI teams now work together in real time on data information.

Improved Data Accessibility: All stakeholders can access the TradeBeyond platform anytime, enhancing communication.

Reduced Misunderstandings: Real-time updates ensure that everyone is aligned on the same version of data.

Streamlined Specification Tracking: A trackable record of amendments helps identify changes and responsible parties, simplifying processes.

Risk Reduction and Transparency: Full visibility into product and supplier data promotes informed decision-making.

Lasting Efficiencies

With TradeBeyond, DFI has enhanced collaboration among internal and external stakeholders by providing easy access to information on the platform, regardless of location or time. This accessibility helps keep everyone informed and fosters a more cohesive team environment.

Additionally, DFI benefits from real-time updates that reduce misunderstandings and align team members on shared data. The platform's trackable record of specification amendments allows DFI to identify changes and their contributors more easily, streamlining processes and saving time on manual comparisons. Overall, TradeBeyond has contributed to improved communication and efficiency within DFI's teams.