Dallmayr Hungary: A Journey of Digital Transformation

Dallmayr, a company with a rich history dating back nearly 300 years, has evolved from a supplier for German royalty to a leading coffee supplier in Europe and Africa. Specializing in high-quality Arabica coffee, Dalmeyer owns coffee plantations and sources coffee globally, ensuring compliance with European regulations against deforestation.

Digitalization in Hungary

In Hungary, Dallmayr focuses on the professional coffee sector, partnering with major hotel and restaurant chains and operating a leading vending business. The company faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, with closures affecting the market and revealing the limitations of their outdated systems. The existing Navision system, developed in 2005, required either an upgrade or a complete overhaul.

In 2021, Dallmayr sought a consulting company to assist with digital transformation, as they lacked in-house IT expertise. Visual Labs was chosen for their understanding of Dallmayr's unique business structure and needs. Together, they implemented a new ERP system, Business Central, and transitioned to Microsoft 365 Dynamics for CRM, later switching to Power Apps for greater flexibility.

System Integration and Challenges

Dallmayr integrated various systems, including a custom Dalma app, to connect field staff, back office, and financial departments. The transition was challenging, with initial difficulties in adapting to new processes. However, within a year, efficiency increased by 30% in the back office, with many administrative tasks automated.

Field staff required simple, responsive tools, leading to the development of a SQL-based web application for easy documentation. The integration of telemetric systems allowed for real-time monitoring and control of vending machines, enhancing operational efficiency.

Future Prospects and AI Integration

Dallmayr is exploring AI for knowledge sharing, customer service preparation, and predictive analytics. The goal is to automate decision-making processes, such as product rotation in vending machines, to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on human expertise. AI is expected to play a significant role in future operations, providing insights and recommendations based on aggregated data.

Conclusion

Dallmayr's digital transformation in Hungary serves as a blueprint for the group, demonstrating the benefits of integrating modern technology into traditional business models. The company's journey highlights the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and innovation in adapting to changing market conditions and customer needs.

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