Platform on window, door, frame technology, hardware, roof and facade technology, security
For more than 90 years, Dozon has been a trusted name in the Dutch construction industry. As a family-owned business, this wholesaler supports professionals in fields such as interior construction, the window frame industry, general contracting, and the installation and assembly sectors. With over 30,000 products, nine locations in the eastern, central, and northern Netherlands, and a central logistics center in Doetinchem, product availability is a key pillar of the business. But Dozon does more than just deliver. Increasingly, the company is also taking over part of its customers’ inventory management and logistics operations.
“We don’t just look at what a customer orders, but above all at how they operate,” says Marcel Melgers, senior account manager at Dozon. “By literally taking a look inside companies, we see where processes can be improved, sped up, or made smarter. Especially with the larger window frame manufacturers, we’re closely involved in keeping inventory levels optimal.” This approach aligns with Dozon’s evolution from a traditional wholesaler to a logistics and technical partner. In addition to tools, machinery, hardware, fasteners, ironmongery, furniture fittings, and personal protective equipment, the organization offers extensive knowledge and practical support. The goal: to ensure that employees have access to the right materials when they need them, without unnecessary inventory or production downtime.
One example of this is the QuWikiBOARD. This e-Kanban system serves as the link between the shop floor and the digital ordering process. Items are assigned their own RFID transponder card, the QuWikiCARD. As soon as a product runs out, an employee places the corresponding card on the board. The order is then automatically sent as a digital signal to Dozon’s system.
“The great thing is that employees on the shop floor don’t have to log in to a computer to process an order,” says Melgers. “A simple swipe of the card is all it takes. This makes ordering very easy and also reduces the chance of errors.” Customers can also place their orders directly through the Dozon App. This allows employees to scan product codes with their smartphones and place an order. In this way, Dozon offers various levels of automation, tailored to the customer’s workflow.
According to Melgers, the next step is predictive inventory management. By analyzing order history, consumption, and processes, Dozon aims to get better and better at estimating when a product will be needed. This shifts inventory management from reacting to looking ahead. “We want to prevent a customer from waiting until something is actually out of stock before placing an order,” Melgers explains. “By recognizing patterns in consumption, we can anticipate needs sooner. That way, inventory remains at the right level.”
Dozon is currently actively supporting about ten clients with their warehouse management. This involves looking not only at the products themselves, but at the entire process: from inventory levels and ordering methods to storage and delivery. The knowledge gained is then used to further develop the service. In addition, the company is exploring the potential of AI to further optimize inventory management and logistics processes.
The final stage of the process also receives attention. Whenever possible, orders are delivered in a sustainable manner with minimal packaging, for example in reusable containers. By using its own fleet and drivers, Dozon also maintains control over logistics and customer contact. “Ultimately, our strength lies in thinking along with our customers,” says Melgers. “By staying close to our customers, we know what’s going on and can tailor our services accordingly. Whether it’s a single product, an entire warehouse, or an automated ordering process: we want to make sure everything is handled properly for the customer.”
This gives Dozon’s slogan a concrete meaning: ‘Dozon. We’ve thought of everything.’ Not just in the product range, but throughout the entire supply chain. From inventory and ordering to logistics and delivery. This allows professionals to focus on their own work, while Dozon ensures that the necessary materials are available at the right time.
