4PL Vendor Selection and Implementation for a Global Retailer
Clarkston Consulting recently partnered with a retail client on a 4PL vendor selection and implementation. Read a synopsis of the project below or download the full case study.
Download the 4PL Vendor Selection and Implementation Case Study Here
A global, multi-brand leader in the fashion industry, operating over 1,100 retail stores and generating more than $10 billion in annual revenue, faced growing challenges managing inbound shipments across its seven distinct brands. Fragmented systems and limited visibility into shipping milestones created operational inefficiencies for Logistics, Production Operations, and Merchandise Planning teams. Initial attempts to consolidate data through cross-brand reporting helped, but gaps remained in tracking key shipment events.
To address these challenges and improve supply chain visibility, the client partnered with Clarkston to implement a fourth-party logistics (4PL) provider. The 4PL served as a centralized logistics partner and single point of contact for freight forwarding, from factory to warehouse. Clarkston supported the 4PL vendor selection process and led the integration of the client’s seven brand ERPs into a unified 4PL-enabled reporting framework.
The team created a detailed list of 4PL capability requirements and developed comprehensive data mapping documentation to ensure consistent milestone tracking. They architected an integration strategy tailored to each brand, built and maintained the project timeline, and kept executive stakeholders informed throughout the initiative. Clarkston also led testing efforts for both data ingestion and reporting, conducted user training sessions, and supported hypercare activities post-launch.
As a result, the client achieved real-time visibility into 17 key shipping milestones across all brands. The Corporate Logistics team now benefits from integrated reporting that consolidates data from seven ERPs into four standardized reports. Over 50 custom integrations were developed with the 4PL provider, significantly reducing the manual effort required for operations teams. The enhanced data consistency and centralized reporting are now leveraged for both current operations and future supply chain initiatives.
This project delivered a scalable, cross-brand logistics solution that supports continued growth and operational efficiency across the enterprise.
