Maharashtra curbs: FMCGs chalk out production, distribution plans

Focus on fewer brands, smaller packs; inventory to be moved closer to target markets

Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies have put in place new production and distribution plans to help them ride out the 15-day Maharashtra lockdown.
 
These include focus on fewer brands, smaller packs, and creating buffer stocks to minimise disruption.
 
Distribution plans also include moving inventory closer to consumption markets to reduce time required for movement of goods from factory gate to dealers. Companies are building up inventory at warehouses and trimming replenishment cycles by half.
 
"We have pushed at least four to five days of inventory into the distribution pipeline, so that there is no shortage at the