Days Before Demand:
180 Strategic Planning Phase At six months out, the goal is visibility.
Packaging Forecasting Timeline
120 Capacity Alignment Phase At this stage, suppliers begin translating demand signals into production planning.
A practical framework for helping procurement and supply chain teams improve visibility, reduce risk, and strengthen packaging continuity.
90
Execution Planning Phase
This is where many successful brands separate themselves from competitors.
60
Supply Assurance Phase
The focus shifts from planning to execution readiness.
180
Key Actions:
180
Questions to Ask:
Share preliminary forecasts with suppliers Review annual demand projections Communicate major promotional activity Discuss new product launches Identify potential capacity constraints
Can suppliers support expected growth? Are any materials facing supply constraints? Should safety stock levels be adjusted?
120
120
Key Actions:
Update forecasts Review material requirements Confirm packaging specifications Evaluate inventory strategy
90
Key Actions:
Finalize production schedules Lock promotional volumes Review inventory availability Validate transportation planning
60
Key Actions:
Confirm inventory positions Monitor supplier status Validate shipment schedules Review contingency plans
Questions to Ask:
Has supplier capacity been reserved? Are there lead-time changes to consider? Are alternate sourcing options available?
90
Questions to Ask:
Are forecast assumptions still valid? What demand scenarios could create risk? Are suppliers prepared for changes?
60
Questions to Ask:
What risks remain? What actions are needed if demand changes? Are emergency options available?