Case Study: Goldratt Research Labs achieves a $47M supply chain network design with AnyLogic

Supply Chain Network Design Using Simulation and Vehicle Routing Optimization

Goldratt Research Labs worked with a major book distributor facing a complex and costly depot network, rising warehouse and real estate costs, and uncertainty in future demand and supply. The distributor had already seen consulting studies suggest that a drop-and-hook approach with 40-foot trailers could reduce depot locations and deliver an estimated $18m NPV, but management questioned whether those benefits would hold up in real-world conditions. Goldratt Research Labs used AnyLogic simulation modeling to validate the assumptions and test the network design.

Goldratt Research Labs built a self-configurable supply chain digital twin in AnyLogic, combining simulation and route optimization to compare network, fleet, and routing scenarios under realistic variability. The model disproved the earlier optimistic forecast, showing the project NPV would likely be negative $5m, but then helped identify a better configuration that could deliver a $47m NPV. AnyLogic gave the customer a low-risk decision-support tool to test assumptions, improve resilience, and guide future strategic planning.

Goldratt Research Labs

Alan Barnard

Chief Executive Officer