Case Study: STIHL achieves real-time global production planning with SAP

STIHL AG Optimizing operations across borders with real-time order-based synchronized planning for production

STIHL AG, the industrial machinery company known for power tools for forestry, agriculture, and landscape maintenance, faced the challenge of harmonizing processes across 35 sales and 8 production companies. Its disconnected planning systems made it difficult to coordinate across borders, improve customer service, and reduce inventory costs, especially as it expanded into emerging areas like battery technology.

SAP implemented real-time order-based synchronized production planning using SAP S/4HANA Manufacturing, SAP Integrated Business Planning for Supply Chain, and SAP Transportation Management. The solution gave STIHL a single view of data and better visibility across 43 global subsidiaries, enabling more accurate, feasible plans and closer collaboration between sales and production. As a result, STIHL expects lower capital requirements through inventory optimization and a stronger foundation for global network planning and operational efficiency.

STIHL

Axel Erhard

Vice President, Global ONE STIHL Program Lead