21.05.08 - Lead Logistics Provider WLS simulates distribution scenarios

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WLS – logistics service provider of McDonald’s – simulates distribution scenarios

Munich, 21^st May 2008 – Since the beginning of 2008, WLS – logistics service provider of McDonald’s Germany and Luxembourg – trusts in ORion-PI^® Value Network Optimization for the analysis, simulation and evaluation of different distribution scenarios. The solution of Munich-based Axxom Software AG calculates the ideal number and location of distribution centers and allows for the modeling and comparison of alternative logistics scenarios.
Using the ORion-PI^® optimization technology, Axxom identified the maximum potential and illustrated the effects of the existing restrictions in several simulations. The software considered specific constraints – such as transportation times, the range of products and the composition of the truck fleet.

Reason for a complete revision of the distribution structure was an expanded range of products at McDonald’s. An increased number of fresh products with short best before dates and an accordingly high delivery frequency brought WLS to systematically analyze the effects on the distribution set-up throughout Germany. Hans-Dieter Hojnacki, Managing Director Operations at WLS, expects a long-term advantage from the interaction of optimization and simulation: “In the future we are now in the position to calculate new distribution scenarios considering changing framework requirements at any time. The simulation of different distribution scenarios with ORion-PI^® provides us a well-founded basis for decision-making for our strategic planning.”

Profile WLS
The WLS GmbH (Ltd.) – subsidiary of the Alpha Group, Lead Logistics Provider operating in 32 European countries – is the exclusive logistics service provider for McDonald's in Germany. From its headquarters in Duisburg-Rheinhausen and five other distribution centers, WLS supplies more than 1,250 McDonald's restaurants in Germany and Luxembourg. In 2007, WLS GmbH reported a total turnover of 812 million Euro. In total the Alpha Group Europe holds 43 distribution and service companies and has a staff of more than 4,000.

Profile Axxom Software AG
Axxom Software AG is an international provider of software solutions developed for the comprehensive optimization of value-add processes. With its software ORion-PI^® the technology company offers a solution for the design, simulation, planning and optimization of all business processes and systems in all fields of logistics. For more than 10 years customers all over the world use the modules of ORion-PI^® in more than 25 countries. Axxom Software AG was founded in April 2001. Since 2004 Axxom has a sales branch office in Cork/Ireland as well as a development center in Timisoara/Romania.

Further information for journalists:
Axxom Software AG
Mirko Mandic
Paul-Gerhardt-Allee 46
81245 München Germany
Phone: +49 (0)89 / 568 23-321
Fax: +49 (0)89 / 568 23-399
E-Mail: mirko.mandic@axxom.com
Internet: www.axxom.com

Alpha Management GmbH
Jasmin Schürgers
Geitlingstraße 20
47228 Duisburg Germany
Phone: +49 (0)2065 / 695541
Fax: +49 (0)2065 / 69580541
E-Mail: jasmin.schuergers@alpha-management.de
Internet: www.alpha-group.biz

AXXOM SOFTWARE AG

Jens Verstaen
Corporate Communications

Paul-Gerhardt-Allee 46
81245 München, Germany

Phone: +49(0)89/56823-321
Fax: +49(0)89/56823-399
E-Mail: jens.verstaen@axxom.com