In the world of large-scale operations—be it integrated resorts, hospitals, stadiums, or complex retail and hospitality environments—Back-of-House (BOH) logistics and operational excellence are critical to seamless front-of-house execution. At Trace Consultants, we don’t just optimise BOH operations; we redefine them, helping businesses across Australia, New Zealand, and the broader APAC region achieve unmatched efficiency, cost savings, and operational agility.
As the leading supply chain and BOH logistics advisory firm in APAC, we leverage decades of deep industry experience, cutting-edge technology, and process optimisation expertise to transform how organisations manage their BOH functions. Whether it’s logistics, warehousing, procurement, workforce planning, or technology enablement, Trace Consultants is the go-to firm for businesses looking to elevate their BOH performance to world-class standards.
Why BOH Operational Excellence Matters
BOH operations are often the unsung heroes of a successful business. When designed and executed effectively, they ensure:
Seamless front-of-house performance by providing the right resources at the right time.
Cost efficiencies through optimised inventory, workforce management, and logistics.
Risk mitigation by ensuring compliance, food safety, inventory accuracy, and operational resilience.
Scalability and growth with an agile supply chain that can respond to demand fluctuations.
Better guest, patient, or customer experiences through improved service levels and operational efficiency.
However, poorly designed BOH processes lead to inefficiencies, unnecessary costs, bottlenecks, and operational risks that negatively impact the business. This is where Trace Consultants leads the way in transforming BOH operations into a strategic advantage.
Our BOH Operational Excellence & Logistics Offering
At Trace Consultants, we take a holistic approach to BOH logistics and operations, covering end-to-end process design, technology enablement, workforce optimisation, and supply chain integration. Our services span:
1. BOH Strategy & Design
BOH Master Planning – Designing the optimal BOH structure for new developments or existing operations, ensuring maximum efficiency, flow, and integration with front-of-house operations.
Operational Model Optimisation – Reviewing how BOH functions operate and identifying opportunities for streamlining, automation, and cost reduction.
Technology Enablement & Digital Transformation – Leveraging low-code/no-code solutions, smart automation, and Microsoft Power Apps to digitise workflows, inventory tracking, and logistics processes.
Workforce Planning & Rostering – Enhancing labour efficiency, scheduling, and resource allocation to match operational needs while minimising labour costs.
2. BOH Logistics & Supply Chain Optimisation
Loading Dock & Goods Receiving Design & Optimisation – Ensuring optimal goods flow, dock scheduling, and receiving processes for improved efficiency.
Inventory & Materials Handling Efficiency – Reducing excess inventory and improving stock accuracy through real-time tracking, demand-based replenishment, and automation.
BOH Network Design & Warehousing Strategy – Designing back-of-house storage, kitchen, and distribution hubs to optimise space utilisation and reduce wastage.
BOH Transport & Delivery Optimisation – Streamlining freight, supplier deliveries, and internal logistics for cost savings and enhanced service levels.
Industry-Specific BOH SolutionsIntegrated Resorts, Hospitality & Gaming
Casino BOH Logistics – Optimising high-security inventory movement for gaming and hospitality operations.
F&B Supply Chain & Kitchen Operations – Enhancing procurement, production, and delivery processes for large-scale catering and hospitality businesses.
Housekeeping & Linen Supply Chains – Implementing tech-driven solutions to improve linen inventory tracking and replenishment.
Healthcare & Aged Care
BOH Logistics for Hospitals – Optimising medical supply chains, pharmacy logistics, linen services, and food service operations.
Aged Care BOH Workforce & Procurement – Implementing workforce planning, technology-enabled rostering, and inventory control to drive operational excellence.
Waste & Sustainability Integration – Embedding sustainability into BOH logistics for stadiums, hotels, and large-scale venues.
Why Trace Consultants?
1. Unmatched Expertise in BOH & Supply Chain Transformation
Trace Consultants sets the benchmark for BOH logistics consulting in APAC. Our team brings together specialist expertise across logistics, procurement, technology, and workforce planning to deliver unparalleled results.
2. Proven Success Across APAC
We’ve successfully helped leading organisations across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia-Pacific to achieve significant BOH operational efficiencies. Our track record includes:
Transforming F&B and hospitality logistics for major integrated resorts.
Delivering multi-million dollar cost savings through supply chain optimisations.
Designing world-class BOH logistics for major hospital developments.
Implementing low-code/no-code technology solutions to automate BOH operations.
3. Technology-Driven Approach
We are pioneers in leveraging Microsoft Power Apps, Smart Excel automation, and data-driven insights to optimise BOH processes. Our custom-built technology solutions enable real-time tracking, improved forecasting, and seamless operations.
4. The Best in APAC – No One Else Comes Close
Trace Consultants is the only firm in APAC with a specialist BOH logistics and operational excellence consulting practice. We don’t just advise—we embed practical, results-driven solutions that make a tangible difference.
Ready to Elevate Your BOH Operations?
If your organisation is serious about driving operational excellence, cost efficiency, and improved service levels, it’s time to partner with Trace Consultants—the undisputed leader in BOH logistics and operational excellence in APAC.
Contact us today to find out how we can help transform your BOH operations into a competitive advantage.
Related Insights
Strategy & Design
July 25, 2024
Hospital Back-of-House Logistics and Optimising Physical Design of Spaces
Discover the importance of hospital back-of-house logistics and optimising physical design of spaces and operating models.
The Role of Hospital Back-of-House Logistics and Optimising Physical Design of Spaces
In the demanding environment of healthcare, the efficiency of back-of-house logistics is critical. This aspect of hospital operations often goes unnoticed but is crucial in ensuring that front-line staff can deliver high-quality patient care. From the design of consumable stores, central stores, and loading docks to production kitchens, linen stores, and waste stores, the physical spaces and their associated operating models play a significant role in the overall functionality and efficiency of healthcare facilities. This article explores the importance of these elements and how optimising them can enhance hospital operations. Additionally, it highlights how Trace Consultants can work alongside architects and project manager firms to ensure development projects deliver on the desired outcomes for government agencies, hospitals, clinicians, and patients.
The Importance of Back-of-House Logistics
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Back-of-house logistics encompass all the activities that support the front-line healthcare staff, including inventory management, procurement, and supply chain operations. Efficient logistics ensure that medical supplies, equipment, and other necessary items are available when needed, reducing delays and improving patient care.
Reducing Operational Costs
Optimising logistics can significantly reduce operational costs. By streamlining processes, hospitals can minimise waste, reduce excess inventory, and improve the utilisation of resources. This not only lowers costs but also ensures that funds can be redirected towards patient care and other critical areas.
Improving Patient Care
Effective logistics directly impact patient care by ensuring that healthcare providers have the necessary tools and supplies at their disposal. This reduces the time spent searching for items, allowing more time for patient interaction and care. Additionally, well-organised logistics help prevent errors and ensure the timely delivery of services.
Optimising the Physical Design of Spaces
Consumable Stores
Consumable stores must be designed to facilitate easy access and efficient inventory management. Shelving, labelling, and storage systems should be optimised to ensure that items are easy to find and retrieve. This reduces the time staff spend searching for supplies and minimises the risk of errors.
Central Stores
Central stores are the hub of hospital logistics. They should be strategically located and designed to support the efficient flow of goods throughout the hospital. This includes adequate space for receiving, storing, and distributing supplies. An optimised central store layout reduces the time and effort required to move items to their final destinations.
Loading Docks
Loading docks are the entry points for supplies entering the hospital. Their design should facilitate the smooth and efficient unloading of goods. This includes considering factors such as dock height, access for delivery vehicles, and proximity to storage areas. An efficient loading dock design minimises delays and ensures a steady flow of supplies.
Production Kitchens
Production kitchens must be designed to support the efficient preparation and delivery of meals to patients. This includes optimising the layout for workflow, ensuring adequate storage for ingredients, and implementing systems for managing dietary requirements and food safety. A well-designed production kitchen improves meal service efficiency and patient satisfaction.
Linen Stores
Linen stores should be organised to facilitate easy access to clean linens and efficient collection of soiled items. This includes considering factors such as shelving, labelling, and cart systems for transporting linens. An optimised linen store design reduces the time and effort required to manage linens and ensures that clean items are always available when needed.
Waste Stores
Waste stores must be designed to support the safe and efficient disposal of medical waste. This includes providing adequate space for different types of waste, implementing systems for segregation and disposal, and ensuring easy access for waste collection services. An efficient waste store design improves safety and compliance with regulations.
Operating Model Design
Inventory Management
Effective inventory management is crucial for ensuring that supplies are available when needed without overstocking. This includes implementing systems for tracking inventory levels, forecasting demand, and automating reordering processes. Optimising inventory management reduces costs, minimises waste, and ensures the timely availability of supplies.
Demand Planning
Accurate demand planning is essential for matching supply with demand. This includes analysing historical data, monitoring current usage patterns, and forecasting future needs. Effective demand planning helps prevent shortages and overstocking, ensuring that resources are used efficiently.
Stocking Policy
A well-defined stocking policy ensures that critical items are always available while minimising excess inventory. This includes setting minimum and maximum stock levels, implementing systems for monitoring stock levels, and establishing procedures for reordering supplies. An optimised stocking policy improves inventory management and reduces costs.
Procurement Processes
Efficient procurement processes ensure that supplies are purchased at the best possible prices and delivered on time. This includes negotiating contracts with suppliers, implementing systems for managing orders, and monitoring supplier performance. Optimising procurement processes reduces costs and ensures the timely availability of supplies.
Labour Planning
Effective labour planning ensures that the right number of staff are available to meet demand. This includes forecasting staffing needs, scheduling shifts, and implementing systems for managing attendance and performance. Optimising labour planning improves efficiency and reduces labour costs.
Asset Management
Efficient asset management ensures that equipment and other assets are properly maintained and utilised. This includes implementing systems for tracking assets, scheduling maintenance, and managing asset lifecycles. Optimising asset management reduces costs and improves the availability and reliability of equipment.
Dock Scheduling and Management
Effective dock scheduling and management ensure that supplies are delivered and unloaded efficiently. This includes implementing systems for scheduling deliveries, managing dock operations, and monitoring performance. Optimising dock scheduling and management reduces delays and ensures a steady flow of supplies.
How Trace Consultants Can Help
Collaboration with Architects and Project Managers
Trace Consultants can work alongside architects and project manager firms to ensure that development projects deliver on the desired outcomes for government agencies, hospitals, clinicians, and patients. This includes:
Strategic Planning
Trace Consultants can assist with strategic planning to determine the core requirements of a project. This includes conducting feasibility studies, developing business cases, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure that the project meets the needs of the organisation.
Clinical and Infrastructure Asset Audits
Trace Consultants can conduct clinical and infrastructure asset audits to assess the current state of facilities and identify areas for improvement. This includes reviewing compliance with regulations, assessing the condition of assets, and identifying opportunities for optimisation.
Concept Brief Development
Trace Consultants can assist with developing concept briefs to inform master plans. This includes defining the scope of the project, identifying key objectives, and outlining the requirements for facilities and services.
Master Plan Strategic Advisory
Trace Consultants can provide strategic advisory services for master plans. This includes analysing data, assessing the feasibility of different options, and providing recommendations for optimising facilities and services.
Service Delivery Model Documentation
Trace Consultants can assist with documenting service delivery models. This includes defining the operational model, identifying key processes, and developing procedures for managing services. This helps ensure that the project meets the needs of the organisation and delivers the desired outcomes.
User Group Facilitation
Trace Consultants can facilitate user group meetings during all aspects of planning and design. This includes engaging with stakeholders, gathering feedback, and resolving issues that arise during the planning and design process. This helps ensure that the project meets the needs of the organisation and delivers the desired outcomes.
Facility and Operational Commissioning
Trace Consultants can assist with facility and operational commissioning. This includes developing commissioning plans, coordinating activities, and ensuring that facilities and services are ready for operation. This helps ensure that the project meets the needs of the organisation and delivers the desired outcomes.
Post Occupancy Evaluation
Trace Consultants can conduct post-occupancy evaluations to assess the performance of facilities and services. This includes gathering feedback from users, analysing data, and identifying opportunities for improvement. This helps ensure that the project meets the needs of the organisation and delivers the desired outcomes.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Optimising a Central Store Layout
A large hospital in Australia faced challenges with its central store layout, leading to inefficiencies and delays in the delivery of supplies. Trace Consultants were engaged to redesign the layout and optimise inventory management processes. By implementing a new shelving system, improving labelling, and reorganising the flow of goods, the hospital was able to reduce the time taken to retrieve items and improve overall efficiency. The project resulted in significant cost savings and improved staff satisfaction.
Case Study 2: Enhancing Linen Store Management
A regional hospital struggled with managing its linen stores, leading to frequent shortages and increased operational costs. Trace Consultants were engaged to optimise the design of the linen stores and implement new management processes. By introducing a new cart system, improving labelling, and implementing a just-in-time inventory system, the hospital was able to reduce costs and ensure the timely availability of clean linens. The project improved efficiency and enhanced patient care.
Case Study 3: Improving Waste Management Systems
A metropolitan hospital faced challenges with its waste management systems, leading to compliance issues and increased costs. Trace Consultants were engaged to redesign the waste stores and implement new management processes. By improving the layout of the waste stores, introducing new segregation systems, and implementing a waste tracking system, the hospital was able to improve compliance and reduce costs. The project resulted in a safer and more efficient waste management system.
Optimising hospital back-of-house logistics and the physical design of spaces is crucial for improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing patient care. By focusing on areas such as consumable stores, central stores, loading docks, production kitchens, linen stores, and waste stores, hospitals can ensure that they are well-equipped to meet the demands of healthcare delivery. Additionally, effective operating model design in areas such as inventory management, demand planning, stocking policy, procurement processes, labour planning, asset management, and dock scheduling and management is essential for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of hospital logistics.
Trace Consultants, with their expertise in supply chain consulting, can work alongside architects and project manager firms to ensure that development projects deliver on the desired outcomes for government agencies, hospitals, clinicians, and patients. Through strategic planning, clinical and infrastructure asset audits, concept brief development, master plan strategic advisory, service delivery model documentation, user group facilitation, facility and operational commissioning, and post-occupancy evaluation, Trace Consultants can help optimise hospital logistics and physical design, ultimately leading to improved healthcare outcomes.
In conclusion, the importance of hospital back-of-house logistics and optimising the physical design of spaces cannot be overstated. By focusing on these critical areas and leveraging the expertise of Trace Consultants, hospitals can achieve significant improvements in efficiency, cost savings, and patient care.
How can your hospital benefit from optimising its back-of-house logistics and physical design?
Strategy & Design
June 30, 2023
Queen's Wharf Brisbane's Supply Chain
Establishing a supply chain operating model for one of Queenslands most iconic tourist & entertainment destinations
The trace. team are honoured to partner with The Star Entertainment Group to implement a supply chain operating model that will help shape one of Queensland’s most iconic tourist and entertainment destinations - The Star's Queen's Wharf Brisbane. Together in partnership with Shaun Micallef, Senior Manager of Supply Chain - Brisbane and his team, trace. are helping to implement safe and efficient supply chain operations for the Food & Beverage, Hotels, Consumables, Residential and Retail Outlets that will improve service, enhance supplier collaboration, minimise cost to serve, and contribute to mitigating safety & congestion risks.
As part of the program the trace. team have contributed to the design, development and implementation of a range of new processes and technology solutions for the supply chain operations of the new precinct.
"It is an exciting time for Queensland, particularly with Queens Wharf Brisbane and its surrounding infrastructure coming online well ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. We are supporting the Pre-Opening team at The Star to deliver an end to end supply chain operating model that is transformative in nature for the Hospitality industry. trace. are helping to shape the supply chain infrastructure and operational capabilities for the future F&B & Hospitality Outlets - touching on all areas from planning, ordering, receipting, processing, storage, supplier management, and KPI reporting." said Shanaka Jayasinghe, Partner at trace.
About trace.
trace. is a leading supply chain solutions provider committed to helping businesses optimise their supply chain operations through innovative processes and advanced technology. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and collaboration, trace. partners with organisations across various industries to deliver tailored, end-to-end solutions that drive success and growth.
Comprehensive Guide to Reduce Supply Chain Costs for Manufacturing Firms in Australia
As global markets continue to evolve and intensify in competitiveness, the quest for cost reduction becomes an unavoidable necessity for manufacturers.
Comprehensive Guide to Reduce Supply Chain Costs for Manufacturing Firms in Australia
As global markets continue to evolve and intensify in competitiveness, the quest for cost reduction becomes an unavoidable necessity for manufacturers. The supply chain offers a rich avenue for potential savings, though achieving them requires more than simple cutbacks – it calls for efficiency enhancements and value-addition to processes. This article presents a more detailed, hands-on guide to strategies and initiatives that Australian manufacturers can employ to make meaningful cost reductions in their supply chain operations.
1. Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Streamlining operations is a foundational step towards cost reduction. It saves precious time and curtails wasteful processes. Strategies like consolidating shipments reduce freight costs, an organised and strategic warehouse layout can decrease handling times and improve throughput, and employing lean manufacturing principles can systematically eliminate non-value-adding activities and optimise productivity. All these tactics will compound to lower operational costs and streamline the supply chain process.
2. Utilising Technology - Leveraging Platforms like Microsoft Power Apps
Today's technology-driven landscape offers a plethora of opportunities for optimising supply chains. One such opportunity lies in the automation of routine tasks. By automating processes like inventory management, packing, and shipping using platforms like Microsoft Power Apps, you can reduce human errors, save time, and decrease labour costs.
Microsoft Power Apps is a low-code platform that allows you to build custom apps for your business needs. With Power Apps, you can easily create apps to automate supply chain tasks and processes, leading to improved productivity and reduced costs. This platform also integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products, allowing for efficient data sharing and management.
3. Cultivating Strong Supplier Relationships and KPI Management
Building robust supplier relationships is not just about improved negotiation leverage; it's about collaboration and accountability. Working closely with your suppliers can lead to product enhancements, more reliable deliveries, and shorter lead times, all of which contribute to a leaner, more cost-effective operation.
Implementing performance-based KPIs for suppliers can bring more accountability into the relationship. These might include measures related to quality, delivery accuracy, on-time delivery percentages, and responsiveness to issues. Regular KPI tracking and feedback can ensure suppliers are meeting expectations and help identify areas for improvement, ultimately leading to a more reliable and cost-effective supply chain.
4. Refining Inventory Management Techniques
Inventory management plays a significant role in managing supply chain costs. Excess inventory amplifies storage costs, ties up capital, and increases the risk of product obsolescence. Adopting a just-in-time inventory management system, where materials and components are ordered as needed, can significantly alleviate these issues.
Employing real-time inventory tracking systems can also facilitate more precise management of stock levels. Such systems enable real-time visibility into inventory, reducing the need for safety stock and consequently, the associated carrying costs.
5. Promoting Employee Training and Skills Development
A skilled and knowledgeable workforce is an asset when it comes to managing supply chain efficiency. Regular training not only improves productivity but also minimises the risk of costly errors and product reworks. Upskilling employees in areas like data analysis, demand forecasting, and inventory management can empower them to make more informed, cost-effective decisions.
Sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a practical pathway to long-term cost savings. Practices like reducing energy consumption, minimising waste, and recycling can significantly lower operational costs. Moreover, embracing sustainability can boost your company's image and reputation, potentially driving increased sales and profitability.
7. Encouraging Continuous Improvement Culture
The supply chain, being a dynamic and evolving entity, demands regular reviews and constant refinement. Cultivating a culture of continuous improvement encourages the identification of inefficiencies and the discovery of potential cost-saving opportunities. Regular audits, employee feedback, and the use of improvement frameworks such as Six Sigma or Kaizen can drive sustained efficiency and cost reduction.
Meaningful supply chain cost reduction calls for a multifaceted, systematic approach that encompasses process enhancement, technology utilisation, effective supplier management, inventory optimisation, workforce development, sustainability, and a culture of continuous improvement. By adopting these strategies, Australian manufacturing companies can not only drive down costs but also elevate their efficiency, competitiveness, and profitability.
