The reason: an outdated system that was hindering growth
The old ERP system Benegas was using was completely custom-built and, moreover, based on a severely outdated environment. “Not all business segments were properly supported. The data structure was confusing, reporting was cumbersome, and we had a proliferation of manual processes,” explains Erik Jan.
With the acquisition of Primagaz Nederland, DCC gained access to Business Central. The existing IT expertise related to Business Central was largely based in Belgium, which meant that Benegas in the Netherlands lacked sufficient support to make the old system future-proof. The conclusion was clear: it was time for a new, modern, and scalable ERP solution.
Alistar speaks the same language as our gas sector
Erik Jan Van Zanten, IT Manager, DCC Energy Netherlands
The Decision to Choose Business Central + FuelVision365 and Alistar
DCC Ireland had been interested in Business Central with FuelVision365 for some time, and this turned out to be the most suitable solution. “Alistar speaks the same language as our gas sector,” says Erik Jan. “Your expertise in the energy sector gave us a lot of confidence, so there was no need for an extensive shortlist of alternatives.“
To oversee the project, Benegas hired an external project manager who had already been involved in the acquisition. “We worked closely with Alistar, held many sessions, and reviewed and improved our processes step by step. All business segments are now fully operational with Business Central, and DCC considers the project a model initiative within the group.”
How Benegas Is Using Business Central Today
Business Central has now become the heart of the organization. Virtually all processes take place in Business Central or are fed by Business Central as the central data hub:
- Purchasing and Sales
- Finance
- Inventory Management
- Service
- Cylinder Registration and Deposit
- Lease Agreements
- Tank Management and Telemetry
- Price Mailing
- Trip Log
- Gas Meters and Pipeline Networks
- Advance Payments and Final Settlements
- Advanced Price Management
The results: greater efficiency, less manual work, and better insight
The new ERP system has had a significant impact. The finance department, in particular, has noticed a world of difference. “We’ve been able to downsize the department without compromising on quality. Processes are faster, and the risk of errors is lower,” says Erik Jan.
“Step by step, we’re building a fully integrated environment where all information is available to anyone who needs it. Reporting used to be a challenge. Now we have clarity, speed, and reliability.”
Reporting used to be a challenge. Now we have clarity, speed, and reliability.
Erik Jan Van Zanten, IT Manager, DCC Energy Netherlands
About Benegas
Benegas has been the reliable and leading propane gas supplier for more than 90 years. Benegas supplies CO2-offset propane in bulk, gas tanks, or gas cylinders, propellants for the aerosol industry, automotive gas, and refrigerants. Thanks to its extensive knowledge and experience, Benegas offers every customer a tailored energy solution.
Benegas is part of the Irish DCC Energy Limited.
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