The Challenge
Managing one of the world’s most iconic beauty brands means complexity at scale. L’Oréal’s inventory processes were stuck in the past—an Excel-based system that relied on quarterly updates and manual input. It worked… until it didn’t.
The Mission
Enter Project MEIO (Multi-Echelon Inventory Optimization): a bold initiative to move from estimates to precision across L’Oréal’s global supply chain. The goal? Smarter stock management, higher service levels, and a customer experience glow-up.
The Solution: L’Oréal + GAINS
Together, L’Oréal and GAINS implemented a scalable, AI-powered MEIO solution. The result? A glass-box, explainable system that turns raw data into actionable insights—with far less manual effort.
Key Features:
AI-Driven Forecasts: Machine learning predicts lead times and reduces planning error.
End-to-End Visibility: From raw materials to retail shelves, every inventory layer is optimized.
Dynamic Decision Making: Real-time adjustments with minimal overrides.
Real Results
🚀 Rolled out to 4 divisions
📆 Full implementation in under a year
📈 Improved service levels and decreased obsolete inventory
🧠 Empowered teams to focus on strategic planning
“This isn’t just a new tool—it’s a mindset shift.”
-Michael Wachtel, VP Supply Chain Data & Analytics, L’Oréal
A Global Impact
This pilot was just the beginning. L’Oréal is expanding MEIO with GAINS across countries, divisions, and even into raw and packaging materials. As the beauty market booms, so does their optimized, agile supply chain.
Lessons Learned
Data quality is everything
Change takes practice, patience, and partnership
AI works best with clean, structured data foundations
Ready to Move From Estimate to Precision?
Discover how GAINS can help your business cut through complexity and shine with supply chain intelligence.
