Britvic outsources back-office systems

Britvic said today it had signed a three-year outsourcing deal to hand off back-office applications development and support as part of an initiative to improve key manufacturing and operational processes.

The deal with IT services company, Atos Origin for an undisclosed sum, covers the management of the soft drinks manufacturer's SAP, Siebel and associated systems for all back office functions across Europe.

Mike Jones, Britvic's chief information officer, said: "This new contract forms part of a broader initiative to improve and streamline our back-office functions, so that they can better help us meet our business strategies and objectives."

He added that the provider's SAP and Siebel partner expertise was key in securing the contract, which takes effect immediately.

And the service provider will support Britvic's systems from both the UK and its Indian delivery centres in Mumbai, offering local expertise combined with the cost efficiencies of an offshore delivery model.

The outsourcer said it would also provide Britvic with strategic advice in order that its efforts to consolidate systems support and development further improves its overall infrastructure to better address critical business challenges.

Although the deal consolidates back-office systems under one provider with a view to achieving reduced costs, improved service and greater efficiencies, it is also expected to enable the manufacturer's supply chain to support international growth and ensure it can continue to respond fast to peaks in demand for its products.