Arodo and SCSN: Digitalization as a Driver of Efficiency and Growth

Arodo, a specialist in advanced packaging solutions for powders, is strongly committed to digitalization to increase productivity, speed, and agility through end-to-end process improvement and supply chain optimization in close collaboration with its partners. Since 2023, Tom van de Watering has served as Supply Chain Manager at Arodo, overseeing both the purchasing and warehousing departments. As a member of the management team, he also plays a key role in shaping the company’s strategic direction.

Arodo’s innovative packaging machines are distinguished by their patented AROVAC® technology, which allows powders to be vacuum-packed in a completely airtight manner. “This significantly extends product shelf life and provides optimal protection during transport,” Tom explains. As a result, Arodo is a trusted partner in sectors such as chemicals, food, and building materials.

Higher Productivity, Speed, and Quality with SCSN
The decision to adopt SCSN stemmed from a clear need to digitalize the front end of the order process. Arodo processes a large number of orders daily and receives just as many order confirmations, packing slips, and invoices from suppliers. Until recently, this document flow was handled manually — a time-consuming and error-prone process. “With SCSN, we can now exchange these documents digitally with suppliers. It saves a huge amount of time and prevents mistakes,” says Tom. Since implementing SCSN at the end of 2024, Arodo has been gradually expanding its use. “We’ve already connected several suppliers, and that number continues to grow. Our goal is to process 85% of our order lines through SCSN within the next 18 months.”

More Focus on Core Activities Through Technology
Previously, purchasing data from emails and PDFs had to be entered manually into the ERP system. Thanks to SCSN, this process is now almost fully automated. This not only reduces errors but also frees up technical staff to focus on their core expertise. “Our engineers can now focus on what they do best instead of spending time on administrative tasks,” says Tom. There was some initial adjustment on the shop floor. “People missed having a tangible document like a PDF. But now they’re used to the digital messages and mainly see the benefits.”

Master Data as a Foundation
According to Tom, well-structured master data is essential for any company — and especially for a successful SCSN connection. Arodo manages around 220,000 items, many of which are custom-made. This makes data synchronization with suppliers a challenge. To manage this effectively, Arodo appointed a master data specialist in early 2025. This expert uses specialized tools and AI to analyze and maintain the data. When onboarding new suppliers, a testing phase is used to exchange messages and identify discrepancies in item numbers or pricing.

Looking Ahead: Supply Chain Collaboration and Optimization
Arodo’s digitalization efforts extend beyond Belgium and the Netherlands. “We have an international customer base, so it would be great to collaborate with them via SCSN as well,” says Tom. “With every new connection, the network becomes more valuable.” Arodo sees SCSN as a logical next step in the digital transformation of the supply chain. “We want to connect as many suppliers as possible and make the chain more efficient. Thanks to SCSN, we can respond faster, reduce errors, and maintain high quality — exactly what our customers expect from us.”

Ready for the Future
Digitalization, automation, and smart data exchange form the foundation of Arodo’s future. By investing in both technology and people, the company is building a solid base for continued growth in Belgium, the Netherlands, and beyond.

“We’re only at the beginning of what digitalization can bring us. There’s still so much to gain,” Tom concludes. “With SCSN, we can not only improve our internal processes but also increase the value we deliver to our customers. The future is digital — and we’re ready to seize the opportunity.”