Why Danone is in the top 10 of Gartner's Supply Chain Top 25
In today's volatile world, the reliable production of food and beverages is vital. By 2050, the global supply chain will be needing to feed 10 billion people, but the food industry is vulnerable to weather decline and supply chain disruption.
Danone is on a mission to bring "health through food to as many people as possible", according to its website. As a result, it is making active changes to its strategy in order to modernise and meet demands.
Through this, it has made the top 10 of Gartner's Supply Chain Top 25 list.
The Danone strategy
For more than 100 years, Danone has been delivering a strong range of products to consumers around the world. Now, it is recognised as a global leader in dairy and plant-based products. It is constantly growing and investing into its nutrition research in order to continue to make a positive impact on people and the planet.
With a portfolio of international brands ā including Alpro, Oykos, Evian, Danimals and Volvic ā its products are sold in more than 120 markets. The compnay generated ā¬27.3bn (US$30.9bn) in sales in 2025.
The company aims to work with its partners to create innovations and support vulnerable communities, while creating long-term value for Danone, as part of its Renew Danone strategy.
As a result of its strategic operations, Gartner placed Danone sixth in its Supply Chain Top 25 list. It cited Danone's '4C Performance Management Framework' as a core driver of its success.
This framework focuses on:
- Customers - ensuring customers are central to every plan, working to create accurate and responsive customer service and scale capacity
- Cost - developing competitive costs, using raw materials for greater value and making use of demand forecasting
- Cash - release cash from operations and be more efficient with it
- Carbon - focus on carbon reduction and responsible sourcing
A supply chain leader
As the global supply chain has evolved into an interconnected system, it has become increasingly complex. Now, more than ever, data points need to be managed in order to meet demand and understand customer needs.
As a result, more companies have been turning to AI in order to develop faster choices, smarter operations and more personalisation for the consumer.
Danone, therefore, has been deploying AI-enabled digital twins and GenAI tools to increase workforce capabilities.
Now, frontline workers have become digital experts and can use this technology to predict maintenance, ensure strategic purchasing and explore cost forecasting.
Through this, the company has been able to rejuvenate FMCG operations, using technology alongside people to unlock value.
"Proud to see Danone once again recognised in the Gartner for Supply Chain Top 25 ā a true benchmark for global supply chain excellence. A journey from 42nd to 6th place in just five years, and the top-ranked FMCG this year," said Vikram Agarwal, Chief Operations Officer at Danone on LinkedIn.
"Behind this achievement is the relentless work of our Operations teamsātransforming our supply chain into a growth accelerator powered by insight, agility and innovation.
"We are building a resilient supply chain that is a true source of competitive advantageāenabling us to better serve our consumers, patients and customers every day."
Gartner also recognised Danone for its deep vertical integration, which has reduced the company's exposure to ingredient market volatility, as well as its methane reduction practises and regenerative agriculture.
Danone was the first company to commit to a 30% methane reduction by 2030 from fresh milk.
Through regenerative agriculture practises and other sustainability measures, it had already achieved a 25% reduction in 2024. Its work to meet consumer demand through innovation and sustainable practises has ensured it takes its place among the leading global supply chains.
