This bachelor’s thesis investigates and optimizes the logistics and administrative workflows within the bulk export process at The Absolut Company in Åhus, Sweden. Global market growth and increasing product variety have placed higher demands on supply chain efficiency. While previous research emphasizes production line efficiency, this case study addresses a distinct research gap by exploring the administrative dependencies and coordination delays that can create bottlenecks in export logistics. 

Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines qualitative semi-structured interviews and direct observations with quantitative lead-time measurements. Lean production principles and Theory of Constraints (TOC) were applied alongside Value Stream Mapping to analyze the current state of the bulk export process. The empirical findings revealed significant inefficiencies, primarily driven by waiting times, a lack of authority for documentation, reliance on weighing and loading equipment, and manual document and signing processes. 

Based on these findings, several optimization proposals were developed, including decentralized document handling, integration of digital signatures, and investing in a new flow meter. A future state Value Stream Map was constructed to evaluate the impact of the proposed changes. The theoretical verification demonstrated a potential 19.4% reduction in lead time, decreasing processing time from 103 minutes to 83 minutes. In conclusion, this study highlights the critical importance of aligning administrative workflows with physical material flows to allow for competitiveness and ensure resource efficiency.