Ducker Carlisle Expands Pricing, Strategy & Operations Services to Europe

Ducker Carlisle Expands Pricing, Strategy & Operations Services to Europe

Ducker Carlisle Expands European to Enhance Pricing, Strategy, and Operations


We’re excited to announce the expansion of our pricing, strategy, and operations consulting services to Europe with the opening of our new headquarters in Paris. This move allows us to better serve our European and global clients by providing localized expertise in key areas like pricing analytics, business transformation, and supply chain optimization. Our European team, led by seasoned experts Claude-Henry Pignon and Eric Francucci, brings deep industry knowledge in automotive aftermarket pricing and aftersales strategy, respectively. While we’ve been working with European clients since 1996, this new office will help strengthen our relationships and offer even more tailored insights into local market dynamics.

With over 30 years of experience helping clients across industries such as automotive, heavy equipment, and industrial sectors, our expanded services aim to deliver significant value. From competitive pricing studies and market research to supply chain diagnostics and optimization, we help our clients drive profitability, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth. Our pricing consulting practice alone has delivered remarkable results, including margin improvements of 1-3 points and a minimum 10x ROI in compounded multi-year benefits. This new Paris office is a key step in our commitment to helping clients navigate today’s complex business challenges and accelerate their success across European and global markets.

Announcing SparkWise Data & AI : Data-Driven and Tech-Enabled Consulting

Announcing SparkWise Data & AI : Data-Driven and Tech-Enabled Consulting

Transforming Your Company with SparkWise Data & AI


Ducker Carlisle, a global market research, strategy consulting and M&A advisory firm, today announced new SparkWise Data and AI service that combines the firm’s 30+ years of industry-specific consulting experience with leading-edge data management and AI knowhow to drive new cost and operational efficiencies for corporate clients and OEM aftersales departments. The team is based in a new Lisbon office to take advantage of the area’s rich talent pool, with additional staff in the firm’s established Boston, Detroit and Bangalore locations. 

Senior team members include Fabien Cros, Chief Data and AI Officer, who most recently served as Data & AI Country Lead for Manufacturing at Google; Guillaume Denis, Generative AI Director, who was formerly Google’s Data, AI & Measurement Lead for Automotive, Luxury and Travel; and Arthur Derennes, Data Engineering Director, whose prior role as VP Engineering at global data and AI consultancy Artefact spanned multiple industries. 

“Successful AI implementation requires more than technology expertise. It’s a strategic effort that optimizes results only if it’s built on a deep understanding and alignment with the client’s particular business needs, objectives, operations and challenges,” said Paul Gurizzian, Ducker Carlisle CEO. “Pairing our decades of consulting work in specific industry sectors with the skills of AI experts who have experience in those same sectors enables us to deliver what we call ‘True Impact AI’ that drives meaningful benefits to the bottom line.” 

Focusing on both strategy and solutions, the new SparkWise Data & AI service leverages Ducker Carlisle’s extensive knowledge of the automotive, heavy equipment, building and construction, industrial and materials industries; aftersales teams in those industries; and private equity firms’ portfolio clients in the same business sectors. Services include: 

  • Identification of the best AI, GenAI, data monetization and automation use cases and roadmap for each client, based on market-specific insights developed over decades of business consulting as well as expert analysis of feasibility, costs, implementation timelines and potential ROI 
  • Data quality evaluation, cleansing and management to support AI deployments, including data mapping across disparate systems, centralization of diverse data types into data lakes or lake houses, and establishment of data governance programs 
  • AI solution, tool development and implementation by Ducker Carlisle’s dedicated data and AI team in the U.S., Europe and India 
  • Building strong AI cultures through acculturation sessions, training, workshops, hackathons and conferences 

This suite of data and AI services helps clients automate manual tasks, reduce costs, accelerate sales growth, enhance productivity, and drive other business improvements. 

Sample applications include streamlining RFP preparation, establishing AI-powered multi-channel booking agents, deploying an intelligent spare parts recommendation agent, implementing demand forecasting, introducing AI-driven pricing and much more – all advancing clients’ ability to optimize costs and gain competitive advantage. 

Navigating Labor Uncertainty : Optimizing Supply Chain Resiliency

Navigating Labor Uncertainty : Optimizing Supply Chain Resiliency

Adapting to Labor Shifts: Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience in a Post-COVID World


In the post-COVID landscape, the U.S. labor market is experiencing a surge in labor negotiations and union victories, reshaping industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. Notable labor achievements in 2023 and 2024 have bolstered wages and benefits for workers in major organizations like UPS, the “Big Three” automakers, and west coast dock workers, signaling a strong trend toward empowered labor negotiations. Despite recent contract resolutions, supply chains remain vulnerable to potential disruptions, especially as demand for fair wages and benefits persists. For the automotive industry, in particular, even short-term labor actions could have profound impacts due to its reliance on imported parts and east-coast ports, with potential aftersales losses reaching nearly $340 million per day.

To mitigate these uncertainties, Ducker Carlisle recommends a resilient approach to supply chain management, emphasizing investment in workforce retention and skill-building, optimizing network design through near shoring, and leveraging best-in-class technology. By integrating flexible inventory strategies and automation, organizations can bolster their ability to respond to labor shifts, reduce disruptions, and secure long-term profitability. In the face of ongoing labor challenges, these steps provide a robust framework for navigating the evolving macro environment.

Industrial Manufacturing: Strategies for Managing Increased Supply Chain Costs & Maximizing Profitability

Industrial Manufacturing: Strategies for Managing Increased Supply Chain Costs & Maximizing Profitability

Strategies for Industrial Manufacturers: Tackling Rising Supply Chain Costs and Boosting Profitability


In the competitive industrial manufacturing sector, managing supply chain costs is essential for sustaining profitability, especially as direct material expenses rise. To tackle these challenges, companies can adopt three primary strategies: enhancing procurement effectiveness, managing product complexity, and optimizing manufacturing efficiency. Improving procurement involves building strong supplier relationships, negotiating better terms, and leveraging digital tools to streamline sourcing and secure cost-effective materials. By focusing on total landed costs and reducing product complexity through standardized components and SKU rationalization, manufacturers can reduce expenses tied to inventory and production management.

Additionally, optimizing manufacturing efficiency by implementing lean principles, automating processes, and continuous improvement initiatives enables companies to reduce waste, increase throughput, and maximize resource utilization. These strategies help mitigate the impact of rising supply chain costs, positioning industrial manufacturers for sustainable growth and profitability amid a dynamic market.

About the Author

Ashim Talukder, Principal

Ashim is a Principal at Ducker Carlisle where he focuses on helping companies drive value in transactions and transformations through manufacturing and supply chain excellence, product development execution, and strategic sourcing.  Ashim holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Osmania University, India; a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from University of Akron; and a MBA from Case Western University.   He has more than 20 years of industry and consulting experience across industrial manufacturing, consumer products and chemicals industries with focus developing and executing operational innovations within culturally diverse environments to drive EBITDA, productivity, time to market, and quality.  Ashim has authored multiple thought leadership articles for industrial clients related to Right Shoring Supply Chains, Relevance of Manufacturing & Supply Chain in Transactions, and Product Development Strategy & Efficiency.

Heavy Equipment Pricing and Parts Pricing in China

Heavy Equipment Pricing and Parts Pricing in China

Navigating Market Challenges in China’s Heavy Equipment Industry: Trends, Pricing Pressures, and Strategic Shifts


In the wake of an economic slowdown, the demand for new heavy equipment in China has shifted, with market performance from 2023 into 2024 showing both resilience and challenges. According to the China Construction Machinery Industry Association, domestic excavator sales saw a modest year-on-year increase of 6.23% from January to July 2024. However, despite this positive sales growth, equipment prices remain sluggish, largely influenced by fluctuating transaction prices and a competitive rental market. The transition from NR3 to NR4 machines initially led to a marked increase in prices, but since then, prices for medium and large excavators have steadily decreased, now nearly matching NR3 levels. Meanwhile, the utilization rates for construction machinery have slightly declined, indicating that economic pressures and market saturation are affecting industry stability.

The price competition in the heavy equipment market has deeply impacted the entire value chain, from manufacturers to aftermarket parts suppliers. Heavy equipment parts see significant variability in pricing and quality based on factors such as local production, brand recognition, and raw material costs. For critical parts, customers often favor original components, despite the availability of less expensive alternatives. Efforts by manufacturers and dealers to counter these trends, such as minimal price restrictions and export growth strategies, have yet to yield substantial results. Moving forward, industry players are encouraged to focus on sustainable, value-driven pricing strategies and balanced investment approaches to create a healthier growth model that can withstand market fluctuations.an demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, ultimately driving long-term success and growth in an increasingly demanding business.

Understanding the Supply Score Certification: A Valuable Asset for Companies

Understanding the Supply Score Certification: A Valuable Asset for Companies

Unlocking the Value of Supply Score Certification for your Business

In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves and demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices. One such avenue that companies can explore is obtaining the Supply Score certification. But what exactly is the Supply Score, why would a company want to gain this certification, and most importantly, why is it important? 

What is Supply Score Certification? 

The Supply Score certification is a designation awarded to companies that demonstrate excellence in their sustainable supply chain management practices. It evaluates specific aspects of a company’s supply chain, warehousing, packaging, and outbound transportation – and this list will grow over time. Companies that meet the stringent criteria set out by the certification body are awarded the Supply Score certification as a mark of their commitment to best practices in sustainable supply chain management. 

Why Would a Company Want to Gain This Certification? 

Obtaining the Supply Score certification can offer numerous benefits to a company. Firstly, it serves as a validation of the company’s sustainability capabilities and sends a strong message to stakeholders, including customers, investors, and partners, about the company’s commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices. This credibility boost can enhance the company’s reputation in the marketplace and help attract environmentally and socially conscious customers. 

Additionally, the supply score certification can open up new business opportunities for the company. Many customers, especially large corporations and government entities, prioritize working with certified suppliers to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. By gaining the supply score certification, a company can position itself as a preferred supplier and gain a competitive edge in the market. 

The Importance of Supply Score Certification 

The Supply Score certification holds significant importance for companies operating in today’s interconnected global economy. Here are some key reasons why this certification is crucial for companies: 

  1. Enhanced Credibility: The Supply Score certification serves as tangible proof of a company’s commitment to sustainability. This can help build trust with consumers and other stakeholders, ultimately enhancing the company’s reputation. 
  1. Competitive Advantage: In a crowded marketplace where customers are increasingly demanding transparency and sustainability from companies, the Supply Score certification can provide a competitive advantage. Companies that hold this certification are more likely to attract environmentally conscious consumers and secure partnerships with like-minded organizations. 
  1. Access to New Markets: Many industries and markets require suppliers to meet certain sustainability standards to do business with them. Holding the Supply Score certification can open doors to new markets and opportunities, enabling the company to expand its reach and diversify its customer base. 

The Supply Score certification is a valuable asset for companies looking to enhance their supply chain management practices, build credibility with stakeholders, gain a competitive advantage, and access new markets. By obtaining this certification, companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, ultimately driving long-term success and growth in an increasingly demanding business.

Gaining Strategic Industry Insights with Ducker Carlisle’s Benchmarking Services

Gaining Strategic Industry Insights with Ducker Carlisle’s Benchmarking Services

Acquiring Strategic Industry Insights with Ducker Carlisle’s Benchmarking Expertise

For over three decades, Ducker Carlisle has been at the forefront of providing exceptional benchmarking services, enabling organizations to gain profound industry insights and drive strategic growth. Our syndicated benchmarks have set the standard for measuring performance across thousands of standardized metrics, consistently identifying best-in-class leaders and illuminating opportunities for improvement. With a global reach, our benchmarking activities encompass a diverse array of topics, from supply chain dynamics to service operations and finished vehicle logistics.

Unparalleled Performance Measurement

At Ducker Carlisle, our benchmarking services are meticulously designed to equip ambitious organizations with the actionable insights they need to excel. Leveraging our extensive experience and technical expertise, we measure performance against a comprehensive array of standardized metrics, allowing us to distinguish industry leaders and unveil areas ripe for enhancement. This in-depth analysis empowers our clients to make informed, data-driven decisions that steer them toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Global Reach, Comprehensive Coverage

Our benchmarking activities extend across the globe, offering comprehensive coverage of vital industry sectors. Whether it’s optimizing supply chain efficiencies, enhancing service operations, or refining finished vehicle logistics, our benchmarking services provide a panoramic view of the industry landscape. This global perspective is fundamental in helping organizations identify emerging trends, capitalize on best practices, and develop strategies that align with market dynamics on both a local and global scale.

Collaborative Approach to Transformation

At Ducker Carlisle, we understand the value of collaboration and the importance of a customer-centric approach. We don’t just provide data – we partner with our clients to harness the power of benchmarking insights and ignite organizational transformation. Our seasoned experts work hand in hand with your team to translate benchmarking findings into practical strategies tailored to your unique business goals, fostering an environment of innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Guiding You Toward Growth and Efficiency

As your trusted advisor, Ducker Carlisle is committed to innovation and value creation. We integrate people, technology, and innovative solutions to deliver benchmarking services that go beyond mere measurement. We are dedicated to guiding ambitious organizations toward their business goals, arming them with the strategic industry insights needed to outpace competitors and seize new opportunities for growth.

Unlock Your Full Potential with Ducker Carlisle

In conclusion, Ducker Carlisle’s benchmarking services offer a transformative lens through which organizations can gain strategic industry insights, identify areas for improvement, and excel in today’s dynamic marketplace. Our confident, forward-thinking approach, combined with a commitment to collaboration and innovation, positions us as the premier partner for organizations seeking to elevate their performance and drive sustainable growth. Contact us today to embark on a journey toward excellence and unleash your full potential with Ducker Carlisle’s benchmarking services.

Specialist Consulting Firms Increasing Market Share In Megafund PE Due Diligence

Specialist Consulting Firms Increasing Market Share In Megafund PE Due Diligence

As Companies Scale, Megafunds Become Increasingly Interested in the Assets

In today’s fast-evolving investment landscape, megafund investors and enterprises are increasingly seeking the expertise of specialist consultancies for critical due diligence and strategic initiatives.

This trend reflects a deeper understanding of disruptive innovation—an economic theory that explains how new entrants can transform markets by focusing on underserved segments. Specialist firms like Ducker Carlisle exemplify this shift, providing customized services that cater specifically to lower mid-market and mid-market funds.

By leveraging their industry expertise and building long-term relationships, these consultancies are not only enhancing their value propositions but are also redefining the standards of engagement in an increasingly competitive consulting environment.

About the Author

Jared Tate, Managing Director

Jared Tate is a Managing Director at Ducker Carlisle where he operates as the Head of the West Coast and specializes in Private Equity and M&A advisory engagements. Jared holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Brigham Young University. He has nearly a decade of experience leading commercial due diligence and growth strategy engagements across industries and client types. Clients value Jared’s ability to ramp up quickly on niche topics, identify critical investment themes, and drive immediate results

Navigating Industry Waters: Insights into Market Dynamics for Automotive OEMs

Navigating Industry Waters: Insights into Market Dynamics for Automotive OEMs

Understanding Market Dynamics: Essential Insights for Automotive OEMs

In the fast-paced world of automotive OEMs, understanding your market size and share relative to industry peers is essential for strategic growth and sustained success. Ducker Carlisle’s specialized benchmarking analysis offers a deep dive into comprehensive market analyses, unveiling critical insights into industry dynamics that can empower automotive OEMs to refine strategies, track year-over-year progress, and optimize their market position.

At Ducker Carlisle, we recognize the intricate web of factors that influence market performance and positioning. Our industry-specific benchmarking tool is meticulously designed to provide nuanced insights tailored for automotive OEMs seeking to navigate the competitive landscape with precision and foresight.

By delving into these comprehensive market analyses, OEMs can gain valuable insights that go beyond surface-level observations. Uncovering market size and share data against industry peers offers a strategic advantage, allowing businesses to identify growth opportunities, fine-tune their market approach, and make informed decisions based on a thorough understanding of industry dynamics.

This benchmarking analysis acts as a compass, guiding automotive OEMs towards strategic optimization and market leadership. By leveraging the insights derived from these analyses, organizations can not only refine their strategies but also position themselves as industry frontrunners, ready to adapt to changing market conditions and capitalize on emerging trends.

With Ducker Carlisle as your collaborative partner in market analysis, uncovering the nuances of industry dynamics becomes a seamless and insightful journey. Our commitment to innovation and value creation ensures that you receive not just data but actionable insights that drive tangible results.

Prepare to navigate the industry waters with confidence and foresight. Discover the power of unlocking market insights and leveraging industry dynamics to propel your automotive OEM towards sustained growth and operational excellence. Trust Ducker Carlisle to be your strategic ally in unveiling the intricate tapestry of market size and share, guiding you towards a future marked by success and innovation.

Unlocking Growth and Efficiency: The Power of Pricing Strategy Consultants

Unlocking Growth and Efficiency: The Power of Pricing Strategy Consultants

Maximizing Efficiency and Growth: The Impact of Pricing Strategy Consultants

In today’s hyper-competitive business landscape, organizations must continually fine-tune their strategies to maintain a competitive edge and drive growth. One often-overlooked aspect of business strategy is pricing, a critical element that directly impacts a company’s financial performance. Many companies are turning to pricing strategy consultants, such as Ducker Carlisle, to navigate the complexities of developing and optimizing their pricing strategies. In this article, we will explore the reasons why companies choose to work with consultants when reviewing their pricing strategies and how incorporating Ducker Carlisle into your budget during Q4 can set your organization up for success in the coming year.

Expertise and Fresh Perspectives

Pricing strategy consultants bring the expertise and objectivity that internal teams may lack. With a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and industry best practices, consultants offer fresh perspectives and insights that can unlock untapped value. Ducker Carlisle prides itself on its team of seasoned professionals, armed with a wealth of experience across various industries. By partnering with a consultancy firm like Ducker Carlisle, your organization gains access to this wealth of expertise, ensuring a thorough and holistic assessment of your pricing strategy.

Unbiased Analysis and Benchmarking

When conducting internal pricing strategy reviews, organizations may inadvertently overlook blind spots or become complacent with their existing approach. By leveraging the services of a consulting firm, companies benefit from an objective analysis of their pricing landscape. Ducker Carlisle employs advanced market research techniques and benchmarks against industry peers to evaluate your pricing strategy’s effectiveness. This unbiased analysis allows for a comprehensive assessment, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring that your pricing aligns with market trends and customer demands.

Tailored Solutions and Innovative Approaches

Every organization is unique, and so are its pricing challenges. Consultants like Ducker Carlisle recognize this and tailor their solutions to address the specific needs of each client. By collaborating closely with your team, Ducker Carlisle can develop customized pricing strategies that align with your business objectives, target market, and competitive landscape. What sets Ducker Carlisle apart is our commitment to innovative approaches and value creation. By integrating people, technology, and cutting-edge solutions, we provide not only strategic guidance but also the tools and frameworks necessary to implement successful pricing strategies in the ever-evolving business environment.

Why Q4 Is the Perfect Time to Incorporate Ducker Carlisle into Your Budget

As the year comes to a close, organizations must plan for the future and set their sights on the upcoming year’s goals. Q4 is the ideal time to include Ducker Carlisle in your budget for several reasons:

  • Strategic Planning: Q4 is an opportune moment for strategic planning, including the evaluation of pricing strategies. By engaging Ducker Carlisle during this period, you can kickstart the process and ensure that your pricing strategy is refreshed and ready to drive success in the year ahead.
  • Budget Preparation: As organizations prepare their budgets for the new year, integrating Ducker Carlisle allows for accurate cost projections, timely resource allocation, and ensures that pricing strategy receives the attention and investment it deserves.
  • Competitive Advantage: By engaging Ducker Carlisle in Q4, you gain an early-mover advantage over competitors who may delay or overlook the importance of pricing strategy. You can capitalize on the insights gained from our consultants to make proactive pricing decisions that give you a leg up in the market.
  • Seamless Implementation: With Ducker Carlisle onboard early in the budgeting process, your team can seamlessly integrate our recommendations into your strategic plans, ensuring a smooth implementation without any disruption to your operations.

Partnering with Ducker Carlisle: Your Catalyst for Growth

At Ducker Carlisle, our mission is to empower ambitious organizations to unlock their full growth potential through strategic pricing initiatives. As your trusted advisor, we bring a collaborative and forward-thinking approach to every engagement. By integrating your team’s expertise with our technical prowess and innovative solutions, we deliver tailored pricing strategies that drive profitability and create lasting value for your organization.

As you reflect on your pricing strategy and plan for the future, consider incorporating Ducker Carlisle into your budget during Q4. Together, we can navigate the complexities of pricing, seize opportunities for growth, and set your organization on a trajectory towards sustained success. Contact us today, and let us embark on this journey together.