17.06.2025
thomas gruppe: Digital excellence in the building materials sector
The S/4HANA transformation of the thomas gruppe
The thomas gruppe, an owner-managed building materials manufacturer, is facing a comprehensive digital transformation. With BDF EXPERTS as its partner, the company is modernizing its IT landscape by migrating to SAP S/4HANA. This project is setting new standards in the industry.
The initial situation
The thomas gruppe divides its business into five divisions: cement, concrete components/precast elements, ready-mixed concrete, road construction, and asphalt/stone. Following the acquisition of what was formerly the largest cement plant in the GDR in Karsdorf, the company became the third-largest cement manufacturer in Germany. This expansion and the end of support for the existing ECC system made a comprehensive system modernization unavoidable.
The challenge: mastering complexity
The migration project includes:
- 54 company codes with different requirements
- Integration of third-party software such as Gesys, LOGiQ, and Doxis
- Replacement of a 20-year-old system with numerous in-house developments
- Semi-annual go-lives for continuous progress
Credit management in particular poses a key challenge due to its complex structures with numerous divisions and credit control areas. The migration from classic credit management to FSCM Credit Management requires precise coordination and technical expertise.
The solution: Step-by-step transformation with expert knowledge
BDF EXPERTS is responsible for the FI/CO area and works closely with the internal SAP module administrators and the consulting firm amotiq solutions. The approach includes:
- Standardization instead of customization: Transfer of Z developments to the SAP standard
- Modular go-lives: Controlled migration of company codes in semi-annual cycles
- Seamless integration: Careful coordination of all interfaces between SAP and third-party systems
The added value: concrete benefits for the thomas gruppe
The S/4HANA migration brings significant benefits to the company:
- Future-proofing: Long-term support from SAP and a modern technology base
- Increased efficiency: Faster processes thanks to in-memory technology and optimized workflows
- Transparency: Improved reporting options and real-time analytics
- Scalability: Flexible adaptation to future business growth
- Standardization: Reduced complexity thanks to fewer custom solutions
The project is a great example of how even complex company structures can be successfully digitized with the right expertise. This means the thomas gruppe is all set to take on whatever the future throws at it.
More about the thomas gruppe
The thomas gruppe is an owner-managed building materials manufacturer.
- Industry: Construction and building materials
- Divisions: 5 divisions (cement, concrete components/precast elements, ready-mixed concrete, road construction, and asphalt/stone)
- Products and services: Complete value chain: from raw materials to transport
- Number of employees: 1,500
Website: https://www.thomas-gruppe.de/en/
More about BDF EXPERTS
BDF provides EXPERTs in SAP consulting and software development in the following areas:
- Product Lifecycle Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Service and Asset Management
- Corporate Finance & Treasury Management
based on S/4 HANA and SAP ERP.
We advise large medium-sized companies and global corporations in the DACH region. As a team of digitalization experts, we digitize and optimize our customers' data and processes. With our product, SAP PPG Product and Process Governance, we support digital business processes from product creation to product service. With the BDF Cash Position Cockpit (BDF CPC), we optimize the financial supply chain. Together, we get the most out of your SAP world.
Website: https://bdfexperts.de/en#home
