ERP modernization with Wavestone: PE Automotive transforms with Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Strategy & Transformation
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Key takeaways
PE Automotive and the successful ERP modernization:
How the go-live with Wavestone and GWS enabled a strategic transformation.
- A modern, cloud-based ERP solution not only enables performance and automatic updates, but also lays the foundation for AI integration, data-driven decisions, and continuous innovation.
- Many companies view ERP renewal merely as replacing old software. However, PE Automotive recognized that it is a strategic transformation that overcomes fragmented processes, inconsistent data, and dependencies on individuals.
- The new ERP system enabled PE Automotive to establish seamless, digitalized processes and a central data foundation that ensures improved process quality and control.
PE Automotive at a glance
PE Automotive GmbH & Co. KG, a company of the BPW Aftermarket Group, specializes in high-quality spare parts for the independent commercial vehicle aftermarket. With headquarters in Wuppertal and additional units in Germany and Hong Kong, PE supplies customers worldwide. The product portfolio includes key components for trucks, trailers, and buses such as axles, steering, brakes, and lighting.
The ERP modernization was carried out for around 120 active users in the companies PE Automotive, BPW Aftermarket Group Germany, and PE Hong Kong.
ERP modernization
Starting points & objectives
The legacy ERP system, which had been in use for many years and was replaced as part of this project, increasingly failed to meet the requirements of a modern, future-proof system. In particular, cloud capability, modern integration options, and a perspective for the use of data-driven automation and AI were lacking. As part of the cut-over, the goal was to roll out a tailor-made solution that optimally incorporated all specific characteristics such as company-specific processes and data assets, while connecting the expertise of all stakeholders.
A future-proof ERP system was expected to form the foundation for digitalization, transparency, and scaling. The objective was to create a central platform that unites process harmonization, data quality, and modern reporting capabilities—across all three entities.
Solution
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations combined with gevis ERP Enterprise
PE Automotive decided to implement Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations as a SaaS-based ERP platform. Functionally, D365 was supplemented with a specialized industry solution for wholesale and the automotive sector, implemented by the solution provider GWS during the project. The ERP modernization at PE Automotive was accompanied by the renewal of Product Information Management (PIM). The overall system now covers the process landscape across the entire value chain:
- Warehouse logistics (via WMS)
- Sales
- Procurement
- Product management
- Internal and external production
- Finance & controlling
- Integration with webshop, PIM, and other peripheral systems
- TecCom & EDI integration
Implementation partners at eye level
Wavestone was brought into the project to provide structural and methodological support to PE Automotive during the ERP modernization and the management of the complex transformation project. Together with GWS, Wavestone assumed overall project management from August 2024 onward.
Our team played a key role in shaping the change management concept, accompanied the ERP implementation phases methodologically, and moderated stakeholder communication. Particularly in the third and final testing phase, our experts were deeply involved in solving critical challenges.
Wavestone also provided essential support during the cutover: together, the go-live plan was developed, aligned, and accompanied through to operational execution. In the subsequent hypercare phase, Wavestone ensured structure, transparency, and system stability. The key success factors included:
- Coordination of three comprehensive UAT phases as well as data migration
- Development and execution of a cutover plan
- Moderation and steering of interdisciplinary teams and decision-making committees
- Regular, close alignment with management and the steering board
- Support in implementing the change management concept
Result
A stable go-live and measurable progress
The system went live as planned on 1 July 2025. The hypercare phase following the ERP implementation proceeded in a structured and largely trouble-free manner—the system is now in stable operation. PE Automotive’s customers were continuously supplied on time and in full without any restrictions.
The new solution ensures seamless, digitalized workflows and improved process quality in logistics, procurement, sales, and finance. Data is available consistently and centrally – a foundation for modern management and analytics tools.
Thanks to the cloud-based architecture, users benefit from performance, scalability, and automatic updates – with significantly reduced IT maintenance effort.
Outlook
What comes after ERP modernization?
In the coming months, further initiatives are planned for intelligent automation, expanded process digitalization, strengthened reporting, and the integration of additional functionalities. The ERP platform now forms a reliable foundation for innovation and growth.
Wavestone supported us throughout the project in a structured, solution-oriented, and competent way. Especially in critical phases, the team was present, pragmatic, and decisive – a tremendous help.