How Küster Speeds Up Supplier Quotations and Optimizes Global Sourcing with Tset

The Challenge 

Before adopting Tset in January 2025, Küster relied on an internal database system to compile and analyze supplier cost data. Their internal system was based on data provided by suppliers and benchmark. While this allowed for basic cost estimations and target settings, there was no structured way to verify or compare if the figures were accurate, up to date, or in line with global market conditions.

The team struggled with long lead times when requesting supplier quotes and lacked a structured way to benchmark costs across different regions. As a result, Küster’s cost engineering and procurement teams had challenges to respond quickly to shifting market dynamics.

The Solution 

Facing increased market pressure and the need to respond more quickly to OEM demands, Küster began looking for a product costing software that could enable faster decisions and greater pricing transparency in a structured manner with a update database behind. 

After researching available solutions, Küster decided to test Tset during a trial period – and the results exceeded expectations. One notable aspect was the accuracy of Tset’s cost breakdowns, particularly for plastic injection molding and stamping. Internal validations confirmed that Tset’s calculations very closely matched the prices Küster was already quoting to customers. 

"We've done our own internal validation, and the accuracy of Tset's tooling calculations compared to our actual customer prices is very, very accurate." - Oliver Müller, Cost & Value Analyst.

This level of precision gave the team the confidence to move forward. Combined with an intuitive user interface and strong onboarding support, Tset proved to be the right choice for modernizing their cost engineering process. 

How Küster Works With Tset 

Faster and More Competitive RFQ Responses 

Küster primarily leverages Tset to streamline their acquisition process. The team can now generate competitive offers for new projects within minutes using customer drawings and 3D data. In just the first quarter of implementation, the team has successfully utilized the software for several client projects and target costing. 

Data-Driven Supplier Negotiations and Sourcing 

Tset also supports Küster in identifying cost-saving opportunities in the supply chain. Using Tset's global data and scenario simulations, they can now effectively compare alternatives across countries and technologies, leading to more strategic sourcing decisions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration in Product Development 

Tset has significantly improved cross-departmental collaboration at Küster. Engineering and procurement teams can now collaborate on materials and parts selection before BOM (Bill of Material) creation. This allows Küster to prepare competitive quotes early on and build better project setups from the start to achieve the needed targets based on target costing. 

At a Glance: Key Benefits for Küster 

• Faster RFQ turnaround: Cost calculations reduced from weeks to minutes, enabling quicker RFQ responses.
• Global cost transparency: Enhanced ability to compare suppliers worldwide.
• Higher confidence in pricing: Validated cost breakdowns aligned with benchmarks.
• Improved collaboration: Better cross-functional teamwork and decision-making.