DIP: 18.02.106/20261102 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/1102106 
Abstract
Effective spare parts inventory management is critical for maintaining working capital and ensuring a smooth manufacturing process. This study examines the spare parts portfolio of Indo National Limited (Nippo), India’s second-largest dry cell battery producer. The main data transformation tool is Microsoft Excel’s Power Query. The dataset contains 6,699 stock-keeping units (SKUs) that span six years of purchase receipts, consumption records, and inventory ageing profiles. It underwent a multidimensional examination that comprised ABC classification, inventory ageing evaluation, stock turnover categorisation, procurement behaviour review, and vendor lead time comparison. The investigation revealed that 49.7% of the total on-hand stock value, ₹1.79 crores, had been held for more than 365 days. In addition, 109 things were purchased despite excess inventory, and 500 non-moving products are taking up ₹59.69 lakhs in idle capital. The lead time performance of 172 active suppliers reveals a 110-day disparity between the best and poorest performers, making it difficult to estimate safety stock levels. The paper proposes a three-horizon action plan for lowering inventory carrying costs, improving procurement control, and increasing supply chain responsiveness. The findings reinforce Power Query’s position as an easy-to-use and repeatable analytics solution that is audit-ready, making it ideal for mid-market Indian manufacturers.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X