Zombie Companies & Trapped Cash: How ERP Fuels Growth with Jack Harrison & Carrie Tallett

Guest: Jack Harrison, Carrie Tallett
Host: Justin King

In this episode of the B2BEA Insider, Justin King sits down with Jack Harrison and Carrie Tallett of Forterro to explore how ERP and WMS systems are reshaping growth for mid-market manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers.

Jack and Carrie unpack the concept of “zombie companies”, businesses stuck without growth momentum, and reveal how operational inefficiencies lead to “trapped cash” that limits scalability. They share how Orderwise, Forterro’s UK flagship product, helps companies unlock efficiency, centralize operations, and convert hidden costs into measurable growth.

The conversation dives into overcoming the fear of ERP change, building community-led product strategies, and how AI is beginning to transform forecasting, reporting, and customer engagement in supply chain-driven industries.

Key topics include:
• What defines a “zombie company” and how to avoid stagnation
• The hidden cost of trapped cash in stock, labor, and processes
• ERP as the operational lifeblood of mid-market businesses
• Balancing visibility and execution for real ROI
• Community-driven implementation and customer success stories
• Overcoming FOMU (“Fear of Messing Up”) in ERP adoption
• Where AI is already driving impact, and what’s next

This episode is packed with practical insights for B2B leaders, operations teams, and digital transformation strategists looking to move from stagnation to scalable growth.