the logistics challenge


to and from another location for packing. This service is helping several of our customers make their supply chains even more cost efficient and sustainable. We have also addressed one of the inefficient geographical logistics gaps – Ireland – by creating a joint venture with the SHS Group to provide food, drink and grocery manufacturers in Britain with a seamless supply chain solution into, out of and across the whole of Ireland. For the first time, the operation provides the sector with a cost efficient supply chain infrastructure to fully exploit the potential in Ireland. Culina SHS will also provide a highly efficient logistics operation


in the other direction for goods leaving Ireland for the UK markets. During the last two decades, supply chain management has become more and more sophisticated, driven largely by leading edge technology. Online tracking is expected, and customers are now looking at additional ways in which IT can help quicken the supply chain, such as systems that can help optimise transport routes and maximise vehicle utilisation. Despatching nine million cases a week across ten distribution centres with average stock turnarounds of eight days for chilled products and 20 days for ambient, is no easy feat, and at


Culina we have invested in an innovative IT infrastructure to underpin such a demanding operation. A bespoke warehouse management system that ensures automatic stock replenishment and complete visibility of order status throughout the entire supply chain is just one example of the highly sophisticated technology we currently provide our customers.


Responding to the sustainability challenge is a tricky one for logistics providers that rely on fleets of lorries moving across the road networks. However, there are ways of tackling this. Investment in new technologies and a strategic geographical network of depots is paramount. Optimising


transport planning, sophisticated reverse logistics operations and improving backhaul opportunities to ensure minimum food miles travelled, are just some examples of how providers can help customers meet the sustainability challenge.


The Future The current economic climate has been testing for all business sectors, the food and drink sector is no exception. There is every indication that the next 12 months will continue to be challenging, which means the logistics sector has to respond by providing customers with a highly efficient, sustainable and cost effective supply chain solution. ■


FMCG News 23


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