"By implementing the Chep pallet pooling program we're demonstrating our commitment to meet our customers' needs and provide a quality platform for our product. The CHEP pallet is performing exceptionally well in our plants, PRW's and throughout the supply chain. We expect that over time it will help reduce our overall supply chain costs," said Jay Rich III, Director, 3PL and Customer Projects, Rich Products.
US-based food supplier Rich Products chose the Chep programme as part of an initiative to reduce product damage, loading and unloading time, and labour to handle pallets.
"Our customers want the best supply chain solutions to move our products from where they are now to where they need to be; quickly, efficiently and reliably. Since strength and durability of the shipping platform directly correlate to faster unloading and reduced product damage, our customers want a consistent, sturdy, 48" x 40" pallet, which is the most recognised standard size.
"Many of our customers already participate in the Chep pooling system, which helps the total supply chain transfer product efficiently."
Dave Mezzanotte, Chep USA president said: "Chep is delighted to add Rich Products to our supply chain partnerships. We have dedicated resources to ensure the rollout of Chep services to Rich Products, across the nation and into Canada, is fast and accurate.
"At Chep, our services help customers set and achieve new goals as the intensive management of their supply chain, and the need for global reach, becomes increasingly critical to their operational competitiveness."
Rich Products Corporation is known around the world as the founder of the non-dairy segment of the frozen food industry and a leading supplier and solutions provider to the Food Service, In-Store Bakery and Retail marketplaces. As one of the world's premier family-owned food companies, Rich's posts annual sales exceeding $1.8 billion.
Rich's three major business groups: Rich's US/Canada; Rich SeaPak; and Rich International sell more than 2,000 products to more than 80 countries, including China, Mexico, India, Korea, Brazil, the U.K., South Africa, Russia, Thailand and Israel.
Chep handles pallet and container supply chain logistics for customers in the produce, meat, beverage and raw materials industries. Global partners include Wal-Mart, Procter & Gamble, Kellogg's, Kraft and Nestle.