The companies have been working together on supply chain optimisation projects since 2007.
Findus has consolidated 8,000 pallets at Sofrilog’s refrigerated warehouse in Lognes, near Paris, France. Half of these pallets were relocated by Sofrilog over a 48 hour period.
“48 hours to transfer 4,000 pallets were sufficient for Sofrilog,” said Tony Listoir, head of transport for Findus. “Sofrilog met the challenge of effecting such transfers without our customers suffering.”
Inventory management
Sofrilog has helped optimise Findus’ inventory management to reduce the gaps between forecasting and orders and almost completely eliminate residual stocks after promotions.
In addition, the logistics provider went further by supplying repackaging solutions for Findus. These entailed offering more aesthetically-appealing pre-printed cardboard to integrate between plastic film packaging and products, said Findus.
Sofrilog also improved track and trace services for the processor, implementing a 100% real-time traceability system for distribution.
Findus could now secure a stream of reliable and continuous data on the distribution of its products, and roles were clearly defined, it said. It could focus on managing transport partners, while Sofrilog managed the overall progress of daily operations.
'Real time visibility'
“With this tool, we can now optimise loading plans and have real-time visibility on all our flow distribution,” said Listoir. “If one of our deliveries is delayed or has a problem, we can immediately react and thus be more responsive to our customers.”
As a result of the various solutions implemented, Findus had been able to improve the flow of information, reducing delays in loading and delivery, it said.
“The solutions proposed by Sofrilog and consolidation flow in their warehouse has enabled us to achieve real savings on transportation, reduce waste and be in line with our environmental values,” said Benoit Gendrot, Findus supply chain director.
The two partners have vowed to keep working on other projects to further improve efficiencies. These include efforts to cut the amount of plastic and cardboard used in Findus supply chain and improve the flow of information through the use of real-time web-based systems.