Bibby Distribution has used its extensive expertise in the food sector to secure a prestigious new warehousing and distribution contract with Lavazza, Italy’s favourite coffee.
The deal, secured following a competitive tender, sees Bibby Distribution handle the food service side of Lavazza’s business in the UK; its fourth largest international market outside Italy, and one of the fastest growing. The contract will be based at Bibby Distribution’s British Retail Consortium (BRC), accredited multi-user warehouse in Stoke-on-Trent, with up to 160 individual orders being packed and distributed weekly.
Commenting on the appointment, a spokesperson for Lavazza says: “Bibby Distribution impressed us with their commitment to continued improvement. They made it clear from the outset that their initial plan for distribution was just a starting point; we sense a real passion and desire to work with us to further improve systems and processes.”
Key to securing the contract was Bibby Distribution’s experience in handling food products, and its ability to offer Lavazza full traceability of stock and an accurate delivery service. Order lead times have also been reduced from five to three days – backed up by maximum focus on presentation quality to customers.
The spokesperson adds: “Reducing lead times is one of the most important ways for us to improve our competitive edge. Bibby Distribution’s commitment to getting products to customers faster will improve customer satisfaction, whilst enabling a slight reduction in stock levels and increased flexibility. It gives us far greater control over deliveries.”
All orders are received electronically from the Lavazza IT system, directly into Bibby Distribution’s warehouse management system, removing the need to despatch or receive orders manually. This gives Lavazza full online stock visibility, with automated reports confirming orders and stock levels. Bibby has also nominated a dedicated member of its stock control team as a point of contact for Lavazza.
Kevin Brennan, Depot Manager at Bibby Distribution’s Meir Park facility in Stoke, says: “This is a prestige customer and one where we can really add value. It involves a lot more than simply storing, picking, packing and transporting goods; presentation to the end customer is crucial. Lavazza also made it clear that they expected a strategic-level supplier to support their growth, not in a tick-box way, but flexibly, innovatively and proactively. We are absolutely committed to delivering for them.”
In addition to transporting coffee, Bibby Distribution will handle a full range of complementary products, including biscuits, chocolates, branded crockery and promotional materials. Products are despatched to Lavazza’s several thousand food service customers, which includes chains, independent coffee shops, bars, restaurants and professional caterers.
Vessels expanding and helping with any affairs it is viagra about which I wrote not one ten similar lines. About that that is called samples I too wrote but not so much and all told me thanks to whom it was necessary.