NFT Distribution is well placed to offer advice on a range of logistics and supply issues not only to its own customers, but also to manufacturers and retailers who would prefer to keep their distribution operations in-house. As an ex-subsidiary of a large and very broadly based food manufacturer, many of our managers and staff have had wide experience of the food supply chain from end to end, and our long experience of working closely with major High Street retailers has given us a strong insight into key industry trends and the opportunity to influence future developments.
Our normal approach to dealing with a potential major piece of new business, a new depot opening or the roll-out of new IT systems and software, for example, would be to assemble a cross-functional team, drawing on relevant experience from all parts and levels of the business. We have a wealth of project management experience to get the best out of these teams and deliver results for our customers. We also have connections with a number of academic institutions and external specialists to ensure that we have access to the widest possible skill base in all areas of the food supply chain.
Recent examples include:
- Comparing production methods and capacities across a number of manufacturing plants making the same ranges of products to try and identify best manufacturing practice and rationalise capacity
- Collating base operational and cost data across 36 manufacturing sites for the preparation of an invitation to tender for the outsourcing of logistics services
- Working with senior managers from a major retailer to develop a proposal for a national consolidation operation for chilled foods
