ACS&T sign up 3663 to new long-term deal
December 08, 2011
We have secured a new five-year contract with one of the UK’s leading foodservice companies, 3663. This is the extension of the Frozen National Consolidation Scheme (NCS), a service we have been operating since 1994.
We have worked together for nearly two decades, and have been constantly developing ways to increase efficiencies and decrease environmental impact within the 3663 supply chain.
The 3663 network reduces road miles, empty-leg running and the number of vehicles that the depots have to handle, supporting both 3663’s and ACS&T’s commitment to the environment.
The NCS delivers the most cost-effective route to market for a range of suppliers to 3663, who benefit from pallet-proportional distribution into the 3663 depots. In addition to this, a dedicated 3663 Supplier Manager works with suppliers to optimise stock availability allowing both 3663 and its suppliers to maximise sales, without the administrative burden usually associated with stock control.
We are also working closely together to develop primary distribution options for the suppliers that will develop cost savings and make the frozen supply chain even more efficient.
Carl Robinson, Sales and Commercial Director of ACS&T, said:
“This new contract with 3663 affirms the strong relationship we have, and the operational excellence that we perform. ACS&T have been flexible in tailoring our operation to meet the changing requirements of the 3663 network and will continue to do this to support the needs of their business.
“This next phase we are entering is very exciting for both parties and together, we are developing the supply chain to achieve optimum efficiency and deliver the maximum service level.”
Jim Gouldie, Director of Supply Chain at 3663, said:
“3663 have been working with ACS&T since 1994, and this agreement is testament to the proactive manner in which the relationship between our respective organisations has developed.
“The agreement will now enable a further step-change in the development of our National Consolidation Scheme and provide a significant positive environmental impact in our ongoing focus to reduce food miles”.
The consolidation scheme works by helping to reduce stockholding throughout 3663’s supply chain. As soon as stock arrives in our Wolverhampton store, it becomes visible through our industry-leading real-time stock management system.
Depots can then order stock in the quantities they need to satisfy orders, and each supplier is only charged for the proportion of pallet space that their stock uses on delivery. Administration is reduced, as suppliers manage stock to agreed levels, and are automatically notified if stock falls below these minimums.
We operate from four centres in Grimsby, Wolverhampton, Tewkesbury and Scarborough. Our extensive resources include 12 cold stores, 3 ambient stores, comprehensive co-packing facilities and large, dedicated and shared user multi-temp transport fleets.
Committed to delivering high quality service and operating with integrity and a concern for the environment, we are accredited with the BRC Storage & Distribution certificate across all sites and temperature regimes in addition to the ISO9001 and 14001.
If you’d like to find out how ACS&T could optimise your supply chain and improve your business performance, contact the Sales Department on 01472 358207 or email sales@acst.co.uk.