Paragon of success for Fresh Direct

Foodservice supplier Fresh Direct has boosted its logistical strength through the application of Paragon Software Systems’ Multi Depot routing, scheduling and transport optimisation solution.

Multi Depot is a strategic planning tool to underpin the company’s aim of delivering consistent, quality service through on-time deliveries of produce to all of its customers, regardless of where they are situated in the UK.

By using the software to model the ideal fresh food delivery solution for its customers in fine detail, Fresh Direct has been able to optimise its resources and services. The additional benefit of this accurate planning is improved efficiencies for both Fresh Direct and its customers, including better management of the company’s carbon footprint.

Fresh Direct makes more than 10,000 deliveries a week from its six regional depots in Bicester, Cambridge, Evesham, Manchester, Skelmersdale and Glasgow, which serve catering businesses across the UK including pubs, retailers and colleges.

Nick Allen, head of logistics at Fresh Direct, said: “We work very closely with our customers to ensure that we provide the best delivery option for their business. In order to meet their own customers’ expectations, we must provide on-time deliveries, ensuring that short lifespan products arrive in perfect condition.

“Our goal is to meet this requirement consistently. With Paragon, we can achieve this and at the same time reduce the number of trips we make through better utilisation of vehicles and selection of the most suitable depot. The system gives us a base line from which we can view our performance and provides the control we need to achieve a dependable, high-quality service.”

The company’s fleet ranges from 1.2-tonne local delivery vans to 44t tractor and trailer units, as well as dedicated rapid response vehicles for urgent deliveries. With Paragon, the company can plan accurately the ideal route from the appropriate depot and choose the most efficient vehicle for each delivery to meet the customer’s specific requirements.

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