IPL’s latest published turnover might be £137.4 million, but one suspects that is only likely to rise rapidly as it takes on an ever-more important role in the sourcing of fresh food for Asda supermarkets.
The wholly-owned subsidiary of Asda/Wal-mart, which was recently renamed International Procurement & Logistics, deems itself the ‘biggest single importer of produce in the UK’, handling a range of products from fruit, veg, flowers, drinks and dry groceries.
While IPL’s portfolio extends into a wide range of areas, the high percentage of fresh produce justifies its inclusion in the FPJ Big 50 2015.
IPL’s raison d’etre is essentially to go direct to source to give Asda the savings that allow it to offer the lowest prices to consumers of any mainstream supermarket. It also believes the approach allows it to ensure stability and consistency of supply, and consequently better quality and an improved offer to customers. It has been expanding both its portfolio and its operations, with the notable announcement coming this month that it is in exclusive talks over acquiring Fenmarc’s potato packing business in Westry and QV Foods’ Scottish potato packing assets in Inchture.
The move underlines Asda’s desire to simplify its supply chain and get closer to growers, and one would expect further such developments in future. “Having direct relationships with growers means we can ensure consistent quality for our shoppers at great Asda prices,” MD Nick Scrase says.
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