Oakland International and SPAR UK Grocer Gold Awards 2017 Finalists

Multi temperature supply chain specialist Oakland International and UK symbol group operator SPAR UK are confirmed as finalists in The Grocer Gold Awards 2017 to be held at the Guildhall, London on Tuesday 13th June 2017.

Shortlisted in the category of Logistics Supplier of the Year, Oakland International and SPAR UK were chosen due to their bespoke sustainable carbon reducing case and pallet consolidation scheme, which since launch has demonstrated constant growth and significantly delivers a number of key benefits for end retailers, suppliers and in-store customers.

Offering enhanced productivity, improved in-store availability, extended shelf life and considerably reduced road miles travelled, the scheme has helped increase SPAR UK’s product freshness and lead times, has reduced wastage and offered a cost effective route for smaller producers who would otherwise be unable to meet SPAR’s supply chain requirements.

Oakland International Chief Executive and Co-Founder Dean Attwell commented: “Oakland International and SPAR UK make a fantastic team, as both companies are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and in ongoing renewable innovations to make this an even more sustainable and efficient supply chain partner initiative. By working together we provide an environmentally beneficial service.”

A highly innovative scheme, through investment, enhanced efficiencies and operational review the number of additional improvements and developments made during 2016 have been significant. An award winning partnership, the case and pallet consolidation scheme demonstrates carbon reduction is achievable from improved supply chain efficiencies, which deliver reduced wastage and assist in leading the way in sustainable innovation and change.

Vinesh Patel, SPAR UK Supply Chain Controller, commented: “At SPAR we’ve consistently sought ways to innovate, add value to our customers and remove cost from the supply chain. We do this with Oakland International and are proud to deliver an unrivalled logistics supply chain in the UK.

“To be recognised by our peers is fantastic and a testament to all of our hard work.”