Food supply chain firms enhance efficiency
CEVA Logistics is enhancing UK food supply chains through major deals with Ocado Retail and Hilton Food Solutions, ensuring shoppers enjoy faster access to fresh, available groceries amid rising demand and global disruptions.
FOR OCADO Retail, the world’s largest online supermarket, a renewed long-term contract supercharges efficiency. CEVA’s Kettering consolidation centre manages ambient storage and distribution to all seven Customer Fulfilment Centres (CFCs). A facility overhaul – redesigned WMS, pick-face optimisation, and smarter replenishment – yields 40% outbound gains, boosting storage and peak-period resilience. End users benefit from stabilised stock levels, year-round availability, and quicker deliveries without shortages.
Ocado supply chain director Tim Walker, says: “We trust CEVA Logistics to support our growth, consistently adapting to our evolving operational requirements. The team’s ability to implement major system and layout changes while maintaining service has supported in improving efficiency and helped ensure product availability.”
Meanwhile, Hilton Food Solutions’ three-year deal at CEVA’s London Gateway Chill Hub streamlines fresh/frozen imports. Specialist unloading and integrated customs clearance preserve quality, speed UK distribution, and cut delays. Consumers gain fresher products reliably, as temperature-controlled ops and compliance reduce spoilage risks in volatile markets.
Hilton Food Solutions managing director Peter Hounsome, says: “Selecting CEVA Logistics for our London Gateway operations provides us with a fully integrated solution that brings together specialist temperature-controlled handling and in-house customs clearance. This significantly simplifies our port operations, strengthens compliance, and ensures the fast, reliable movement of our fresh and frozen products.
“As we continue to develop our strategic partnership with CEVA, we are enhancing the resilience and scalability of our importation operations within an increasingly complex global supply chain.”
CEVA’s MD Mike Weaver emphasised integrated solutions for scalability. These partnerships mean everyday shoppers experience seamless access to quality groceries, supporting resilient supply chains.
