As the Londis Fresh range heads towards its first anniversary, sales for the new lines have exceeded targets, according to the latest data.
Fruit and veg sales are up 66 per cent year on year and Londis stores stocking fresh food have risen 79 per cent from 725 (year to date in 2009) to 1296 stores so far in 2010.
Londis introduced the major fresh initiative last year, introducing an enhanced and extended fresh range with industry leading supply chain and capability.
A brand new warehouse management system and substantial enhancements formed the biggest change in supply chain systems in Londis’ history.
A ‘pick to zero’ flow-through system now allows stock to be picked to order and the old ‘stock held’ system has been phased out.
Delivery is now an option six days a week via a new, more environment-friendly chill fleet which has maximised fresh flow through, speeding up the journey from manufacturer to depot and then store.
In the last three weeks, British strawberries (which travel from farm to store within 48 hours) have hit sales of almost 19,000 punnets, a year-on-year increase of 154 per cent. A core range of new lines, including Florette salad bags and fruit, have been introduced for the first time and promotions are currently running on cucumbers, peaches, nectarines, plums and Honeydew melons.
Londis sales director Paul Courtney said: “I’m delighted that both Londis retailers and customers are benefiting from the seasonal products and promotions within our quality range. Fresh is a major milestone for Londis and I’m proud to say that it’s now our biggest growth area.”
