Regional Challenges Multinational

Its distribution operation for regional food and drink across six counties, has been shorlisted for the Efficient Consumer Response (ECR) UK Award for Sustainable Distribution.

Commercial giants such as Tesco and United Biscuits are also in the running.

The award recognises initiatives that make breakthroughs in reducing the impact of distribution, resulting in fewer, ‘friendlier’ food miles.

The group’s Delivery Service, launched in January 2008, seeks to provide a more effective route to market for small to medium-sized regional food producers across the West Midlands.

By streamlining the supply chain with its one-order-one-delivery-one-invoice facility, it offers a simple solution for independent and multiple buyers.

There are 88 producers and 300 customers using the HEFF Delivery Service.  A sixth month survey on two of these accounts showed that 60,600 miles had been saved.

“To be a finalist alongside major companies shows that smaller businesses really do make a difference and have a vital role to play within the food and drink industry,” says chief executive, Karen Davies, MBE. “It’s also testament to the quality of food and drink produced by our members,” she adds.

A final round of judging will take place in September. The winner will be announced on 13th October.

For more information about the IGD Food Industry Awards 2009 visit: www.igd.com.

For more information about HEFF visit: www.heff.co.uk