Article Euro Pool System, experience the benefits

Article
other types of packaging. “We can also handle the multi-way packaging systems of
other parties, for example, empty fish boxes, bottles, cardboard waste and products
that need to be removed due to their validity date. Euro Pool System can take over a
great deal of the store‟s „back door‟ activities. Easily and efficiently.”
The cooperation form can be very flexible, adds Paauwe hastily. “Of course there are
other parties that can handle waste flows well, but the advantage is that we can also
sort out all empty crates, wash them and directly make them readily available for the
retailer‟s suppliers. We have much experience in doing this by now, and we are the
only ones doing it!”
An integrated depot then offers many possibilities to operate more efficiently and to
accelerate the flow in the supply chain. Euro Pool System can record and report
accurate data on the return flows, allowing for better insight into the demand for
particular products. This information can in turn be linked to an automatic order
system, and „out-of-stock‟ situations at stores can be avoided. The automation
possibilities are then many. “In most depots, we can also sort out, count and wash
crates automatically”, says Paauwe.
Break-even point
The advantages of an integrated depot are then considerable, but the necessary
investments also need to be recovered. Paauwe: “For the retailer, the subcontracting
critical limit is considerably lower than for Euro Pool System. To justify the
investments, we need a minimum volume of ten million return units. However, it is
also possible for many supply chains to share a Euro Pool System depot, if they are
small. So you can jointly profit from the efficiency and the other advantages.”
Euro Pool System asks for a degree of commitment from the retailer. Paauwe: “In
line with the investments, we look for three to five year contracts at least. We also
agree on minimum return volumes. But, on the other hand, this allows retailers to
save property space that can be used for other purposes. Think, for example, of the
extension of one‟s own DC. If you cannot or don‟t want to expand a particular site, an
integrated depot can then be a solution. Because you‟ll need less time to manage
return flows, you will have more time for your core business. Consider you‟ll need
some time to switch over, though. The construction of a dedicated integrated return
centre from scratch can take – between studies and realisation – two to three years.”
Who would benefit the most from an integrated depot? “In principle, all retailers,
regardless of the store type, but depending on the vision and the current organisation
of their logistic supply chain. Any retailer looking for efficiency, integral cost reduction
and sustainable operation has come to the right place.”
Savings tips for retailers
1. Switch from one-way systems to Euro Pool System‟s multi-way packaging
solution.
2. Switch from rigid crates to foldable crates; you‟ll need considerably less
space for storage and transport purposes.
3. Standardise the packaging of all fresh flows, like fruit and vegetables, dairy,
bread, meat, fish and ready-to-eat meals, and save more costs.
Euro Pool System, experience the benefits
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