Transportation is the core of the cold chain, and assuring the delivery of products in the most efficient way, while keeping qualities intact, represents a target for all operators. Additionally, as omnichannel offers new ways for consumers to connect with companies, it becomes critical for those companies to assure that they can deliver the required product through the right method. This means assuring fulfillment capabilities that can handle different a wide range of orders, be it single units or full pallets for wholesalers and distributors.
According to France-based company La Palette Rouge (LPR) which specializes in the management and rental of pallets for food manufacturers and European distributors, there are currently 4 billion wooden pallets moving around Europe each year. Given the pivotal role of pallets in the movement of goods, the role that they also play in optimizing the supply chain can not be underestimated. Firstly, the company writes, whether it is constantly considering whether the quality of the pallets bought are going to withstand the loads that you will put on them or whether they are going to be accepted at their final destination, this is all adding to the time you could be spending on your business. Secondly, the vast majority of retailers have specifications that must be adhered to. As such, a supplier that can offer the pallets in the configurations that you need, when you need them, can be a timely process – from identifying suitable suppliers, making a selection and a final decision, this is all eating into your time.
Pallet pooling is also a way to address several concerns regarding the environment. According to Brambles, which mainly operates through its CHEP brand and is one of the world’s most sustainable logistics businesses, its circular business model facilitates the ‘share and reuse’ of the world’s largest pool of reusable pallets and containers. This enables CHEP to serve its customers while minimizing the impact on the environment and improving the efficiency and safety of supply chains around the world. The company’s platforms form the invisible backbone of global supply chains, primarily serving the fast‑moving consumer goods, frozen and fresh produce, beverage, retail, and general manufacturing industries. CHEP (Brambles) uses the power of its circular business model, network advantage, and expertise to leverage the key capital inputs into its business to generate significant value for customers, shareholders, and employees. In a resource-constrained world, circular business models like that operated by CHEP (Brambles) are recognized as a practical business solution enabling the world to trade more responsibly. By regenerating what it extracts and by providing its products via a service, Brambles helps reduce both the constant pressure on natural resources and the waste production typical of conventional linear business models. The company capitalizes on its unique position in the supply chain to enable customer collaboration and address sustainable development challenges, such as optimizing transport networks, addressing food waste, and promoting sustainable use of the world’s forests.
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