Stater Bros. Markets has expanded its long-term strategic partnership with IFCO. As part of the multi-year agreement, Stater Bros. will broaden its use of IFCO reusable packaging containers (RPCs) across a wider range of fresh fruits and vegetables. This collaboration is designed to enhance operational efficiencies, boost sustainability efforts, reduce product shrink and food waste, and elevate the freshness and quality of fresh produce available in stores.
The two companies evaluated the retailer's fresh grocery supply chain. This process included in-depth assessments of stores and distribution centers, as well as consultations with key produce suppliers. Through close collaboration, opportunities were identified to improve product freshness, reduce costs, and optimize workforce efficiency.
Transitioning to IFCO RPCs from single-use packaging for items such as carrots, corn, stone fruits, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and soft and wet vegetables ensures Stater Bros. has a safer, more stable, and protective packaging solution during palletization, transportation, and storage of fresh products. The switch has been well received by growers. Given the option, over 80 percent of Stater Bros. suppliers would choose the RPCs to transport their fresh products.
"As more of our fresh products are transported in IFCO RPCs, we can maximize the operational and sustainability benefits," says Brian Sahargun, sr. manager of produce at Stater Bros. "Their durability makes it easier to securely stack, store, and transport fresh products more efficiently."
"As we continue to reduce single-use packaging in our stores, we're changing our store environment," says Jacob Cadwallader, director of produce at Stater Bros. "Our teammates will spend less time in the back handling packaging waste but more time in the store with our customers, which is where they prefer to be. Additionally, the highly ventilated and robust design of the IFCO RPCs ensures our products are kept fresher for longer, cutting down on shrink and waste. It's our customers who ultimately appreciate the results."
"Our circular economy pooling model saves retailers time, space, and effort all while reducing the environmental impacts of their supply chain," says Jon Brooks, vice president, retail sales at IFCO.
For more information:
IFCO
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https://www.ifco.com/