Asda is set to complete a two-year transport optimisation project using Total Transport System (TTS) – an integrated solution consisting of Paragon’s routeing, scheduling and transport optimisation software combined with Isotrak’s real-time vehicle tracking and fleet management.
The supermarket group has used the system in the implementation of a new regional distribution structure to improve delivery services to its stores, make better use of driver resources, ensure route compliance and reduce operational costs.
It has also used the project as an opportunity to standardise all transport office practices and procedures that has led to simplification and increased efficiency within this traditionally challenging environment.
“Asda transport has been completely transformed to provide new efficiencies across the board. The Isotrak-equipped TTS has enabled this and is providing significant improvements in the way we plan and manage our resources and in how we plan more than 18,000 store deliveries a week using our 900 strong fleet. The results of this business change are on-time delivery improvements to the stores, optimisation of our driver and vehicle resources and greater route compliance, which is also reducing mileage, fuel costs and emissions,” said Chris Hall, Asda’s national transport manager.
“We have moved away from individual planning for each distribution centre and have created seven planning regions across the UK that provide a clear differentiation between regional planning to maximise geographical resources and local execution for compliance to plan and accountability for store service. There are 21 DCs within the regions – two in Scotland, three in the North East, four in the North West, three in Yorkshire, four in the Midlands, three in the South West and two serving the South East. It is true to say that this would be impossible to do without an effective system and process.”
