Delivering competitive advantage
A leading British supermarket chain has achieved a market-leading transformation of its logistics operations, moving to a single integrated logistics network and delivering better outcomes across its supply chain.
As the provider of transport services to the grocer, Wincanton is at the heart of this far-reaching transformation; the retailer recently outsourced transport services for most of its operations.
The grocer understood that its logistics operation would deliver a key competitive advantage. By moving to a single integrated supply chain and logistics network it has benefited from Wincanton-led knowledge sharing and increased innovation with a reduced operating cost base.
Successful execution
Wincanton knew that being entrusted with such big, bold changes to the grocer’s network was a considerable undertaking and maintaining business as usual, particularly the successful delivery of a high-volume 2023 Christmas peak was essential to an effective transfer of operations. This solid foundation was built upon in 2024, which saw the grocer achieve its highest Christmas market-share in five years, with sales growth which outpaced the market.
Wincanton worked at pace and in partnership with the grocer to establish new ways of working and governance which would withstand the high levels of scrutiny and rigour required to ensure the transformation programme was a success.
Over a period of 18 months a total of 15 transport operations, responsible for the operation of over 6,000 vehicles, seamlessly transitioned to Wincanton. This period saw more than 2,000 new colleagues join Wincanton and the changes impacted some 1,500 colleagues already dedicated to the grocer’s transport solutions.
The transition, including two crucial Christmas peaks, was executed on-time and on-budget and with no operational issues.
Carl Hanson - Managing Director, Transport, Wincanton
“Being selected as the trusted transport partner of choice for a leading UK grocer is testament to the high level of service and innovation that we deliver consistently and has further strengthened our long-standing partnership. In delivering a seamless transition we welcomed our new colleagues to the Wincanton team and continued to deliver exceptional service, including two crucial peak periods.”
15
transport operations successfully transitioned to Wincanton
2000+
colleagues have successfully joined Wincanton
6000+
vehicles seamlessly transitioned to Wincanton
2
successful peaks delivered in 18 months
