Supply Chain Design and Distribution for Food Companies

Who this is for

Producers shipping to the US who need to decide how to store, move and deliver product once it arrives.

Brands moving from a distributor to their own distribution, or the other way around.

Importers and distributors who want to improve cost, service levels or stock control.

What we do

Supply Chain Design

We map your flow from factory to customer, including production sites, ports, warehouses and delivery routes, and design a chain that meets your service level at the lowest sensible cost.

Self Distribution Strategy

We assess whether to sell through distributors or deliver to customers yourself, set out the costs and risks of each, and design the model that suits you.

Warehouse Planning

We help you decide where to hold stock, how much and in what conditions, including ambient, chilled and frozen storage, and we identify suitable facilities.

Fulfillment Solutions

We design how orders are picked, packed and shipped, for retail replenishment, foodservice deliveries or e commerce.

Transportation Planning

We plan the routes, modes and schedules for ocean, air and road freight, including temperature controlled transport and timing for perishable goods.

Inventory Optimization

We set stock levels and reorder points that avoid both shortages and waste, taking shelf life and lead times into account.

Freight Management

We help you select carriers and freight forwarders, compare quotes, and manage bookings, documents and delays.

3PL Selection

A third party logistics provider can store and ship your product so that you do not need your own warehouse. We define your requirements, shortlist providers, compare cost and service, and help you agree terms. For food, we check certifications, temperature control and traceability.

Distribution Network Design

For larger programmes, we design the network of warehouses, partners and routes that serves your target regions.

Logistics Optimization

We review what you do today and find savings in cost, speed and reliability, such as consolidated shipments, better pack configurations or a different port of entry.

Common problems we help solve

• Landed costs that are higher than quoted because of storage, handling and freight.

• Temperature control failures and spoilage in transit.

• No US warehouse, and not knowing whether to use a 3PL.

• Slow or unreliable delivery to retailers and foodservice buyers.

• Too much or too little stock.

• Customs and import paperwork that delays deliveries.

How we work

1. Discover. We learn your products, volumes, shelf life, customers and current logistics.

2. Design. We model the options and costs and recommend a supply chain design.

3. Source. We shortlist and negotiate with 3PLs, carriers, warehouses and forwarders.

4. Launch. We coordinate the first shipments through the new set up and fix teething problems.

5. Scale. We review performance and costs regularly and adapt as volumes and customers grow.

Guides

• Food export compliance between the US and Europe: a practical checklist

• How small food producers can enter the US market without a big budget

• FDA Prior Notice explained

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a US warehouse?

Not always. Many brands start with a distributor or a 3PL that stores and ships their product, and move to their own warehouse only when volumes justify it. We help you compare the options.

How do I choose a 3PL for food?

Look for food safety certification, correct temperature control, good traceability, experience with your product type, and clear pricing for storage, handling and shipping. We help you define the requirements and compare providers.

What is cold chain and when does it matter?

Cold chain means keeping chilled or frozen products at the right temperature from production to delivery. It matters for any perishable product, and a break at any step can make a compliant product unsellable.

Should I distribute myself or use a distributor?

A distributor gives you reach and takes on handling, but takes a margin and gives you less control. Self distribution gives control, but needs resources. We model both so that you can decide with numbers.

Can you help with freight and customs?

We help you select and manage freight partners and coordinate documents with your customs broker. For regulatory steps, see our International Trade and Regulatory Support service.

Can you help with supply chains in both directions?

Yes. We support flows between Europe and the US. Confirm the specific lanes with us when you contact us.