Chelmer Foods, a key supplier of dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and pulses, has transformed its pallet management operations through a partnership with Tosca, a leader in reusable packaging solutions. By adopting Tosca’s pooled MP3/DIC 1210 reusable plastic pallets, Chelmer Foods has addressed operational inefficiencies, improved product handling, and strengthened customer satisfaction across its supply chain.
Tackling Operational Challenges
As Chelmer Foods expanded, the company grappled with managing thousands of pallets across four internal sites and a sourcing network spanning over 20 countries. The use of 6,000 second-hand plastic pallets created ongoing issues with durability, reliability, and quality consistency. Frequent pallet breakages required costly repairs and impacted delivery timelines, creating bottlenecks that strained customer relationships.
Simon Heather, Director at Chelmer Foods, described the situation prior to partnering with Tosca: “Since the initial discussions with Tosca began, the process has been extremely straightforward and has genuinely reduced the noise surrounding plastic pallets and associated issues.”
The Tosca Advantage
Chelmer Foods made the switch to Tosca’s MP3/DIC 1210 pooled pallets, a food-grade solution known for its durability and consistent quality. This decision immediately eliminated problems caused by broken pallets, enabling seamless operations and improving customer experiences.
Tosca’s pooling model further reduced Chelmer Foods’ logistical burdens, as Tosca took on the responsibilities of pallet maintenance, repairs, and tracking. This shift allowed Chelmer Foods to focus on its core business while achieving significant cost and time savings.
“Tosca’s pre-existing relationships with our customers have certainly made for a smooth transition, and it has gone exactly as planned,” Heather noted.
Sustainability and Future Goals
Chelmer Foods’ partnership with Tosca aligns with its sustainability ambitions. By using reusable plastic pallets, the company reduces waste and contributes to a more environmentally friendly supply chain. Looking ahead, Chelmer Foods and Tosca are exploring additional initiatives, such as utilizing Tosca pallets for inbound overseas deliveries and introducing foldable bins for greater space efficiency.
“Looking forward is always slightly tricky with demand from our customers ever-changing,” Heather added. “But in Tosca, I know that we have a partner that is flexible and has a willingness to try to solve those demands alongside us.”
A Blueprint for Supply Chain Innovation
This collaboration demonstrates how tailored pooling solutions can address complex supply chain challenges, enhance operational efficiencies, and meet evolving market demands. For Chelmer Foods, the switch to Tosca’s reusable pallets marks a significant step toward a streamlined, sustainable future, benefiting both the business and its customers.
