UK health, beauty and wellness retailer Boots has signed a new long-term logistics partnership with XPO Logistics that will support the integration of its supply chain and leverage new technologies, improve customer visibility and drive sustainable efficiencies.
The new supply chain operation facilitates the distribution of goods from two UK-based Boots Service Centres, in Nottingham and Burton-on-Trent, to various Boots Cross Dock Centres at scale across the UK and Ireland.
Boots will also benefit from 23 dedicated XPO Logistics support staff and two new operational fleets of varying sizes. One fleet will be assigned for product distribution based on scheduled routes, while the other will be a smaller fleet for dedicated shunting activity at both service center sites.
Overall, the new operation comprises 50 trunking drivers, 35 trunking vehicles, 22 shunt drivers and 10 shunt vehicles, operating seven days a week. Boots will also benefit from improved visibility through new track-and-trace technology and XPO’s system to monitor its carbon footprint.
Dan Myers, senior vice president, supply chain – Europe, XPO Logistics, commented, “Our partnership with Boots is built on a shared commitment to continually improving the supply chain that supports their customers. We’re combining operational expertise with increased digital visibility to enhance service reliability and make the network more responsive and efficient.
“Initiatives focused on fleet optimization and lower-emission transport are helping to reduce the environmental impact of deliveries. This collaborative approach supports Boots’ broader sustainability and customer experience goals.”
Keiron Samways, director, Burton warehouse, transport and distribution UK & ROI, Boots, added, “Our online operations continue to grow at pace as more customers choose to shop with us digitally. This long-term partnership with XPO Logistics strengthens our transport network across the UK and Ireland, giving us greater visibility, resilience and efficiency across our supply chain, supports our sustainability agenda and ensures we’re well positioned to support our customers today and in the future.”
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