Rexel UK is now using Podfather fleet planning, route optimisation and electronic proof of delivery software to strengthen its supply chain.

Operating a mixed fleet of nearly 400 vehicles, ranging from 3.5 tonne vans to 18 tonne trucks, Rexel makes around 5,000 deliveries a day. Rexel uses Podfather to manage overnight deliveries from its hubs, including a newly opened multi-million-pound distribution centre in Aylesbury, to branches across the UK. The logistics solution is also used at a regional level for ‘last mile’ deliveries from branches to customer sites or home locations.

At the start of each shift, all Rexel drivers are guided through a series of customised vehicle checks to ensure both driver and vehicle are roadworthy and ready for the day, or night, ahead. These checks include welfare questions in accordance with Rexel’s FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) accreditation, as well as routine safety checks, and all responses are recorded, using the Podfather app, making them easy to access for fleet management and compliance reporting.

For ‘last mile’ deliveries, Podfather is used to plan routes and optimise vehicle journeys ensuring customer time windows are met, unnecessary mileage is reduced and vehicle capacities are maximised. Details of the route are sent directly to the driver’s mobile device, removing the need for paper tickets and delivery manifests, and ETA notifications are sent by email and text. This has transformed Rexel’s customer facing interactions and removed the disconnect between sales and warehouse operations.

Chris Davey, Supply Chain Director at Rexel, commented: “Using Podfather we have professionalised our delivery service from the start of each driver’s shift right through to the point of delivery. We know that our drivers and vehicles are fit for purpose; we know our operation is as efficient as possible, and we have real-time visibility of schedules as they unfold. This information is easy to access and easy to share, meaning that our warehouse and branch operations are better connected and that our customers are well informed.”

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