NFT urges food firms to ‘be prepared’ for Olympics

NFT is urging food manufacturers and retailers to bring forward availability and adopt strict dispatch time policies during the Olympics, or face a failure to sell their goods in the event of delays.

The chilled distribution specialist says real-time monitoring and communication of sales will be key to the success of the supply chain during the Games.

“Retailers and manufacturers must reserve capacity at the earliest opportunity to ensure delivery on shelf,” says NFT supply chain director Alex Fisher.

He predicts that “food on the go” is likely to replace traditional chilled products in the South East, which will see fundamental changes in customer profile for the duration of London 2012.

“Sandwiches are at the higher end of the forecast and as one of the largest sandwich transporters in the UK, this is a hugely important area for NFT. We’re looking at a projected increase of around 20% nationally and up to 100% in the South East.  However, ultimately, no one knows exactly how customers are going to behave, so the supply chain has to be prepared for all eventualities,” adds Fisher.

He adds that NFT has learned a lot from the Diamond Jubilee, which saw volumes increase by 30% to 40% without notice, and has devised contingency plans with clients, taking into account the Olympic Route Network and restrictions on deliveries.