The new logistics network is being created based on advanced logistics models, in co-operation with outside experts. The key stage of developing the new system was completed in the second half of December 2012, when Stokrotka signed an agreement with Prologis concerning lease of a distribution centre.
The facility, with a total area of 27 000 sqm, including over 5 000 sqm of cold storage, is located in Teresin, in the Masovia province. This is where nationwide assortment will be stored. The products will be transported from here on a daily basis to regional warehouses and directly to stores.
In order to ensure the effective and timely distribution across the entire country, there will also be eight regional warehouses developed, serving as cross-docks. Some of the assortment will be stored there, while other items will be transported directly to the designated stores. Stokrotka is also presently in advanced talks with transport services and vehicle providers, aimed at ensuring an optimal mix of own and hired transport.
The transport will cover main distribution (to the regional warehouses) and final distribution (to the supermarkets).
Implementing its new long-term growth strategy, the Stokrotka supermarket chain intends to increase its competitive edge over other chains. Our goal is to develop an attractive offering for Stokrotka for both our clients and partners. To ensure the highest possible product quality and availability and to increase operational performance, we are building an in-house logistics system, which will let us procure a large majority of products directly from producers and not, as was the case until now, from distributors.
"In planning the supply chain, we are not excluding the possibility of further working with wholesale distributors - including Eurocash - although in a changed scope and on new principles," said Dariusz Kalinowski, CEO Stokrotka.
Stokrotka Sp. z o.o. is a company with Polish capital and rich traditions in Polish retail. Founded in Lublin in 1994, the company operates throughout the country. The first Stokrotka supermarket was founded in Łęczna near Lublin in 1996. The chain currently consists of 202 stores.
Stokrotka's typical sales area is 400 - 800 sqm, depending on the market's needs and conditions, however the chain also includes profitable locations that are either smaller or bigger than this. Each supermarket offers nearly 20 000 assortment items. This includes a wide array of fresh products: meats, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, dairy, chemical products, household cleaners, as well as alcohol and wines from all over the world. Stokrotkas also offer local products from regional suppliers and own brands (approx. 350 items).