Realising benefits in a tough market

Part of a wider business transformation and IT project, Podfather’s logistics planning, route optimisation and ePOD software will support Selkent’s growth plans integrating with the company’s ERP software and third-party systems to improve operational efficiency.

Using Podfather, Selkent plans to overhaul its delivery operation. The fleet logistics software will integrate with the company’s back-office systems to improve the efficiency of dispatch with automated pick-lists and digital delivery manifests. The system will also improve customer service with real-time tracking, delivery notifications and ePOD, and help Selkent transition to paperless working.

Selkent head of operations Lee Carpenter, says: “The construction sector is having a difficult time and the impact on its suppliers cannot be ignored. Labour shortages, rising costs, supply chain issues and regulation, are just some of the challenges to be overcome and in order for to us to maintain the high-quality service we are known for we knew we needed to take a close look at the delivery side of the business.

“We were already using some aspects of the system but realised we weren’t exploiting it to its full potential,” he continued. “So, we challenged ourselves to look at every aspect of our delivery service to see where improvements could be made and how these could be achieved. In every case Podfather had something to offer.”

Stocking more than 8,500 product lines ranging from nuts and bolts to site equipment including generators and safety equipment, Selkent operates from its operational hubs in London and Birmingham and has recently opened a new depot in Ipswich. Running a fleet of 16 vehicles ranging from 18 tonne trucks to 3.5 tonne electric vans, Selkent makes around 250 deliveries a day. 

For more information, visit www.thepodfather.com