The world is moving on, and things are changing. Nowadays, we use the word ‘disruptive’ to describe the speed of these changes and the associated uncertainty.
However, what does this actually mean? What does it mean for the collaborations Scherpenhuizen has, both back and forth in the chain? What does the grower and retailer/wholesaler's 'mobility' mean for this Dutch wholesaler's market position?
"It means clearer choices. Engaging in lasting, intensive relationships with growers and daring to invest in that. Mutual transparency is becoming increasingly important", says Inge Luimes. From 1 February 2018, she will be Scherpenhuizen's new Commercial Director.
"Having choices is also becoming increasingly important in building up a permanent customer portfolio. Here, added value is becoming more important too. We continue to do what we are good at, and that is being responsive to the wishes of the client. No is not in our vocabulary",
Fresh packs
"One of the added value products from Scherpenhuizen are the fresh packs because convenience is trendy. Twenty years ago fresh packs were inconceivable. Grocery shopping was simply done in the supermarket", says Inge.
"However, times are changing. Now, the little Picnic vehicles are driving up and down in the streets. This is an unstoppable trend. With the fresh packs, we provide for the increasing demand for convenient, healthy products."
"We have everything in-house to respond quickly to the retailers' orders. We have our own growers, a new packaging station, logistics apparatus, and our own fleet. In combination with the innovative power of our marketing team, this makes for a great diversity of fresh packs", she continues.
Maximum flexibility
"Of course, the production of fresh packs demands a different way of thinking. Different packs, with a large variety of volumes, are ordered every day. It is a challenge to receive orders in the afternoon and send them out for delivery that evening already. It demands maximum flexibility from everyone. However, it also creates enthusiasm and a positive dynamic in this quieter winter time."
"Overseas, these fresh packs have not yet been welcomed with open arms. That is where the next challenge lies.", Inge says.
"As a farmers' marketer, we are proud to see our fresh packs, filled with Dutch products, in the store shelves. In the hectic pace of our daily lives, let us not forget to be proud of our Dutch products. In 2019 as well," concludes Inge.
Source: www.nature.nl