Food logistics firm ACS&T buoyant after extending Kara contract

WOLVERHAMPTON-based food logistics specialist ACS&T has been awarded a three-year contract extension with Kara, the food service brand of Fletchers Group of Bakeries.

The monetary value of the contract has not been disclosed. 

The new agreement will see ACS&T manage all outbound storage and frozen distribution channels from Kara’s Manchester manufacturing site into food service wholesaler Bidvest 3663.  

Collecting direct from Kara’s production line, ACS&T will store all palletised deliveries at its Wolverhampton site, where it will pick and despatch up to 300 pallets per week of Kara’s range of frozen bakery products, including burger buns, speciality breads and teacakes.

The two companies have a working relationship spanning several years.

Kevin Shaw, supply chain manager at Kara, said: “We have formed an excellent relationship with ACS&T and regard them as a valued partner.  They align to our supply chain philosophy of cost, quality and innovation and have consistently exceeded our expectations in terms of service, delivery and quality.

“They are forward thinking in their approach and bring us innovate ways of working that enable us to service our nationwide distribution network through Bidvest 3663.  That’s why we’re pleased to extend our commitment to 2017.”

Mike Rice, business development director at ACS&T, said: “We have a strong understanding of Kara’s network requirements and we use our long experience in the food service sector to be as responsive as possible.”

ACS&T’s portfolio of customers includes 3663, McCain, Young’s Seafood and Menorquina.

The firm is a subsidiary of the international group Camellia Plc.