4 supply chain strategies QSRs are adopting right now
From supplier collaborations to cutting-edge high pressure processing.
QSRs continue to improve their supply chain systems, with a focus to boost product quality, ensure supply consistency, and reduce costs.
Suppliers as collaborators
At Pacific Retail Management, suppliers have become critical collaborators in developing new product lines and creating a competitive edge – an evolution from their traditional role of simply providing raw ingredients.
“As sushi is our business, the perfect blend of sushi rice is obviously an integral part of our recipes, currently we are working closely with Sunrice and Daiwa on a special blend of sushi rice,” said Nicola Mills, Group MD, Pacific Retail Management, the umbrella group which operates Go Sushi and Wasabi Warriors.
Group buying
Meanwhile at SumoSalad, cost efficiency is the name of the game, which means a strong preference for group buying to drive down the cost of ingredients and packaging materials.
"At SumoSalad we are always looking for new ways to ensure our supply chain is operating at it’s most efficient. Where feasible, we work with national suppliers to improve cost of goods through group buying. This also ensures efficiency, product quality and a high level of consistency,” said SumoSalad CEO Luke Baylis.
Price lockdowns
Cost is also key concern for Burger Edge, and their supply chain solution involves locking down prices instead of participating in lengthy and unpredictable yearly bidding.
“We have locked down pricing from early 2013 and continue to work with the same suppliers for the long term. We find this better than tendering out our business to the lowest bidder every year. Quality is assured and mutual support delivered is the result,” said Burger Edge franchisor Issam Soubjaki.
High pressure processing
Some franchises like SumoSalad are even venturing into advanced technologies like high pressure processing. Baylis said the healthy food chain is eyeing a possible 2015 rollout for this supply chain innovation.
