Logistics in the food and beverage industry

The food and beverage industry is an industry that has changed significantly in recent years. This was mainly due to changing purchasing behavior on the part of customers. An ever-expanding product range, new supply chains and strict hygiene regulations pose major challenges for warehouse logistics.

Increasing demands on the food industry

One factor affecting the food industry today is the ever-increasing customer demands. These have led to an expansion of the general product range in recent years and have prompted many companies to expand their assortment. Keyword: SKU proliferation. On the logistics side, great adaptability and scalable processes are necessary here.

Digitalization is also having a lasting impact on the food industry. New business models, such as distribution via online stores and home delivery, are having a major impact on stationary retail. Thus, both food wholesalers and retailers must adapt their logistics processes to remain competitive.

This is what a warehouse in the food industry should meet

Food and beverages are goods that can pose a health risk to consumers if stored incorrectly. It is therefore essential that the warehouse operator complies with all legal requirements and has important certifications.

Conditions in the warehouse

Especially in the food industry, it is important that the goods are stored at the ideal temperature. The best examples here are probably chilled and frozen goods. To ensure that the cold chain is maintained, the warehouse must be equipped with temperature monitoring and a temperature alarm. In addition, the equipment used in the warehouse must also be designed for these low temperatures and ensure the safety of warehouse workers.

HACCP

In connection with the temperature in the warehouse, a concept for the entire goods handling must also be established according to HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points). This includes truck unloading, goods storage, processing of orders, storage per se, retrieval and truck loading. The goal of HACCP is to protect consumers through accurate documentation and traceability of food.

Trained staff

For warehouse providers working with customers from the food industry, it is of great importance to employ a properly trained staff. Employees, especially from the picking and packing area, must know the legal hygiene regulations and be aware of the risks of non-compliance. In addition, internal corporate communications should also emphasize the importance of hygiene regulations.

Necessary certifications

Especially in recent years, organic food is becoming more and more popular. More and more food manufacturers are having their products certified today in order to adapt to the demand. A storage service provider who wants to store the corresponding products must also have certification. This states that organic goods must not come into contact with other goods and could be "contaminated" by them.