TNT Logistics UK has been awarded a five-year contract to operate two man home delivery servicesfor the newly-launched Tesco Direct, the British supermarket group’s new online home shopping
service.Tesco Direct will at the launch offer in excess of 8,000 product lines and about 1,000 ofthese will require the two-man home delivery service – from sofas and wardrobes, to home gyms andoutdoor play equipment. Customers can order through the tesco.com website, by telephone or byvisiting the Tesco Direct desk located within selected Tesco stores.
The nationwide service will utilise dedicated Tesco Direct vehicles as well as TNT Logistics’multi-user TNT Home fleet, which already delivers furniture and larger goods for other retailers.TNT Logistics has installed software systems, including its HDi home delivery system, Red Prairie’sDLx warehouse management system, Paragon route planning and PenPod for the collection of electronicsignatures.
The logistics operation will be run out of the brand new 38,000 sq metre NationalDistribution Centre at Crewe which TNT will manage on Tesco’s behalf and also utilise six homedelivery platforms, from Glasgow to Exeter. Initially over 200 TNT staff will be employed on theoperation increasing as sales volumes accelerate.
Neil Ashworth, Supply Chain Director, at tesco.com, said TNT Logistics’ long-standingexperience in home delivery was a key factor in awarding the company the business. “They are theideal logistics partner for us as they have the expertise we require to ensure the deliveries aremade as promised to our customers. In addition, through the use of the TNT Home fleet, they give usthe flexibility to grow the business in a cost-effective way. As with all parts of the Tescobusiness, the focus upon customer service is paramount, and TNT have demonstrated an enthusiasm towork with us to make the customer experience amongst the best in the market.”
Neil Crossthwaite, Managing Director, TNT Logistics UK, commented: “We look forward toworking closely with Tesco Direct as they build this whole new business offering. Our team hasexperience in launching major home delivery supply chains from scratch and I am sure ourpartnership with Tesco Direct will be an outstanding success.”
“We look forward to expanding the operation as Tesco Direct wins more and morecustomers. Through the resources of TNT Logistics, we can offer instant access to theexpertise, IT systems, personnel and vehicles at precisely the level that suits Tesco Direct’s rateof growth.”
TNT Logistics’ other customers within the home delivery sector include House of Fraser, ThePier, Habitat and B&Q.
