Sprint and Agilis Improve Operations for Schnuck Markets

“This solution gave us capabilities above and beyond what had been previously sought … resulting in a significant return on investment for Schnucks.”
– Bob Drury, Senior Vice President of Logistics, Manufacturing, and Information Technology, Schnucks Markets, Inc.

BACKGROUND
Schnuck Markets, Inc., is one of the largest privately owned companies in the nation, with 103 supermarkets and pharmacies in seven states. Founded in 1939, Schnucks has remained a family-owned and -operated business for three generations.


CHALLENGE
Schnuck Markets, Inc., is a successful regional grocery chain and one of the largest privately owned companies in the country. Schnucks supplies 103 stores in seven states using a fleet of more than 100 delivery trucks, all carrying critical, highly perishable cargo. Prior to engaging with Agilis, Schnucks used GPS locators in its trucks to collect some tracking data, but dispatchers had to manually record deliveries and plan route changes using enormous sheets of paper. Even common questions or updates could require multiple phone calls to drivers. The lack of an integrated, automated system made it difficult to ensure timely and efficient delivery on a consistent basis. In addition, Schnucks faced strong cost pressures due to increasing fuel prices and other expenses.


SOLUTION
Agilis Systems, Inc. developed a customized fleet management solution for Schnucks using the Agilis’ Mobile Resource Management software . SmartLOCATE provides dispatchers with each driver’s real-time location using a truckmounted, GPS-enabled phone. Agilis’ software provides integrated web-based dispatching, work order management, routing and automated call ahead services in a single, affordable platform. Rather than dealing with distracting paperwork, drivers now download to their phone their scheduled stops and route information at the beginning of each shift. Dispatchers follow their progress on a Web map, easily capture delivery information and provide updates on-the-fly. If bad weather, traffic problems or urgent customer requests require route changes, it’s simple to make adjustments and automatically alert drivers. After each stop, the next Schnucks store on a driver’s route is notified to prepare for delivery, greatly reducing costly idle time. Drivers also enjoy the security and convenience of having a mobile phone for use in emergencies.

RESULTS
Agilis Systems enabled Schnucks to greatly increase efficiency, lower costs and improve customer service. Idle time for each delivery has declined by nearly 16 percent, reducing expensive fuel usage and allowing each driver to make an additional delivery during every shift. Real-time route management has decreased time previously lost to traffic and weather delays, and dispatchers can prioritize and respond to customer needs immediately via the nearest available driver. The new system is also completely paper-free, more reliable and responsive, safer and more satisfying for drivers, and less expensive to implement and maintain.