Peak preparations 2024 logistic supplies are in full swing

Spring peak is coming. We expect a slightly higher supply compared to last year, but when it falls in the peak is still hard to estimate. Everyone knows by now that the weather is very decisive in this. For the logistic supplies department, preparations for peak 2024 start immediately after the previous peak with the evaluation: how did it go, what went well, what can be improved. Based on this evaluation, we then determine how many logistics means we will purchase in order to have sufficient supplies for the coming peak.

Based on these actions, we are confident that we will be able to meet our availability targets for the upcoming peak as well.

Learning from the previous peak

We conclude each peak with an evaluation to determine possible areas of improvement for the next peak. This evaluation, together with the supply forecast for the next peak, forms the starting point for our preparations, such as purchasing (auction) trolleys, packaging and hiring CCs. In 2023, the logistics means peak went smoothly: we committed significantly less internal overnight rental (buyer-trolley) and there were only two local issue stops of (auction) trolleys throughout the peak.

5,000 new (auction) trolleys and other actions

• To keep our trolley pool up to standard, we have purchased 5,000 new (auction) trolleys and are repairing broken trolleys daily.
• We looked at our own internal processes and released additional (auction) trolleys where possible.
• More internal overnight rentals in May to reduce the number of unplanned internal overnight rental nights.
• To avoid any shortages, we are in active daily contact with transporters to have (auction) trolleys picked up at that hub where availability is greatest.
• Finally, we hereby urge all users not to keep (auction) trolleys unnecessarily occupied and to quickly eject them. This too will help increase availability during busy times.

55,000 extra CC containers available at Royal FloraHolland CC depots

This year, we made arrangements with Container Centralen to have extra CC containers available during peak periods. During the busy period, we can increase availability by some 55,000 CC containers. With this, we expect to achieve similar availability as last year.

No storage charges for CC material during the peak

During the peak period, you do not pay any storage costs for CC containers and plates. This allows you to leave CC material at our depots without costs/expenses/charges, which means more CC containers are available. This year, the peak period starts on the night of Sunday 3 to 4 March 2024. During the peak period, a peak surcharge applies for both CC container and plate rental. This surcharge ensures, that CC material is returned faster and we can also spend it again faster.

Keg stocks replenished

To ensure the availability of our packaging in the peak too, we have purchased new packaging and replenished stocks to the required level.