Ford parts up for re-tender
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by Karen Miles • Ford is re-tendering distribution of up to 2,500 tonnes of car parts per day to its UK factories as part of a general review to cut distribution costs.
The winner could be in a strong position to take over additional Ford component work when it comes up for tender next year. The move is seen by sources close to the car giant as the first stage in cutting costs by reducing the number of carriers it uses in all areas of its business, including car transporting.
Ford says that although it wants to reduce its suppliers it remains "openminded" on car component distribution: "It could, but needn't, come down to a single carrier," says Ford's transportation and logistics services manager for Europe, Stephen Harley.
NFC's BRS/Exel and Swift currently share the work put up for tender.
BRS/Exel collects from Midlands' suppliers and Swift from the South-West.
The UK review comes as Ford declares it will study its Europe-wide needs for transport.