Musgrave in mobile track and trace deal with VisionID

10 Jun 2011

Supermarket group Musgrave has invested in a new state-of-the-art track and trace system that will help cut journey times for deliveries to its various stores, including SuperValu and Centra stores nationwide.

The handheld device also doubles up as a mobile phone and log for drivers, eliminating a lot of administration activity.

Musgrave says the asset-tracking feature of the technology, which allows them check where every single metal delivery trolley or ‘combi’ is at all times, has resulted in cost savings that fully justify the investment in this technology.

As part of a major investment drive to boost efficiencies, it looked into mobile computing and asked VisionID to develop a handheld platform for its logistics team and delivery drivers.

Within its in-store operations, Musgrave was already using Motorola handheld computers installed and managed by VisionID. The devices were working well and VisionID was selected by Musgrave to help with the new, €500,000 project.

Boosting business performance with mobile devices

Musgrave selected Motorola’s rugged MC75A Enterprise Digital Assistants (EDAs) and VisionID supported the implementation and deployment of the system throughout the island of Ireland, according to Stephen Bennett, supply chain systems manager of Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland.

“We continually seek to enhance business performance and drive efficiencies,” Bennett said. “We recently deployed a mobile computing platform based on Motorola’s MC75 Enterprise Digital Assistants.

“The MC75As are prepared, deployed and maintained by VisionID. As with any major IT deployment, we had some teething issues. But the support, professionalism and attention to detail of VisionID and Motorola ensured problems were resolved quickly.

“We are delighted with the technology. The initial focus of the project – to use bar-code labelling to track, trace and ensure the safe return of our delivery containers – is quickly delivering an excellent ROI for the business.

“We are also achieving efficiency and accuracy benefits by using the technology to collect electronic proof of delivery, optimise fleet utilisation and route guidance, and automate reporting and eliminate paper trials,” Bennett added.

Photo: Stephen Bennett, supply chain systems manager of Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland; and Cathal Murtagh, VisionID

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com