Parfetts has completed preparations for a possible second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the wholesaler expanding its stock holding levels with additional storage facilities.
Since March, the company has worked with suppliers to maintain its promotional offers programme and secure stock. It has also continued enhanced staffing levels and Covid secure measures since lockdown was eased.
Professional security guards were also supported at each depot during trading hours in order to ensure the social distancing measures were put in place. It also limited the number of customers that can enter a depot at any one time is limited and implemented queuing systems.
Parfetts modifies operations to deal with corona crisis
Furthermore, it increased its direct load facilities where customers pull up and a member of staff loads straight into the van. It has also invested in expanding both its click and collect service and delivery capacity to reduce numbers in the depot.
“We know this year, and the lockdown period, in particular, has proven exceptionally challenging for retailer,” explained retail director Guy Swindell “We believe the steps we have taken since March have provided an industry-leading service through the crisis. We increased staff levels, made our depots Covid secure and maintained promotions to ensure our retailers are safe and still benefit from great value.
“We already have two depots, in Manchester and Halifax, that are in areas of local lockdown and it’s clear that the government is concerned about a possible second wave in Autumn. Rigorous planning has been completed to ensure we have adequate stocks of the essentials from flour to toilet rolls,” he added.
