KFC picks DHL and QSL for UK logistics

KFC has appointed DHL and QSL (Quick Service Logistics) to manage the supply and distribution of food products, packaging and consumables for more than 850 restaurants throughout the UK.

DHL Supply Chain will manage the physical warehouse and distribution service, while QSL handle demand planning and stock management, with dedicated IT solutions. QSL will also manage operational purchasing for KFC as well as accounting for its operations.

The plan is to focus on reducing logistics-related emissions to net zero over the life of the contract, optimised delivery scheduling to provide a faster turnaround of orders, and greater integrity of food during transport.

Supply chain director Jens Hentschel said: “To date there has been little variation in foodservice logistics but we have specifically chosen DHL and QSL for their reputation for innovation in logistics across other industries.

“We are rethinking all of our internal and external processes, and placing distribution and logistics at the heart of our new supply chain strategy. We want to deliver a new level of service to our restaurants and franchise partners, improve the quality of service to our customers and reduce our environmental impact – all to a level that has never been done before. It’s an ambitious plan, but by working closely with our partners DHL and QSL we’re confident that we’ll be able to deliver against our strategic ambitions.”

John Boulter, DHL’s managing director of retail said: “We intend to re-write the rule book and create a stock management, distribution and reverse logistics model based on best practice from a range of sectors including foodservice logistics.”

German group QSL has worked with KFC across Europe since 2011. Managing director Florian Entrich said: “We are very proud that KFC has decided to use our tailored QSR solutions for its biggest market in Europe. With DHL, we are confident of establishing a new benchmark for quick service restaurants in the UK.”