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15 September 2017
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Australia supply chain improvements yield results

The PGG Wrightson Australian Seeds business, which was established in 1938, is a proprietary seed company operating across the country. Its activities cover all aspects of the seed market, from research and development through to product supply, distribution and technical on-farm supply. The operation, which employs 120 staff, includes a highly respected research and development programme which is based in Ballarat, Victoria. The team evaluates products developed in New Zealand and develops products unique to the Australian market and conditions (both temperate and sub-tropical). In addition, some products (due to their suitability to the conditions of those countries) are released into South America and New Zealand.



Since 2006, the business has undertaken an active acquisition programme including six key strategic businesses (identified due to their key geographic location or for their ability to extend the product offering).



While the business continues to identify acquisition opportunities, during the last two years it has focused on a review of its supply chain to allow it to better operate in a highly competitive market.



Investment by the company over the last two years has resulted in significant gains in supply chain efficiency and enhanced customer service delivery.



This process is mostly complete, with a few remaining initiatives to implement. The most recent investment was in a purpose-built warehouse and office complex in Melbourne, which opened in December 2016, incorporating best-in-class logistics and processing equipment.


PGG Wrightson Seeds General Manager Australia John Stewart said, “we now have fewer, larger facilities operating more efficiently. We have less internal transfers, more efficient freight routes, and improved infrastructure.

“Australia is a highly competitive market and having the best products and the best people needs to be supported by the most efficient supply chain. Our supply chain is well positioned for the future needs of the business including growth expectations and the service needs of an increasingly customised market,” said John.



The business has consolidated its logistic facilities from 13 to nine sites. Inefficient processes, including double handling of product through distribution centres, have been eliminated.



Phase one of the supply chain review, which focused on the footprint, is all but complete. Now the business is focusing on warehouse management systems to streamline processes and to incorporate technology to enhance efficient operation. One of the key initiatives is a new CRM system, which is currently being rolled out across the business.



John concludes, “Australia is a big country, so having an efficient supply chain is critical to our operational efficiency both now and in the future. We operate across all states so our production base is literally spread across the continent. From origin to destination we are spread far and wide.



“Having an efficient and effective supply chain is about keeping both ourselves and our customers competitive. An efficient supply chain, which delivers high quality seed to farmers and allows them to remain globally competitive, is what we want to achieve,” said John.



Pictured: PGG Wrightson Seeds General Manager Australia John Stewart with National Supply Chain Manager Quintin McCall inside the new warehouse facility at Truganina, Victoria which opened in December 2016.

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