SolutionsAsia Pacific June 2013
3 2112 24Woolworths Victoria
Lean savings Linfox in the Asian Century
Community report card
SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS
Developing our network across the Asia Pacific
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Contents
Woolworths Victoria
Linfox in the Asian Century
Lean savings
Community report card
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Chairman’s note 1
CEO’s message 2
Woolworths Victoria 3
Queensland milk run 4
Toast to New Zealand 6
Linde Malaysia 8
Long haul 9
Tesco growth 10
New network 11
Linfox in the Asian Century 12
Meet Michael Kwan 15
Mondelez moves in 16
Delivering excellence 18
Flexible advantage 20
Lean savings 21
Spotlight on India 22
Community report card 24
Developing future leaders 28
Fork on the road 29
John Kershaw retires 30
Peter Fox receives Olympic Orders of Merit 31
Supporting women in logistics 32
A driving force 32
Fun in the sun 33
Grand Prix circuit upgrade 33
Growth focusLinfox maintains its traditional values and commitment to quality while seeking growth from a richly varied economic environment.
Linfox’s acquisition of Mayne’s Contract Logistics 10 years ago doubled the size of our business at that time. Since then we have again doubled in size, predominantly by expanding work with our customers in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. We also opened operations in India and Vietnam during the last decade, increasing our footprint across Asia. With 60 per cent of the global population, Asia is the world’s fastest growing economic region. The rapid rise in Asian consumerism creates strong demand for sophisticated supply chain expertise to efficiently manage the movement of a growing volume and range of products to market.
China’s current GDP growth, while marginally down on recent years, at 7.7 per cent backs forecasts that its long term strategy for growth is sound. Similarly in India, with GDP growth now at 5 per cent, there is optimism for a resurgence in growth in the near to mid-term.
Asia’s growth also drives development in Australia’s resources and other export industries, meeting demands for major infrastructure improvements and calling on our expertise in service industries, including supply chain management.
Building efficienciesLinfox is adapting advances in technology and operational innovation to drive efficiencies in our operations in mature and emerging economies.
A new Linfox hand-held Android tablet for our drivers is now being tested in the business to combine fleet tracking technologies and supply management processes in one device that will save time, reduce costs and improve safety and sustainability performance.
Importantly, the impetus for innovation at Linfox comes from everyone in the business, with drivers and warehouse employees contributing their ideas for change along with supervisors, managers, IT specialists and administrators. Our LeanFox continuous improvement program has already rolled out to many areas of the business and Linfox employees are keen to see their ideas for improvement implemented and yielding benefits.
Our new work with Woolworths in Victoria expands a customer partnership that has developed over more than 35 years. This highlights the importance of forging strong customer partnerships that share a strategic, as well as an operational focus.
In India, another Unilever DC, at Dindigul, has been added to Linfox’s management portfolio, strengthening our partnership with Unilever across six countries in the Asia Pacific.
Environmental efficiencyLinfox has reduced its rate of greenhouse gas emissions by 42 per cent since implementing our environmental sustainability strategy six years ago. That represents a tremendous commitment by our people and a smarter approach to energy use across operations.
The most significant contribution to this success has come from the way we use diesel fuel, which is responsible for around 90 per cent of Linfox’s energy consumption. This includes maintaining a fuel efficient fleet through our eco-driver training program and ensuring we and some use of bio-diesel fuels. We have now begun investigating options for generating solar energy at warehouses.
Looking forwardLinfox’s success rests on our commitments to safety, customer service, supply chain expertise, developing our people and investing in leading technologies. Our leadership in these areas has underpinned the business’s growth over nearly six decades.
We are well equipped to continue developing our customer partnerships in an increasingly challenging and complex business environment.
Peter Fox - Chairman
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Long term viewOur ongoing productivity demands a long term view of the business and our operating environment.
Linfox is committed to strategic growth through ongoing investment in the infrastructure, technology and skills needed to achieve our long term goals. While day-to-day monitoring and operating decisions are crucial, the decisions for the long term allow us to develop new efficiencies and new business growth. We are currently embarking on a number of key construction projects to support long term growth and efficiency. In Western Australia a new state-of-the-art centre will be built, combining our multi-user warehouse and railhead facilities to support the growing rail freight business between Australia’s east and west coasts.
On Australia’s east coast, a new purpose-built warehouse is nearing completion for our highly specialised Australian pharmaceuticals business. In Sydney, we are building a 15,600m2 DC to streamline the national distribution network for Arnott’s.
In Thailand, we designed and are completing a major new temperature controlled DC for the Minor Food Group, a key restaurant chain operator, to drive new efficiencies for our customer.
Business growthThis month Linfox began store deliveries for Woolworths’ supermarkets in Victoria. Winning this contract is a testament to the professionalism and specialisation that our Retail team has developed to streamline operations in an intensely competitive supermarket sector.
Linfox already works with Woolworths in other states in a partnership that began in 1977.
The Retail team has also expanded its work with Tesco in Shanghai, and in Thailand we have redesigned Tesco’s store delivery operation to match the significant growth in our customer’s convenience store network.
We continue to develop our network of centres that support our vehicles on the long journey between Perth and the Pilbara, ensuring a reliable supply chain operation for our resources industry customers in Western Australia.
Linfox has developed the scale to deliver leading supply chain systems across the Asia Pacific. This includes implementing the IT systems, commu-nications and training needed to deliver effective solutions for our customers in rapidly expanding economies in Asia.
Safety and our peopleIn safety, Linfox continues to develop new ways to ensure that technology and training complement our people’s commitment to making safety our number one priority. Over the last seven years our lost time injury frequency rate has been reduced by 90 per cent however it is incumbent on us to keep striving to achieve our vision ZERO goals every day, ensuring we look after the welfare of all our people and our customers’ people.
People are the key to our success and Linfox is committed to providing ongoing learning opportunities for all our employees. Linfox College is pivotal in providing learning opportunities for Linfox employees, from a range of short online courses to management development courses at leading business schools around the world.
Through our graduate and leadership development programs we ensure that our current and future leaders will bring a consistent integrated approach to managing our business across all our geographies.
As we approach the end of the 2013 financial year, Linfox continues to focus on enhancing its supply chain leadership in safety, systems and service. We look forward to strengthening our customer partnerships to achieve continuous operational improvement.
Michael Byrne - CEO2
Woolworths Victoria
Linfox began store deliveries to Woolworths’ Victorian stores this month, extending our 36-year partnership.
The move to a contract store delivery service in Victoria aligns with Woolworths’ transport model in all other Australian states.As a transport specialist Linfox’s innovative transport operations and commitment to service and safety allow the Woolworths team to focus on their core business, while our team will implements systems developed over many years of service to the retail industry in Australia, New Zealand and Asia.
Woolworth’s General Manager of Logistics, Craig Partridge said, “When Woolworths decided to bring Victoria into line with all other states, we were really pleased to partner with Linfox. Reliable logistics is the cornerstone of our success as a supermarket retailer and we know that Linfox will deliver for us, figuratively and literally.”
New networkThe Victorian distribution system is based at Woolworths’ three DCs in Melbourne and supplies stores across the metropolitan region and Gippsland with a fleet of 65 vehicles and 160 trailers.
Linfox’s President Retail, Nicholas Capp said the Retail team was delighted with the beginning of the new operation.
“We have welcomed over 150 new members to our team serving Woolworths and look forward to working with our new customer to introduce new systems.”
“We have built on our longstanding relationship
and understand each other’s strategic and
operational directions.”
Shared commitmentsLinfox CEO Michael Byrne said, “Both companies value safety and continuous improvement. We have built on our longstanding relationship and understand each other’s strategic and operational directions.”
The Woolworths business began with one store in Sydney’s Pitt Street in 1924. Today Woolworths’ stores are prominent in every metropolitan and regional centres across Australia and New Zealand.
Linfox operates store deliveries for Woolworths in Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, and New Zealand and manages online shopping deliveries in NSW and Victoria.
From left: Woolworths General Manager Craig Partridge and Linfox CEO Michael Byrne.
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Linfox began delivering Lion milk products to retailers across Queensland in early 2012. One year into the contract, the team has overcome floods, consolidated two DCs and conducted a comprehensive safety audit.
The 10-year milk distribution contract uses road and sea to deliver milk across Queensland, from the Torres Strait Islands in the North, Cunnamulla in the West and Coffs Harbour in New South Wales.
Queensland Regional Transport Manager FMCG, Andrew Todd said milk deliveries originate from Lion’s two milk facilities at Crestmead and Malanda.
“A fleet of 14 Volvo prime movers distributes milk to retailers, including large supermarkets and metropolitan and regional milk depots,” Andrew said.
“In far North Queensland, milk is shipped by barge from Cairns to the Torres Strait Islands.”
Queensland floods Earlier this year, Cyclone Oswald caused severe storms, flooding and tornadoes across Queensland.
Andrew said the floods in January and February presented significant communication and transport challenges.
Andrew said, “Ensuring isolated communities had adequate milk supplies became our top priority and we pulled out all the stops.”
Linfox and Lion worked closely to re-route vehicles and devise alternative schedules and distribution strategies.
Queensland milk runLinfox has helped transform milk distribution for Lion Dairy and Drinks across Queensland.
“Ensuring isolated communities had
adequate milk supplies became our top priority.”
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DC consolidationThe Linfox team worked hard to facilitate the consolidation of Lion’s two distribution centres in June last year.
Inventory from Lion’s Booval facility near Brisbane was transferred to the company’s milk production and storage facility at Crestmead.
Lion Dairy and Drinks Distribution Coordinator Qld, Nathan Sugars said, “The Linfox team coordinated stock movement, packed orders and designed transport schedules to ensure an efficient, timely consolidation.”
SafetyLinfox and Lion share a commitment to safety and employees contribute actively to safety meetings.
In the lead up to last year’s ‘go live’ at Crestmead, Linfox conducted a comprehensive safety audit of Lion’s facilities and delivery destinations.
“Some of the delivery points are very remote and our people frequently make late night deliveries to unmanned depots,” Andrew said.
“We spent a week training drivers in Linfox’s safety procedures and conducting ‘dry runs’ to ensure they are familiar with each delivery location.”
One stop shopLion produces market-leading dairy and beverage brands including Pura and Berri.
The dairy business purchases around 2.3 billion litres of milk annually from more than 1,000 Australian farms. Milk is processed to produce a broad range of full cream, flavoured and modified fresh and UHT milks.
Linfox’s strong partnership with Lion includes managing the company’s national DCs in Sydney and Melbourne and local juice and milk distribution in Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.
From left: Operations Supervisors Phil Stephan and Andrew Woods with QLD Graduate Sarah Collis.
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Toast to New Zealand Linfox manages warehouse operations for Lion’s popular range
of packaged beer, wine and spirit brands in New Zealand.
Known as ‘The Pride’, the Lion Brewery in Auckland produces some of New Zealand’s best-loved beers, ciders and pre-mixed drinks including Lion Red, Speight’s, Isaac’s Cider and Steinlager. Lion also imports a large range of international beers, wines and spirits for distribution across New Zealand.
NZ Warehousing Manager, Brian Wilson said the Linfox operation for Lion is based across two manufacturing sites in Auckland, as well as Linfox’s multi-user DC in Christchurch.
“The Lion Brewery site is our busiest and we employ around 125 people to manage raw materials and pick, pack and process products for distribution,” Brian said.
The Lion Brewery in Auckland, NZ.
Forklift Driver James Issac.
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“At the nearby Springs Road storage and manufacturing facility, we process products for export and provide overflow devanning and warehousing services for Lion’s imported beverages.”
“Lion product is packed into containers in Auckland and then shipped to our Christchurch multi-user DC for the South Island market,” Brian said.
“At most sites we run a minimum of two shifts each day to manage the demand for Lion products.”
Peak planning Brian said demand for Lion beverages increases dramatically in the lead up to public holidays.
“The lead up to Christmas is by far our busiest period. Demand steadily increases from October as the weather improves and continues throughout January,” Brian said.
The Lion Brewery produces around 180 million litres of beer annually. In peak periods bottling lines can turn out up to 120,000 bottles an hour.
“Linfox implements a range of measures during peak periods including increased shifts, seven-day weeks and additional personnel,” Brian said.
“Our focus on peak period planning ensures a smooth and efficient operation that enables Lion to continue to deliver excellent customer service when demand is highest.”
Continuous improvementLinfox and Lion work closely to implement projects designed to increase productivity and employee engagement.
“Our Peak Prizes program recognises our highest performing employees. Prizes are awarded for productivity, teamwork and the willingness to go above and beyond,” Brian said.
“We also encourage employees to participate in organised group physical activities to improve their health and wellbeing.”
Strong partnership At the 2012 Lion Supplier Awards, Lion awarded the Linfox team at the Lion Brewery with an ‘Achieving Together’ award.
New Zealand Country Manager, Nick Snelling said the award is testament to our strong customer partnership.
“The award recognises our joint safety achievements and excellent customer service standards,” Nick said.
“It also recognises our ongoing productivity growth and improvements to order fulfilment.”
“The Lion Brewery site is our busiest and we employ around 125 people to manage raw materials and pick, pack and process products for distribution.”
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Linde MalaysiaLinde Malaysia has reappointed Linfox to distribute its range of bottled gas products for the next three years.
Linde Malaysia manufactures and distributes medical, industrial and specialty gases and provides a range of related services including the installation of gas equipment and pipelines and engineering services. Linfox Operations Director Industrial, Vicky Narendran said Linfox transports Linde gas products from the company’s filling plants to sales centres and customers throughout Peninsular Malaysia.
“Linde has three filling plants located in central, southern and east coast Peninsular Malaysia,” said Vicky.
“Linfox set-up an operation office at Linde’s filling plant in Petaling Jaya that administers a team of 55 Linfox drivers and support staff who manage the distribution operation within the region.”
Continuous improvementLinfox recently conducted a comprehensive review of Linde’s transport scheduling.
“Linde manages their own scheduling and through close collaboration, Linfox’s team of experts were deployed to assess the company’s distribution requirements against fleet utilisation and capacity.
Custom fleetA custom built fleet of 50 Nissan and Volvo rigid and trailer truck combinations service the regions of Melaka in Central Malaysia, Kluang in the South and Kuantan in the South East,” said Vicky.
“The trucks were purpose built to accommodate a cylinder delivery pallet and are fitted with tail lifts and cranes.
“Trucks servicing metro areas are fitted with reversing cameras and all our vehicles feature GPS technology.”
Safety firstLinde Malaysia is also an industry leader in safety and has invested substantially in safety training and development programs.
The company’s comprehensive Safety Management Program is aimed at all production and administration employees as well as customers, the public, auditors and suppliers.
“Linfox employees working with Linde undertake training in emergency procedures, hazard recognition, cylinder handling, speed management and fatigue prevention,” said Vicky.
“Drivers also complete 15 days of on-the-job training under the supervision of a senior driver.”
Linde Malaysia is part of The Linde Group of companies which operate in more than 100 countries worldwide.
From left: Rahmat Bin Mad Sallih and Nizam bin Rahman.
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Long haulLinfox has developed a sophisticated supply chain solution to support Fortescue Metals Group’s vast iron ore operations in the Pilbara.
Linfox provides a vital lifeline for Fortescue’s operations, spread across the ore rich Pilbara region in north Western Australia. Fortescue is the world’s fourth largest iron ore producer.The Linfox team delivers general freight and diesel fuel to ensure iron ore continues to reach port and export markets. Last year, Fortescue processed more than 55 million tonnes from its Cloudbreak and Christmas Creek mines and expansion works at these facilities and its Solomon mine will see production rise to 155 million tonnes per annum.
Linfox’s Hazelmere resources super site in Perth serves as a key centre for receiving general freight for Fortescue, handling anything from paper clips to oversize steel frames and ore milling drums.
At Hazelmere, 6,000m2 is used to receive, store and despatch freight on the 1,500+ kilometre journey to Port Hedland, Cloudbreak, Christmas Creek and Solomon mine sites.
Michael Hogg, Linfox’s Contract Manager for Fortescue says that Hazelmere’s master control room is a key tool for managing our work for Fortescue.
“The control room allows us to plan, monitor and manage all of our operations,” Michael said. “This allows us to meet our customer’s critical delivery time windows over great distances and to take immediate action if things don’t go according to plan.”
Since January we’ve been using the Linfox Transport Management Solution, based on SAP’s latest transport management system, which Linfox and SAP teamed up to develop for the Hazelmere operation.
“This gives our team and the Fortescue team complete visibility of operations.”
The Hazelmere site is also the base for our fleet of 13 prime movers and 74 specialised trailers that form triple road trains to reach Port Hedland and the Pilbara mine sites.
The state-of-the-art vehicles are built for driver comfort and efficiency across some of Australia’s harshest conditions. The cabs feature air-conditioning, spacious sleeping areas, fridges and water storage. They also carry our FoxTrax GPS monitoring system, satellite and mobile phones, as well as UHF radios. Drivers also carry a four-day survival kit.
“Linfox’s Hazelmere resources super site in
Perth serves as a key centre for receiving
general freight for Fortescue.”
Fortescue’s Herb Elliot Port in Port Hedland.
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Tesco growthLinfox has expanded its work with retailer Tesco in Shanghai, China.
Linfox Country Manager China, Reese Sun said, “Our team has added return cargo transport from Tesco stores to Tesco’s Return to Vendor Warehouse in Jiashan, Zhejiang Province China.”“Linfox was awarded the new work based on our strong partnership with Tesco. We began our business partnership with Tesco in China in 2009 and now have a team of 68 employees, including 34 drivers and a fleet of 24 trucks to meet their transport needs.”
“Linfox serves 135 Tesco stores in East China and 14 Tesco Express stores,” Reese said.
OptimisationThe new work with Tesco helps to optimise the use of our fleet in our customer’s transport operations. It will also reduce overall carbon emissions and generate new efficiencies.
“Our Eco-drive training and the new back haul work will reduce our rate of carbon emissions,” Reese said. “And our focus on safety and improving the environment complement Tesco’s values.”
Operations Director China, Melanee Smith said, “Our drivers complete rigorous testing and training, including defensive driving courses, numerous toolbox meetings and inductions.”
Tesco is the world’s second largest retailer employing over 520,000 people with over 6,700 stores in 12 markets.
Linfox also works with Tesco in Thailand.
Team discussion at the Tesco Jiashan Green Logistics Centre, China.
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New networkLinfox has designed a new stores’ delivery system that aids Tesco’s strong growth in Thailand.
Tesco Lotus, the global retailing giant’s Thailand business, added over 300 new Express stores in 2012 and plans opening another 400 Express stores this year.
The convenience store format suits a developing consumer lifestyle in a vibrant economy that enjoys full employment and strong GDP growth.
The challenge for Linfox was to continue its delivery efficiencies for a stores’ network that has dramatically changed in number and predominant style. Express stores carry significantly less stock than Tesco’s Hypermarts and Talad supermarket stores.
After modelling various options, the Tesco-Linfox team trialled a new delivery system using large vehicles to deliver regional stock to a hub store, and then transferring the preconfigured loads into smaller vehicles for distribution to Express stores in the region.
The smaller vehicles are pre-cooled to 1Co before the transfer of stock between vehicles to ensure product integrity during the transfer process at the hub store.
Linfox Senior Analyst, Adam Green said that the trial generated significant savings.
Adam said, “The trial materially reduced overall distance travelled, the number of long distance deliveries and provided better truck turns. Tesco and our team were delighted with the improvement in efficiencies.”
The new delivery system is now operating in four regions and will be rolled out across Thailand in the coming months.
“The trial materially reduced overall
distance travelled, the number of long distance deliveries
and provided better truck turns.”
Drivers K. Jukkrid Miyaset, K. Wiphat Wandee, K. Wisphong Thitareeyatharanich, K.Anucha Promree
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Linfox in the Asian Century
Asia offers remarkable growth opportunities for Linfox.
The rise of middle class consumerism across Asia is driving strong demand for sophisticated supply chain solutions that continue to open business opportunities for Linfox.At Linfox’s February board meeting in Bangkok we opened a new high-tech control room that monitors and manages our 1,000+ fleet operating throughout Thailand. The control room and its GPS and other tracking devices, demonstrates our commitment to leading-edge technology for our customers across the Asia Pacific.
Linfox began operating in Asia 25 years ago. Today, two-thirds of Linfox’s full time equivalent jobs are in Asia.
Pallet driver Mr. Chookchai Parsontia in Thailand
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Our Thailand business was one of the company’s first steps into Asia. It now employs more than 3,500 people delivering warehouse and transport services to six key customers including Tesco, Unilever and the Minor Food Group.
Our customers represent a mix of leading global and local brands. They need operating systems that are economic and reliable, which provide visibility and can manage large volumes of stock with accuracy. They also value the fact that safety is our first priority and that our employees have the skills and knowledge to deliver first-class service.
Annual GDP growth rates of between five and nine per cent characterise the Asian economies in which we operate. The World Bank predicts growth rates of 8.4 per cent in China and 6.1 per cent in India for this coming year, both countries with a strong Linfox business presence.
Well placed for growthAustralian business leaders played a key role in last April’s Boao Forum in China, which brought together regional politicians and executives.
Attending the Forum’s business meetings, Lindsay Fox said we are still developing friendships in China so that we continue to share our knowhow and build business. Linfox has well established operations with global businesses in Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai. And our work with key resources companies in Australia is also linked to strong demand for infrastructure developments across the region.
Asia’s development as a global manufacturing powerhouse is generating new business opportunities across the Asia Pacific. We are in a strong position to take advantage of that growth.
Site Manager Cao Manh Nguyen based in Vietnam.
“Asia’s development as a global manufacturing
powerhouse is generating new business opportunities across the
Asia Pacific.”
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“Every manager and every person at a Linfox
operation is aware of their safety responsibilities, no matter what their location
or language.”
A range of servicesOur business in Vietnam began in 2005. More than 1,000 people now deliver transport and warehouse services for Unilever, PepsiCo, BlueScope Steel and Phu Bia Mining. The growth has been quite rapid, meeting the demands of our customers’ expanding markets.
Linfox’s supply chain offering brings a package of services. Safety is our number one priority and a well-established program of training and processes ensures every manager and every person at a Linfox operation is aware of their safety responsibilities, no matter what their location or language. Safety materials are provided in local languages across our Asia Pacific operations.
State-of-the-art communications and operating systems are essential for efficiently managing millions of transactions for our customers.
Linfox is developing leading-edge warehouse and transport management systems that can efficiently manage the growing complexity of our customers’ supply chain operations. This is supported by secure data storage systems and efficient communication channels.
People poweredBuilding our people’s skills and knowledge across the region is vital for our ongoing success. A majority of Linfox people live and work in Asia and we are focused on delivering consistent standards and procedures across our Asia Pacific footprint.
Our graduate program, which aims to develop supply chain careers and Linfox’s future leaders now has a significant Asian graduate component. This year seven of the graduates entering the program are from Asian countries in which Linfox does business.
These graduates, from a range of tertiary disciplines, work and learn in Australia for the first 12 months of the program and then complete on-the-job training in their home country. This strengthens the knowledge and understanding of Linfox processes across the region. It also complements our leadership development courses, which build the skills of the company’s leaders and future leaders, ensuring an integrated global approach.
Regional structureThe transfer of knowledge and skills and rapid communication channels help us deal with the challenges of working across borders and cultures. We are well advanced in establishing an integrated regional structure that is capable of efficiently deploying solutions across the region. A solid business structure is critical for maintaining a leadership role in our industry across the Asia Pacific.
Linfox in Asia Customer industry types
China: FMCG,retailandpetroleum
India: FMCGandindustrial
Indonesia: FMCG
Malaysia: FMCG,retailandindustrial
Thailand: FMCG,retailandindustrial
Vietnam: FMCGandindustrial
A Linfox delivery for Tesco in Shanghai.
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Meet Michael KwanHong Kong Operations Manager, Michael Kwan has more than 36 years’ experience in the transportation of petrochemicals.
Michael oversees Linfox’s activities in Hong Kong and manages our relationship with customer, ExxonMobil. “Linfox Hong Kong employs a team of 70 people including 37 drivers and three supervisors who are highly trained in transporting dangerous goods,” Michael said.
“The team provides bulk transport of ExxonMobil’s petroleum, diesel and gas products from two distribution centres on Tsing Yi Island, an industrial area to the north of Hong Kong Island.”
Michael joined Linfox when the business first established its Hong Kong office in 2001.
The tiny island boasts an impressive network of highways and roads to meet the ever increasing demands of the city’s population.
Prior to joining Linfox, Michael was employed by chemical manufacturer, Union Carbide, a subsidiary of Dow Chemicals, focusing on health and safety, inbound and outbound logistics and compliance audit.
“Linfox’s rigorous safety and compliance standards complement Hong Kong’s strict regulatory environment,” Michael said.
“Improving safety systems is something I’m personally interested in so it’s a very good fit for me,” he said.
“Commitment to safety and management visibility are very important for success”. Michael said
Michael is a qualified Loss Prevention system trainer and holds memberships with the Hong Kong Logistics Association and the Association for Operation Management in USA.
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Mondelez moves inLinfox played an integral role in the recent relocation of Mondelez International to a new national distribution centre in Derrimut, Victoria.
Formally Kraft Foods Australia, Mondelez International produces market leading products including Vegemite, Easy Mac macaroni and salad dressings.
Linfox provides warehousing for the company’s range of ambient food products, which are sold nationally through major outlets including Coles, Woolworths and IGA supermarkets.
A team of 40 Linfox employees work across two daily shifts to manage, pick, pack and process products for distribution.
Smart move
The expansive 30,000 m2 facility boasts a state-of-the-art fit-out and is conveniently located near major interstate highways and roads.
The DC is home to more than 250 unique product lines and can accommodate up to 28,000 pallets.
Linfox Site Manager, Shaun Micallef said the Linfox team formed a dedicated Project Management team for the relocation.
“The team was involved in every step of the site’s relocation and fit-out on commissioning, from DC layout and design to providing advice on IT systems and safety,” said Shaun.
“We collaborated closely with the Mondelez logistics team to ensure a seamless transition was achieved.”
“The DC will better accommodate Mondelez’ expanding product range and enable future growth.”
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New and improved Linfox trained all new employees in our LeanFox efficiency program to ensure the Linfox culture of continuous improvement was carried over to the new site.
“Both companies utilise LeanFox learnings to ensure our people are empowered to identify improvements in everything we do,” Shaun said.
The team recently introduced a new fleet of Toyota high-reach and counter balance forklifts to improve full pallet and layer picking activities.
“The forklifts feature the latest in RF scanning technology to simplify the picking process and improve efficiency,” he said.
A new forklift battery charging system was also implemented alongside the fleet upgrade.
“The new system has led to increased battery longevity and eliminated the guesswork involved in recharge scheduling.”
New beginnings In 2013, Kraft Foods Australia and New Zealand joined global snacking company, Mondelez International.
While Kraft boasts a new name, the company’s 125 year history and range of leading brands remains the same.
Mondelez International is one of the world’s largest snacks companies with global net revenues of $35 billion in 2012.
The company enjoys leading market shares in every category and every region of the world in which they compete.
Site Safety Coordinator, Michelle Walley with Linfox warehouse employees.
Inventory Manager, Kasun Weerasinghe and Linfox Graduate, Anongnuch Maipongpattana.
“The DC will better accommodate Mondelez’
expanding product range and enable future
growth.”
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The state-of-the-art automatic storage and retrieval system at the Kellogg’s DC.
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Delivering excellenceLinfox is delivering safety and operational excellence for Kellogg’s at its first automated DC in Australia.
It was 1924 when Kellogg’s introduced its iconic Corn Flakes breakfast cereal into the Australian market, closely followed by the construction of its first plant at Botany, New South Wales (NSW) where production continues today.
Almost 90 years later, Kellogg’s is a household name for Australian families with products that have grown to include everything from breakfast cereals to snack foods and beverages that are manufactured and distributed around the clock to meet demand from major retailers across the country.
Linfox’s first automated DC Linfox operates the Kellogg’s DC in NSW where its team of 42 employees work 24/7 across three shifts as part of a ten-year contract that began in 2006.
In a state-of-the-art automatic storage and retrieval system (ASRS), which is the first of its kind for Linfox’s Australian operations, the DC connects to the Kellogg’s production plant via an air bridge where products are transferred to an automated crane system.
This leading ASRS technology provides significant supply chain efficiencies through its computer directed cranes that put away and retrieve up to 200 pallets in high density racking every hour.
Human intervention occurs when the teams move pallets from conventional racking to staging lanes awaiting interstate or local vehicle arrivals.
Linfox manages 4.6-metre high-cube trailer deliveries carrying 68 pallets to Queensland, Victoria and South Australia, and 42 pallet deliveries to the Sydney basin. The site also loads rail and sea containers for distribution to New Zealand, Tasmania and the Linfox multi-user site in Western Australia.
Continuous improvement with a flexible system
In addition to ongoing excellence in Linfox’s safety performance, a number of operational areas have also been improved including inventory accuracy, returns processing and Warehouse Management Solutions (WMS).
John Ansley, Linfox’s President Supply Chain Solutions, Implementations and CIO said that the company’s SAP enterprise resource planning system provides a powerful tool for the business and customer needs.
“Today’s dynamic markets demand robust systems that cater for a wide variety of complex operations, making the flexibility of the SAP system a perfect fit for Kellogg’s’ automated DC,” said John.
Operator David Xu unloading pallets from the despatch conveyor.
Loader Mou Ranapia loading an interstate Linehaul trailer.
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“Our fleet of nine specialised vehicles means that almost no order is impossible to move.”
The Unilever DC in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Flexible advantage
Linfox provides flexible distribution services for one of New Zealand’s largest plastics manufacturers.
Marley New Zealand, part of the Aliaxis Group, manufactures and imports specialised plastics products for New Zealand’s construction and infrastructure industries.
Marley products are also exported worldwide to countries in South East Asia, the Pacific Islands, Australia and the UK.
New Zealand FMCG General Manager, Dylan Turner said Linfox distributes goods from the company’s expansive DC in Auckland across New Zealand.
“Linfox employs a team of specially trained drivers, an onsite operations manager and dedicated customer service personnel to service Marley customers across the entire North Island,” Dylan said.
“We also provide specialised overnight and urgent delivery services to major centres in the South Island.”
“Our fleet of nine specialised vehicles means that almost no order is impossible to move.”
Adaptable service Marley is committed to providing excellent customer service and offers next day delivery on orders placed before 4.30pm.
“Linfox delivers to a wide range of customers, from large retailers, specialist plumbing merchants, electrical suppliers and construction sites,” Dylan said.
“Large items such as coils and pipes measuring up to 18-metres are loaded onto specialised flat Hiab trucks while smaller items are delivered in truck and trailer curtain units.”
Our specialised fleet and flexible approach to scheduling provides Marley with superior customer service and a strong competitive advantage. Safety firstLinfox and Marley share commitments to safety and continuous improvement.
“The volume and variety of our work with Marley requires an increased focus on safety,” said Dylan.
“The team has a transparent and collaborative approach to safety involving monthly joint safety meetings where employees are encouraged to offer new safety initiatives.”
“Our focus is firmly set on achieving Vision ZERO.”
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Lean savingsLinfox’s continuous improvement program, LeanFox is empowering our people to develop new efficiencies.
LeanFox is a combination of Lean and Six Sigma processes adapted for Linfox operations.
Linfox’s Group Manager – LeanFox, Peter Buriani is passionate about the program which is being methodically rolled out across the business.
“Our operators are very keen to contribute their ideas to improve the processes they operate every day,” Peter says. “The training ensures we have a solid method to measure our operations, analyse the data and identify ways to eliminate wasteful processes.”
“Once we’ve trained our people at a site, they are very enthusiastic about contributing their ideas for analysis and seeing the results. Simple ideas can contribute significant savings.”
Lions DCLinfox’s Erskine Park DC has recently provided a working example of the LeanFox program in action.
Through the recent implementation of a wireless label printer, the team has considerably reduced labour inefficiencies, increased productivity, as well as reduced forklift travel by around 11,000 kilometres per annum at the site.
The printer has been mounted directly on the forklift, which eliminates the need for employees to make a separate trip to collect dispatch labels from the DC Hutch area.
Shared benefits“Our team members are delighted to see their ideas delivering benefits, for our operation and for our customers,” Peter says.
“The LeanFox team continues to roll out the training program. While it takes time, there are significant benefits to be gained.”
The wireless label printer.
“The team has considerably reduced
labour inefficiencies, increased productivity,
as well as reduced forklift travel by around
11,000 kilometres per annum.”
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Spotlight on India
Linfox is meeting demand for state-of-the-art supply chain services in India.
The Hindustan Unilever DC in Bangalore.
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Linfox has built a strong business position in India over the last seven years, delivering sophisticated supply chain operations to leading businesses in the FMCG and industrial sectors.
Our operations employ more than 2,100 full time equivalent roles with training to Linfox’s world-class standards of safety and operational excellence.
Acting Country Manager, Malcolm Pereira says that Linfox delivers a level of service required by global businesses in an expanding economy.
FMCGMalcolm said, “We began operations with Hindustan Unilever in 2006, handling warehousing operations and management and ‘kitting services’ for the global personal and home care products business.”
“Linfox is Hindustan Unilever’s largest warehousing partner, delivering expert facility management to six DCs, at Chennai, Bangalore, Khanna, Ambala, Ghaziabad and Dindigul.”
In addition to warehouse management Linfox also provides secondary transport services to the Hindustan Unilever warehouses.
Linfox also operates three modern DCs for Asian Paints, one of Asia’s largest paint producers. The DCs, at Kasna, Ankleshwar and Hyderabad, incorporate state-of-the-art automatic system retrieval systems for the management of a large range of leading Asian Paints’ products.
Asian Paints is India’s largest paint producer, with operations in 17 countries and sales in over 65 countries.
IndustrialOur work with Tata Steel, the world’s sixth largest steel producer, is based at Jamshedpur, a large industrial centre on India’s east coast.
Jamshedpur was established by Jamshedji Nusserwanji Tata. The Tata steel plant began operating in 1912.
“We operate a fleet of more than 150 trucks with specially designed trailers to safely transport steel coils across India,” Malcolm said. “The two key routes are 1,800 kilometres to Bangalore and 1,700 kilometres south to Chennai.”
Linfox transports close to 8,000 tonnes of steel per month on these routes and another 18,000 tonnes locally within Jamshedpur.
A majority of the trucks in our Tata steel fleet are made by Tata Motors, part of the Tata group of companies.
“Linfox has built a strong business in India’s expanding economy.”
Senior Driver Trainer Tapan Bhowmick and Driver Trainer Jitan Prajapati.
India focuses on safety
Linfox achieved record participation in India’s 2013 National Safety Week in March this year.
Safety Week is sponsored by India’s National Safety Council, raising awareness of safe workplace practices.
Linfox’s National Safety Manager India, John Mathews said maintaining a relentless focus on safety is crucial in India, a country notorious for its challenging safety conditions.
“This year’s record participation in Safety Week programs, included posters, slogans and crossword competitions.”
“Our employees’ families also participated in large numbers.”
John says Linfox’s strong training regime and safety programs are paying off and he is buoyed by a tangible shift in attitudes and behaviors.
“Most importantly, our safety record continues to improve. We have reduced our injury rate by over 90 per cent since 2007.
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Community report cardLinfox recognises the importance of business in the broader community and we are committed to making a positive impact on individuals, communities and the environment.
Linfox supported Melbourne Zoo’s 150th anniversary.24
Linfox CEO, Michael Byrne said Linfox has a proud tradition of philanthropy and community support.“Our people are guided by the Linfox Values, a powerful set of values and behaviours that shape our daily actions,” Michael said.
“Our success as a business and as individuals is measured by our results and our behaviours.”
“A range of initiatives, from our Indigenous Employment Program of community support, are designed to uphold our values, develop our people and contribute to the wider community.”
Community engagement Linfox provides financial and in-kind support to a range of community organisations across the Asia Pacific region through our business and the Fox Family Foundation.
A selection of these organisations is profiled below.
Surf Lifesaving Clubs, Australia In line with our strong commitment to safety, Linfox sponsors the Portsea and Jan Juc Surf Lifesaving Clubs in Victoria, Australia. Our support helps to fund Nipper development programs and the purchase of equipment including boards, rescue boats and shade tents.
Bumi Sehat, Indonesia Bumi Sehat is a non-profit organisation offering free healthcare, emergency and midwifery services to disadvantaged women and children in Bali and Aceh, Indonesia. Linfox funds operational
“Our success as a business and as
individuals is measured by our results and our
behaviours.”
costs and medical supplies for blood transfusions, vaccinations and surgery.
AKLD Rescue Helicopter Trust, New ZealandThe Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust (AKLD) is an accident and emergency rescue and transport service for the greater Auckland region, including the Coromandel & Hauraki Gulf Islands. Linfox provides funding for specific rescues and general operating costs.
Fox Family Foundation The Fox family has a proud tradition of philanthropy and is committed to making a lasting difference in our community. The Fox Family Foundation was established in 2011 to manage the family’s charitable donations and activities.
In 2012, the Fox Family Foundation made a generous donation to the Fight Cancer Foundation, established to fund research and provide care, treatment and support for people with leukaemia and other forms of cancer.
Lending our supportLinfox provides in-kind services to a number of organisations, including the Melbourne Zoo and the Australian Olympic Team.
In 2012, Linfox helped Melbourne Zoo celebrate its 150th anniversary, transporting 50 elephant sculptures to landmarks around Melbourne. The Mali in the City exhibition featured life-sized sculptures of Asian Elephant calf, Mali.
Linfox Chairman Peter Fox helped raise a record $2.2 million dollars to support the Australian Olympic Team’s quest for gold in London in 2012.
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Peter chaired the Committee behind the Prime Minister’s Olympic Dinner at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The sold-out event was attended by VIPs from government, business and sport. Peter has also been an executive member of the Alfred Hospital Foundation since 2001.
Disaster relief Linfox is proud to provide financial support and in-kind logistical services to communities affected by natural disasters.
In recent years, our people have assisted the communities impacted by the 2009 Victorian Black Saturday bushfires and the 2011 floods in Thailand and Queensland.
In December 2012, Linfox partnered with Australian Red Cross and Lions Clubs of Australia to assist the communities affected by the bushfires in New South Wales and Tasmania.
Our Linehaul Business Unit helped transport emergency supplies, including equipment and stock feed to the affected communities in Tasmania. The team also provided the transport and use of shipping containers for community storage.
Environmental sustainability Environmental sustainability means meeting our current operating needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Linfox CEO, Michael Byrne said Linfox has made significant investments in programs to reduce our rate of global emissions.
“We’ve reduced our rate of greenhouse gas emissions by 42 per cent, well on the way to achieving our goal of a 50 per cent reduction by 2015, based on our 2007 emissions,” Michael said.
“The reduction has been a progressive and sustained effort by Linfox people who have embraced our strategy.”
Linfox continues to identify opportunities to reduce our environmental impact. A selection of these initiatives is profiled here.
EcoDriveMore than 3,000 drivers across Linfox have received Eco Drive training. This training program is designed to maximise opportunities for fuel efficiency by teaching efficient techniques to our drivers.
Biodiesel B5 biodiesel is being introduced to key sites across our operations. B5 is a diesel blend that includes five per cent biodiesel, diesel produced using plant or animal fats, and contributes to our reduction in carbon emissions.
Energy efficiencyIn 2012, we increased our focus on identifying potential energy savings in our extensive warehouse operations. This includes warehouse design initiatives, such as the installation of smart lighting systems and increasing the energy efficiency of our materials handling equipment.
Our Energy Efficiency Guidebook, Site Habits tutorial and site manager briefings encourage sustained behavioural change and continued carbon emissions reductions.
“Environmental sustainability means meeting our current
operating needs without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet their needs.”
Jason Stan-Bishop filling a tank with B5
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The GreenFoxThe GreenFox symbol has helped raise our people’s awareness and encouraged their commitment to environmentally sustainable practices. When you see a Linfox driver, look for the GreenFox symbol, certifying that they have completed Eco Drive training.
Creating indigenous opportunities Linfox’s Indigenous Employment Program (IEP) is delivering real employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians.
Linfox launched the IEP in 2010 as part of the Australian Employment Covenant and has already employed more than 200 Indigenous Australians.
President HR, Laurie D’Apice said the program identifies suitable job opportunities and matches them to applicants.
“Candidates are offered real jobs and receive training and mentor support to foster job satisfaction and retention,” Laurie said.
“Strong partnerships and respect are central to this mutually beneficial program.”
“Indigenous communities are strengthened through employment and training opportunities and our business benefits from quality personnel.”
Perth-based Linfox airfreight van driver, Richard Stanton joined Linfox in October, 2012. Richard is the 200th Indigenous Australian to be hired through Linfox’s Indigenous Employment Program (IEP). His work is based at the Henderson site in Perth for our work with Agility Logistics on the WA’s massive Gorgon gas field development project.
Richard’s fellow employees Ryan Hicks and James Trinidad also joined Linfox through the IEP in early 2012.
Foot in the door Ryan works as a Night Shift Supervisor in charge of a small team and James was recently promoted to Yard Supervisor.
Linfox Henderson Site Manager, Sean Fiddes says, “They’ve thrived in their roles and are some of my star performers. The IEP is an excellent opportunity to attract quality employees.”
Payroll Administrator, Fiona Hunt and Safety Coordinator, Shelley Woodcock.
From left: Sean Fiddes and Richard Stanton.
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Developing future leaders While defining leadership characteristics can be difficult, it’s easy to spot a future leader when we come across one.
Linfox’s Future Leadership Development Program (FLDP) cultivates leadership qualities in highly capable middle-managers and helps them become successful leaders.
Fourteen employees from Australia, China, India, Malaysia, New Zealand and Vietnam graduated from the program in March.
“The 18-month program brings high potential employees together over four sessions to develop and challenge their leadership skills,” Linfox Organisational & People Development Manager, Tracie Maulden said.
“Participants visit sites and complete targeted work projects. They also develop business improvement initiatives and present them to our Executive Leadership Team.”
FLDP Facilitator, Ernie Schwartz said the notion that leaders are born and not made is outmoded.
“Program participants develop a range of crucial skills, from influencing techniques to commercial skills training to conducting difficult conversations,” Ernie said.
“The training equips participants to motivate their people to perform at their best.”
Future leader profile: Aidan Lovelock New Zealand Retail Contract Manager, Aidan Lovelock oversees our work with 223 Countdown Supermarkets in the North Island.
Aidan says he’s benefitted greatly from the FLDP and believes it has changed him as a person.
“I can see a dramatic change in the way I lead people,” he said. “Success in our work requires some toughness, but exercising empathy and active listening helps you inspire and motivate others.”
Future leader profile: Barath AshokIndustrial Regional Manager, Barath Ashok manages three sites across India for Linfox’s work with Tata Steel.
He said that the FLDP provides tools that are easily applicable to real-life situations.
“The FLDP’s taught me how to be more self-aware and to use this to influence and manage my environment.”
“It’s also helped me encourage my team members to achieve some great improvements in their work.”
Linfox FLDP graduates from across Australia, China, India, Malaysia, New Zealand and Vietnam.
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“The 36D forklift provides heavy-duty lifting for our
Mining West operation at Hazelmere.”
Fork on the road
Transporting a 45-tonne forklift 3,400 kilometres across Australia’s Nullarbor Plain presents unique challenges.
Fleet Manager, Mick Best transferred the Omega 36D heavy forklift from Melbourne to Linfox’s Hazelmere supersite, a state-of-the-art facility that supports our work for customers in Western Australia’s resources industry.
Linfox National Manager at Hazelmere, Brad Trenwith said, “The 36D forklift provides heavy-duty lifting for our Mining West operation at Hazelmere. The forklift will be used for container movements and large mining industry equipment.”
Mick drove a Western Star prime mover and a new special purpose trailer designed for heavy large loads. He said, “The new trailer opened up to accommodate the 3.7 metre-wide forklift. And a dolly was required as the mass gross weight was almost 80 tonnes.”
A pilot escort shadowed the journey due to the length and width of the float.
“Everyone should take the time, at least once, to drive across the Nullarbor and see how vast this wonderful country is,” he said.
Mick Best crosses the Nullarbor.
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John Kershaw retires
From Supervisor to Country Manager, John Kershaw’s 30-year career with Linfox has taken him and his family to posts across Australia, Asia and New Zealand during exciting times of growth and expansion.
“When I first started with Linfox I was a new immigrant with no formal degree and no Australian, but some overseas logistics experience.
“Within six months I was promoted to Contract Manager and before long I was working in exotic locations helping to start new sites of operation for the business and taking my family with me,” John said.
Career highlights for John include growing the Linfox business in Perth; launching our operations in Malaysia; expanding business in Thailand and New Zealand; and more recently, assisting newer country expansion programs in India and Vietnam.
When asked what makes Linfox a great place to work, John cited strong leadership, commitment to customer service and the Fox family.
“The Fox family is down to earth and enormously supportive and loyal to their staff. Throughout my time with Linfox, I feel blessed to have felt part of the Fox family and to share in the successes of the business,” John said.
John remains as busy as ever in retirement. Now based in Thailand, he looks forward to regular visits to Australia, the UK and Middle East to see his children and grandchildren, other family members and friends, many of whom are former Linfox colleagues.
From left: Peter Fox and John Kershaw.
“John said strong leadership,
commitment to customer service and
the Fox family make Linfox a great place.”
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From left: Peter Fox and AOC President John Coates.
Peter Fox receives Olympic Orders of Merit Linfox Chairman, Peter Fox AM was recently awarded Orders of Merit from the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) and the Victorian Olympic Committee (VOC).
Peter was presented with the AOC award by its President John Coates in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Australia’s Olympics team, at the recent AOC Annual General Meeting in Sydney.
A key highlight in 2012 was Peter’s leadership role in planning the 8th
Prime Minister’s Olympic Dinner at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre where 1,400 guests, including prominent athletes, politicians and entertainers, gathered for Australia’s official fundraising function for the 2012 London Olympics.
Under Peter’s leadership, the dinner raised a record $2.2 million on the night, which was a significant success for the AOC and Australia’s Olympic movement.
AOC Olympic Orders of Merit are awarded to individuals who have achieved remarkable merit in the sporting world through their outstanding contribution to Australia’s Olympic teams and the Olympic movement and sport.
Peter was one of only six Australians to receive the honour, including Chairman of the Australian Sailing Team’s Patrons Program, John Calvert-Jones AM, television executive Gary Fenton and Deputy Chair of the South Australian Games Appeal Committee, David Prince OAM.
“A key highlight in 2012 was Peter’s leadership role in planning the 8th Prime Minister’s
Olympic Dinner.”
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Supporting women in logisticsLinfox is committed to employing a diverse workforce that is representative of our wider community.
Driver Melissa Campbell.
Female employment is encouraged across the Linfox business, including in non-traditional occupations such as transport and warehousing.
General Manager Human Resources, Gaylynne Neill said Linfox engages women through policy leadership and we are continually looking at engagement initiatives.
“Around 30 per cent of our 2013 Linfox graduates are women and female logistics leaders are actively engaged in the Program’s recruitment strategy,” Gaylynne said.
“Linfox recognises the benefits of flexible working options and special arrangements are accommodated wherever possible.”
Linfox was a major sponsor of Victoria University’s Women in Supply Chain Luncheon in 2012 and our female employees are active participants in the Australian Logistics Council’s Women Moving Forward (WMF) initiative.
A driving force Perth-based Linfox road train driver, Melissa Campbell says long-distance driving appeals to her independent spirit and practical nature. The mum of three hauls everything from heavy machinery to pallets of food in a 550 hp Linfox prime mover to Western Australia’s iron ore rich Pilbara region.
“From Perth, I travel around 300 kilometres North to Wubin in a double road train configuration before another trailer is added for the Pilbara leg of the journey. My load and destination varies so each day is different,” Melissa said.
Melissa says she’s seen a huge increase in the number of female drivers since joining the industry 23 years ago.
“Many women are discovering the benefits of driving and the blokes are really supportive,” she said.
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Fun in the sunVietnamese Linfox graduate, Quyen Nguyen (aka Queenie) joined our Graduate Program in 2012.
Grand Prix circuit upgradeLinfox’s Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit has had a $3 million facelift with the entire 4.445 km track being resurfaced.
Organisational & People Development Manager, Tracie Maulden said, “Linfox offers a structured Graduate Program to develop leadership in Asia. It includes exposure to operations across different countries, which benefits our Graduates from Asia.”
“Over their first 12 months in Australia, the graduates develop strong relationships with managers, mentors and peers. Graduates such as Queenie are then instrumental in sharing information to educate colleagues on operations across Asia Pacific,” she said.
Queenie is currently completing her final rotation at the Unilever site in Vietnam after two workplace rotations in Australia.
Director of Linfox Property Group, Andrew Fox was thrilled with the results and proclaimed the surface, “as smooth as a babies’ bottom”.
The real test came in mid-February, when the world’s leading production bike riders came to Phillip Island for the opening round of the 2013 Superbike World Championship.
The riders tested the new track prior to the event to test the added grip provided by the denser bitumen. The new circuit lost all the old bumps, divots and crevices that had served as reliable markers.
By the time race weekend arrived, the riders were on pace to smash existing world records.
Aprilia was the big winner in world superbikes with Frenchman Sylvain Guintoli and his teammate, Irishman Eugene Laverty taking a win each. In world supersport Turkey’s defending world champ, Kenan Sofuoglu (Kawasaki) put in an exceptional performance to win.
“The Unilever site in Vietnam is the biggest FMCG operation in Vietnam and we are currently working to improve the site’s efficiency.”
“On the job training, having a mentor and working with supportive teams have been valuable components of the program,” she said.
Queenie at the Unilever site in Vietnam.
Flying to the finish line in the Superbike World Championship at Linfox’s Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit.
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www.linfox.com
the clever australianStaying a step ahead of the supply chain
With 5000 vehicles operating in 10 countries, Linfox’s supply chain is a vast web of warehouses, trucks and routes. And Peter Fox, Executive Chairman of Linfox, knows that to keep all the pieces working in harmony, you first need to monitor them.
Due to the expansive coverage of the Telstra Next G® network, vehicle monitoring technology and one of the largest control centres in the Southern Hemisphere, Linfox now has that visibility, and it’s changing how they do business.
Linfox can now identify potential issues before they occur, leading to more streamlined and efficient processes that have already decreased turnaround times by 18%.
It’s the latest milestone in a 56-year relationship with Telstra which has seen Linfox grow from humble beginnings into one of the leading supply chain and logistics companies in the Asia Pacific.
Search ‘Clever Australian’ to find out more.
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