Ecocleen have been awarded a prestigious cleaning contract at Tesco’s flagship distribution centre in Milton Keynes, Fenny Lock.
The distribution centre processes over 25,000 inbound pallets a week and despatches over 38,000 roll cages to 8 other Tesco depots. Almost 800 members of staff are employed within both the warehousing and office facilities.
The centre covers over 650,000 square feet and operates 24/7. Ecocleen operate with a total team of nearly 90 members of staff spread over 3 shifts every day with an intensive deep clean programme scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
Without doubt a hugely demanding site. Ecocleen have now been awarded a total of 7 Distribution Centre contracts since January 2008.
So what is making Ecocleen so successful in this difficult sector? Mark Eagleton, DC Operations Manager at Fenny Lock stated ‘We chose Ecocleen because of their level of commitment to a great service. Their management structure and work ethos instilled confidence. We felt very confident that we could create a partnership with them that would drive standards forward. If they don’t know they will ask, honest and fact based. Lots of suppliers talk but don’t deliver, with Ecocleen we share a common vision – a 1st class distribution centre.’
Tesco operate a bespoke audit system aimed at driving continuous improvement. It works because it provides real definition of the next steps, allocating responsibility to an individual with a timeline.
The implementation of training plans is an additional initiative that is securing improvement.
Continuous training plans and detailed day to day planning of tasks ensure client satisfaction.
Another thorny issue being addressed is cover for absent staff. All cleaning contractors struggle with providing replacement staff at short notice. Ecocleen strive to deliver the correct number of heads per shift, thereby safeguarding standards.
Paul Middleton, Managing Director of Ecocleen Retail noted ‘We started our first Tesco Distribution Centre early in 2008; it was an incredibly difficult and steep learning curve. I believe our success is due to a stable and long term operations management team. Key managers have a stake in our business and therefore a vested interest in our success and subsequent growth.’
Success indeed, Ecocleen saw 33% growth in 2008; a further 30% is planned for 2009 taking Company turnover to over £40 Million.
Ecocleen is part of the Servest Group. www.ecocleen.co.uk 01284 703535
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