Next day Handled with Care deliveries by APC Overnight are boosting Fruit-4U's customer service and helping attract new clients. The innovative Stockport, Cheshire, e-commerce business supplies fruit baskets to customers throughout the UK, shipping thousands of products each year to corporate clients and the general public.
"We moved our delivery service contract to APC Nationwide Express Parcels two years ago and we've never looked back. Our business has grown from strength to strength, with the network of APC Overnight depots providing excellent service to our customers," says Martin Unsworth, Director, Fruit-4U.
"It is extremely important in this business to not only deliver perfect product to our customers but also deliver service with a smile. The APC Overnight drivers understand that they indirectly represent our company and this helps to cement customer relationships," he adds.
Fruit-4U's fruit baskets present a challenge for delivery, but the APC Overnight specialised Handled with Care service ensures that products arrive in first class condition. In addition, the flexibility and personal service provided by the various depots in Fruit-4U's customer supply chain guarantee that all deliveries are made on time, every time.
"Even during the winter months our deliveries got to our customers on time. Where time-critical deliveries are necessary, the depots keep me informed of progress. This is very important as some of our corporate clients provide fresh fruit to their employees at certain times of the year and we want to be certain that each office has received its fruit basket on time for these events," adds Martin Unsworth.
Fruit-4U takes advantage of the NetDespatch online booking and tracking system to book collections as well as print shipping labels. The system also provides traceability throughout the delivery process and allows Martin Unsworth to track parcels via his PC and iPhone.
"The NetDespatch system communicates directly with APC Nationwide Express Parcels, automatically building our daily manifest and also printing the shipping labels. It speeds up administration. If we have an en masse supply and delivery to make to various corporate offices I can simply upload the contact spreadsheet into NetDespatch and the system does the rest. Traceability is an added advantage, because I can check progress directly whether I'm in the office or if I am out and about I can use my iPhone," he says.
Fruit-4U is a subsidiary of Set Produce - a family run business with 25 years experience in fresh fruit. The company is STS accredited for its traceability, environmental and fair trade policies.