Supply chain OPTIMIZA Processors are trying new strategies to improve efficiency By Anthony Coia meat&poultry@sosland.com M eat and poultry processors are making changes to optimize their supply chains. One trend is the move toward more direct control by establishing distribution centers that are located adjacent to their processing plants. In establishing these new distribution centers, some processors are partnering with third-party logistics specialists. Others are moving away from outsourcing and handling their warehouse functions in-house. Operating their own automated warehouses not only gives processors greater control, but also enables better food safety since the processing and distribution facilities are separate. The latest warehouse systems are adding a greater measure of connectivity and efficiency. Mike Golden, president of Food Tech Structures, L.L.C., Hanover, Mass., a firm specializing in the construction of processing plants and distribution centers, says the most cost effective place for distribution may be at the plant. "Minimizing transportation costs is 36 I MEAT&POULTRY I February 2005 I www.MEATPOULTRY.comhttp://www.MEATPOULTRY.com