Hull’s tech incubation hub has partnered with chocolate giant Nestle to launch a logistics innovation programme.
C4DI will work with the huge manufacturer behind KitKat, Yorkie, Quality Street and scores of other household names as together with GXO it brings forward its Digital Distribution Operation of the Future facility in the East Midlands.
Companies that can help with some of the logistics and supply chain challenges are being sought, building on work from the likes of Sauce in early 2020.
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In turn, through business support and access to global markets, C4DI will help them build robust and scalable operations.
Linsey Brown, C4DI projects and communications manager, said: “We could not be more excited about this partnership. It brings an amazing opportunity for growing technology businesses to accelerate by connecting to, and learning from both the leading food and beverage business in the world and one of the world’s largest logistics companies.
“We’re calling out for partners to join this logistics incubation programme which will bring together technology businesses focusing on logistics and supply chain.
“We’ll be sharing our knowledge and expertise to work through solutions and innovations for the challenges companies are facing in the industry, while at the same time helping small businesses to develop and grow.”
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As reported C4DI-based Sauce enhanced operational efficiency for what is one of the world’s biggest food and beverage companies, developing an app-based yard management system to track trailers.
David Walker, logistics innovation programme manager at Nestlé, said: “We’ve been working with C4DI for a few years and have already partnered with a number of fantastic small businesses, of which some have become suppliers.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the outcomes.”
The programme starts this month.
Applicants with relevant technology products and services that believe they can help Nestlé and the DDOF, or who would like to learn from this innovation-driven partnership, are encouraged to apply.
John Connolly, managing director of C4DI, said: “We don’t do hackathons, we don’t do pitching competitions, and we’re not the people who tweak your pitch deck, but we can, from first-hand experience, support you in building scalable global technology business.
“Our programme can connect you to people and organisations who you can partner and grow with. We’d love to hear from businesses interested in the programme. There’s a simple form to complete which will help us understand if we’re the right fit for each other and start a conversation.”
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Those interested should visit www.logistics.c4di.ventures for more information.
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