Giant Eagle, Inc.

The Challenge:

With approximately $8.9 billion in annual sales, Giant Eagle, Inc., has grown into one of the nation’s largest food retailers and distributors. The company has both corporate and independently owned and operated stores spanning a four-state region. Leadership knew it needed to implement a technology solution to improve the efficiency and productivity of its extensive private fleet. Envisioning a paperless system that delivered real-time information across business units, the company began the process of researching available software products. Another must: the solution must include the ability to measure key performance indicators (KPIs) to help drive smarter decisions.

The Solution:

Giant Eagle found its solution in TMW.Suite, a fully integrated TMS. The company began its implementation of the software by defining and establishing benchmarks for what they deemed a perfect delivery, thereby setting a baseline from which to compare all performance metrics.

The company also implemented a Trimble web-based performance-monitoring application that automates metrics measurements. This application was especially appealing considering the immense size of the fleet—232 power units and approximately 350 dry vans and 350 refrigerated vehicles.

The Result:

Following implementation, Giant Eagle was able to track KPIs crucial to improving productivity and lowering expenses including:

• Idle time
• Dock waiting and delivery times
• On time percentage
• Accidents and speeding incidents
• Cases shipped

By providing heightened awareness company-wide, Trimble’s technology has enabled Giant Eagle to realize a 25% reduction in idle time, which has translated into significant savings in fuel costs, along with an 8% decrease in the number of deadhead miles.