“Eat Fresh” is its slogan, and the supply chain takes it seriously. Subway uses its Internet-based supply-management system to not only bring product into its stores but to give all steps in the supply chain visibility into the process to ensure it’s safe and consistent.
Subway’s Independent Purchasing Cooperative, or IPC, which is owned by the chain’s North American franchisees, has been using supply-chain software since the end of 2001 and rolled out the food-quality component, called Qualitynet, in 2004. While Milford, Conn.-based Subway owns the brand, Miami-based IPC manages the supply chain from manufacturers through the distribution centers and into the 24,000 stores. Its responsibilities include negotiating pricing, maintaining relationships and managing quality.
“Food safety is extremely important to this brand,” says IPC Chief Information Officer George Labelle, adding that it’s important to protect customers so they don’t get sick, protect franchisees and their investment, and protect the Subway brand.
No Need to Fight… read on.