SIG transforms Brazilian dairy producer’s logistics with QR-powered traceability system
29 Oct 2021 --- Brazilian dairy and soy-based beverage company Cemil is adopting SIG’s Pac.Trust traceability system to manage its entire logistics chain in real-time.
The system enables Cemil to provide product traceability through an automated process, monitoring volumes from the time the packaging leaves the filling line to delivery at point-of-sale. The technology also enables complete digitalization of the logistics process, which mitigates errors and deviations due to misregistration.
Speaking to PackagingInsights, SIG press officer Heike Thevis says the system has already produced environmental sustainability benefits.
“Paper consumption was reduced because today, the whole process is digital. With more effective delivery, the cost of return for deliveries also decreases, and with it the fuel consumption for repeat deliveries, which in turn reduces pollutant emissions.”
“Today, it is also possible to plan more efficient routes, which also contribute to the reduction of emissions from trucks.”
The SIG traceability codes have helped Cemil reduce its material consumption.QR coding
The traceability process chosen by Cemil starts after the carton packs are filled. Each item is individually coded with a 2D code that refers to the lot data and filling time.
At palletization, each pallet is given a label with a unique QR code, making it possible to link the products’ data to digitally monitor their movement in real-time.
This real-time monitoring is achieved by scanning and distributing work orders, which are tracked throughout the storage and transport cycle to the point of sale. The system provides an “x-ray view” of the entire distribution process, which allows any logistical bottlenecks to be identified.
Thevis says it was difficult to foresee the advantages of digitalization, but the results have spoken for themselves.
“One of the biggest challenges was convincing the clients’ staff that digitalization would improve the teams’ work, change the work culture and the way they work into something positive.”
“But once the implementation started, they realized the benefits of the solution, in terms of time, accuracy and cost reduction and the positive effects on their quality of life.”
SIG’s systems
In addition to the benefits for the production process and end consumer, the new solution is also helping Cemil adapt to new retailer industry requirements, says the company, which increasingly demands efficient traceability processes from suppliers.
- SIG says its systems ensure:
- Safety in the rapid handling of deviations
- Traceability efficiency and accuracy
- FIFO interlocking and expiration data management
- Delivery follow-up
“The partnership with SIG and the use of its digital Pac.Trust solution guarantees Cemil better control and higher productivity, and full visibility of its logistics chain, facilitating any product recall. In this way, Cemil ensures product safety and quality,” says Carlos Rios, digital solutions manager at SIG South America.
By Louis Gore-Langton
