YEAR 2008 - SDF

14
ANNUAL REPORT 2008
THE LOGISTICS UNIT
Given these conditions, the Group reorganised operations
in order to protect its interests, enabling it to post results
in line with expectations and to maintain the appeal of a
market positioning offering massification solutions to
industry players.
In 2009, the search for new customer/product pairs
should offset the decline in volume seen in 2008 and
gradually fill the extensions delivered in the course of
the year (Brignais and Le Plessis Belleville).
RETAIL LOGISTICS
This activity too was affected by falling hypermarket sales
in 2008. Sales for the year fell short of expectations
because of declining food demand from cybermarkets
and the late completion of premises delaying the launch
of a frozen food contract at STEF Paris Nord.
A contract expired during the course of the year at the
Neudorf site, following the reorganisation of its product
logistics. The successful launch of a new frozen foods
contract for a chain in the same Group in eastern France
partially offset this loss.
The adaptation of production resources to business and
the implementation on all sites of a continuous improvement
drive allowed the activity to honour its results
commitments despite declining sales.
FOOD SERVICE LOGISTICS
A vigorous recovery policy returned this activity to
profitability in 2008. After years of repositioning,
reconstructions and finally growth of 38% in 2007,
the sector is reaping the rewards of all the hard work,
despite the difficult context. The food-service logistics
activity posted sales in line with expectations.
Taking advantage of a relative slowdown in business, the
Group consolidated its commercial position and stabilised
operations, leading to improvements in both performance
and quality. The result is globally satisfactory, and above
budget predictions.
During 2008, synergies were implemented with other
activities, allowing the sector to identify new growth
drivers and leading to the opening of a new rented site
in Fos-sur-Mer. ●