World of Books adds routing software
By Retail Technology | Wednesday March 20 2019
Used book retailer World of Books (WoB) has implemented new routing software to save mileage, time and cost
Since choosing Paragon’s multi-drop software at the end of last year, the company has already experienced dramatic efficiency improvements, saving more than 27,000 transport miles year-on-year during January while collecting an average of 480 tonnes of books each week.
“As part of our plan to achieve a 30% reduction in our carbon footprint by 2020, we selected Paragon’s routing software to help reduce the mileage and time spent by drivers collecting books from 4,300 charity shops spread across the UK,” said Steven Murray, head of stock and logistics, at WoB. “The initial results have been extremely positive – representing an average reduction of 13 miles for each tonne of product collected – and we anticipate greater improvements as it becomes embedded within our operational processes.”
To evaluate the benefits of Paragon’s multi-drop routing software, WoB initially undertook a trial at its Goring-by-Sea processing hub, before rolling out the system across its entire transport operation.
Peak periods
Following the implementation, the company has been able to consolidate its day-to-day transport planning process, moving from a local resource at each warehouse location to a single team at its central transport office.
WoB operates a core fleet of 70 vans and drivers covering up to 80 routes each week, which is then supplemented with short-term rentals and agency drivers during peak periods.
During the software evaluation phase, it was able to use Fastnet, Paragon’s distribution network modelling software module, to validate the shortlist of options and ensure any future investment will maximise time, mileage and cost savings.
