Ringtons streamlines supply chain with port deal
Under the agreement, Ringtons’ supply of coffee beans will arrive by ship directly from Brazil, Mexico and Honduras, eliminating the need to rely on road transport from Europe. Beans will be stored at the Port of Tyne before being delivered to the coffee maker’s roasting facility in Newcastle.
The first three weeks of the partnership has already seen 45 tonnes of coffee beans – enough to make 4.5m cups once roasted – imported into the country.
Stephen Drysdale, Ringtons head of coffee, said: “Previously, our coffee was stored in Antwerp and transferred by truck, which meant it had to travel by road to our facilities in Newcastle. Switching to receiving direct containers from origin via the Port of Tyne offers us a more environmentally friendly, time efficient and cost-effective solution.
‘More sustainable process’
“This is, ultimately, a more sustainable process, which can be built upon alongside the growth of our coffee business. As a proud north-east family business, we are also delighted to work with another well-respected local company and to continue to support the vibrant north-east business scene.”
Ringtons has worked with Port of Tyne since 2012 handling its tea imports. The manufacturer’s coffee business has seen significant growth in the past five years.
Port of Tyne commercial director for logistics Richard Newton said this was the first time the port had handled coffee. He added: “It’s great to be working with an existing customer and supporting them as they grow and develop.
‘Seamless handling of goods’
“Our port-centric logistics approach means Ringtons will benefit from our seamless handling of their goods from start to finish, including increased and more flexible storage facilities, while at the same time reducing their costs and carbon footprint.”
One of the UK’s major deep-sea ports, allowing access to the bulkiest freight vessels, the Port of Tyne handles bulk and conventional cargo and operates car terminals, port-centric logistics and estates. Port authorities claim it adds £621m gross value to the economy of north-east England and supports 12,000 jobs.
Meanwhile, last month, high street coffee shop chain Costa has launched its range of make-at-home coffee drinks in Tesco stores across the country.
