DHL Supply Chain has been appointed by beverage firm Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I (SBF GB&I) in a new three-year contract starting January 2024.

The deal will see DHL become SBF GB&I's sole supply chain and warehouse provider. As part of the contract, DHL has created over 310 new jobs at its Worksop site to support SBF GB&I's operations.

DHL said it will leverage its investments in automated warehouse solutions to manage order fulfilment across Great Britain for SBF GB&I. The logistics firm said its network capabilities will also enable optimised transport for the beverage company.

The partnership aims to improve efficiency and sustainability across SBF GB&I's supply chain. DHL highlighted that enhanced reporting and live order tracking will provide greater insight and efficiencies for SBF GB&I.

SBF GB&I produces and distributes brands such as Lucozade, Ribena and Orangina. DHL said the contract aligns with its focus on supporting customers' sustainability goals through logistics solutions.

Carol Robert, Chief Operating Officer, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I said: “We believe DHL Supply Chain will help deliver our strategic ambitions. We have lots of growth to go after; together with DHL’s capability, we will achieve our ambitious revenue targets through customer service excellence all the while working to reduce our impact on the environment.”

Nick Archer, MD, Consumer and Convenience, DHL Supply Chain UK&I added: “Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I is one of the UK’s largest soft drinks manufacturers that has shown impressive growth over the last few years, while demonstrating a clear commitment to making a positive impact on the world. This of course aligns to our own business goals and ambitions, so we are delighted to be joining SBF GB&I to help make their vision a reality”.