Project Marlin
Project Marlin is a Defra funded project we undertook with Openfield, DHL and Rank Hovis to seek ways in which a collaborative approach could unlock value within the cereals sector between the farmer, haulier, merchant and first processor.
The project had various stages which included identifying the time needed to load on farm and deliver at the mill and also a pilot study looking a 15 minute haulier delivery window instead of the usual 2 hour slot. This included a two-day trial at Rank Hovis Solent Mill. Other factors were also looked at including communications, data collection, IT systems etc.
The Marlin trial has show that there is the potential to extract considerable value from the chain:
Grain chain collaboration identifies potential annual savings of £42 million
Rank Hovis is now embarking on Project Swordfish which is extending the trial for approximately 3 months, this will also look at the feasibility of a 15-minute slot and include all partners in the chain. This was announced yesterday.
As a result of the initiative EFFP has coordinated the production of a DVD and Good Practice Guidelines. These demonstrate how the adoption of good supply chain practices and processes, when combined with a positive approach to collaboration, can unlock significant value for all parties to share.
Link to DVD video (15 minutes in duration)
For an overview of the Project and future activities - Presentations (pdfs)
What is Project Marlin? Details of the project - Duncan Rawson, Associate Director, EFFP
A Customers' Perspective and next steps for Rank Hovis - Kevin O'Leary, Rank Hovis
For further information contact Duncan Rawson
Project Marlin Guide
Order your own guide and DVD:
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