Leading European pallet pooler IPP has renewed its contract with iconic confectionary brand Swizzels Matlow, marking a partnership spanning nearly two decades. Coventry-based IPP and Derbyshire-based Swizzels have worked together for 17 years, dating back to 2009. IPP recently renewed its contract to supply sustainable wooden pallets to the confectionary giant, which is based in the aptly-named Candy Lane. IPP, which specialises in providing reusable wooden pallets for major manufacturers and fast-moving consumer goods brands, has moved millions of sweets to date for Swizzels, renowned for its Love Hearts, Parma Violets and Drumstick sweets.
Swizzels’ head of customer supply, Laura Winfield, said: “Swizzels has worked with IPP for many years, building a strong partnership based on trust, reliability and a shared understanding of our business. “IPP supplies the pallets that are fundamental to our operation, and over time they have developed a strong understanding of our requirements, from day-to-day volumes to seasonal demand. “Their consistent quality, dependable supply and collaborative approach have been key to the longevity of the relationship.”Swizzels products are delivered to UK supermarkets, wholesalers and sweet shops on IPP pooled pallets which are retrieved, repaired, repatriated and eventually recycled as part of the circular economy.
IPP utilises its ‘One Way Trip’ solution, which streamlines the process by collecting the empty pallets from Swizzels’ end customers, including major multiple retailers, cash and carry businesses and smaller confectioners – repairing them where necessary and seamlessly reintroducing them into the cycle.
The logistics specialist has supported Swizzels during its recent expansion, including the opening of its dedicated Squashies factory in Middlewich, Cheshire. It is also on hand to deal with key holidays, which see a significant increase in demand, and invests in solutions to enhance visibility and efficiencies, supporting its partners as they grow.Laura added: “As volumes have increased, IPP has supported this growth by ensuring a reliable and scalable pallet supply that aligns with our evolving operational needs. Their flexibility and responsiveness have helped us maintain efficiency across our supply chain during periods of expansion, particularly during the time we opened our new dedicated Squashies factory.
“Seasonal peaks such as Halloween and Christmas are critical trading periods for Swizzels, requiring significant uplifts in pallet volumes. “IPP supports these peaks through collaborative forward planning, flexible supply and a reliable service, giving us confidence that pallet availability is in place to meet increased production and distribution demands without compromising on service.”Swizzels is now focusing on continued growth through new product development, innovation and increasing its market presence. Laura added: “As the business evolves, having a trusted pallet supplier like IPP – which understands our operation and can grow alongside us - will continue to be an important part of our supply chain strategy.”
Demi Crabbe, commercial director for IPP UK&I, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Swizzels is testament to our shared values and ability to deliver results. “We’re delighted to have seen how much this business has grown in recent years, and to continue providing the reliable, trustworthy and flexible service they know comes from working with IPP.“We are constantly evolving and investing in digital and data-led solutions to enhance visibility and efficiencies across customer supply chains. These investments ensure our partners receive the best support as they continue to grow. “The future looks sweet for Swizzels and we’ll be on hand wherever it may take them next!”
For more information on IPP, visit www.ipp-pooling.com or search for IPP Pooling on LinkedIn.