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What is the purpose
of EFR?
EFR is an initiative of the foodservice sector, aimed at
reducing costs to manufacturers, distributors and operators, through
automation, reduction of inefficient practices, and improved customer service.
The EFR initiative involves putting in place a system of public,
non-proprietary tools, which include:
- Unit
and Case Barcoding: By
using standard product identification numbers shown in a bar code format
on all products and shipping cases, you can:
-
free up resources needed to maintain
multiple numbering systems,
-
reduce ordering, shipping, and billing
errors due to miscommunication; and
-
be more efficient by replacing manual
processes with scanning technology.
- E-commerce:
By using EDI, EDI over the Internet, or Internet based ordering
systems, you can speed up communication and automate manual, labour-intensive
ordering and receiving operations.
- Electronic
Product Catalogue: by
using foodservice product information (such as product description and
shipping configuration) in an up-to-date electronic format, you can match
product specifications, applications and benefits to your operations
requirements, while eliminating errors due to inaccurate data.
What are the
benefits to operators?
Once EFR is implemented, the benefits for the operator
include:
1.
a simple way to order products using Internet based ordering systems;
2.
increased order and shipping accuracy from the use of standard product
identification numbers and e-commerce ordering systems;
3.
less out of stock and product substitutions; and
4.
improved customer service.
Does the operator
need any special or expensive equipment to participate in EFR?
The operator can immediately benefit from the systems
currently in use by manufacturers, distributors and brokers with a minimum
investment of resources. The
operator needs:
- access
to a computer and an Internet connection;
- information
from their distributor on what means of electronic ordering is offered;
- copies
of the distributor’s Internet ordering templates and establishment of an
Internet ordering account.
Copyright
© 2000 EFR
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