Challenge

Whole Foods is a fast growing premium specialty food market. They’re opening stores at such a fast past that their distribution centers are unable to keep up with the demand to supply products to the stores and keep the shelves stocked.

Solution

Whole Foods Markets turned to Bill Waxman and Doug Norton in conjunction with their own consultants and supply chain/logistics department. A logistic study and supply chain analysis was initiated and the CBRE team was able to locate potential sites and facilities along their inbound/outbound distribution routes at attractive rates. Since labor was a key issue, a labor study was initiated as well.

The most pressing markets, including Northern California, The Pacific Northwest and The Northeast, received immediate attention. At present, leases are being negotiated for new facilities that will significantly improve Whole Foods’ ability to keep their shelves stocked not only with non-perishable items but perishable items as well. Additionally, the costs associated with the entire Whole Foods supply chain will be significantly reduced as this enormous project develops and expands.

Keeping their stores stocked with the freshest products at the most reasonable cost will help Whole Foods reach and surpass their market share projections.

Benefit

By solving their supply chain/logistics issues, Whole Foods will not only be able to protect its market share but increase its bottom line and profitability.

By enlisting the CBRE team of Bill Waxman and Doug Norton who in turn used the CBRE National Platform, Whole Foods leveraged its bargaining power and lowered its total real estate and supply chain costs.

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