The MACC (Mixing & Configuration Center) is a new solution to a vexing supply chain problem: maximizing customer service levels of temperature-controlled products while eliminating LTL shipments and reducing inventory.
The first MACC, located in Milwaukee, opened in the fall of 2005; initially serving ten midwest SUPERVALU distribution centers. The MACC is owned and operated by TLC, a 3PL specialist in food / grocery distribution services.
The MACC concept employs all elements of TLC supply chain expertise: PLAN, SOURCE, MAKE, HOLD & MOVE - creating a solution that delivers tangible shareholder value for participants.
All vendors shipping LTL volumes to SUPERVALU DCs can benefit from the savings and service level enhancements of the MACC. The MACC is a single distribution point, providing on-demand consolidated truckload volumes to regional DCs.
- Eliminate all LTL shipments
- Improved customer service levels
- Increased delivery frequency
- No late charges / No lumper fees
LTL shipments are eliminated. Late fees are eliminated. Damage fees are eliminated. DCs pull product directly from the MACC, shortening order cycles and boosting your supply chain efficiency.
Ideal MACC categories include: grocery, deli, bakery, dairy, meats, seafood and specialty items. Products requiring assortment building, bundling or overwrapping can be configured at the MACC, saving you additional shipping and conversion costs.
The Midwest MACC is fully operational and can serve all SUPERVALU DCs. The MACC concept will soon be expanded to include other grocers' DCs. Additonal MACC centers will be opened in other regions. Timetables for this expansion will be driven by volumes.
MACC benefits can be measured. While service level increases, transportation savings and inventory reductions will vary based upon a vendor’s current logistics model, vendors can expect to see quantifiable improvements in customer service KPIs and lower landed costs for MACC products.
The MACC streamlines your supply chain, eliminating LTL shipments, costly fees and service penalties.
FAQ on MACC - Common Questions and Answers
What is the business relationship impact?
The MACC represents a flow change. It does not alter the selling relationship that exists between manufacturers and grocers. With the MACC, all stakeholders win by reducing frictions, eliminating redundancies, and removing costs from the supply chain.
How much can I expect to save by using the MACC?
Measurements of MACC success involve more than just transportation savings. Lower overall inventories and increased customer service levels must also be measured. TLC will work with you on a product-by-product basis, evaluating potential benefits and the network impact of MACC migration.
We’ve already optimized our network. Is this a disruption?
If 100% of your shipments are truckload MACC may not benefit you. If not, or if you are utilizing regional public facilities, the MACC will likely deliver superior results in all three areas noted.
What about my other clients?
Today the MACC is optimized for SUPERVALU’s DC network. Without them the concept would not be possible. In the next phase, the MACC will begin serving other grocer’s regional DCs and eventually be rolled out nationally.
What other services does MACC provide?
As the name implies, the MACC is both a mixing and configuration center. Low-temperature assembly services, including building variety packs, rainbow packs, club-store builds, overwrapping or complex store displays can all be done within the walls of the MACC. Most any type of manual or automated process can be accommodated at the MACC.
What about systems?
The MACC is a data-driven operation. Our WMS enables web-based inventory and visibility tools to provide you with an accurate inventory picture and real-time updates on orders and shipments. You stay in control with visibility and transparancy of all inventories.
What is the relationship between TLC and SUPERALU?
TLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of SUPERVALU and operates as an independent 3PL. The MACC is a TLC owned and operated facility.
How do products get selected for the MACC?
TLC’s supply chain professionals will work with your logistics people to evaluate the impacts, both positive and negative, of migrating your products to the MACC. You are in complete control of which products will move through MACC. Only products that can show a benefit in transportation costs, inventory levels or customer service levels will be considered.
How do I get started?
Give TLC a call. We will setup a meeting, work with your distribution people, evaluate your current shipment patterns and show you what the MACC can do for your products. You can also see how the long term vision of MACC will impact your supply chain efficiency.