Client Need
Antonello Produce is a family-owned and operated business dating back three generations. Their success has developed from their total commitment to providing quality fresh produce, year round consistent supply combined with high levels of customer service. In addition to their own trading facility at Melbourne Epping Wholesale Market; they also supply a variety of produce to the major chain stores and independents in Australia.
With a firm commitment in forward thinking innovation, Antonello were looking for a solution that would help establish them at the forefront of technological advances which would support them in sustainability, traceability in the fresh produce industry as well as providing enhanced services to their customers.
Our Solution
Archisage implemented a pilot program at Antonello Produce in their Watermelons division that leverages IBM's Transparent Supply (aka IBM Food Trust). Powered by IBM Blockchain, it provides a trusted record of information that can be viewed by all participants - thereby reducing business friction between participants.
Archisage developed a simple to use Excel based interface to enable the generation of the input data required. This data was then uploaded into the solution along with associated documents using a Node.JS based single click application. Once the information has been uploaded, it can be searched based on Invoice Numbers, Purchase Order Numbers or Lot Numbers and complete history of the movement of the produce can be retrieved.
The Benefits
End to End Traceability
The information within the IBM Transparent Supply enables Antonello's partners as well as customers to know exactly where products are coming from and the conditions under which they were shipped. It also provides a single record of all relevant certifications and documents associated with the product, the facilities and the shipment. This increased digitisation provides Antonello with the ability to quickly provide documentation on the provenance of their produce with minimal manual work; thereby improving their responsiveness to customers. Over time, as more participants join the network; they will be able to view the information without requiring any interactions with Antonello.
Innovation
This solution also places Antonello Produce at the forefront of innovation within the fresh produce industry in Australia. This is a solution that differentiates them from their competitors and shows their commitment to sustainable and transparent business practices. It also enhances their reputation for safety and quality and helps ensure they can prove compliance with food safety regulations.
The Future
The pilot project was implemented on Watermelons. Post pilot, the solution will be rolled out to other produce that Antonello focus on. The information captured with the solution could be enhanced to provide end customers at the home with visibility of the complete journey from farm to plate. The information can also be used to gain insights into the journey of the produce which can lead to greater efficiencies in distribution and help lower food wastage.