Improving the efficiency of a non-profit supply chain for the food insecure

This paper focuses on the operational planning issues in a non-profit supply chain that distributes food for the food insecure. The study details how by partnering with a local University the organization was able to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its operations that resulted in more food reaching the food insecure. A detailed simulation model of the warehouse operations where food is processed served as a framework for making changes that improved the efficiency of the operations in terms of handling extra volume without investing in additional warehouse space. In addition, proper demand planning, supply coordination and logistics integration were key drivers for improving the effectiveness of this food supply chain. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.