Implementation of a New Central DC for Perishable Goods

• [SITUATION]:
To support the projected growth in bakery, sliced cold cuts, and meat categories - and considering that the cold chambers in regional DCs were already reaching maximum capacity, especially during seasonal peaks (ice cream, açaí, turkey, etc.) - the Grocery Retail's board decided to establish a new Central Distribution Center for Perishables (CDCP).
The operational model would include a cross-docking flow between this new central DC and the regional DCs before final delivery to stores.
To keep freight costs under control, the strategy involved using non-refrigerated trucks (dry vehicles) by equipping the operation with isothermal rolltainers that maintain the cold chain integrity throughout transport.
This setup aimed to ensure D+1 delivery lead time, improved freshness, full cold chain compliance, and reduced transportation costs.

• [TASK]:
As the Logistics Project Manager, I was responsible for developing the end-to-end implementation plan, engaging and coordinating all involved departments (Logistics, Store Operations, Commercial, IT, Engineering, Procurement, HR, etc.). I also led the acquisition of isothermal containers and eutectic plates to support demand peaks, promotional events, and replacement of damaged assets, ensuring the operation’s full capacity from day one.

• [ACTION]:
I led weekly project and construction meetings, overseeing the installation of pallet racks, support systems, and utilities.
I personally managed the rollout of the operator control system inside the cold chambers, ensuring full compliance with NR36 (ergonomics and safety standards).
In partnership with Procurement, I coordinated the evaluation, selection, and rental of forklifts with the appropriate lifting capacity for the new operation.
Additionally, I oversaw the acquisition and delivery of eutectic plate super-freezers, essential to maintain the required daily supply of frozen plates for the cross-docking flow.
During the sourcing phase, I led a technical benchmarking project to assess domestic and international suppliers of isothermal rolltainers and eutectic plates. This included a structured testing program to compare thermal efficiency, mechanical resistance, load capacity, durability, wheel quality, compatibility with existing assets, and total cost (equipment and importation).

• [RESULTS]:
➢ CDCP infrastructure and construction successfully completed on schedule.
➢ WMS configured and operational within the planned timeline.
➢ Material handling equipment (pallet jacks and forklifts) transferred and commissioned successfully.
➢ Security, access control, and CCTV systems fully implemented.
➢ Eutectic freezers, isothermal rolltainers, and plates procured and imported within schedule.
➢ Logistics go-live executed on time with no disruption to the store supply chain.