Marque opens parts centre

Ford New Zealand has opened a new national parts distribution centre to speed make it easier for customers to upgrade and service their vehicles at dealerships. The company officially cut the ribbon at the facility in Highbrook Business Park in East Tamaki, Auckland, on August 17 amidst a record year of new vehicle launches. The centre is equipped with a storage system aligned to the marque’s global warehousing principles to support wider stock holdings in New Zealand and improved parts flow. It expects the operation will deliver gains to supply fill rates and faster replenishment for its dealer network. Corey Holter, managing director of Ford NZ, says the new building is a significant long-term investment to support its expanding vehicle range, but also has customers in mind. “The centre is a step forward to better support our growth objectives, better service our dealers and help improve the Ford customer experience at service centres,” he says. “With better access, more storage and upgraded equipment, the first major part of our local supply chain has been improved. We will be able to get parts to our customers more efficiently and with less waiting.” The project team has focused on improving worker safety and has replaced its entire materials handling equipment fleet, which comes fully equipped with Infolink fleet management system. This wireless system – manufactured by Crown Equipment Corporation – enables Ford’s management to collate real-time data capturing equipment impacts, productivity, utilisation, energy and servicing requirements while also restricting access to compliant operators only. The centre enables better stocking and delivery of more than 750,000 certified parts each year. An improved entrance for trucks and an extended canopy provide better access and protection for deliveries in all weather. Joining the Ford NZ team for the opening were Graeme Whickman, CEO of Ford Australia and New Zealand, and John Cooper, vice-president of customer service for Asia-Pacific. “We are investing heavily on stylish, innovative new vehicles that customer fall in love with and stay in love with through exceptional service,” says Whickman. “I know from my time in New Zealand that Kiwis are discerning, so we are excited to offer them a better experience when they bring vehicles to our dealerships.”