IPP and OKIN, an example of sustainable logistic collaboration

Circularity is an increasingly followed model of production and consumption efficiency. IPP and OKIN are examples of companies where circular economy is ingrained in their DNA. From a supplier and customer perspective, both share their experience of working together with a pallet pooling model.

IPP, a member of Faber Group, brings over 130 years of experience in freight transport services. Less than a year ago, the company repositioned itself with a new focus on service and optimization of its circular pooling system. Its main objective is to generate a positive impact on the business, the environment, and especially its customers through sustainable logistic solutions.

OKIN has been a client of IPP for over a decade. Both companies are family-owned, which results in a similarity in their work approaches and a business vision focused more on the medium to long term. Their goals are aligned, and they are particularly sensitive to sustainability.

María Abad Aranzábal, Operations Director at Grupo Gourmet Okin, values transparency and closeness in supplier relationships, aiming for long-lasting collaborations. IPP is not just a pooling supplier but a trusted partner with whom they work together to find solutions to any challenges.

In recent years, the industry has faced numerous challenges such as the Ukraine conflict, transportation strikes, and shortages of wood and pallet supplies, which have been significant hurdles for businesses. IPP and OKIN have supported each other through these challenges.

"Ipp always tries to help us and has supported us in our growth. They have never let us down, and I believe they are among the few in the market who are not failing in deliveries." – María Abad Aranzábal, Operations Director at Grupo Gourmet Okin.

Sergio Sanz Arguedas, Director of IPP Iberia, emphasizes IPP's customer-centric philosophy.

"At present, our priority is to ensure deliveries to our existing clients, rather than increasing the portfolio and potential profitability."

OKIN's experience working with a pooling system has been very positive. After adopting a pallet exchange model, María highlights the ease of pooling as a quality value and a source of peace of mind for their business. A standardized pallet system that enables control over recovery greatly facilitates their daily operations.

Pallet quality is crucial for a manufacturing company like OKIN, which employs automated warehouses. The pallet's impeccable condition is essential for production continuity. This is why a pooling system like IPP's aligns with their business, as all equipment is inspected beforehand to ensure they are in perfect condition before being received at their warehouses.

However, undoubtedly, the standout feature of this system is its contribution to sustainability. At OKIN, they are staunch advocates of sustainability, having worked on sustainable projects for years: utilizing green energy, engaging in carbon footprint reduction initiatives, and emphasizing local production.

In this regard, there's a logistical collaboration with one of OKIN's clients, where IPP pallets are delivered. Quality sorting is carried out at the same center, and the pallets are redelivered to OKIN, achieving zero empty kilometers, a flawless flow. This model is set to expand to more clients and suppliers.

On IPP's part, their sustainable actions not only benefit the environment but also their customers. In fact, IPP has provided OKIN with a sustainability certificate, confirming that all IPP pallets arriving at their facilities have a carbon footprint of zero. This stems from implementing measures that earned the company the 3rd Lean&Green star, certifying a reduction of up to 35% in CO2 emissions from all their logistical activities. Additionally, they've invested in sustainability projects with CleanC02, compensating for all CO2 emissions from their loading equipment.

The next steps for both companies involve innovation to further adapt their processes and address new needs. Both Sergio and María are optimistic about the future. Despite challenging years, they are convinced that their solidified alliance will continue to foster growth and resilience in the face of any challenges that arise.