Ford Motor Company picks CEVA for Kentucky plant

Louisville, KY— CEVA Logistics has launched the operation of an inbound manufacturing support facility for Ford Motor Company’s Kentucky Truck plant.

 

The Louisville operation, which is located in close proximity to the plant, provides small lot market place replenishment, container management as well as just in time transportation of all material in quick response to the plant’s specific build needs.

 

According to CEVA spokesmen, the facility has added over 25 jobs to the area.  While CEVA Logistics provides a variety of logistics services to Ford in many locations across the world, this is the first contract for this particular truck plant. The launch of this new facility expands on the long-standing, successful CEVA-Ford partnership

 

Industry analysts have also been suggesting that deals like this will become more common in the future. Rosalyn Wilson, an independent consultant and author of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals' (CSCMP) 20th Annual State of Logistics Report told LM shippers have been reviewing sourcing strategies and the impact of a “reverse globalization” model, checking total landed cost. She also noted that greater scrutiny of the entire supply chain will be a given in the future.

 

In this case, suppliers must have endorsements from Ford's key customers and meet Ford-defined performance metrics.

 

“We’re happy to have been selected by Ford Motor Company to support this truck manufacturing plant,” said Kerry Zielinski, Vice President Automotive Sales, CEVA Logistics.  “Our launch was an exciting committed adventure for CEVA as we launched during what was called the worst ice storm in Louisville history.”  He added, “Our team worked without power, without computers or even phones in 35 degree weather to maintain production for Ford at this plant”.  Lastly he said, “Our creative solutions kept the plant working and our efforts were appreciated by the Ford Group.”

 

CEVA Logistics has received three unique “Q1” awards from the Ford Motor Company for our various truckload and fleet transportation operations in the United States and Canada.  The “Q1” Award is the highest honor attainable for Ford’s preferred suppliers.  The award recognizes suppliers who have achieved a sustained level of excellence in customer satisfaction, while meeting Ford’s systems and results requirements in quality, delivery and management. 

 

 

Source: Logistics Management