4.9.2020 COVID-19 Update

We are grateful to all our suppliers for your extraordinary commitment to service our mutual customers, as well as all Americans.  It is critically important that we continue doing everything possible to maintain the flow of food, and key non-food items, to all retailers.  They are counting on all of us.

Previously, we updated you on the extraordinary demand UNFI was experiencing from our customers, resulting in historically high purchase orders being placed by our procurement team to continue meeting that record demand.  Before, we asked for your help to aid us to be as efficient and effective as possible by communicating order shortages, shipping updates, and ordering guideline changes.  This request remains.  Please continue to communicate these updates as early as possible to SupplierPandemicPlanning@unfi.com.

Due to this increased volume, UNFI is also implementing changes at our distribution centers, such as:

• Ongoing increase of appointment capacity creating additional inbound opportunities
• Expanded receiving schedules, to include Saturdays in many locations, beginning April 18th 
• Improved flexibility to work-in late appointment arrivals, beginning April 20th 

To maximize the efficiencies of these changes, please:

• Request delivery appointments as soon as possible, preferably three business days in advance
• Review orders in transit and follow up with your transportation provider to confirm shipments  will deliver on-time
• Reschedule appointments at least 24 hours in advance
• Avoid “no call, no show” situations.  Not arriving for a scheduled delivery appointment impacts warehouse productivity.  It is better to arrive late and be worked in than not arriving at all.
• Communicate product delays, shortages, and ordering guideline changes

Thank you for your partnership and your amazing support during this time.  Please forward these updates to the appropriate people in your organization.  Feel free to reach out to your merchandiser/ supplier manager with any questions.