Mechernicher Tafel: New distribution center strengthens the food rescue!

Mechernicher Tafel: New distribution center strengthens the food rescue!

in Mechernich, North Rhine-Westphalia, the local table has taken a significant step by opening a new logistics center. This center, although it consists of only two large garages, is now becoming a central distributor for food in the region. Wolfgang Weilerswist, the chairman of the Mechernicher Tafel, explains that there has been a gap in care in the area southwest of Cologne. From this new location, the boards in the district of Euskirchen and in the adjacent regions are supplied with food deliveries.

An interesting change has taken place in recent years: While once mostly local supermarkets made food donations, it is today in particular food manufacturers and industry that contribute to supply. "We want to save food and preserve from destruction," emphasizes Weilerswist, who was also active in the state association leadership of the boards of North Rhine-Westphalia.

less food donations from supermarkets

The supermarkets have changed their strategies, which means that fewer foods for the boards remain. "It is now reduced much earlier to sell the goods before the expiry date," explains Weilerswist. In principle, this adaptation is positive, but reduces the amount of donations that go to the boards. In Mechernich, the table can still fall back on numerous supermarkets and discounters that provide donations regularly.

In order to cope with the increasing requirements, the tables are dependent on generous donations from the industry. "Of course, the manufacturers cannot supply every table directly, so distribution centers such as ours are necessary," explains the table chairman. The new logistics center will manage this task more effectively and significantly improve the distribution of food.

A total of over 100,000 euros were invested in the new center, of which 80 percent were provided by the Ministry of Labor, Health and Social Affairs in NRW. In addition to two warehouses on the former school grounds of the table, an office container was set up to cover the increasing administrative needs.

efficient logistics and technology

The logistics system of the board is supported by introducing a so-called "Eco platform", which enables the management of goods transactions and the creation of digital delivery notes. This platform will also act as a marketplace through which the surrounding tables can ask for food.

Manuela Pütz, responsible for logistics, takes care of the organization of orders and contact with food manufacturers. This is particularly important, since the Mechernicher Tafel also supplies around 1200 people in need from around 500 households every week.

Another remarkable detail is digitization at the board: When registering, customers receive a barcode on their card with which their specific needs can be called up. This innovative approach enables the food provided individually to match the customers.

In order to cope with the new challenges, the Mechernich table is dependent on the support of volunteers. "We are urgently looking for new volunteers who can support us in various tasks," appeal Weilerswist and his deputy Volker Nüßmann. Interested parties can report directly to the board to continue the important work to support the needy in the region.

At the same time, the Diakonie station Euskirchen initiated a fundraiser. As part of the Thanksgiving Campaign, around 400 durable foods and hygiene items were collected together with employees and volunteers, which are distributed to the various boards in the region.