Unilever has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding with JD Logistics to drive more sustainable business initiatives into its supply chain.
The group said that it is building on its 'existing strategic relationship' with JD.com, which operates JD Logistics, to 'create a framework to identify opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth'.
The agreement was penned at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week.
Collaborative Projects
Unilever will work alongside the logistics business on plastics recycling and collection measures, the introduction of 5G delivery solutions for customers around the world, and the introduction of less carbon intense transport initiatives, among other projects.
"At Unilever, we are always working to deliver better, more sustainable products for our consumers. JD Logistics’ network and technology offer exciting opportunities to enhance our consumer logistics and transportation capabilities, and to deliver even greater transparency, speed and efficiency across our supply chain," commented Marc Engel, Unilever’s chief supply chain officer.
"Together we can leverage our collective expertise and scale to give consumers better and informed choices and drive sustainable and responsible growth.”
Strong Relationship
Elsewhere, Zhenhui Wang, CEO of JD Logistics, added that the business was "delighted" to strengthen its relationship with Unilever, adding, "Since Unilever chose JD as a Chinese logistics provider over two years ago, we have worked together to provide Chinese consumers with an excellent customer experience.
"JD Logistics has long been committed to developing smart, digital and sustainable supply chain solutions, and this agreement is an important step in driving sustainable development for a better future.”
© 2020 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Stephen Wynne-Jones. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine
