Walmart owned Asda has participated in a pilot where Polymer Logistics Cleanpal plastic pallets are used instead of wooden pallets. The grocer is working with Lincolnshire based vegetable suppliers DE Brand.

Under the trial, the Cleanpal pallets were used in field palletisation and shipment to Asda distribution centres at Skelmersdale and Lutterworth. The pallets carried broccoli and cabbage that had average tray weights of 9kg.

According to Polymer Logistics, harvest workers found the pallets easy to handle in the field, and required no change where it came to strapping. In addition, crates could be lifted and stacked manually, or nested when empty. Interlocking trays meant that there was no loss of palletised product in transit and the free underdeck providing a larger opening than found in wood pallets, making it easier for fork entry for operators.

According to Asda, the Cleanpal pallets allowed trays of product to be easily slid off the pallet (this is best practice), something that does not always work with wood pallets.

“In today’s supply chain, speed, safety and reliable quality have become essential. Problems related to the use of wood pallets are increasingly coming under the microscope as retailers look to take their operations to the next level. This trial demonstrates how Cleanpal delivers in every category to improve the fresh produce experience,” said Polymer Logistics managing director Adrian Dale.