Sun-Maid Growers of California, a farmer’s co-op that is nationally known as the premier source of raisins throughout the country, considers Star Distribution to be one of the best of their 12 regional public warehouses.  John Slinkard, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain & Sales Administration, explained why he chose to work with Star Distribution Systems, Inc. and how that has impacted his company.

When their previous 3PL began expanding their services to cover the entire nation, Slinkard decided to look for a new provider who specialized in the Florida market and was already well-versed in the nuances of grocery distribution. After asking others in the industry, Star Distribution Systems, Inc. stood out as the best solution for Sun-Maid’s needs. In fact, being family-owned and operated, Star was even more appealing to the California grower’s co-op.

Slinkard elaborated that the asset-based transportation, coverage of the entire Florida market, the ability to expand beyond Florida when needed, reasonable rates, and especially the level of customer service Star provides are the reasons why Sun-Maid continues to utilize Star’s services. In particular, Slinkard appreciates the openness in communication that he receives from the Star team. No matter what challenges present themselves, Slinkard learns about them directly from Star, instead of from Sun-Maid’s customers. He also is grateful for their truthfulness about their experience and capabilities, although they are always willing to go the extra mile to provide the solutions Sun-Maid needs.

In Slinkard’ s opinion, one of the best things about Star is that the team working with him has taken the time to learn the specific demands and specialized needs of their product line. In fact, in addition to an established relationship with Publix, Star knows all of the players in the grocery Florida grocery market and accommodates the needs of each distribution center to make sure that Sun-Maid’s products get to their customers on time and damage-free. In addition to handling Florida’s distribution, Star also handles Sun-Maid’s transportation from their Jonesboro, Georgia location. 

Sun-Maid is looking forward to continuing the business relationship with Star Distribution Systems, Inc. well into the future as one of their top 3PL’s in the country.