Goal:

FRIDGE23 is an innovative project aimed at revolutionizing the fresh food supply chain through the implementation of smart refrigeration technology and advanced forecasting algorithms. The primary objectives of FRIDGE23 are:

• Development and Validation of a Predictive Algorithm: To create a sophisticated algorithm capable of accurately forecasting stock requirements for each smart fridge unit by product, location, and time segment, taking into account the dynamics of the last mile delivery. This algorithm will utilize real-time data to optimize stock levels, ensuring that each fridge is replenished with the right products at the right time.
• Software Platform for Supply Chain Integration: To develop a robust software platform that facilitates seamless communication and coordination among all partners in the value chain, from farmers to end consumers. This platform will trigger specific actions for each partner based on the predictive algorithm's forecasts, thereby streamlining operations and reducing inefficiencies.
• Expansion and Scalability Research: To conduct comprehensive research on the applicability and scalability of the FRIDGE23 innovation across other urban regions in Europe, with the aim of replicating its success and maximizing its impact on the fresh food supply chain.

Challenges addressed:

The FRIDGE23 project is launched in response to the critical challenges faced by the current fresh food vending technology and supply chain processes. These challenges include:

• Unsustainable and Unhealthy Food Distribution Practices: Traditional vending technologies and supply chain practices have been inefficient and environmentally unsustainable, contributing to significant food waste and limiting access to fresh, healthy food options.
• Limited Data Sharing and Integration: Existing systems suffer from a lack of data sharing and integration among supply chain partners, leading to poor coordination, inefficiencies, and increased waste.
• Inadequate Forecasting and Stock Management: Current technologies lack the sophistication needed to accurately forecast demand and manage stock levels, particularly for products with short shelf lives and specific restocking requirements.

Expected Benefits:

The FRIDGE23 project promises to deliver substantial benefits across the fresh food supply chain:

• Reduction in Food Waste: By implementing advanced forecasting and stock management algorithms, FRIDGE23 aims to reduce waste within the supply chain to less than 5%, significantly improving food resource efficiency from farm to fork.
• Enhanced Freshness and Quality: The project will enable the provision of ultra-fresh food options to consumers, improving dietary health and satisfaction.
• Increased Efficiency and Sustainability: Through the integration of smart technology and better data sharing among supply chain partners, FRIDGE23 will streamline operations, reduce carbon footprints, and promote sustainable food distribution practices.
• Scalability and Wider Application: The successful development and validation of FRIDGE23's technology will pave the way for its application in other urban regions, potentially transforming the fresh food supply chain at a European scale.

Award date: 10/26/2023

Duration: 12 months

Partners:

• Hans de Waal transport B.V. - https://www.dewaaltransportdiensten.nl/ (The Netherlands)
• JADS - https://www.jads.nl/ (The Netherlands)
• Awguana - https://aeguana.com/ (United Kingdom)