Card Factory

We have worked in partnership with Expect Distribution since the beginning of 2017.  As the leading specialist retailer of greetings cards, gift dressings and party products in the UK we require high service levels and an efficient supply chain. We partnered with Expect Distribution because we recognised the need to partner with a progressive solutions-based provider who could work at pace and support our business growth. 

Expect Distribution have implemented direct to store deliveries to 250+ local stores, within a circa 100 mile radius of our Wakefield distribution centre, using Card Factory liveried vehicles and dedicated drivers. This has improve relationships between our retail store colleagues and supply chain whilst also delivering a lower cost to serve.  Deliveries to our remaining store estate is through the Expect relationship with the Palletline network. This offers Card Factory high service levels and efficient costs for all other geographic areas.

Expect Distribution have worked hard to drive value to our business whilst improving our service levels with retail stores. Expect has introduced SMS ETA messaging for all store deliveries allowing our retail colleagues to efficiently plan for their store delivery arrival time. Additionally, Expect have taken on ownership of our end of season reverse logistics operation and improved the control, store service, and speed of the returns process.

The two businesses have developed an aligned understanding that has resulted in higher overall service levels particularly during peak trading periods where service is critical.

We have a number of progressive initiatives planned together to drive further efficiency and service levels, and value the strong relationship and “one team” spirit between our two businesses.