Kroger to Suppliers: Join Rapid Recall Exchange

MICHAEL GARRY

CINCINNATI — Kroger Co. here is asking all suppliers to subscribe by July 1 to the Rapid Recall Exchange, an online recall service that standardizes and accelerates food and product recalls and withdrawals.

Suppliers using the exchange can provide all critical recall information in one communication — 24 hours a day, seven days a week — enabling retailers like Kroger to quickly remove recalled products and reach out to customers about recalls.

The Rapid Recall Exchange, developed by GS1 US in collaboration with the Food Marketing Institute and Grocery Manufacturers Association, uses consistent forms and processes; retailers receive the same complete information, including product images and handling instructions, when a recall is issued.

“Using Rapid Recall Exchange provides Kroger with timely and accurate recall data,” said Payton Pruett, vice president of corporate food safety for Kroger. “The need for speed is crucial in recall situations and this will help us be more efficient in removing recalled product from our shelves and communicating with our customers about recalls.”

At FMI's Midwinter Executive Conference in January, Kroger had stated its support for the exchange and said it was encouraging suppliers to join.

“It saves us time, and in a recall situation, time is precious,” said Lynn Marmer, Kroger's group vice president, corporate affairs, at that time. “We're very pleased with this effort.”