CERTIFIED (MIDWEST) SIGNS FLEET MAINTENANCE PACT

PATRICK SCIACCA

HODGKINS, Ill. -- Certified Grocers Midwest has inked a five-year deal to outsource garage fleet maintenance at its distribution center here.

This is the first time that Certified has outsourced this part of its operations, said Ted Clinnin, vice president of distribution for Certified.

"It's just a situation where we felt someone in the business [of fleet maintenance] could do a better job than somebody in the business of delivering groceries," said a company spokesman. He noted that it's also becoming more difficult for Certified to deal with regulatory compliance issues.

The wholesaler wouldn't comment on the projected potential savings through outsourcing this segment of its operations, but said that "in the long run it's going to save some money."

The maintenance contract with Transervice Lease Corp., Des Plaines, Ill., includes the employment of 18 mechanics and administrative personnel and maintenance of 124 tandem axle tractors, 113 refrigerated trailers, 180 dry freight trailers and 16 miscellaneous vans, yard horses and service vehicles.

The Hodgkins distribution center services 474 stores in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin and Michigan.