Publix Seeks More Recall Exchange Users

MICHAEL GARRY

ORLANDO, Fla. — Publix Super Markets is "disappointed" in the number of manufacturers using the Rapid Recall Exchange, the industry portal established by the Food Marketing Institute and GS1 US to promote the quick dissemination of recall information from manufacturers to retailers.

"We reviewed the number of our suppliers using RRE and we're disappointed in the survey results," said Michael Roberson, director of corporate quality assurance for Publix, Lakeland, Fla., during a session today at the U Connect Live conference, sponsored by GS1 US and VICS. "Only 222 of our grocery suppliers are signed up, and more than 1,000 have not yet joined."

Publix has been proactive in urging manufacturers to join the exchange and is ranking suppliers in part on whether they are leveraging the system, Roberson said.

Last year, of the 300 recalls Publix experienced, less than 50 went through the RRE, he said. For recalls that went through the RRE, Roberson observed "the absolute excellence in the information that was communicated." By contrast, for recalls that don't go through the RRE, "nine times out of 10 we're going back to trading partners and seeking out additional information."