VANA MEMBER PROFILE- South Barwon Distribution
2/19 Capital Drive Marshall Vic 3216
Store Owners:
Kevin & Josie McCann
Years as a newsagent: 10
Services:
Distribution of newspapers & magazines for News Ltd, Nine, Ovato, ACM, IPS & TNG into postcode areas 3215, 3216, 3217, 3218, 3220, 3331
In 2017, Kevin & Josie McCann separated their retail and distribution operations. Through application of up to date technologies such as iDeliver, Xero, Deputy, NBN & iRISCO they have scaled up to become a very efficient distribution business operating 24/7.
South Barwon Distribution services over 2700 homes and 200 retailers, businesses & institutions every day. They have a dedicated customer support function and measure their DIFOT rate (running at 99.98%) daily.
COVID-19 has not been without its challenges, but it has also presented South Barwon Distribution with some opportunities. In the first instance, they have had to do a lot to ensure their staff are working in a safe environment and also engage them so that they are part of the solution. They have made sure staff fully understand the risks of the virus and what they can all do about it. Kevin and Josie regularly update their notice board with the latest information , provide plenty of hand soap and sanitiser, ensure all staff are wearing masks, and for those who prefer it, they supply face shields.
All flat surfaces, buttons, and door handles are disinfected every night. Kevin and Josie also regularly check-in with staff individually to make sure they are staying safe.
Like most, South Barwon Distribution enjoyed an increase in home deliveries, especially to older people. They have stepped up their call centre operation to make sure they can quickly handle any delivery issues. They have also relocated an EFTPOS unit into the depot to handle the significant increase in payments over the phone.
