Abstract
This project explores the operational and market challenges faced by Floribbean Seafood, a South Florida seafood distribution company, and evaluates their strategies to optimize their value chain in response to issues such as supply chain volatility, perishability, and customer preferences. The study focuses on the complexities of sourcing, importing, handling, and distributing highly perishable fresh seafood, with particular emphasis on the impact of spoilage, logistical challenges, and price competition. Through a case study approach, including a work study at Floribbean and interviews with key stakeholders, the paper examines the company’s efforts to improve logistics, reduce waste, and meet customer demand through strategies such as dynamic pricing, the use of advanced inventory software, retention of knowledgeable and killed staff, and strong supplier relationships. The report also evaluates current plans by the company to expand their distribution facility, implement an online ordering platform and transition from primarily fresh to frozen seafood.
Particular attention is paid to the potential challenges and benefits of dramatically changing from fresh-dominated sales to predominantly selling frozen seafood. Insights gained from other companies utilizing super-freezing technology offer additional context on the benefits of frozen seafood in reducing waste and extending shelf life.
The findings of this project suggest that by expanding its frozen product offerings, Floribbean can overcome current challenges and boost profitability. More broadly, this report provides valuable insights for the seafood industry, demonstrating how optimized logistics, improved quality management, and the adoption of frozen seafood can drive sales growth, reduce waste, improve operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.