Irish family-owned Kepak invests in major digital overhaul

Family-owned Irish meat manufacturer, Kepak, has successfully completed a major Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O across its UK and Ireland estate, marking a significant step in its drive to futureproof business operations. The digital transformation project was delivered by Microsoft ERP, CRM, and Power Platform specialist, Nexer Enterprise Applications.

Kepak sources meat from thousands of farmers across Ireland, the UK and creates products to supply major retailers and foodservice chains including Tesco, Asda, Burger King, and McDonald’s.

Futureproofing the operational systems of a longstanding family business, Nexer replaced Kepak’s legacy Dynamics AX 2012 platform, which was no longer fit for purpose across supply chain, warehouse, and finance processes. This process ensured Kepak’s systems, from suppliers to the final customer-facing transaction, are future-proofed and will grow alongside the beloved, Irish, family-owned company. With Kepak sites already live and the UK rollout of the new systems now complete, the programme is in the final throes of implementation and moving into its post-live hyper-care phase.

Throughout the programme, Nexer consolidated Kepak’s operations by introducing a central billing team to replace site-by-site invoicing, thereby streamlining customer billing across all major accounts. At the same time, supply chain, warehouse and finance workflows were standardised onto a single Dynamics 365 platform, eliminating disparate systems across eight Irish and multiple UK facilities. Underpinning these improvements is a robust solution and production architecture, designed by Nexer’s technical and production architects, which ensures scalability for ongoing growth and future enhancements.

Jeremy O’Callahan, CIO of Kepak Group, commented:

“This transformation has been a true partnership. Replacing our end-of-life AX system with Dynamics 365 through Implement365 gives us the consistency and agility we need to support our farmers and customers alike. Nexer’s strategic support was critical to ensuring the implementation process went as smoothly as possible as business continued around it.”

Martin Burden, Commercial Director at Nexer Enterprise Applications, added:

“With Kepak, we’ve helped to futureproof their ever-evolving supply-chain, warehouse and finance operations through Microsoft Dynamics 365 consolidation. As we move into hyper-care, our focus remains on fine-tuning and ensuring Kepak realises ongoing value from its investment across both Irish and UK markets.”

For more information on Nexer Enterprise Applications, visit: https://nexergroup.com/uk/microsoft-business-applications/

Asda delivery driver praised for going the extra mile

Jason Bonny, a delivery driver from Asda, Portadown, demonstrated exceptional customer service and dedication to his job by assisting a wheelchair user with putting away her shopping while out on his rounds.

Going about his day on an ordinary delivery shift, Jason encountered an address that wasn’t on his usual route. Approaching the front door, he noticed the house had been renovated for disability access and was greeted by the home delivery customer, who was a wheelchair user.

Jason said hello to the customer and indicated he would carry the shopping into the house for her, he then began to unpack the groceries and put the items away in the cupboards to save the customer from doing so, much to their delight.

Jason commented:

“I just followed my instinct, I explained to the customer that there was no rush and that I could take the time as helping people is just part of my job. I enjoy my job at Asda for different reasons, however, working in customer service has given me the opportunity to make a positive impact on somebody else’s day and there is nothing more rewarding than that. Kindness costs nothing!”

The customer was so pleased with Jason’s assistance that she contacted Asda Portadown, praising Jason as a credit to the company and that her positive experience would encourage her to use Asda’s delivery service again.

Kate Oakes, General Store Manager at Asda Portadown said:

“Jason is a remarkable employee and always goes above and beyond for all customers. His dedication to making every customer feel valued is a testament to his hard work and commitment. We’re privileged to work with him, thank you, Jason!”