Case Study: Reed Boardall

The Customer

Reed Boardall - One of the UK’s leading cold storage and distribution companies, operating a 55-acre site with a fleet of 200 vehicles delivering 12,000 pallets of frozen food daily.

The Challenge

Reed Boardall’s operations run 24/7, with drivers, warehouse staff, and office employees working shifts at all hours. Access to healthy, convenient food was a challenge, particularly for night shift workers.

The company wanted to:

• Improve employee well-being by offering nutritious, locally sourced food on-site.
• Reduce reliance on processed snacks and vending machines.
• Provide a cost-effective, easy-to-maintain alternative to a canteen.
• Support local food producers in line with sustainability goals.

The Solution

To tackle these challenges, Foodpod installed two smart fridges at Reed Boardall’s main site. These smart fridges are stocked with fresh, locally sourced meals, snacks, and beverages, giving employees 24/7 access to high-quality food.

How It Works

Employees access the fridge via their contactless card or phone with Apple pay or Android pay. They grab their desired meal or snacks, the fridge automatically detects the items removed and charges accordingly. The selection is tailored based on real-time purchasing data, ensuring the most popular items are always available. Meals cater to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and high-protein options—ideal for physically demanding roles.

Results & Impact

• Improved Employee Well-being & Satisfaction: Since the introduction of Foodpod, 80% of surveyed employees reported making healthier food choices at work. Staff appreciate the convenience and quality of meals, particularly the shift away from traditional vending machine snacks toward fresh, nutritious options.
• Increased Productivity & Shift Efficiency: With better food available on-site, employees spend less time leaving the site to find meals, keeping operations efficient. Access to nutrient-rich meals has also helped staff maintain energy levels throughout their shifts, reducing fatigue and improving focus.
• Supporting Sustainability & Local Sourcing: Foodpod’s commitment to local suppliers aligns with Reed Boardall’s sustainability goals. By sourcing food regionally, the company helps reduce food miles and supports the local economy. Additionally, Foodpod’s data-driven stock management system ensures that waste is minimized by only restocking based on demand.
• Cost-Effective, Low-Maintenance Food Solution: Unlike a traditional canteen, Foodpod requires no additional staff or kitchen facilities, making it a cost-effective solution for Reed Boardall. The automated system ensures fresh food is always available without the overhead costs of a staffed catering service.