We’re delighted to announce the successful completion of our Cross-Cluster Proof of Concept (CCPOC) project, delivered in collaboration with Emerging Data Technologies (EDT) and supported by grant funding.
The goal of the CCPOC project was to develop a powerful simulation environment to model the operations of Barro’s Mobile Distribution Centres (MDCs). This cutting-edge simulator allows us to test and optimise the real-world viability of delivering from multiple local suppliers without the need for a warehouse, something no off-the-shelf system could offer.
Thanks to this project, we now have a modular, python-based simulator capable of assessing the viability of new service areas based on factors like retailer density, customer demand, route efficiency, and operational risk. Importantly, the simulator produces “viability scores” that help us identify the most promising areas for expansion, before we invest time and resources on the ground.
This tool is a game-changer for Barro's growth strategy. It enables rapid, low-risk expansion into new towns and cities by ensuring that every new catchment area we target is underpinned by robust data and predictive modelling. The simulator also strengthens our commercial offering by validating operational assumptions and providing a clear roadmap for scaling up nationally through our franchise model.
We would like to thank Emerging Data Technologies for their technical expertise and the funding partners who supported this vital piece of infrastructure. This is another major milestone on our journey to build a smarter, greener, and more sustainable local delivery network across the UK.