Superior Grocers Takes a Fresh Approach to Produce Logistics Through a New Partnership With IFCO
July 28, 2025 | 3 min to read
Santa Fe Springs, CA – Superior Grocers has partnered with IFCO to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of its fresh produce supply chain by implementing reusable packaging containers (RPCs) for transporting fruits and vegetables. This transition away from cardboard will improve food quality and reduce waste, according to VP of Produce & Floral, Jon Holder. The initiative, supported by President Richard Wardell, aims to bolster operational efficiency, benefiting both employees and customers while promoting sustainability.
Santa Fe Springs, CA – Superior Grocers, one of SoCal’s largest independent supermarket chains, has entered a dynamic partnership with IFCO, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions for fresh food, to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of its fresh produce supply chain.
The collaboration introduces IFCO’s reusable packaging containers (RPCs) as the standard for transporting fresh fruits and vegetables across Superior’s distribution and retail network. By transitioning away from cardboard and waxed boxes, Superior is embracing an alternative way to move produce from farm to shelf.
Jon Holder, Superior’s VP of Produce & Floral said: “At Superior, we’re always looking for smart ways to improve how we move fresh produce through our supply chain. Partnering with IFCO and using reusable plastic containers is a practical step forward — they’re sturdier than cardboard, easier to handle in our distribution centers, and help us cut down on waste. Most importantly, they help us deliver fresher, higher-quality produce to our customers. It’s a win for efficiency, a win for quality, and a win for sustainability.”
The program is designed to improve store-level operations and support workforce efficiency. By using RPCs, Superior expects to reduce shrink, improve food quality, and enhance backroom organization — outcomes that benefit both employees and shoppers.
The program has the backing of senior leadership including the President, Richard Wardell. He commented, “I certainly support our team in implementing simple changes that make a positive impact, and I look forward to seeing the big-picture benefits of the RPC program. In the current business climate it’s important to identify creative and innovative ways to operate more efficiently. I appreciate the collaboration between my team and the IFCO team on this new project.”
“IFCO is proud to partner with a well-respected retailer like Superior that prioritizes innovation, quality, and sustainability. Together, we’re setting a new standard for how fresh food gets to the shelf,” said Jon Brooks, IFCO’s Vice President of Retail Sales.
Superior and IFCO will track success by measuring gains in operational efficiencies, food quality, and environmental performance. This partnership marks a major step forward in how fresh food is handled and delivered and underscores Superior’s commitment to continuous improvement.
About IFCO
IFCO is a leading global provider of reusable packaging solutions for fresh foods, empowering customers to participate in the circular economy in 50+ countries. IFCO operates a pool of over 400 million Reusable Packaging Containers (RPCs) globally, which are used for 2.4 billion shipments of fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, bread, and other items from suppliers to grocery retailers every year. IFCO RPCs ensure a better fresh food supply chain by protecting freshness and quality and lowering costs, food waste and environmental impact compared to single-use packaging.
More: www.ifco.com | Follow us on LinkedIn @IFCO SYSTEMS
About Superior Grocers
At Superior Grocers, we’re not just a grocery chain; we’re a cornerstone of communities across Southern California, the Central Valley, and Nevada. Since our humble beginnings in 1981 with just one store, we’ve grown to encompass 73 locations. Our commitment to providing Superior Quality, Superior Variety, and Superior Value remains unwavering.
www.superiorgrocers.com.