Optimizing Supply Chain Resilience

Keefer Gibson, Sourcing Manager in Supply Chain, Bimbo Canada

Keefer Gibson is a dynamic logistics industry leader known for his dedication to fostering diversity and prioritizing safety. Currently serving as the Sourcing Manager,North America Supply Chain at Grupo Bimbo, his areas of specialization include logistics management, transportation network optimization, and distribution and warehousing. As a change agent with a disruptive mindset, he challenges the status quo and implements innovative strategies to drive results.

He holds internationally recognized certifications as a Six Sigma Lean Black Belt professional and a certified Scrum Master, demonstrating his commitment to continuous improvement and effective project management.

In an interview with Food and Beverages Tech Review Canada, Keefer Gibson sheds light on the evolving cold storage and distribution landscape, highlighting key challenges, trends and innovative strategies to navigate disruptions and drive sustainable growth.

Please share insights into your professional journey and experience that led to your current role as a Sourcing Manager in Supply Chain at Bimbo Canada. What are your current roles and responsibilities?

After completing my Bachelor’s degree in business management from Dalhousie University, I began my career at TransX Group of Companies. My initial responsibilities included managing fresh, frozen and dry goods in the less-than-truckload (LTL) division. Over time, my role expanded to include full truckload, intermodal, and warehouse management.

Following a brief stint exploring sales, I returned to supply chain, joining Bimbo Canada. Over eight years, I progressed through diverse roles, starting as a transportation supervisor for Western Canada and advancing to manager, overseeing transportation for the region.

Subsequently, I transitioned to distribution, managing sites in Calgary and Edmonton, where I gained experience in people management and broader team oversight where I had the privilege to lead the teams to become the top ranked sites in Canada for KPI’s and safety records two years in a row. Approximately a year ago, I seized an opportunity to join the procurement team as a Sourcing Manager for North America, specializing in Logistics.

In my current role, I focus on sourcing transportation vendors, distribution and storage solutions for long-term needs across Bimbo’s business units, including Bimbo Canada, Bimbo Bakehouse and BBU in the U.S., as well as managing inbound logistics from Mexico. My deep logistics background complements my procurement responsibilities, enabling me to optimize supply chain operations.

What are some significant challenges currently facing the cold storage and distribution industry?

A primary challenge is Canada's lack of notable cold storage market players, with only one or two major suppliers operating nationwide. While some regional players exist, larger businesses like ours require partnerships that offer scalability across different regions. This scarcity of options impacts pricing, as fewer providers can lead to potential monopolistic situations, making it challenging for smaller businesses to secure space or negotiate favorable rates, especially with third-party logistics providers (3PL).

Another challenge stems from a shift in the industry’s booking practices. Traditionally, companies book storage space based on specific needs for a set timeframe. However, there is a trend toward year-round commitments, where companies must pay for space regardless of utilization. This model poses challenges for businesses that require only cold storage during specific times of the year or for certain projects.

Due to the high upfront costs of building new facilities and the limited availability of space at competitive prices, the cold storage industry remains challenging for existing and new competitors.