As one of the leading privately held beef processing companies in the U.S., American Foods Group (AFG) ships 6 million lb. of beef a day to more than 38 countries. The company is a top producer of lean beef, supplying food service establishments across the country and American military personnel worldwide, and plays a major role in putting beef on the table for millions of Americans every night.

America’s Service Line (ASL) is the company’s private fleet that has been under the leadership of Scott Willert, CTP, president of supply chain for AFG, for the past 11 years. Last year, Willert was promoted to his current position, where he oversees ASL, procurement, and AFG's broader supply chain. His 40-year career in the trucking industry includes 15 years with UPS in various roles and 14 years with Kraft Foods, mostly working in its private fleet.

American Foods Group balances private fleet capacity with carrier partnerships

“When I started out in this job, a critical first step was to assess the team I had and find out what I was missing. I began the process of putting the right people in place, giving them the authority and autonomy to succeed,” Willert said.

“Over the previous two years, I had traveled around to our plants to meet folks and get their feedback. Centralizing transportation was a priority," he continued. "Taking transportation off the hands of the plants improved the effectiveness and efficiency of the private fleet and our transportation team.”

“Our private fleet is truly a team of elite professionals,” Willert said. “We expect excellence, and we reward it. Fortunately, we attract good people who work well as a team, who are adaptable, and who are willing to adjust as circumstances require. If you are a ‘me’ person, this is not the right company for you.”

The company’s private fleet has more than 250 tractors and 500 refrigerated trailers. It has operated for 30 years and accounts for about 50% of AFG’s transportation needs, serving six processing plants in the Midwest. Outside carriers handle the remaining 50%.

Willert said the company has developed long-standing relationships with a strong group of smaller to midsize partners that serve their network well. “The small to medium carrier is a sweet spot for us. They typically share our philosophy about drivers. Building long-term relationships with these quality carriers who value their drivers helps strengthen our ability to provide an overall premium transportation service for customers.”

“Twenty years ago, we had all owner-operators. Today, three-fourths of our fleet drivers are employees, and one-fourth are owner-operators. Our annual turnover is well below private fleet industry standards of around 20%. This is driven by a commitment to people’s success, which begins at the top,” Willert said. “Our fleet has the full support of our owners. The cost of the private fleet is lower than outsourced alternatives. We operate as a profit center, retain our staff and drivers, and maintain high customer service standards despite challenging conditions in our market.”