UNFI Invests in Next-Generation Supply Chain Technology to Strengthen Driver Safety
June 15, 2026 3 minute read
As UNFI continues its focus on building a next generation supply chain to better serve customers and suppliers, the Company recently expanded powerful AI-based technology across its transportation fleet. The goal? Empower 2,500 drivers to safely and reliably deliver groceries to thousands of retail locations every day.
Since 2024, UNFI has been using Samsara’s AI-powered platform to improve safety, efficiency, and visibility across the company’s day-to-day supply chain operations. More recently, the Company began piloting Samsara’s driver coaching tools to strengthen driver safety across its network.
“Our North Star is to build and operate a world class safety management system that’s really rooted in our responsibility to protect our people, products, assets, and communities in which we serve,” said Tehzin Chadwick, UNFI’s Chief Safety Officer. “Every major safety breakthrough in our industry came from leaders willing to try something new in service of protecting our people.”
“Now that we're incorporating the AI driver coaching features, we’re getting messages out to our drivers more effectively and more regularly, which has been instrumental in building our safety culture,” said John Begin, Director, Fleet Safety.
The driver coaching tool helps UNFI’s fleet safety team provide regular performance recaps, feedback, and insights to drivers—highlighting what they’re doing well and where there are opportunities to improve.
“It’s like having a second set of eyes. Not only does it keep us safe, it keeps the public safe too,” said Michael Auer, Driver at UNFI’s Sarasota, Fla. Distribution Center.
The technology also gives UNFI better visibility into transportation data and insights across its network of nearly 50 distribution centers and 2,000 delivery vehicles. From trailer location tracking to real-time estimated arrival times at the dock door, these tools help reduce delays, optimize delivery routines, and strengthen coordination across UNFI’s supply chain operations.
"For UNFI, driver safety is a deeply ingrained part of their culture and a competitive standard they set," said Arpan Podduturi, Vice President of Product, Safety at Samsara. "They've pushed us to make our safety products better, deployed them across 2,500 drivers, and seen results. They're raising the bar for the whole industry, and we are proud to be their partner in protecting frontline workers."
Samsara’s platform also provides real-time insights into conditions drivers are experiencing—from weather to traffic—so teams can respond with more targeted guidance to help keep associates and surrounding communities safe.
“Today, we're coaching our drivers earlier, more consistently, and with much stronger insights,” said Begin.
As UNFI continues working to become a more effective and efficient partner, the company is beginning to see measurable improvements in service. Through May of 2026, on‑time deliveries have increased by over 4% compared to the prior‑year, while reducing average miles driven per delivery by nearly 5%—benefitting speed of deliveries, operating costs, and the environment.
“It’s early in our journey with advanced technologies, and we’re being deliberate,” Chadwick said. “The focus isn’t on transformation for its own sake. It’s about choosing the right problems to solve and supporting our teams with better information so they can serve our customers and suppliers more effectively and consistently. And the opportunity ahead of us is significant.”