How should a drinks business set up a full supply chain traceability process to track suppliers and distribution?

Members who've implemented traceability recommend treating it as a formal quality management exercise and linking it directly to your invoicing system.

**Approach and tools:** - **ISO 9001 quality management system** — One member with audit experience noted this is the framework underpinning full traceability. They offered to walk businesses through the basics and help with self-audits. - **Custom invoicing integration** — A member with organic certification requirements coded an online system that integrates traceability directly with their invoicing software, allowing them to track both suppliers and customer distribution in one place.

**Why it matters:** Local councils are increasingly asking businesses to hold records of the full supply chain and customer distribution history. Having a documented, auditable system protects you during inspections and helps meet compliance requirements, particularly if pursuing certifications like organic status.