Transforming Collaboration Across a Global Produce Network
As a global leader in fresh produce marketing and distribution, Freshmax recognised an opportunity to simplify how information was shared across the business. With multiple systems supporting document management and collaboration, the organisation wanted to create a more connected, secure, and efficient digital workplace.
Their goal was clear: create a secure, scalable digital workplace that would improve user experience today while providing a foundation for future innovation.
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Delivering Change at Scale
Although Freshmax had already embraced Microsoft 365, key collaboration and document management processes still relied on legacy platforms. By bringing these capabilities into SharePoint, the organisation could reduce complexity, improve user experience, and establish a single source of truth for business information. The initiative spanned multiple business entities, users, and international operations.
Working closely with Freshmax, Kambium helped establish the foundations required for a successful transition.
SharePoint Architecture and Site Structure
To support consistent information management across the organisation, Kambium worked with Freshmax to design a scalable SharePoint architecture that aligned with the structure of the business. By establishing a standardised site framework, Freshmax gained a more intuitive and organised digital environment that made it easier for employees to find information, collaborate across teams, and manage content effectively.
Governance and Security Best Practices
A strong governance foundation was established to ensure information remained secure, accessible, and appropriately managed. Kambium provided guidance on security and access best practices, helping Freshmax create a platform that balanced usability with robust controls. This approach gave both IT and business stakeholders confidence in how information was shared, stored, and protected.
Data Migration Planning and Execution
Migrating critical business information required careful planning to minimise disruption and maintain continuity. Kambium supported the migration of multiple terabytes of operational and business data into SharePoint, helping Freshmax transition from legacy platforms while ensuring users had access to the information they needed throughout the process.
Site Ownership and Accountability Models
To support long-term sustainability, Freshmax adopted a site ownership model that placed responsibility closer to the business. Site champions were established within each business entity, providing local ownership of content, access, and governance. This empowered teams to take greater accountability for their information while reducing reliance on central IT administration.
User Training and Adoption Support
Technology alone does not deliver transformation. To help employees embrace new ways of working, Kambium provided practical training and adoption support tailored to the needs of Freshmax users. This investment in enablement built confidence, accelerated adoption, and helped employees realise the full value of SharePoint and the broader Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
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“With everything part of the Microsoft 365 suite, our people aren’t spending time going from one system to another to get data. Sharing is easy with multiple ways of doing it, from the app, from a web service, within Teams…it makes things flow better.”
Outcomes That Extended Beyond Technology
The move to SharePoint delivered benefits that reached well beyond system consolidation. By establishing a single collaboration platform, Freshmax created a more streamlined, secure, and efficient digital workplace. Information became easier to locate, teams could collaborate more effectively, and users gained the ability to work on documents simultaneously across locations.
Key Outcomes
- A single source of truth for business information
- Improved collaboration and document co-authoring
- Reduced complexity across platforms and storage systems
- Simplified support and administration
- Increased ownership of information and security by business teams
- Reduced reliance on legacy applications and associated costs
- Stronger integration across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem
These improvements helped create a more connected organisation while supporting Freshmax’s ongoing focus on operational efficiency.
Creating Internal Capability
A key element of the project’s success was the emphasis on knowledge transfer and user enablement.
Kambium worked alongside Freshmax to establish governance practices and role-based ownership through site champions within each business entity. This approach helped shift responsibility closer to the business while ensuring data remained secure and appropriately managed. Combined with targeted training and practical guidance, this enabled users to confidently adopt new ways of working and maximise the value of the platform over time.
Creating Momentum for What’s Next
As the organisation’s understanding of Microsoft 365 expanded, so too did the opportunities for future innovation. With a strong foundation now in place, Freshmax began exploring additional capabilities across the Microsoft ecosystem, including opportunities to improve workflows, automate manual processes, and further enhance collaboration across the business. What began as a platform consolidation initiative ultimately created momentum for a broader digital transformation journey.
“Kambium have been responsive and did what they said they would. Thanks to the training, we have happier users. And it is thanks to Kambium that we’re now looking at additional Microsoft capabilities – after all, you don’t know what you don’t know. It’s been a massive learning experience for me and our IT guys, and we’re seeing potential now where we didn’t before.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Freshmax benefits from a more connected, collaborative, and scalable digital workplace. By consolidating systems, improving information accessibility, and empowering employees through training and governance, the organisation has established a strong platform for future growth and continued innovation. With greater confidence in the Microsoft ecosystem and a clearer view of what is possible, Freshmax is well positioned to continue exploring new opportunities that enhance productivity, collaboration, and business performance.
