Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service Pacific Region military team conducted annual inventory at the Robertson Barracks Exchange, Darwin, Australia, in January.
Two Marines during the Wet Season (October to March) and five during the Dry Season (April to September) have operated a storefront on a rotational deployment in Australia since 2016, while the Exchange provides support with merchandise, supplies and logistics.
The Robertson Barracks Exchange supports more than 2,500 Marines who deploy for combat readiness exercises with Australian Defense Forces and other regional allies.
Marines at Robertson Barracks are provided with access to retail goods such as tactical gear, snacks and beverages, health products, cleaning supplies and more.
“We are a huge boost to morale, especially for those working in remote areas with limited access to any comfort items,” said Gunnery Sgt. Xavier Barton, MCCS staff noncommissioned officer in charge. “My favorite part is being the morale boost for the troops who are working hard in both combat and support roles, especially in the field. We arrive and Marines react like we are the ice cream man.”
Discussions about the annual inventory process start 60 days in advance with drawing of inventory floor plans, assigning fixture stickers and organizing the merchandise in the warehouse and inside the store, which are prepared at least a month in advance.
Marines ensure a clean and organized stockroom and sales floor and identify any items that may have issues, which is key to a smooth, successful inventory count.
Among the difficulties of getting goods out to the Marines in such a remote area is navigating Australian customs. Import and export regulations in Australia are strict so many items must be sourced within country. In addition, Australia’s harsh climate makes it difficult to store and transport many of the perishable items like snacks and beverages.
Logistics and Merchandising, Planning, Allocation and Replenishment Contingency teams coordinate the allocation and shipment of retail goods to ensure Robertson Barracks is fully stocked for the upcoming rotations.
The Exchange’s Pacific Buying Office has established a partnership with local supplier Independent Grocers to procure snacks and beverages
“Our partnership with Independent Grocers has been critical in maintaining operations as we are not able to import consumable products into Australia,” said Danny Cawood, Okinawa Exchange retail business manager. “They are very supportive of our mission, easy to work with and have a great turnaround time with orders being delivered from the warehouse to the store within one to two business days.”
Col. Jason Beck, the Exchange’s Pacific Region commander, praised the MCCS team operating Robertson Barracks.
“Whether Marines are just getting a drink and snack to start the day or just stopping by to say hello, you can instantly see their smiles and feel a sense of morale boost,” Beck said. “The MCCS Marines are always dedicated to providing support at any location even outside of normal business hours. They truly embody the family serving family core value with a one team, one fight mentality.”
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