In an effort to improve its supply chain, The Hershey Co. has entered into an alliance with The Ferrero Group in North America.

The alliance, which is expected to reap results in 2012, will allow for joint warehousing, transportation and distribution initiative, according to a media release from Hershey. However, it does not include manufacturing, selling or marketing activities.

The two companies will also work together to maximize corporate social responsibility efforts with the expectation of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and energy consumption in warehousing and freight, with fewer vehicle journeys needed to move products to customers.

“Collaborative supply chain operations are a growing trend across industries as companies seek to fully leverage their logistics infrastructure,” explains John P. Bilbrey, president and ceo of The Hershey Co. “Although we are initially focusing on one region of our business, we are excited about the full potential of this project."

For more information about Hershey, visit www.thehersheycompany.com/; for more information on Ferrero, known for making Tic Tacs, Ferrero Rocher Chocolates and Nutella Hazelnut Spread, visit www.ferrero.com/.