New Automated Distribution Center
Client:
Food Service Company
Industry:
Food & Beverage
Solution:
Distribution Systems Integration
One of the largest broadline food distribution companies in North America required a new DC to support expansion. Requirements included handling more SKUs with faster cycle times.
Challenge
- Client required a new facility to support Canadian distribution with an expanding product assortment, including frozen foods
- More SKU’s with smaller orders requiring faster shipping created difficulty in their high-volume, low-SKU environment
- Needed to reduce cycle times, and add the flexibility to interject orders mid-shift
- Desired less overall reliance on labor and less strenuous tasks
Solution
- DLN designed and implemented an automated DC capable of handling 60K cases per day, easily expandable to 100K cases per day
- Slow movers automated with 3 aisle shuttle system, 3 mini-load aisles and 3 temperature zones
- Simple ‘top-off’ workflow to provide flexibility to shift production based on demands of the business
Results
- Omnichannel orders processed faster and more accurately at a lower cost to serve
- Enhanced supply chain resiliency
- Less labor required with simplified manual jobs improved with ergonomic assistance
- Flexibility built-in to add shifts, as well as future growth
