Thule centralises European distribution with new automated warehouse in Poland

OUTDOOR PRODUCTS manufacturer Thule has entrusted Mecalux with optimising its European supply chain. The Sweden-headquartered multinational is set to build an automated warehouse in Krzyż Wielkopolski, Poland to centralise its European product range while also serving other international markets.

New automated warehouse to boost competitiveness

Thule, whose established network already spans 138 markets, says the logistics automation will further strengthen its international competitiveness. "Our goals are to increase throughput, leverage our storage space and ensure product traceability," said Paweł Pępiak, Thule Group's distribution centre director for Europe and ROW. "Automation will enhance cost efficiency and streamline processes, enabling us to deliver superior service and improve customer satisfaction."

Six stacker cranes to handle 40,000 pallets

Thule's new clad-rack warehouse will feature racking measuring 51m wide, 135m long and 42m high. Six double-deep automated stacker cranes will handle nearly 40,000 pallets. The facility will also be equipped with a temperature and humidity control system.

A conveyor and a pallet lift will provide a direct connection between the automated warehouse and the existing manual warehouse and production hall.

Monorail system speeds intralogistics

The new premises will also feature a floor-mounted electric monorail system, responsible for transporting pallets from the receiving area to the automated warehouse. Additionally, it will move goods from the storage area to one of the 16 flow channels located in the dock area.

Mecalux's Easy WMS warehouse management system will oversee all operations. For example, the software will assign storage locations based on product category and turnover, organise order picking and provide product traceability. Digitalisation combined with automated systems will reduce manual handling, enhance staff safety and ergonomics and improve operational efficiency to meet anticipated demand in the coming years.

For more information: 

www.mecalux.com

Tel: 0203 8685 761