Fashion and quality at the best price. High demands on speed and costs require a sophisticated logistics concept. Therefore, one of the world's most successful fashion retailers, counting with about 2,000 shops in more than 35 countries around the world, relies on a semi-automated logistics system including TGW material handling technology. In 2009, the company's so far largest distribution centre was put into operation in Northern Germany.

Objectives & Requirements

• Create capacity for future expansion and replenishment of up to 600 shops
• Minimise warehouse footprint
• Assure 24/7 delivery service in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Slovenia
• Merge 2 locations in 1 central warehouse
• No increase in workforce
• 25,000 different SKUs
• 350,000 order lines / day
• 30,000 – 40,000 cartons / day
• Warehouse throughput:    1,200 - 3,000 cartons / hour
• Integrate returns handling into the process

Solution

The implemented logistics solution is based on direct handling of the delivered cartons and automated supply of the different picking areas from an automatic carton warehouse. An additional pallet warehouse is used to replenish and supply the distribution centres in other countries.
Designer fashion is delivered in cartons to the distribution centre where it is processed and delivered to the shops as hanging garments.
The entire warehouse management is effected via a central ERP system of the customer. TGW acted as general contractor and implemented the direct connection and communication of the control system with the customer's ERP system.

Customer benefit

• Increase in performance without additional labour
• 24/7 service for shops
• Logistical basis for future expansion