 | Distribution: streamlined processes, improved performance
In response to rapid growth, driven partly by the trend in Spain towards longer pharmacy opening hours, Hefame doubled the size of its Barcelona distribution centre in 2008 -
to an impressive 5,265 m2 of storage space. In parallel, it increased its throughput almost threefold. The new logistics hub in Castellbisbal also took on the tasks previously
performed by another warehouse nearby, thus helping to streamline the company's distribution processes in Catalonia.
Compact Interroll Carton Flow hardware
A team of 75 staff order-pick an average of 68,000 order lines each day. At peak operating times, the centre is even able to handle a staggering 84,000 order lines - without
the need for additional staff. All of this is made possible by an ingenious materials handling system. At the heart of this system lies a fully automated "Miniload" warehouse for
up to 21,276 totes. Equipped with three automatic cranes, the Miniload system is designed for super-fast order picking. The totes, i.e. storage boxes, are placed in compact
Interroll Carton Flow beds featuring integrated Floway tracks. The FIFO racks can hold two to four totes per flow storage channel.
Customer specifications - tested and approved
"We are extremely satisfied with the new distribution centre and the intralogistics solution provided by Interroll. It is tailored precisely to the items handled at our
distribution centre and has the added benefit of delivering maximum uptime," says Manel Martinez, Technical Manager at Hefame Castellbisbal. This is no coincidence, seeing as the
Carton Flow solution was optimised and tested specifically in line with customer requirements, one of which was that the totes should be able to run smoothly even when carrying
lightweight items, such as a box of aspirin. Full-length lateral guides and stabilising cross-beams underneath the roller tracks ensure perfect handling. In order to ensure
maximum use of the space available in the order-picking area, the cross-beams were designed in such a way as to accommodate an additional level in the Carton Flow rack. The
inclined picking front provides better access to the totes.
What the customer thinks
"We are extremely satisfied with the new distribution centre and the intralogistics solution provided by Interroll. It is tailored precisely to the items handled at our
distribution centre and has the added benefit of delivering maximum uptime."
Manel Martinez
Technical Manager, Hefame
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