Scalable automation solution for Hunkemöller

The challenge

Hunkemöller is a retailer brand selling products online and through retail outlets across Europe. With growth came the need for additional supply chain capacity. The client contracted our supply chain and logistics team to identify the optimal strategy and design of the new network and facilities.

Working with Hunkemöller, we explored strategic questions about how to develop the network in coming years. We looked at whether several new warehouses were needed, and the potential consolidation of online and store fulfilment. The optimal solution identified was to construct a single, larger warehouse in a new location in the Netherlands. E-commerce activities would continue from a separate warehouse. From here, we moved to design and execution phases and the question of warehouse automation.

The solution

To automate or not to automate?

A wide range of concepts, from fully automated to fully manual, were investigated to define the optimal level of automation. Each concept was scored on criteria such as cost, personnel numbers, building capacity, flexibility, agility and ongoing maintenance needs. This led to a couple of concepts being selected to provide a basis for equipment providers to work into concrete proposals and contractor selection.

"We know what’s on the market so we can define feasible concepts and identify optimal solutions. We also recommended which providers to contact, how to set up the request for bid and assisted in contractor selection." Says Victor Ponsioen. 

The result

Scalable solution enables investment to be balanced with demand

The solution is highly automated and uses AMR’s (Autonomous Mobile Robots) for picking . The big advantage it offers is the agility to cope with fluctuation and growth in volume flows, adding or removing AMR’s in line with demand. The extended capacity and space enable the company to meet orders from stores stretching the length and breadth of Europe.

“The new distribution centre marks a huge leap forward for the clients supply chain. The scalable nature of the logistic concept allows our client to introduce a high level of automation without the need for investing excessive amounts. It is efficient, future-fit and reduces the company’s vulnerability to high labour costs and shortages,” Victor added.