ADM Londis plc, one of Ireland’s fastest growing premier symbol groups and TDG, European supply chain specialist, announce a €650,000 (£587,700) investment in a voice picking system for ADM Londis’ 90,000 sq ft warehouse & distribution facility in Johnstown, Co Kildare.
This investment in logistical infrastructure has a number of benefits for both ADM Londis plc and for its retailers spread across its nationwide network of 373 Londis stores.
These shops have limited storage space on site and therefore tend to place frequent, smaller orders in order to keep in step with customer demand, so it is vital that product is accurately and quickly picked for delivery.
Hands-free headsets enable TDG staff to follow voice directions, allowing them to concentrate completely on the task of product picking and improving pick-accuracy.
This has improved order fulfilment and service levels to retailers, and even has an environmental advantage, since the new voice picking system moves away from the old paper based approach.
There is also a significant reduction in warehouse running costs of approximately €300,000 per annum, including savings in stock damages and stock losses as well as reduction in the amount of time required for order processing.
Mark Boulton, managing director in Ireland for TDG said “We are always looking for ways for greater collaboration with our customers and since taking on the business in 1999, we have worked closely with ADM Londis to create improved serviceability to retailers.
“Our expertise in voice picking systems has enabled us to successfully integrate this system as part of the new warehouse management system (WMS).”
Reflecting on the investment, Claude Tonna Barthet, Head of Group Logistics, IT and Customer Service ADM Londis, said, “The implementation of the voice picking capabilities has had a radical impact on the everyday services completed by warehouse staff.
“Our objective was to deliver a vastly improved supply chain with world class process and I am delighted to say we have not disappointed.
“This implementation is the culmination of a six month project and is the keystone in the Group’s investment of over €2m in the warehouse over the last two years.”
Source: TDG
