Coles Group opens automated distribution centre in Sydney’s west – {Hardware} – Software program

Coles Group has opened a Witron-powered automated distribution centre (ADC) at Kemps Creek in Sydney’s west, joining a similar facility launched in Queensland last year.

The ADC makes use of know-how from German automation firm Witron Logistik + Informatik, under an agreement struck back in 2018.

Coles stated that at 66,000 sq. metres, the Kemps Creek web site is “one of many largest and best automated distribution centres on the earth.”

But, it’s also “half the footprint of the present two distribution centres in NSW”, the grocery retailer stated.

This was made potential by utilising the constructing’s full 36 metre peak – “which is nearly 3 times taller than Coles’ present distribution centres.”

“Witron’s pack sample algorithm permits retailer order pallets to be packed to completely different heights in an optimum stacking sequence, primarily based on product traits and retailer pleasant logic,” Coles stated.

“As soon as these pallets are delivered to retailer, they are going to require much less sorting on account of improved product grouping, and higher ranges of accuracy. 

“This can intention to enhance on-shelf availability and permit retailer groups to be extra buyer targeted.”

Kemps Creek shouldn’t be but working at full capability, however when it’s, it’s going to service 229 NSW and ACT-based shops.

Coles stated that the primary ADC in Queensland had resulted in a “20 p.c enchancment in availability” of product in Queensland and northern NSW shops, in comparison with different places.

CEO Leah Weckert added that the Kemps Creek facility “additionally delivers a step-change for the security of our staff, with the elimination of round 16 million kilograms of handbook dealing with each week.”