Australia, Companies, Features, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems, Warehouses, Warehouses and distribution centres

Addverb transforms omnichannel for a 3PL provider in fashion and sportswear

Addverb designed a solution that seamlessly combines the strengths of both fixed and flexible automation. Image: Addverb

Addverb explains how it transformed warehouse operations for an omnichannel fulfilment centre with its innovative automation solutions.

In the dynamic world, where staying ahead of the curve is crucial and innovation drives success, a 3PL provider in sports and fashion faced a formidable challenge.

Its expansive omnichannel fulfilment operation, covering the territories of Australia and New Zealand, required an advanced warehouse automation solution capable of seamlessly managing the ebb and flow of seasonal peak demands.

It needed to streamline an array of 68,307 SKUs, handle high dispatch volumes, and process returns with pinpoint accuracy. It was a tall order that demanded a revolutionary approach.

Stepping up to the plate with a blend of expertise and cutting-edge technology was Addverb, a company that specialises in robotics and warehouse automation.

Known for its solutions that have transformed warehouse operations across diverse industries, Addverb was the perfect partner to tackle this task.

The company’s suite of automation technologies, including Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), picking robots, and intelligent software solutions such as Warehouse Management Systems – WMS , Warehouse Execution Systems – WES, Warehouse Control Systems – WCS, and Fleet Management Systems, is designed to optimise efficiency, accuracy, and space utilisation.

Objective: unleashing operational excellence

The facility, brimming with an inventory of 60 per cent footwear, 30 per cent apparel, and 10 per cent accessories, required a versatile system adept at processing both B2B and B2C orders.

The primary goals were clear: reduce fulfilment time and costs, enhance accuracy, and optimise the returns process. Effective storage and order flow management were essential for quick and accurate material movement in the warehouse.

The Addverb solution: fixed and flexible automation

To enhance operational efficiency, Addverb designed a solution that seamlessly combines the strengths of both fixed and flexible automation.

The solution comprises Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) for agile material movement throughout the warehouse, and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems, including pallet shuttles and carton shuttles, to maximise space utilisation and manage order prioritisation.

To streamline returns, a Multi-Carton Robot System was implemented, allowing for swift and cost-effective processing. Additionally, a combination of carton shuttles and sorting robots facilitated rapid order consolidation and dispatch, especially for B2C orders.

Addverb’s innovative solution not only met but exceeded the expectations of one of the 3PL provider. Images: Addverb.
Addverb’s innovative solution not only met but exceeded the expectations of one of the 3PL provider. Image: Addverb.

Mixed-Case Palletisers and Box-It Workstations, ergonomically designed, supported the integration of various automation systems, while strategically planned conveyor lines ensured smooth and efficient
material flow.

At the core of this solution is Addverb’s Warehouse Execution System, Concinity, which orchestrates the operations within the expansive 330,000 sq. ft. facility.

This AI-enabled system optimises order fulfilment through efficient picking and routing strategies, offering real-time visibility into inventory status. The result? A seamlessly coordinated flow of materials, ensuring faster and reliable fulfilment.

Key performance indicators

The impact of this state-of-the-art automation solution brings a host of advantages, including:

  • Dispatches 100,000 pieces daily to 2500 distribution nodes.
  • Sorts 3600 items per hour with a double-layer sortation system and 300 bin locations.
  • Achieves the throughput of 125 tasks/hr as single and double cycles through AMRs.
  • Achieves throughput of 150 pallets in/hr and 150 pallets out/hr through pallet ASRS.
  • Achieves throughput of 1600 totes in/hr and 1600 totes out/hr through tote ASRS.
  • Total of 14 GTP stations achieves picking throughput 110 totes per station/ hr.

Revolutionising warehouse efficiency with software’s precision

Key features include mixed case palletisers, ergonomic workstations, and conveyor lines seamlessly managed by Addverb’s proprietary Warehouse Execution System, Concinity.

This AI-driven optimises picking and routing, offering real-time inventory visibility and control.

The facility dispatches 100,000 items daily to 2500 distribution points, boasting 16,500 pallet positions and 86,400 tote positions.

The future of omnichannel fulfilment

Addverb’s innovative solution not only met but exceeded the expectations of one of the world’s leading 3PL provider. By combining cutting-edge robotics and intelligent software, Addverb has created a paradigm shift in warehouse automation, setting a new standard for efficiency, reliability, and accuracy in omnichannel fulfilment operations.

The integration of advanced technologies, including Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), and software solutions like Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), and Fleet Management Systems, marks a new era in warehouse management.

This collaboration not only enhances operational efficiency but also sets a new benchmark for the industry, showcasing the immense potential that arises when industry leaders join forces.

With a vision firmly rooted in continuous innovation and a commitment to redefining the future of warehouse operations, Addverb is poised to lead the charge towards a smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable future.

For more information on Addverb.

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