SDI Group UK, the leading specialist in the provision of integrated materials handling solutions for retail, wholesale, fulfilment and e-commerce distribution operations, has completed a storage project for Bertrams, the UK’s leading book wholesaler. The turnkey project at the company’s Norwich-based distribution centre has added an additional 40,000 sq ft of warehousing space, increasing capacity by 40 per cent.
SDI Group UK utilised existing floor space at the facility by building a three-tier mezzanine structure, consisting of two additional floors plus a free-standing, rack-supported mezzanine structure. In addition, the company also provided infrastructure services including the installation of lighting, smoke detectors and fire sprinklers.
In order to store and retrieve bulk palletised product, a double pallet elevator has been installed capable of accessing all three floor levels. The solution also includes an innovative conveyor system for the despatch and replenishment of the racking system that is suitable for both cartons and totes.
SDI Group UK worked closely with the company to minimise any impact on the day-to-day operation at the distribution centre, which can process many thousand orders comprising over 100,000 individual books, completing the solution in just 7 months.
Michael Neil, Managing Director of Bertrams said: “This latest development has added significant warehouse capacity without having to extend our existing distribution centre, providing greater business flexibility. Our long-standing relationship with SDI Group UK has enabled us to optimise our supply chain, reduce overheads and enhance the service we provide to customers.”
Mike Hilton, Managing Director of SDI Group UK said: “The publishing and distribution sector is facing a number of challenges, not least the unit cost of bringing books to market. We work in partnership with customers such as Bertrams, to provide industry-specific solutions that bring real business benefits such optimised workforce and increased operation efficiency.”