A multi-functioning wholeFinnish Stockmann has chosen to streamline their distribution with one automated and multifunctional distribution center in Tuusula, the Greater Helsinki region, which will have significant impact in terms of service, functionality and economy. The project's technological focal point is the patented 3D-MATRIX concept, which consists of automated storage modules that work together as a highly dynamic whole."We expect the new warehouse automation technology to significantly strengthen Stockmann's competitiveness in the years ahead, while we are expanding our e-commerce offering both in the Finnish market and in the Baltics”, says Logistics Director at Stockmann, Björn Höglund. "The system will enable us to provide a far better service, and the efficiency improvement will result in savings of millions of Euro. In addition we will achieve a significant operational advantage by integrating into one building varied product groups such as flat garments, hanging garments, and small and large home products. An important feature of the solution is the fact that it enables us to simultaneously handle the rapidly growing e-commerce orders, which makes heavy demands on distribution systems.”State of the art technologyElina Laine, Logistics Manager from Stockmann, explains that the SSI Schaefer solution was chosen because of its flexibility and high operator efficiency compared to other goods-to-person systems. In order to achieve this reliably, the whole site, including the manual operations, the hanging garment system, and the Matrix automation, will be managed by the SSI Schaefer in-house logistics software WAMAS®. In addition, it is an advantage that SSI Schaefer as supplier is present locally, with Finnish-speaking expertise and support. "In a major project like this, it is of great importance that we can maintain a close and continuous cooperation with the supplier. This will ensure a smooth continuation of compliance with budget and schedule, during which we shall get professional and innovative input", says Elina Laine, who expects a good cooperation and has high expectations for the selected option in the form of cost savings as well as increased efficiency and quality. "With SSI Schaefer as our partner, I am sure we are going to serve our customers better and faster in the future."Flexible dynamicsThe Stockmann project is SSI Schaefer’s largest project in Finland and it will come to mean a lot to the warehouse automation supplier who has implemented many large systems worldwide. “For us, the Stockmann project is exciting in several ways,” says Automation Sales Manager for SSI Schaefer in Finland, Rami Syrjä. “Technologically, we are implementing our latest innovation for high efficiency distribution systems. In terms of marketing, the project will become a significant reference within Europe, but especially in the Finnish market where we at one stroke become one of the market leaders. Furthermore, we are delighted to be confirmed that our strategy of local proximity to the market has proven to be just right – a strategy we will continue to follow by expanding our existing Finnish department so that we become the largest local supplier of warehouse equipment in Finland.”SSI Schaefer’s leading designer on the Stockmann project, Stephen Baker, supports this statement, adding: “The 3D-MATRIX Solution® has already proven to be a popular choice for new goods-to-person distribution centers around the world and we believe that it is going to show the way for many customers in the future. Because of its innovative design, automation technology and integrated IT, the 3D-MATRIX Solution® offers the flexibility that is required by multi-channel retailers in an increasingly demanding and uncertain sector. A unique feature of the design is the ability to store, buffer, and sequence products to the pickers in a single system. This is done by coordinating the product movements in the warehouse in the x, y, and z axes consistently and in parallel.”The project is divided into phases that will be gradually implemented over the next 2-3 years. Cost-wise the savings are planned to come as a result of a more efficient flow, lower transportation costs and a lower number of staff in the process. The distribution center will be built with extensive consideration for the environment.
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