Rewe Group is implementing automation technology from Finnish intralogistics specialist Cimcorp at its regional warehouse in Oranienburg. In future, a fulfilment system from the technology provider will pick plastic crates with fruit and vegetables at the logistics centre located around 50 kilometres north of Berlin in the federal state of Brandenburg.
With this step, Rewe Group is introducing warehouse automation in the fruit and vegetable category for the first time. As part of its ‘Benefit 25’ initiative, the group is modernising and partially automating its logistics locations. Witron systems are already being deployed in the dry goods sector. It is becoming increasingly difficult for companies to find suitable staff for heavy physical labour in the warehouse.
Cimcorp’s solution has already won other customers in Germany. Edeka regional companies Rhein-Ruhr and Minden-Hannover have already been using the systems in fresh foods logistics for more than two years. Other Edeka regional companies are also following this example. Spanish grocery retailers Eroski and Mercadona also rely on technology from the Finns.
Automation ensures reliable deliveries
The new automation solution is set to ensure that Rewe Group can supply its stores with fresh foods quickly and reliably. “We expect a mature technical solution that facilitates the work of employees and offers customers consistently high delivery quality in terms of on-time-in-full deliveries,” explains Torsten Prag, Logistics Manager of Region East at Rewe Group, in a press release.
Fast and efficient logistics should ensure to increase shelf-life of fresh produce and thus decreasing food waste. The open-floor design with no racking makes cleaning and maintenance easier. The system therefore helps to uphold high hygiene standards. In addition, Cimcorp’s software enables optimum utilisation of the loading area of delivery vehicles and thus helps minimising traffic. The agreement includes a comprehensive service contract with 24/7 system support to ensure high availability.
