B2B supplier revamps AutoStore system

The installation is at its Gonesse logistics site, just outside Paris and utilises 60,000 storage bins and 68 robots. It encompasses a 9,000 sq m extension of the logistics centre, carried out in 2021, which included the installation of an AutoStore system. Manutan wanted to continue its transformation by joining forces with Dematic to tweak the AutoStore system and boost site performance and sustainable practices.

Manutan Group logistics director Alexis Royer says: “With the revamp by Dematic, we have doubled the number of orders that can be processed daily. The use of robotics also has contributed to improving the safety of our employees, while allowing them to focus on more value-added tasks.”

According to both Dematic and Manutan, the project marks the first time in AutoStore history that a change in integrators has been made during full production with no operational downtime necessary.

“Our work with Manutan has been exceptional in many ways,” says Alain Bussod, president of Dematic France. “They wanted to modernise an existing AutoStore installation but, ideally, with no downtime, which is never an easy proposition. And then there was the challenge of transforming the overall facility into a more efficient and financially feasible one.” 

Bussod also pointed to the durability of the Dematic Software package and equipment within the Manutan ecosystem delivered by the automation warehouse specialists. 

“It is proof of our ability to deliver robust, sustainable solutions.”

The technology upgrade including the migration of server, interface and database changeovers as well as the deployment of warehouse control system (WCS) software.

Dematic also installed a new conveyor system, as well as AutoStore CarouselPort workstation, which operates with three rotating arms, each carrying a bin. This has facilitated a more rapid and streamlined order picking process. A 300 sq m mezzanine has also been added to allow for additional equipment and improve operational flow.

Dispatch capacity has risen by almost 70% and direct productivity increased by 60%.

CSR goals

The project adheres to Manutan's corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals. With the optimisation of available warehouse space and the modernisation of its equipment, Manutan has initiated new processes and tasks to reduce any unutilised space and the use of unnecessary materials in product packaging. New settings for the carton closers and greater use of envelopes to replace parcels are helping to cut down on the overall volume of shipments. The transport optimisation, with a reduced number of trucks, directly contributes to Manutan's FRET21 carbon neutrality objective.

The storage solution now makes it possible to offer customised value-added services, such as placing a delivery note on the package’s exterior.

For more information, visit dematic.com