Wehkamp is implementing a warehouse management system (WMS) from Manhattan Associates at its distribution centre in Zwolle. The new WMS can 'orchestrate and maximise' the performance of both human and automated recourses.
The move to a new WMS is part of a larger investment. Wehkamp is putting 40 million euros into the expansion and modernisation of its distribution centres, starting with the Zwolle DC. The automated centre in Zwolle currently has an area of 35,000 square metres. To that, the online retailer is adding 25,000 square metres. Wehkamp will be able to process more than 250,000 order lines per day after the expansion.
Current WMS not suitable for growth
Wehkamp's existing WMS could not keep up with this growth and the associated complexity. The e-commerce giant is therefore moving to a new solution, which can also be deployed in all DCs.
Batches and single orders
Manhattan's chosen WMS provides Wehkamp with more flexibility in the way it processes orders and returns, the parties said in a press release. The order streaming capability allows Wehkamp to process batches and single orders simultaneously, within one warehouse. The integrated Warehouse Execution System (WES) should orchestrate the workflow between staff and various automated technologies, including 550 shuttle robots.
Wehkamp will eventually extend Manhattan Associates' solution to other distribution centres.
