WMS key to connecting Dalebrook UK hub with Chinese manufacturing operation

Getting the most out of your operations

A functionality-rich warehouse management system (WMS) isn't just for large­-scale corporate supply chains. We developed a WMS to connect to Dalebrook's ERP systems to maximize the efficiency of all material handling and related sub-systems in real time. It also provides a uniform interface to— and control of—the Witham warehouse. Containers arrive from China carrying unpalletized bulk stock. The WMS controls receipt, picking, packing and shipment based on EAN barcodes and SKU storage locations plus manages all stock movements in the warehouse.

Snapshot of Dalebrook's operation

• 27,000 sq. ft. warehousing facility
• Unpalletized stock arrives from the Far East (89%) and EU (11 %)
• 5,136 storage locations
• 2,295 stock keeping units
• 14,500 Orders processed per year

Key benefits

The warehouse management system is networked across sites, coordinating and scheduling all stock movements in real-time for faster pallet and goods processing. It communicates with all mechanical handling equipment (MHE) across radio frequency (RF) terminals. The RF system carries the data for receipt of goods, pallet storage and retrieval, marshaling, loading, case picking, rework, yard management and value-added services.

Background

Established in 1945, Dalebrook Supplies Ltd was the first company to introduce melamine food display products to the UK catering industry and is a global leader in the sector. Dalebrook's product range is used in food service, retail and merchandise sectors and the company's clients range from hotels and contract caterers to supermarkets and zoos. Clients include: Asda, Tesco, Carrefour, Holiday Inn, Starbucks, Waitrose and Caffe Nero.

[The WMS] is the key to connecting our Chinese manufacturing operation in Guangdong Province and our UK hub with our customers across 70 countries. It helps reduce risk, improve efficiency and accuracy while giving us the enhanced process control, space optimization and the business future proofing we need to drive growth and competitive edge."

Jennie Knot Austin, Managing Director, Dalebrook Supplies Ltd