Video-game retailer Game Stores (UK) doubles throughput with automated warehouse
GAME Stores (UK) is a specialist retailer of PC and video games, consoles and related accessories. They operate from over 800 sales outlets in various countries. Having the latest game or console in stock at the retail outlets first is a significant competitive advantage. GAME stores recognised that they needed to change their logistics operation in order to achieve future growth and success.
Over time, the business evolved and the warehouse could no longer cope. The company became very resource dependent, especially at seasonal peaks. GAME stores decided to move to a new site, redesign warehouse operations and develop a solution which would support their performance into the future. GAME stores wanted a system that could expand and give them flexibility. They also wanted more efficiency and less resource dependency, especially at peak demand. The company turned to Vanderlande Industries to design and build a new system. A large share of product comes in DVD sized cases and is suitable for automated sortation. Coupled with GAME’s business process the concept developed into a batch pick and sortation system. The system includes a fully automated miniload storage system (AS/RS) based on the QUICKSTORE range with a capacity of 16.000 totes. The pick operation can handle 75.000 units per day. The applied sorter is a CROSSORTER cross belt sortation system with 202 outfeeds. The system has 2 automatic inducts with high speed destacking machines in order to feed fast movers onto the sorter automatically with rates up to 5.000 products per hour per induct.
The warehouse is managed and controlled by VISION Warehouse Management System (WMS), closely integrated with a JDA business system. Key to success is the ability to be as flexible as possible when assigning product to the variety of order picking techniques used, depending on volume and urgency. GAME stores has experienced several benefits from the new operation. They have been able to lower operating costs and resource dependency and improve efficiency and flexibility. They are able to handle extra volume and achieve rapid distribution of critical new products. Accuracy has improved significantly, and is currently around 99.5%, improving service level to stores. Despite being able to handle twice the volume of the old DC, the new site has 10% less floor area. GAME stores is confident that the new system has future proofed their logistics operation.
An extensive case study about Gamestores can be found on www.supplychainstandard.com