Warehouse efficiency boost for consumer electronics maker

Following the merger of Armour Home's Electronics and Alphason Design business units, the audio and visual product manufacturer consolidated its warehousing into a single facility in Wigan, and called in logistics consultancy Davies & Robson to help. With margins tight and fiercely competitive marketplace, Armour commissioned Davies & Robson to ensure the merged warehousing operation was as efficient as possible and, in particular, could meet throughput and service expectations for peak periods. Davies & Robson undertook detailed process mapping and investigation as well as a review of the shift patterns and performance of the warehouse. A number of recommendations were made, including standardisation of business processes and implementation of revised receipt, put away and picking processes to minimise handling and errors within the warehouse. The project also involved clarifying roles and responsibilities within the warehouse, the introduction of a weekly performance dashboard comprising simple, measurable and relevant performance indicators, and the introduction of regular team briefings. The warehouse OTIF rate is now 99.5% expected to continue to improve. George Dexter, chief executive of Armour Group, said: "We are not supply chain experts so it made sense for us to buy in some skills and knowledge to ensure that this vital part of our business runs smoothly. Davies & Robson worked efficiently, without causing any disruption to our ongoing operations and yet were able to deliver a highly successful solution. I would have no hesitation in working with them again."