DC Design & Development

Summary

Following a European distribution strategy review and design; LCP re-designed the European central distribution centre

Project Background

LCP Consulting executed a European network study for the client that resulted in recommendations to rationalise some facilities and to develop others.
This project was concerned with the development of their main facility. In the past this facility had experienced problems due to both storage and throughput capacity being reached at certain times of the year, so it was imperative to resolve these problems as well as increasing the capability of the system.

Approach

As there was scope for expansion on the site various options were developed for utilising this space to improve capacity.
A considerable amount of complex data analysis was undertaken to establish what the requirements of the facility needed to be under different network scenarios. Conceptual designs were developed and costed. These were compared in terms of ability to address current inherent constraints, investment and operating costs.
The selected design was then detailed and tendering information submitted to prospective construction companies and materials handling system integrators.
There was a particular challenge in engineering an approach that would not disrupt the current operation whilst interfacing with the existing materials handling equipment. The facility was operated by a 3rd Party logistics provider so it was also important to involve them fully in the development.

Client Testimonials

The LCP Consulting team integrated fully with all parties and won full support throughout from the project sponsor.

Success Factors

There was a particular challenge in engineering an approach that would not disrupt the current operation whilst interfacing with the existing materials handling equipment. The facility was operated by a 3rd Party logistics provider so it was also important to involve them fully in the development.

Results and Benefits

The design provided the client with the desired inventory and throughput capacities. The existing constraints were resolved with a flexible operation inherent in the design.
The client was engaged fully during the course of the project and the final business case was approved by the board.