A Modern Central Distribution Center to Facilitate Growth for Major Retailer
Customer Company Size
Large Corporate
Region
- Europe
Country
- Sweden
Product
- Swisslog Material Flow Control System (MFCS)
- Swisslog Stacker Cranes
- Swisslog Conveyor System
Tech Stack
- Automation
- High-Bay Warehouse
- Energy Recycling System
Implementation Scale
- Enterprise-wide Deployment
Impact Metrics
- Cost Savings
- Productivity Improvements
- Energy Saving
Technology Category
- Functional Applications - Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
- Analytics & Modeling - Predictive Analytics
- Automation & Control - Automation & Process Control Systems
Applicable Industries
- Retail
Applicable Functions
- Warehouse & Inventory Management
- Logistics & Transportation
Use Cases
- Warehouse Automation
- Inventory Management
- Supply Chain Visibility
Services
- System Integration
- Training
About The Customer
Rusta AB is a major retailer in Sweden, founded in 1986 by Anders Forsgren and Bengt-Olov Forssell. The company has grown rapidly, with 100 stores across Sweden and Norway. Rusta sources 60% of its products from European suppliers and 40% from Asian suppliers, maintaining control over its supply chain by functioning as an importer, wholesaler, distributor, and retailer. The company offers a wide range of products, including home decoration, seasonal items, DIY products, and consumables. Rusta's business model focuses on simple procurement processes with minimal intermediaries, ensuring quality and cost-efficiency.
The Challenge
Rusta AB, a rapidly expanding retailer, faced the challenge of managing its supply chain efficiently amidst its rapid growth. With annual growth rates between 15-20%, Rusta needed a modern, centralized warehouse and distribution center to replace its eleven smaller facilities, including two main warehouses. The goal was to enhance flexibility, control over the supply chain, and support future growth. Efficient logistics were critical to handle large volumes, seasonal variations, and to maintain low prices. The new facility needed to be strategically located to ensure short transport distances to stores in Sweden and Norway.
The Solution
Rusta partnered with Swisslog to design and integrate a high-bay warehouse in Åby, north of Norrköping. The facility spans 65,500 square meters and includes a fully-automated high-bay warehouse for pallet goods. Swisslog provided a standard high-bay solution, nine stacker cranes, a conveyor system, and 20 ergonomically designed pick stations. The automation system is optimized with an energy recycling system to reduce energy consumption. Swisslog's Material Flow Control System (MFCS) manages the high-bay warehouse, ensuring stable and continuous operation. The central warehouse is strategically located near the Norrköping harbor and main roads, facilitating efficient access and future expansion.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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