New Multichannel DC For European Fashion Retailer

Dutch fashion giant Varova is to centralize its logistics by tripling its distribution centre in Arnhem, The Netherlands. System integrator Inther Logistics Engineering B V is taking overall responsibility for the logistical organisation.

Varova runs retail chains in northern Europe under the brand names of Open32, Sissy-Boy and Men at Work and clothing brands including Tumble ‘N Dry, Gsus, KOI and Ontour. The companies operate autonomously but work closely together on a number of key areas such as logistics, back office, sourcing and e-commerce.

Due to the expansion of the group, the broadening of the assortment and a significant increase in volume, it has become too complex to continue managing the warehouse operations manually.

Regular store orders (the pull flow) will thus be collected in batches from flowracks using a pick to light system with pick carts. The areas are connected at various mezzanine levels by conveyors, which are also used to transport the picked customer orders. A sorting lane with picklights has been designed for the push flow. The replenishment will take place from the bulk area using a combination of pallet racking and man-up trucks. The entire system will be managed by Warehouse Control System Inther LC.