Retrofit and new build closely linked

In order to meet future logistics requirements, Hela found a system integrator in Unitechnik, which implemented a tailor-made logistics center. Not only were new storage and picking areas built, but the existing high-bay warehouse was also refurbished - a combination of new construction and retrofit

Automated processes for retailers and end customers

Hela's new logistics center comprises a three-aisle high-bay warehouse in a modern silo design with around 8,400 storage spaces. There is also a two-aisle container shuttle system with space for almost 39,000 containers and a walking beam storage system with around 1,000 spaces. The logistical heart of the facility is the order picking hall. Six goods-to-person picking stations are available on a 900 m² platform. The system is designed for maximum efficiency and flexibility and supports a wide range of different articles - from goods receipt to dispatch. Both the retail and end customer business can thus be reliably supplied.

The focus is on an automated picking and dispatch infrastructure in which goods are provided, packed, labeled and consolidated for dispatch as required. Modern conveyor technology, automated packing stations and robot-assisted processes reduce physically strenuous activities and ensure consistently high handling quality.

New build and retrofit go hand in hand

"The conversion of our warehouse logistics was a combination of the construction of a new logistics center and the integration of a modernized existing high-bay warehouse," says Markus Laue, Head of Logistics and Project Management at Hela. "Unitechnik planned and implemented the project steps in such a way that we were able to keep production and delivery operations running throughout the construction work."

First, a completely new area with a new high-bay warehouse, small parts warehouse and modern order picking technology was built next to the old warehouse. One challenge during the construction phase was that the new buildings were erected directly next to the railroad line. The new building was put into operation independently of the previous logistics processes and gradually took over the tasks of the old logistics facility. This meant that Hela was able to reliably supply its customers during the various construction phases.

In the next step, Unitechnik refurbished the high-bay warehouse, which had been in use for many years. This involved replacing the storage and retrieval machines and modernizing the conveyor technology as well as the entire control and instrumentation technology. The new layout offers the necessary flexibility to meet the needs of the global food market and at the same time cushion the shortage of skilled workers with modern automation. Hela has not only expanded its storage capacity, but also made its logistics processes fit for the future.

"Thanks to the automation and integration of UniWare, we can also process the ever-increasing order volume from our new online store very efficiently," explains Markus Laue. "We are ideally equipped for future challenges."