SSI Schaefer accompanies this path with logistics modules that can be flexibly combined and grow as a coherently linked system solution to meet the requirements. The family-run intralogistics specialist has already successfully implemented numerous projects for SMEs in partnership-based cooperation.

Diverse, dynamic, down-to-earth and innovative - thanks to these strengths, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) always prove to be an anchor of stability for the economy, even in times of crisis. They range from traditional family businesses to high-tech companies and highly motivated start-ups. Despite their success, they are also confronted with constant pressure on margins and competition. A further challenge is the growth to be mapped in logistics, the success curve of which is difficult to estimate over time. In the beginning, a few rows of shelves usually cover the required storage capacity. However, as order volumes continue to increase, bottlenecks quickly occur at the infrastructure level. At the same time, the speed of order processing decreases, the complexity of processes in the warehouse increases, there is a lack of space and transparency and process costs rise.

From SMEs for SMEs
Such bottlenecks, which in the worst-case scenario can lead to a drop in profits, can be avoided by using scalable storage and picking systems that can be expanded at short notice, grow flexibly in line with a company's requirements and thus ensure long-term success. "As a partner who reliably accompanies the gradual expansion of SMEs, we know the challenges that companies face and can therefore provide optimal individual support with successively expandable solutions," says Michael Wegner, Head of Sales Product & Equipment (PE) at SSI Schaefer.

Scalability for constant responsiveness
Like SSI Schaefer, the online retailer Reichelt Elektronik has also grown dynamically. The two companies have been partners for more than two decades. During this time, the intralogistics system was successively adapted to the growing business volumes and expanded to include shelving racks and platforms as well as container conveyor technology and an automated pallet warehouse. The forward-looking planning also paid off in 2020, when the volume of orders in the online store increased disproportionately and had to be processed in the quality to which B2B and B2C customers were accustomed. C+C Krug is another example of a continuously growing medium-sized company. The positive sales development prompted the plastic electroplating specialist to realign its production-related intralogistics processes with the support of SSI Schaefer. A combined solution consisting of SSI Logimat storage lifts, container and carton conveyor technology and Weasel automated guided vehicles (AGVs) proved to be a convincing solution. Future expansions in response to changing conditions and future expansion have also been taken into account here at an earlier design stage, so that this option can be utilized at any time during subsequent operation.

Modular system for varying requirements
Shelving racks are also predestined for volumes that are difficult to predict, provide additional space with increased storage capacity and can be expanded at any time. In addition to solutions for space-saving storage of palletized goods, SSI Schaefer also offers a comprehensive range of reusable plastic containers for volume-optimized small parts storage. The step-by-step transformation process is supported by modules such as the SSI Logimat, a compact storage and picking system for small parts that resembles an oversized drawer cabinet with rows of trays, as well as mobile racks for pallet and small load carriers, which can be used to significantly increase storage capacity on the same footprint. With the Weasel, SSI Schaefer also offers an automated guided vehicle system that demonstrates its advantages especially in combination with shelving or mobile racking and the SSI Logimat warehouse lift. The AGV links work areas without the need for structural measures, relieves employees of walking distances and tedious, unergonomic transportation work and ensures a constant, reliable material flow.

Faster and more efficient thanks to partial automation
"Partial automation in conjunction with digitalization or high-performance software is always an alternative for small and medium-sized companies when development is dynamic and the demands on adherence to deadlines are increasing, as is the case in online retail, for example," emphasizes Michael Wegner. "Companies can save time and costs, especially in routine processes. At the same time, delivery quality is significantly improved, thanks to increased transparency and the integrated goods-to-person process." All components from the SSI Schaefer product portfolio are scalable and can be variably combined. As a result, needs-based warehouse logistics solution packages tailored to the specific requirements of small and medium-sized companies are available for every phase of business development. There is no need for complex interfaces to be maintained, operating costs are reduced and process efficiency is ensured throughout.

This article appeared in issue 10/2021.