ModernLogic, in partnership with StrongPoint, has played a pivotal role in deploying the world’s first multi-temperature AutoStore system for Haugaland Storhusholdning. This innovative solution integrates frozen, chilled, and ambient goods in one automated grid, drastically improving space efficiency, reducing operational costs, and ensuring scalability for the future.
By developing a bespoke Warehouse Control System deployed on AWS and operating seamlessly across different temperature zones, ModernLogic has enabled Haugaland to streamline their warehouse processes, saving both time and money.
Haugaland Faces Growing Demand and Limited Space in Their Warehouse
Haugaland Storhusholdning, part of the DLVRY group in Norway, had reached a critical turning point in their operations.
As demand for food distribution grew, so did the strain on their existing infrastructure. With 1,500 square metres of warehouse space, Haugaland’s facility was nearing its limits. Traditionally, handling frozen, chilled, and ambient goods would require separate grids, taking up significant space.
This inefficiency, paired with rising energy costs and labour shortages, made expanding the warehouse seem like the only viable option. However, building a new facility would be costly, both in terms of capital expenditure and operational overhead.
The challenge for Haugaland was clear: they needed a way to handle increased volume without expanding their physical footprint.
A Multi-Temperature AutoStore Solution Provides the Answer
In partnership with StrongPoint, ModernLogic designed and implemented a multi-temperature AutoStore system, the first of its kind to handle frozen, chilled, and ambient goods in a single, automated cube. Unlike traditional setups that require separate storage zones for different temperatures, this solution allowed all goods to be stored and retrieved within the same system, maximising space efficiency.
The compact cube, powered by robotic technology from AutoStore, stores goods densely in totes, which are then retrieved by robots and delivered to operators. This approach saved Haugaland significant amounts of space and reduced the complexity of managing separate temperature-controlled environments.
ModernLogic’s Custom Software Enables Seamless Integration Across Temperature Zones
ModernLogic played a critical role in making this multi-temperature solution possible. The bespoke software they developed is the backbone of the entire operation, controlling information from the warehouse management system (WMS) and delivering it to the AutoStore via the ModernLogic warehouse control system (WCS). This software allows seamless integration across different temperature zones within the AutoStore, ensuring that frozen goods stored at -25°C can be retrieved and picked in a +5°C environment, a critical innovation that improves both efficiency and safety.
The software ModernLogic provided goes beyond basic functionality; it offers an intuitive interface for warehouse operators, meaning the system is easy to use and highly scalable. Their integration of Dispatcher WMS with the system further enhances the solution, providing real-time inventory tracking and facilitating faster, more accurate fulfilment.
Haugaland now benefits from a fully automated system that can process up to 2,000 product presentations per hour, helping them meet growing demand while maintaining efficiency.
Haugaland Saves 30% on Energy and 66% on Labour Costs
One of the standout benefits of this system is the significant cost savings it has delivered. Automating processes that traditionally required manual labour, particularly in environments as harsh as frozen storage, has reduced Haugaland’s labour needs by 66%.
On the energy front, the system is equally impressive. By only cooling the storage area itself, rather than entire rooms or sections, Haugaland has achieved approximately 30% energy savings. This not only cuts costs but also reduces their environmental footprint, making it a key part of their environmental initiative.
Space Optimisation Prevents the Need for a Second Warehouse
Space optimisation was a key focus for Haugaland, and the AutoStore system, coupled with ModernLogic’s software, delivered this in spades. By densely packing goods within a compact 1,500 square metre cube, Haugaland maximised their storage potential without sacrificing speed or accessibility.
This 54% increase in space efficiency prevented the need for a costly second warehouse, representing a huge capital saving. With the ability to process 2,000 presentations per hour, this system has turned Haugaland’s warehouse into a high-efficiency operation, capable of handling far more volume than before.
A Safer, More Efficient Warehouse for Haugaland’s Employees
Beyond the financial and operational gains, the multi-temperature AutoStore system has also created a safer, more comfortable environment for Haugaland’s employees. Traditionally, workers would need to handle frozen goods in -25°C conditions, but the new system allows them to perform these tasks in a +5°C environment.
This significant improvement in working conditions reduces the risks associated with manual labour in freezing environments, such as frostbite and fatigue, and improves overall productivity. The system is not only about automation; it’s about creating a more human-friendly warehouse that supports employees in doing their jobs efficiently and safely.
Now It’s Your Turn
If your business is facing the pressures of rising operational costs, limited space, or the need for a more efficient fulfilment system, ModernLogic has the expertise to transform your warehouse. Whether it’s integrating cutting-edge automation or developing custom software to fit your unique needs, we offer scalable solutions that deliver real savings – just as we did for Haugaland.
Take the next step towards optimising your operations. Reach out to ModernLogic to discover how our innovations in warehouse management can future-proof your business. You can also explore how our partners at StrongPoint are leading the charge in grocery automation and e-commerce fulfilment.
