The Client

Ingram Content Group produces and distributes both printed and digital content to wholesalers as well as online and brick-and-mortar book retailers.

The Challenge

Ingram needed to reduce inventory footprint to free up more operational space for future opportunities. They had a financial goal of reducing the operating costs per unit. They also needed to reduce their reliance on labor, for day-to-day operations as well as during peak season, due to scarcity and costs.

The Solution

Ingram Content was looking for automation in their facility to accommodate expanded order volume growth, reduce operating costs, and have less reliance on labor. After engaging KPI Solutions to assist with the design and automation plan, they chose technology from AutoStore.

After evaluating their current processes and identifying business goals, KPI Solutions analyzed their data to model solution and process alternatives. Order history data including peak season considerations were modeled to ensure overall systems performance.

AutoStore was determined to offer the best operational value for storage and labor efficiency, as well as the ability to incorporate other business channels within the space. AutoStore provides expanded inventory capacity in a smaller footprint with flexible storage for a rotating assortment of SKUs.

Solution Highlights:

• AutoStore AS/RS includes 80,000+ bins, 160 R5 robots, 31 total ports, picking and replenishment.

The Value

• High-density storage allows an expanded number of variably sized SKUs in less square footage.
• Labor productivity has increased in picking and put-away.
• Order accuracy has increased resulting in fewer errors and less time correcting errors.
• Fewer FTEs are required.
• Improved worker health and safety due to ergonomic picking port designs and conveyor.