Staples Inc. will install a unique mobile fulfillment system from Kiva Systems (Woburn, Mass.) at its new Denver facility. Headquartered in Framingham, Mass., in 2006 Staples installed Kiva equipment to expand the capacity of its distribution center in Chambersburg, Pa. It will deploy Kiva systems for split-case picking and the sorting into its Denver facility.
"The Kiva system we've deployed in Chambersburg has impressed us with both its speed and flexibility, but above all, it's the most cost effective solution we have found when it comes to split-case order fulfillment," said Don Ralph, senior v.p. of logistics operations for Staples North American Delivery, Staples, Inc. "Combined with sorts down to the van route level, this system will help us to further reduce costs and increase our customer service levels."
Kiva’s system employs mobile robotic drive units to route items and order containers to operator stations where items are picked and packed. A flexible, modular design and rapid installation allow for incremental capital deployment that, together with high productivity, reportedly provide a quick return on investment.
Source: Kiva Systems.
