Viastore systems (Grand Rapids, Mich.), an automated material handling and supply chain software provider, was selected by houseware retailer IKEA to provide automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) for its regional DC currently under construction in Savannah, Ga. The company will manufacture and integrate 13 viapal storage/retrieval (S/R) machines to handle a wide assortment of IKEA home furnishing products.
The13) viapal S/R machines will have access to approximately 84,000 pallets of product, each weighing up to 1,875 lbs. In addition, viastore will provide the unit-load pallet handling horizontal transportation system including two (2) high-speed shuttle cars. The controls for the system include PLC controls for the conveyor system, the IPC control for the S/R machines.
“In planning for the Savannah distribution center, we conducted a very thorough search of the industry’s leading material handling companies. We are excited to be working with viastore in the U.S. because they have proven to be a good partner on other IKEA projects around the world,” Said Jim Leddy, IKEA Distribution Services project manager. Construction of the 786,000 sq.-ft. IKEA facility in Savannah is scheduled to be completed by Summer of 2007.
Source: viastore systems
