The new centre is built according to the BREEAM Excellent standard and is strategically placed to reduce the kilometres travelled and thus CO2 emissions.
As Supply Chain Development Manager at A.S. Watson, Yvette Buitenhuis is responsible for the development of the supply chain for the logistics chain of the Kruidvat and Trekpleister stores in the Benelux. In order to facilitate further growth in the supply chain, A.S. Watson has decided to build a second distribution centre in Oosterhout in addition to the existing e-fulfilment centre in Ede and the central distribution centre in Heteren, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
ICT Group has been A.S. Watson's partner for the management, maintenance and functional development of the Warehouse Management system for thirty years. ICT Group's knowledge and experience in logistics processes played a crucial role during the implementation of the new distribution centre, as the central distribution centre in Heteren had to remain operational.
Together, ICT Group and A.S. Watson went through the entire process, from the initial brainstorming session and functional design to development, interfacing, user acceptance, chain testing and phased implementation. This also took into account A.S. Watson's ERP system, various supplier subsystems, forklifts, hand scanners, voice picking and cross-docking. All these factors play a role. Together, ICT Group and A.S. Watson carried out extensive tests throughout the logistics chain, which was very important to prevent operational problems.
An additional advantage is that the tailor-made system from A.S. Watson now enables the seamless integration of an additional distribution centre into the multi-distribution centre Warehouse Management system.
Yvette Buitenhuis states: "When I look at the future of A.S. Watson's supply chain, robotisation of our distribution centres and sustainability will be important themes. I am convinced that ICT Group will also help us implement these developments in our Warehouse Management system."