Leading third-party logistics provider Bleckmann has accelerated the expansion of its Kardex AutoStore system at its Grobbendonk, Belgium, facility—completing a multi-year growth plan in just one year due to the system’s exceptional performance, scalability, and efficiency. Originally intended to expand in phases over several years to reach nearly 100,000 bins and 71 robots, Bleckmann decided to bring forward the entire expansion to the end of 2024.
This rapid growth underscores the AutoStore empowered by Kardex solution’s ability to optimize warehouse operations, significantly reduce labor requirements, and maximize space utilization—offering seven times the efficiency of manual fulfillment methods. With the extension, Bleckmann enhances its services by offering a multiclient AutoStore solution to multiple customers, setting itself apart with this unique selling proposition.
A futureproof automation success story
The initial Kardex AutoStore system, which went live in late 2023, was fully operational in just five months from order placement, seamlessly integrating with Bleckmann’s logistics network. The expansion from 25,000 to 100,000 bins was completed without downtime or operational disruption, demonstrating the system’s modular and scalable nature. Facing increasing order volumes and labor shortages, Bleckmann needed a high-efficiency solution to enhance fulfillment speed and optimize warehouse space. The Kardex AutoStore system met these demands with minimal energy consumption (ten robots use the same amount of power as a single vacuum cleaner) aligning perfectly with Bleckmann’s sustainability goals at its 100% solar-powered facility.
Enhanced scalability, speed, and sustainability
The initial system comprised a 25,000-bin AutoStore grid, 24 robots, and five ergonomic ports. Since implementation, order cycles have accelerated by 60%, throughput has increased, and picking errors have decreased—resulting in greater customer satisfaction and retention. The expanded system now features seven Carousel Ports, with five additional pick ports in development ahead of Black Friday 2025. Kardex’s innovations have further enhanced the AutoStore system. The dedicated Kardex Warehouse Control System (WCS) has streamlined operations, while an automatic Robot Cleaning Station ensures system reliability. Additionally, a multiple conveyor port enables simultaneous replenishment across three bins, drastically improving inbound processing efficiency.
A Collaborative Success Story
Eric Ebbers, Senior Sales Manager at Kardex, stated: “We are thrilled to support Bleckmann in pushing the boundaries of warehouse automation. The Kardex AutoStore solution is designed for scalability, allowing Bleckmann to start small and expand seamlessly. This partnership is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration.”
Kevin Paindeville, Director of Innovations and Warehouse Solutions at Bleckmann, added: “The flexibility and scalability of the Kardex AutoStore system have exceeded our expectations. We’ve been able to ramp up to full capacity in just one year without disrupting operations, reinforcing our commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction.”
Jens Hooyberghs, Automation Project Manager at Bleckmann, emphasized: “The system automatically prioritizes high-demand items for faster dispatch, making a significant difference during peak sales periods. Kardex AutoStore is proving to be a key asset in making our operations more efficient, sustainable, and future-ready.”
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