Singapore, 20 September 2017 – Yusen Logistics Singapore launched a new robotic, automated warehouse featuring Swisslog AutoStore automated storage and order picking system. AutoStore is a technological leap in warehousing technology that aligns with Yusen’s vision of achieving a smart logistics operation. The innovation was unveiled by Mr. Heng Chee How, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress and Senior Minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office, Mr. Kenji Mizushima, President & Representative Director of Yusen Logistics Co. Ltd., Mr. Ng Kim Hung, Managing Director of Yusen Logistics Singapore Pte. Ltd, and Mr. Francis Meier, Head Region Asia Pacific, Swisslog Warehouse & Distribution Solutions (WDS), at the Yusen Logistics Warehouse located at Tuas.
“The automation allows Yusen Logistics to increase the storage volume within the same floor space, increase the order fulfilment rate by 200% and decrease dependency on labour for put-away and picking operations. This AutoStore system not only helps Yusen improve the operation but also gives the company first mover advantage to provide same-day delivery, which is a significant competitive advantage.” said Mr. Francis Kwa, Head of Contract Logistics for Yusen Logistics Singapore. Added Mr. Francis Kwa, “The investment in AutoStore also provides capabilities to seamlessly integrate loose picking and bulk picking operations in the new warehouse facility.” The new warehouse facility is expected to go live in 2019.
“Kaizen is a unique part of the culture at Yusen Logistics. That means we seek continuous improvement in the customers’ supply chain. The embrace of smart, automated technology is a logical step from our Kaizen Culture,” said Mr. Ng Kim Hung, Managing Director, Yusen Logistics Singapore. “Swisslog’s AutoStore system integrated goods-to-persons workstations enable Yusen to implement job-redesign and upskills for each role with automation for labour efficiency in the operations.
Advanced Automated Warehousing System
The Swisslog AutoStore solution, designed to specifically operate in a high-mix, high-volume operation, features a massive grid measuring LWH 60m x 20m x 5.4m. Multiple customer’s products are stored in the 40,600 bins and 22 robots running on the grid deliver goods to 11 goods-to-person workstations. This allow Yusen to increase the throughput up to 18 times compared to current operations.
According to Mr. Francis Meier, Head of Asia Pacific for Swisslog Warehouse & Distribution Solutions (WDS), “We are excited to partner with Yusen Logistics in realizing its’ vision of a digital operation that will attract young talent to join the company. Automation is the way forward and we are happy to support Yusen Logistics in achieving an Industry 4.0 robotics and data-driven operation.”
