FDBusiness.com

Saudi Arabian food producer Almarai has commissioned Swisslog to automate the distribution logistics for its operations in Al Kharj. The value of the order is approximately Eur43 million. By the end of 2018, Swisslog will implement automation projects in five phases. In addition to innovative warehouse logistics, Swisslog will also handle on-site system operation.

The Saudi Arabian company Almarai is the world’s largest vertically integrated dairy company, also specializing in fruit juices, bakery products, poultry and infant nutrition. Almarai will link this major project to a strategic reorientation of its logistics operations. It plans to achieve additional competitive advantages by optimizing and significantly accelerating its logistics processes.

Daniel Hauser, Swisslog’s Managing Director for Germany, Austria, Switzerland (DACH) and the Middle East.

The scope of the Swisslog order includes cranes, conveyors, monorail systems, automated truck loading and automated picking modules. To control all goods movements, Swisslog will install warehouse management software based on the EWM warehouse management module from SAP. Dynamic simulation will make it possible to visualize and optimize all data from goods throughput to system performance.

In addition, Almarai management has opted for Swisslog’s System Operation service to ensure smooth warehouse operations. Swisslog service technicians will maintain and support the systems on site.

“Almarai is the second Middle Eastern company in a short period of time that we were able to gain as a customer,” says Daniel Hauser, Swisslog’s Managing Director for Germany, Austria, Switzerland (DACH) and the Middle East. “This is proof that, thanks to our innovative solutions and powerful network in the region, we can provide tailor-made solutions to meet the requirements of each and every customer.”

“The Middle East region is an important growth market,” adds Dr. Christian Baur, Chief Operating Officer of the Swisslog Group and President of the Warehouse & Distribution Solutions (WDS) Division. “I’m very excited about this order from Almarai. It’s a major milestone for additional growth in the region.”