SUCCESS STORIES
How a Fashion Retailer Improved Distribution Efficiency Through Network Optimization
A global leader in medical technology operates in more than 60 countries and serves customers in over 140 markets through an extensive worldwide distribution network. As part of its ongoing digital transformation strategy, the organization recognized that its aging warehouse management system could no longer support future growth, global standardization, or evolving technology requirements. To modernize its warehouse operations and establish a scalable global platform, the company partnered with Alpine Supply Chain Solutions to lead a comprehensive warehouse management system (WMS) selection initiative.
Key Challenge
The company needed to reduce rising transportation costs, improve delivery speed, and create a distribution network capable of supporting continued growth. Its existing West Coast distribution center faced capacity limitations, labor-intensive processes, and inefficient warehouse workflows that made it difficult to meet increasing customer demand during seasonal peaks.
Solution
Alpine Supply Chain Solutions developed a Strategic Master Plan that evaluated multiple distribution network scenarios, warehouse layouts, and automation strategies. The team recommended relocating to a centrally located distribution center while redesigning warehouse processes and implementing technologies such as batch picking, put-to-light sorting, WES integration, and conveyor-supported packing to improve efficiency and scalability.
Results
The new distribution strategy increased warehouse productivity by 50%, reduced order-to-shipment time by 40%, and cut transit times by 35%, generating more than $1 million in transportation cost savings. The redesigned operation also improved storage utilization by 25%, reduced peak temporary staffing needs from 40% to 15%, and created a scalable, automation-ready distribution network to support future growth.
