FIEGE Apfelstädt Logistics Center AutoStore System

Project Overview

FIEGE, a major logistics service provider (3PL), sought to significantly enhance the efficiency of its operations at its logistics center in Apfelstädt, Germany. The focus was on optimizing the storage and handling of small parts, a common and labor-intensive task in contract logistics.

The project aimed to implement an integrated automation solution that would streamline the entire workflow from storage to picking and process control. The goal was to move beyond conventional warehousing methods to achieve a new level of operational efficiency and accuracy in a competitive 3PL environment.

Technical Solution

AutoStore Cubic Storage System

The centerpiece of the solution is a massive AutoStore system, noted as one of the largest of its kind in Germany. This system consists of a grid structure populated with storage bins and autonomous robots. The robots move on top of the grid to retrieve and deliver specific bins to designated workstations, providing ultra-high-density storage and efficient goods-to-person picking.

Key Features

The implementation of a very large-scale AutoStore grid provides exceptional storage density for small parts, maximizing the use of the facility's cubic space and allowing FIEGE to store a vast number of SKUs in a compact area.

The solution is not just an automated storage system; it is a complete, integrated package that combines high-density physical storage (AutoStore) with a powerful software brain (SuPCIS-L8 WMS) to control and optimize all related processes.

The use of the SuPCIS-L8 WMS, a system known in the market, indicates a choice of specialized software tailored for complex warehouse management, ensuring robust control over the automated environment.

Results & Benefits

The primary outcome reported is that process efficiency within the logistics center has reached a new, higher level. This encompasses faster order fulfillment, improved accuracy, better space utilization, and potentially reduced labor costs associated with manual small parts handling.

Challenges & Solutions

The challenge was designing and implementing a system that could handle the complexity and scale of small parts logistics for a major 3PL provider, requiring deep integration between storage automation and management software. FIEGE and Element Logic addressed this by deploying a large-scale AutoStore system—a technology renowned for high-density small parts handling—and seamlessly integrating it with the sophisticated SuPCIS-L8 warehouse management system. This combination created a unified, highly automated solution for storage, management, and control.

System Integrator

Element Logic served as the system integrator for this project. They were responsible for providing the integrated system solution, which included the supply and implementation of the AutoStore system and its integration with the SuPCIS-L8 warehouse management system from S&P. Element Logic acted as the partner bringing together the physical automation and the software control to meet FIEGE's requirements for an efficient small parts logistics operation.