Logistics Spotlight
BlueStar EMEA enhances distribution efficiency following the adoption of Exotec’s Skypod system
Integrating Skypod at Eindhoven distribution centre has transformed BlueStar’s logistics operations.
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lueStar EMEA, a global distributor of Point-of-Sale, RFID, and digital display solutions, has partnered with warehouse robotics expert Exotec to boost automation capabilities at its Eindhoven
facility, through the introduction of Exotec’s Skypod system. Te new system will enhance performance, flexibility, safety, and efficiency across the warehouse. BlueStar’s primary distribution centre in Eindhoven specialises in
handling a diverse range of products, from compact barcode scanners to large-scale digital displays. Tis makes warehouse optimisation, precise inventory management and efficient logistics crucial to its operations. Before partnering with Exotec, BlueStar experienced multiple
challenges in its pursuit of optimised operations: • Complex picking processes: Te Eindhoven warehouse had several distinct picking zones. Orders oſten required multiple touches, with some products moving between zones as many as five times before final consolidation.
• Labour shortages: Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the availability and cost of labour became critical concerns, pushing BlueStar to seek automation capabilities that reduced dependency on manual processes.
• Scalability and flexibility: With a product catalogue ranging from small consumer devices to large industrial screens, the company lacked a system capable of adapting to various product sizes and demand fluctuations.
• Sustainability goals: BlueStar wanted to minimise the environmental impact of its operations while enhancing overall efficiency.
Following the implementation of Skypod, BlueStar has experienced significant improvements in distribution efficiency and has seen a range of operational benefits. Tese include the consolidation of picking
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zones, enhanced inventory accuracy, minimised manual errors and adaptable storage configurations to accommodate a variety of product sizes. Tis has reduced unnecessary movement and training requirements for human operators while making the facility safer and more efficient overall. Romain Moulin, CEO and co-founder of Exotec said: “Troughout
our partnership with BlueStar, Skypod has reduced order processing time by streamlining picking operations, optimised warehouse space usage with vertical storage, and decreased the average number of touches per order, enhancing speed and accuracy. Our intuitive system design has also lowered physical strain on operators by automating repetitive tasks and improving workforce dynamics.” Manel Baranera, chief operating officer of BlueStar EMEA, says:
“Our goal is to stay ahead in a highly competitive market by providing reliable and fast service. Te introduction of Exotec’s Skypod system was a significant step in achieving this vision. “We needed a system that addressed our
operational inefficiencies and aligned with our sustainability strategy. Exotec’s solution stood out, decreasing our energy consumption compared to traditional systems and optimising our use of resources, aligning with our commitment to environmental stewardship. “Tis collaboration marks the beginning
of a long-term partnership with Exotec. Te flexibility and scalability of the Skypod system align perfectly with our growth objectives.”
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