The ever-increasing number of SKUs within the beverage industry has been one obstacle beverage warehouse operators have been facing the past several years. However, the proven benefits of, and further innovations to, voice-picking technology has made it a staple in many beverage distribution centers today.

A trip to the local retail store can be an enlightening experience. Because of the considerable amount of SKU proliferation, a retail shelf might look quite different from one month to the next.

One of the most pressing problems affecting supply chains is an ongoing talent shortage, according to MHI, the Charlotte, N.C.-based material handling, logistics and supply chain association.

Distribution centers are losing an average of nearly $390,000 every year due to mis-picks, according to a study conducted by Everett, Wash.-based Intermec Inc.

With its four-county territory in southeastern Wisconsin incorporating special event venues such as sports arenas, concert venues and festival grounds, Beer Capitol Distributing Co. Inc., Sussex, Wis., offers enhanced service to these accounts during busy time periods, explains Aldo Madrigrano, chief executive officer of the company.