Among the factors pushing the automated palletizer industry to a predicted $3.27 billion market by 2025 are SKU-mixed cases; the need to save space, time and money; and streamlining processes when it comes to a limited workforce and optimizing equipment collaboration.
Observations, studies, research and experience in a broad variety of retail stores have generated significant, timely and technical concerns and questions. The number of brands, products and packages displayed on the store-length gondolas in the beverage section pose the first question: who created all these SKUs, and why?
In the beverage industry, SKUs have been and will continue to be one of the major operating issues in the supply chain. Yet, one can ask, why are SKUs so important, why do they top the list of challenges and how are they handled and controlled in real time?
As warehouse operators navigate the demands of today’s distribution market, research shows that wearable technology is a solution that companies are employing.
As beverage-makers expand their portfolio whether it be flavors, packaging or both, labeling equipment manufacturers are developing machinery that can handle the effects of SKU proliferation.
As beverage warehouses take on more SKUs and distribution centers consolidate, single-source centers must be equipped to handle high throughputs and mixed pallet scenarios. In turn, stretch wrapping equipment must ensure the product’s integrity.