Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland has expanded its Knockmore Hill production facility in Lisburn with a new finished-goods warehouse featuring Mecalux’s semi-automated Pallet Shuttle system. The installation provides high-density storage, direct access to 9,000 pallets and strict inventory control, supporting distribution throughout the island of Ireland. Opened in 2010, the Knockmore Hill site operates nine production lines and supplies beverage brands ranging from Coca-Cola classics to Dr Pepper, Monster Energy, Powerade, Schweppes and Sprite, as well as locally owned Deep RiverRock.
"As a fast-moving consumer goods company, speed is everything. We need to manage our warehousing, inventory control and distribution processes efficiently to optimise customer service and operate cost-effectively," says Karl Quinlivan, Logistics Route to Market Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland.
System configuration and operation
The warehouse is equipped with four motorised shuttles that run within storage channels. After operators position a shuttle at the desired level, the vehicle autonomously deposits and retrieves pallets inside the lane. Commands are issued to the shuttles via a tablet connected to Mecalux’s warehouse control system, enabling coordinated movements and stock management within the high-density racking.
Progress toward Industry 4.0
The decision to implement the semi-automated Pallet Shuttle underlines a focus on adopting technologies that streamline material flow and quality assurance. "By integrating new technologies into our manufacturing and logistics processes, we’re making steady progress towards Industry 4.0, enhancing efficiency and quality at every stage," says Quinlivan.
