Clearer lens picking

To turn a shell into a hi-tech central distribution centre as part of its new European HQ, CooperVision, a contact lens maker, turned to the Spaceway Group. Romsey based Spaceway, a provider of integrated interior space solutions, has completed the fit-out of the centre, which encompasses 11,000 square metres of warehousing and office accommodation.

Comprising of high bay pallet racking, carton live racking designed to integrate with a Knapp automated conveyor system, two-tier warehouse offices complete with integral mezzanine floor and labelling for over 100,000 pallet locations, Spaceway has turned the space into a fully functional distribution centre. “Even before we went out to tender, Spaceway was willing to work with us on designs and respond quickly to our requests”, says Andrew Hammond, CooperVision’s European Projects Director. “Added to this Spaceway’s first rate reputation and competitive pricing ensured they were awarded the contract.” In order to accommodate both pallet storage and picking, Spaceway suggested that the area was divided into two sections. Section one included the installation of high bay pallet racking in two areas with the layout designed to accommodate a VNA man-up forklift. In order to meet insurance requirements relating to sprinkler systems, section two was fitted out with mesh decking to accommodate the storage and picking of cartons. Anti-collapse mesh was fitted to the pallet racking in areas of concentrated pedestrian activity to prevent items falling on employees. To accommodate the fastest moving lines amounting to 3000 stock keeping units (sku’s), BITO carton live racking was designed and installed to integrate with an automated Knapp conveyor system to transport picked items to the packaging and despatch areas. Finally, Spaceway installed 100,000 labels in both areas of the warehouse to provide racking identification, bin locations and equipment. To complete the project Spaceway designed and installed the warehouse offices. “The project was delivered on time and the quality of finish was absolutely first class,” said Hammond. “We are delighted with the finished job which meets all our requirements”.