German auto parts supplier febi bilstein uses a set of sophisticated automated solutions to keep its customers’ cars running right. Fast growth is often the catalyst that brings change to distribution operations. Such was the case for febi bilstein, one of the world’s leading suppliers of aftermarket automotive parts. Based in Ennepetal, Germany, febi is part of the Ferdinand Bilstein GmbH company, which was founded in 1844. Originally, it supplied tools and parts for the iron industry. Car parts distribution started in 1921, and that segment has grown rapidly with acquisitions of other parts suppliers, including the SWAG and Blue Print brands, which, like febi, are united under the umbrella of the bilstein group. The company now reaches customers in more than 140 nations worldwide. Most customers are wholesalers, though the company does distribute directly to some retailers and repair shops. Over time, that steady growth began to put a strain on the fulfillment side of the operation. Simply put, febi bilstein realized it would have to expand its distribution capabilities to keep pace with demand. It would also need a way to accommodate its rising stock-keeping unit (SKU) counts. The Ennepetal operation currently handles about 47,000 SKUs, but that number is expected to grow substantially. Trouble was, the Ennepetal facility’s location offered no room to build out. The solution was to build upward with high-bay automated storage systems and to add automated systems to whisk orders through the site. The facility now contains 49,720 square meters (535,182 square feet) of processing space spread over several floors. Since it automated its operations, febi bilstein is better able to control quality, costs, and labor. It also fits much more product into a smaller footprint. But the parts supplier’s huge investment in automation did not happen overnight. The family-owned company had […]