Henkel has completed a $70m upgrade of its largest logistics operations in North America at Bowling Green, Kentucky.
The logistics hub underwent the upgrade over three years to integrate ‘Industry 4.0’ innovations to help optimise storage space, enhance efficiency, and drive digital automation.
The state-of-the-art facility supports Henkel’s Laundry & Home Care and Beauty Care production, storage and distribution of brands such as Schwarzkopf hair care and Dial soaps.
Henkel said the new digital automation capabilities strengthen its supply chain resiliency and are a key enabler to proactively respond to dynamic market conditions.
Digitization and cutting edge technology allow more rapid exchange of data, streamline processes and increase supply chain resource efficiency, which optimises the warehouse structure and workflow.
The 1.4m square feet logistics hub has the capability to store 200,000 pallets (up from 88,000) and enables up to 1,000 trucks per day throughput (up from 200).
"Increased automation allows us to provide efficiencies and superior customer service, help our retailers meet consumer demand and increase operational agility so we can continue to respond to a rapidly changing business environment,” said Mark Fratamico, Vice President Laundry Supply Chain Operations, North America.
