General press articles container

Analysis 
Untill 2000 all the work at Aldipress SANOMA (magazine distribution) was performed manually. The consultants of vhp ergonomics were asked to look at the physical load during orderpicking of stacks of magazines and delivering and processing of unsold magazines. There was a high level of absenteeism, possibly related to the high physical load of work. vhp ergonomics made an analysis of all the processes and used a three zone model to identify the high risks. This way it was clear for the managers where high risk tasks were located within the logistical organization. Ideas and solutions have been discussed for improvement for each category of risks. 

An idea 
An idea was replacing the stack of magazines by a storage box (container). Using the storage box decreases the physical load significantly. The box can be automatically filled with magazines and can be mechanically processed with robots or palletisers In addition one can also add products like DVD’s and tapes (market extension). The box is safe. waterproof and looks professional. Finally a box can be tracked or traced easily with a tag, chip or bar code. 

Realization 
To realize this idea € 12 mio was needed. Two new DC’s have been build including equipment and ICT development. A box with a specific size is developed with vhp ergonomics and Curtec together. Facts at this time:

• Used in the Netherlands: > 350.000 storage boxes
• Increase of market share
• Staff reduction of 25%
• Production of 18.000 storage boxes daily. and still overcapacity
• Competition is using same product
• No residue or wasted boxes

Best logistic solution in the Netherlands Price 2002-2003 (www.nvc.nl)