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Optimizing automated storage for Puma USA

Case study

Executive summary

Puma USA, a leading global brand in athletic footwear and apparel, partnered with Utz Group and AutoStore to enhance its warehousing efficiency through a customized automated solution. The objective was to increase storage density, support sustainable practices, and seamlessly integrate with the automated systems provided by AutoStore. Utz Group developed a range of durable, recyclable plastic bins specifically designed for Puma’s warehousing needs. This solution resulted in a 20% increase in storage capacity, faster order processing, and alignment with Puma’s sustainability goals.

In Motion - Utz containers in use at AutoStore

Watch how Utz Group’s custom plastic bins work seamlessly with automated warehousing systems to enhance storage, accessibility, and efficiency for Puma USA. 

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Puma distribution center

The client

Puma USA, a global leader in athletic and casual footwear, apparel, and accessories, was focused on enhancing the efficiency of its warehousing and distribution processes. With a high variety of SKUs, Puma required a scalable solution that could manage flexibility and speed in product handling. The warehousing system needed not only to maximize storage space but also to align with Puma’s commitment to sustainability. To achieve these objectives, Puma partnered with AutoStore, who in turn collaborated with Utz Group to create custom bins for their automated storage system.

The challenge

Puma USA’s key requirements included maximizing storage density and customizing bins to seamlessly integrate with their automated system. Each bin needed to be versatile enough to handle different product sizes while also durable enough for constant, high-frequency handling. Additionally, Puma prioritized sustainability, aiming for solutions made from recyclable materials to support their environmental goals.

The solution

In partnership with AutoStore, Utz Group designed a specialized range of plastic bins that met the specific requirements of Puma USA’s automated storage and retrieval system. The bins were engineered for durability and optimized to fit the system’s compact structure, maximizing storage and minimizing space. Each bin was constructed from recyclable materials, aligning with Puma’s commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Key features of Utz Group’s custom plastic bins included:

  • precision design to allow smooth operation within the automated system,
  • a modular build for flexibility, and
  • a high durability rate to ensure long life cycles in high-demand usage. 

The bins were rigorously tested to guarantee compatibility and effectiveness within Puma USA’s automation setup, ensuring a reliable and future-proof solution.

Puma warehouse powered by AutoStore and Utz bins

Implementation process

  • Collaborative planning: Utz Group worked closely with AutoStore to ensure bin compatibility with the automated system’s specifications, meeting Puma USA's unique requirements.
  • Custom engineering and prototyping: Utz Group’s engineers developed prototypes and tested various designs to guarantee optimal performance in Puma USA’s environment.
  • Seamless integration: The bins were implemented without disrupting existing workflows, allowing Puma USA to quickly benefit from increased efficiency and storage capacity.
AutoStore robots transporting plastic bins from Utz

Results

  • 25% increase in bin delivery per hour
  • 10x production increase during the holiday season
  • 24/7 production and no downtime
  • Over 200,000 containers delivered including 425 bins dedicated for storing shoes  
     

The implementation of Utz Group’s custom bins led to a 20% increase in Puma USA’s storage density, allowing them to maximize warehouse space without expanding physical facilities. The bins enabled faster product retrieval and order processing, reducing overall processing times and increasing throughput.

Key takeaways

Utz Group’s solution provided a tailored, sustainable packaging option that met Puma USA’s automated warehousing needs while delivering measurable results in efficiency and environmental impact.

  • Customizable and efficient: Utz's bin solutions are adaptable to specific client needs, helping AutoStore meet both operational and logistical goals.
  • Strong partnership: The collaboration between AutoStore and Utz exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in delivering tailored, high-performance solutions for the warehouse automation industry.
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