Interface with SAP system
Univeyor was chosen to provide the conveyor system for the new centre because of its proven ability to interface with SAP systems. A state-of-the-art SAP system will be a key part of the new building, with picking operators being directed by a SAP-driven voice picking system, rather than the traditional paper pick lists. The SAP management system controls the content, routing and destination of each order case and it is vital that the conveyor system integrates fully with it.

The logistics of empty and completed wine cases
The overall concept of the Direct Wines system is to supply empty cases to specific locations around the warehouse, thus allowing manual pickers the easiest possible access and maximising their productivity. The system then takes away completed cases from the picking areas to be sealed, labelled and despatched.

"Maximum productivity"
“We’re confident that we’ve made the right choice in moving forward on this project with Univeyor,” says Melvyn Brown, distribution centre general manager of Direct Wines. “Maximum productivity is a key feature of the new distribution centre and the installation of Univeyor’s automated system will ensure that we can achieve that.”

Expansion programme for Direct Wines
The new distribution centre is part of an expansion programme for Direct Wines, which has grown considerably in recent years. With well-known brands such as Laithwaites and the Sunday Times Wine Club, Direct Wines is the market leader in home delivery of wine.