Leading Swedish beauty brand Oriflame has unveiled its new UK warehouse in a groundbreaking partnership with Active Ants. This state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionise Oriflame’s logistics and customer service operations, significantly enhancing order accuracy and efficiency.
State-of-the-Art Facility
The new warehouse showcases the latest advancements in warehousing technology, courtesy of Active Ants. Equipped with AutoStore, storage robots, carrier robots, and packing machines, the facility is designed to deliver unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. The AutoStore system alone increases storage capacity by up to 60%, managing over 180,000 bins. This high-density storage solution ensures that Oriflame can efficiently handle its growing inventory while maximising space utilisation.
The warehouse spans an impressive 252,883 sq ft, combining traditional shelving and pallet positions with cutting-edge technology. This setup not only optimises space but also enhances accessibility to inventory, ensuring swift and accurate order fulfilment.
Enhanced Efficiency and Speed
A significant aspect of the new warehouse is its reliance on automation. Active Ants’ robots will manage 85% of the picking and packing processes. This automation leads to a 50% increase in processing speed compared to traditional methods, allowing for faster and more precise order handling. The result is a notable improvement in operational efficiency and a reduction in errors, which translates to higher customer satisfaction.
Commitment to Sustainability
Oriflame’s new warehouse reflects the brand’s dedication to sustainability. The facility features several environmentally friendly initiatives, including:
- Solar Panels: The roof of the warehouse is covered with 1,000 solar panels, generating renewable energy and reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.
- Cardboard Reduction: The warehouse has implemented a strategy to cut cardboard usage by 40%. This is achieved by customising shipping boxes to match the size of the products, thus minimising waste.
- Rainwater Collection: The facility collects and utilises rainwater, further enhancing its sustainability efforts.
These features align with Oriflame’s broader sustainability goals, demonstrating its commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining high operational standards.
Statements from Oriflame and Active Ants
Sofia Radomska, UK Managing Director at Oriflame, commented on the launch: “We are excited to open our new UK warehouse, which marks a significant milestone in our growth journey. This facility represents a fusion of advanced technology and our commitment to sustainability. Active Ants’ innovative solutions will allow us to enhance our operational efficiency and deliver a superior customer experience. We look forward to leveraging this technology to support our expanding business.”
Khalil Ashong, Country Director UK at Active Ants, added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Oriflame on this cutting-edge project. Our state-of-the-art automated facilities will play a pivotal role in supporting Oriflame’s growth and enhancing its logistics operations. This partnership underscores the value of automation in driving efficiency and sustainability in warehousing.”
Launch Event and Product Range
The grand opening of the new warehouse was celebrated with an event attended by key industry figures, including representatives from the Direct Selling Association. The facility will stock a diverse range of Oriflame products, including cosmetics, skincare, fragrance, nutrition, hair, bath & body, and accessories.