Mondial Tissus has switched its cross-store supply from wooden pallets and disposable cardboard boxes to reusable, collapsible containers from Corplex. The solution was introduced following tests in the warehouse, involvement of the store managers and specific customisations.
According to the company, France's leading fabric retailer was looking for an alternative for large-format fabric bales and cuttings, as cardboard packaging was regularly disposed of after receipt of goods and storage space was scarce. The requirement included container-compatible large formats, less waste and optimised return storage of empty packaging in 122 shops in France and Belgium.
Test phase and adjustments
Mondial Tissus familiarised itself with the reusable Corplex containers at an industry trade fair and tested large-format, foldable versions under real storage conditions. This was followed by demonstrations in the central warehouse with store managers in order to obtain feedback and adapt the design. Among other things, Corplex developed an insert system that fixes the pallet, folding belt and lid in place and allows folded packs to be stored vertically - a feature that significantly reduces the space required in the store backstores.
Results and categorisation
According to the case study, the collapsible containers simplify handling during delivery and storage, reduce the consumption of disposable materials and speed up processes on the platform and in the store. Profitability was achieved in less than twelve months and the risk of injury from cutters or wood splinters was also reduced.
Outlook
According to the case study, Mondial Tissus is also considering replacing cardboard boxes in e-commerce with reusable solutions on the basis of the changeover. The aim is to further focus logistics on waste avoidance and reusability.
Source: Corplex
