Express Distributors, a leading logistics services company in Panama, has undergone a remarkable transformation in its operations thanks to cutting-edge technological solutions provided by Cerca Technology. With 49 years of experience in the Panamanian market, the company has strengthened its presence, covering the Colón Free Zone, France Field, and the Manzanillo Logistics Park, reaching a total of 38,000 m² with its distribution centers. By 2024, it extends its commitment by acquiring a new warehouse in Parque Sur, offering services to other sectors such as the retail market.
Express is part of the Motta International Group, a well-known retail company focused on the consumer market. The collaboration with Motta International, S.A. has been fundamental to the growth and optimization of Express Distributors Inc. Both companies, sharing operational processes, have worked hard to align their systems and improve operational efficiency.
¿Why was a WMS needed in their operation?
The need to implement a WMS arose due to the challenges of control, visibility, and service levels that the operation faced with a system that did not grow at the same pace as the company. They were seeking to improve productivity and account integration.
«To remain in the market coherently and consistently, it was essential to have a tool that would help us achieve our strategy. While we might have had the best intentions and the desire to satisfy our customers, without the right tool, those efforts would have been simply good intentions.» — Silverio Chirú, Project Manager for the group.
The adoption of the Warehouse Management System (WMS) had as its main objectives the automation of processes, reduction of operational costs, and more precise and efficient inventory management. This decision was crucial for improving the speed and accuracy of order preparation, as well as for optimizing inventory management according to the changing demands of the market, prioritizing customer service and quality.
¿What metrics have been achieved with the implementation of the WMS?
The implementation of the WMS brought about significant improvements in locating merchandise, speeding up order preparation, and enhancing inventory accuracy. This resulted in greater customer satisfaction, increased operational productivity, and optimized company resources. «We were able to serve more customers with the same resources,» mentioned Chirú.
Here are some of the metrics the company achieved after implementing Infor’s WMS:
- 36% in resource optimization (operators)
- 50% increase in order preparations
- 5% improvement in Inventory Record Accuracy (IRA)
- Delivery times are based on 48 hours from the start of their assignment or scheduling.
«The success of this project is a testament to the dedication and close collaboration with the Express Distributors Inc. team. We are proud to have exceeded expectations and to continue innovating to drive the ongoing success of their operation,» said Julian Lasso, Professional Services Manager for NOLA at Cerca Technology.
¿Why did Cerca Technology and Infor stand out as the right tools?
The choice of Infor WMS as the logistics management platform and the strategic collaboration with Cerca Technology were based on their reputation, experience, and ability to meet the company’s specific needs. This 14-year partnership has been crucial in overcoming challenges and effectively optimizing the logistics operation. The transfer of knowledge and teamwork allowed our client to fully leverage the functionalities of Infor WMS and adapt them to their daily operations.
«Their commitment, knowledge, and continuous support were fundamental to the success of this project, which has positively transformed the logistics operations and customer service of Express and Motta,» said Alberto Lagrutta, VP of Operations.
¿What are the future expectations for the company’s digitalization strategy?
Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its offerings to other territories in the region and enhance its capabilities with the implementation of the Labor Management System (LMS) and the Transportation Management System (TMS). These systems will enable them to manage activities, productivity, and employee performance, as well as plan and execute the distribution plan more efficiently. Additionally, they will leverage the potential of Slotting to further optimize their operations. This strategic vision and focus on technological innovation continue to drive the success and operational excellence of this operation.
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