Warehouse operations logistics improvement in a cork stopper factory
Rita Cristina Martins, Teresa Pereira, Luı́s Pinto Ferreira, José Carlos Sá, F.J.G. Silva
Abstract
In a market that is increasingly competitive, the success depends on the efficiency levels of the implemented processes, highlighting the importance of the operations related to the warehouse management in the logistics flow. This research focuses on the improvement of management and logistic flows within a Portuguese cork stopper production factory. The primary goal is to maximize the warehouse stocking capacity and to improve logistics operations associated to that. By using procedure mapping techniques, data analysis, and direct time monitoring, it was possible to identify non value added times, as well as the associated causes and impacts, inadequate planning, and sizing of the warehouse layouts that were causing significant negative impact in terms of efficiency management. Using lean thinking philosophy, several improvement suggestions were presented to mitigate the problems identified.