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Thule centralises logistics with automated warehouse
Thule partners with Mecalux to build an automated distribution centre in Poland, improving storage capacity, traceability, and supply chain efficiency across Europe.
www.mecalux.com
Thule Group is centralising its European distribution operations through a new automated warehouse in Poland, developed in collaboration with Mecalux.
The project focuses on warehouse automation and logistics optimisation, supporting Thule’s operations across 138 global markets.
Project scope and infrastructure design
The facility, located in Krzyż Wielkopolski, will be a rack-supported automated warehouse with a capacity of approximately 40,000 pallets.
Key infrastructure features include:
- Dimensions of 51 m width, 135 m length, and 42 m height
- Six double-deep automated stacker cranes for pallet handling
- Integration with an existing manual warehouse and production facility
The system is designed to centralise inventory while supporting efficient distribution to European and international markets.
Material handling and system integration
The warehouse incorporates multiple automated material handling technologies. Conveyor systems and pallet lifts connect the automated storage area with production and manual operations.
A floor-mounted electric monorail system transports pallets from receiving areas to storage and dispatch zones. It also feeds goods into 16 flow channels located in the dock area, supporting efficient order preparation and shipping.
This integrated system enables continuous material flow and reduces manual intervention.
Warehouse management and digital control
Operations are managed by Mecalux’s Easy WMS warehouse management system. The software assigns storage locations based on product characteristics and demand patterns, optimises order picking processes, and ensures full product traceability.
Digitalisation of warehouse processes supports real-time visibility of inventory and improves coordination between storage, production, and distribution activities.
Operational objectives and benefits
The automated facility is designed to:
Material handling and system integration
The warehouse incorporates multiple automated material handling technologies. Conveyor systems and pallet lifts connect the automated storage area with production and manual operations.
A floor-mounted electric monorail system transports pallets from receiving areas to storage and dispatch zones. It also feeds goods into 16 flow channels located in the dock area, supporting efficient order preparation and shipping.
This integrated system enables continuous material flow and reduces manual intervention.
Warehouse management and digital control
Operations are managed by Mecalux’s Easy WMS warehouse management system. The software assigns storage locations based on product characteristics and demand patterns, optimises order picking processes, and ensures full product traceability.
Digitalisation of warehouse processes supports real-time visibility of inventory and improves coordination between storage, production, and distribution activities.
Operational objectives and benefits
The automated facility is designed to:
- Increase throughput and storage density
- Improve space utilisation
- Enhance product traceability across the supply chain
- Reduce manual handling and improve workplace safety
Automation also supports cost efficiency and enables Thule to respond more effectively to changing demand.
Environmental and operational conditions
The warehouse will include temperature and humidity control systems, ensuring appropriate storage conditions for sensitive products and maintaining consistent operational performance.
Strategic impact on supply chain
By centralising its European distribution, Thule aims to streamline logistics operations and strengthen its competitive position. The facility supports a more efficient supply chain structure, enabling faster and more reliable delivery to customers.
Outlook for automated warehousing
The project reflects a broader trend toward highly automated, digitally managed logistics centres. As companies expand globally, centralised and scalable warehouse solutions are becoming essential for maintaining efficiency, visibility, and service quality.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
www.mecalux.com
Environmental and operational conditions
The warehouse will include temperature and humidity control systems, ensuring appropriate storage conditions for sensitive products and maintaining consistent operational performance.
Strategic impact on supply chain
By centralising its European distribution, Thule aims to streamline logistics operations and strengthen its competitive position. The facility supports a more efficient supply chain structure, enabling faster and more reliable delivery to customers.
Outlook for automated warehousing
The project reflects a broader trend toward highly automated, digitally managed logistics centres. As companies expand globally, centralised and scalable warehouse solutions are becoming essential for maintaining efficiency, visibility, and service quality.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
www.mecalux.com
