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Kolok Standardises Operations on Manhattan Scale™
Technology Category
- Functional Applications - Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Applicable Industries
- Consumer Goods
Applicable Functions
- Warehouse & Inventory Management
- Logistics & Transportation
Use Cases
- Inventory Management
- Warehouse Automation
- Supply Chain Visibility
Services
- System Integration
- Training
The Challenge
Kolok Unlimited, a major printer supplies distributor in Africa, faced significant challenges with its warehouse management and manual systems. The company's international growth led to increased transaction volumes, which the existing manual, card-based stock-control system could not handle efficiently. Deliveries were delayed, and stock management became problematic, with items often being misplaced. Additionally, the high level of crime in the region, including theft and vehicle hijacking, compounded the difficulties. The lack of basic IT skills among warehouse staff further exacerbated the situation, necessitating an advanced warehouse management solution to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
About The Customer
Kolok Unlimited, established 36 years ago, is one of the largest printer supplies distributors in Africa. It is a subsidiary of Bidvest, a global services, trading, and distribution giant listed on the JSE in South Africa. Kolok operates directly in the common customs area of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, and Namibia, and also conducts business in Angola and Mozambique. The company collaborates with partners in Zimbabwe and Zambia. With an extensive distribution network that includes six distribution centers in South Africa and one in Namibia, Kolok has grown significantly over the years. The company's growth has brought about challenges in stock management and warehouse operations, necessitating the implementation of advanced solutions to maintain efficiency and customer satisfaction.
The Solution
Kolok Unlimited selected Manhattan SCALE: Supply Chain Architected for Logistics Execution as its advanced warehouse management solution for its larger distribution centers in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. The solution was chosen for its reliability, functionality, and ease of use, which would allow for quick training of warehouse operatives. Manhattan SCALE's configurability and integration with Microsoft Dynamics AX, Kolok's enterprise solutions platform, made it an ideal choice. The implementation included the use of radio-frequency (RF) technology and large screens to monitor order progress, enhancing productivity and control over warehouse operations. The role of Supply Chain Junction, a partner familiar with the African market and Manhattan's products, was crucial in the decision-making process.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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