Efficient Wine and Spirit Storage with Compact Twin VLMs
Efficient Wine and Spirit Storage with Compact Twin VLMs
Challenge
Challenge
Storing wine and spirits requires careful handling and security, making it an ideal application for Compact Twin Vertical Lift
Modules (VLMs). Mardskog & Lindkvist, a food and restaurant wholesaler specializing in distributing beer, wine, and spirits to
restaurants, faced challenges in managing their warehouse with precision.
When the floor space became insufficient, they found a quick and effective solution by installing three Compact Twin VLMs on-site. This innovation not only enhanced storage efficiency by keeping bottles at an ergonomic height but also simplified the picking process for their team.
About Mardskog & LindkvistWhite
About Mardskog & LindkvistWhite
Mardskog & Lindkvist is a full-range wholesaler providing everything a restaurant or commercial kitchen might need, from tableware to kitchen essentials. With a central warehouse for wine and spirits located in Jönköping and additional facilities in Norrköping, along with sales and trans shipment operations in Kalmar, they cater to approximately 1,500 customers across southern Sweden.
These clients receive deliveries 1-3 times a week. The Company offers 24,000 active items, of which 6,200 are always in stock. Among these,700 items are wines and spirits, managed with meticulous control. As Magnus Palm, the Logistics Manager, explains, “We initially thought we’d just save floor space, but the outcome was much smarter picking.”
Investing in Vertical Lift Modules
Investing in Vertical Lift Modules
Previously, Mardskog & Lindkvist relied on traditional shelving, which required employees to walk with carts and pick bottles manually. This method occupied significant floor space and was not ergonomic. The need for more efficient storage drove the decision to switch to VLMs.
Now, with three Compact Twin VLMs, they’ve saved around 1076 square feet of floor space, slightly less than anticipated. However, Magnus says the VLMs have exceeded expectations in numerous ways. “Some bottles, like champagne and spirits, are surprisingly heavy due to thicker glass.
Our first two VLMs came with 660 lb. trays, which were insufficient. So, we added a third VLM with 15 trays that can handle 1102 lb. each. We’ve distributed these trays across all three machines. Although the Compact Twin can manage two trays simultaneously, the total lift weight limit is 1320 lb., so 1102 lb. trays must be handled individually. Fortunately, the Compact Store control system manages this automatically,” Magnus explains happily.
Smooth Installation and Enhanced Security
Smooth Installation and Enhanced Security
“The installation process was impressive,” says Magnus Palm. “All VLM parts were delivered on pallets and assembled inside the facility without issues, completed in just three days.”
Now, 636 of their 700 wine and spirit items are securely stored inside the VLMs, with full cartons or trays on adjacent shelves when necessary. The VLMs improve security, as the hatch shutter opens only for authorized personnel and keeps bottles cleaner, a detail appreciated by staff and customers alike.
Employee Satisfaction and Training
Employee Satisfaction and Training
Handling wine and spirits demands accuracy, control, and organization. Mardskog & Lindkvist have trained selected employees, including a designated “superuser,” to manage the Compact Store, overseeing deliveries, layout, and inventory.
Other employees have adapted well to the new system, finding the new workstations enjoyable. “The VLMs bring everything to the right height and with constant assistance from the Compact Store and picking aids, it’s never stressful,” says Magnus. “The LED strip highlights the correct box for picking, and the scanner ensures accuracy, making mistakes virtually impossible. The warehouse remains organized and under full control at all times,” he concludes with satisfaction.