Thistle Systems has completed its latest semi-automated 2-way shuttle project for leading ice supplier Whole Ice, increasing onsite frozen storage capacity from just 50 pallets to nearly 1,000.
Delivered as part of Whole Ice’s continued expansion, the new system provides significantly greater capacity within its new facility, reducing the need for external storage while giving the business greater flexibility during peak periods.
Operating in a -25°C cold store environment, the system is designed to deliver throughput of up to 30 pallets per hour, with only a minimal increase in forklift resource.
The solution comprises 20 lanes, each 15 pallets deep and three pallets high, providing high-density storage across five SKUs. Designed and engineered by Thistle Systems, the project has been delivered by the company’s in-house team of designers, engineers and installation specialists.
Jim Greive, Operations Manager at Whole Ice, commented:
“Due to the rapid growth of our business, we are planning to move into new premises in a few months’ time, which are five times larger than our current factory. As part of this journey, we are planning to increase our on-site storage capacity from our current small 50 pallet to a 1000 pallet freezer store than will allow us to store more product on site and in peak times to allow us more flexibility.
“Having worked with Thistle previously, we knew the reliability, cost and quality was a given so our decision was an easy one.”
Previously operating with a small 50-pallet floor-stacked freezer and relying on hired trailers during busy periods, the completed system represents a significant step forward for Whole Ice. With substantially more product able to be stored onsite, the business has greater flexibility to manage stock and respond to periods of peak demand.
Following completion of the installation, Whole Ice also praised the work of Thistle Systems’ installation team:
“Just wanted to express my sincere thanks to Davie and his lads for the totally professional job they have done over the last fortnight. It has been a real pleasure working with them.”
The completed project provides Whole Ice with the additional storage capacity and operational flexibility needed to support its continued growth, while demonstrating what can be achieved through a high-density, semi-automated approach to cold storage.
For more information, contact Thistle Systems via the online enquiry form or call 01236 453888.
