Cimcorp, a provider of robotic handling solutions, has partnered with Spanish supermarket chain Alimerka to automate fresh food distribution processes.
By integrating solutions from Cimcorp in its warehousing operations, Alimerka has reduced packaging material usage and enhanced distribution efficiency, making its supply chain more agile and sustainable.
The partnership has also helped Alimerka ensure customer satisfaction with high-quality fresh products and protect employees through occupational safety improvements.
Alimerka operates 173 supermarket stores across Northwest Spain, providing food and groceries to over 150,000 families across its locations.
With future growth in mind, Alimerka selected Cimcorp for its ability to enable sustainable growth, optimize production processes, and improve ergonomics.
Cimcorp has provided Alimerka with a solution that not only meets its current needs but also allows the company to grow and adapt to future challenges.
Juan Carlos Suárez Fueyo, logistics director at Alimerka, says: “When considering the possibility of improving our logistics, especially in the fruit warehouse, we sought suppliers offering proven solutions in our sector.
“That’s when we came across Cimcorp, a company that had already implemented successful solutions in similar enterprises.
“The partnership significantly changed our way of working, moving from nearly 100% manual preparation to highly automated preparation.”
Supply chain sustainability
Beyond improving operational efficiency, Alimerka sought to further its commitment to environmental conservation and waste reduction. The partnership with Cimcorp has contributed to this goal by reducing cardboard packaging usage and minimizing transportation times.
Iván Pravia, head of technical office at Alimerka, says: “Sustainability is one of our strongest values.
“We work every day to improve our processes to be more sustainable and to transmit that commitment to our customers.”
Quality and customer satisfaction
In grocery retail, logistical efficiency translates to enhanced customer satisfaction. While end consumers are not always aware of the work behind the scenes, improvements to distribution operations are reflected in the quality and freshness of the products they find on Alimerka’s shelves.
“The end customer is not always aware of what companies do, but when they see fresh and well-organized products, they know they are in a place where quality matters,” says Pravia.
Ergonomics and workplace safety
Furthermore, Alimerka and its employees now benefit from improved ergonomics and occupational safety. Cimcorp’s solution has provided greater order and uniformity in deliveries, resulting in improvements in the health of both store and warehouse workers, with a reduction in the number of accidents.
Moving forward, Alimerka’s investments in automation will be essential to remaining a key player in the grocery retail market. Alimerka will continue to work with Cimcorp to improve warehousing operations with additional innovative solutions.
