The intralogistics group Mecalux has equipped Moderna Products’ plant in Izegem, Belgium, with an automated warehouse connected to production.
With the pet industry growing rapidly – projected to reach a value of $500 billion by 2030, according to Bloomberg – Moderna Products aims to double its sales in the next five years.
The company will continue providing cat litter trays, beds, carriers, feeders and water dispensers for pets in over 79 countries worldwide.
Bart Bonte, owner and CEO of Moderna Products, says: “We manufacture plastic injection moulded products in two large centres in Izegem and South Carolina (US). We’re proud to say we manage the entire supply chain, spanning product development, production, storage and distribution.
The third-generation family business invests in “the most advanced technologies to remain competitive.Our priority is to use highly energy-efficient storage and production systems while maintaining our return on investment”, says Bonte.
Moderna Products is committed to eco-friendly practices, having signed a Green Pact and equipped its headquarters with solar panels. The manufacturer of sustainable plastic pet products has automated the movements of 1,500 pallets a day with an energy-efficient clad-rack warehouse.
Measuring 40 metres high by 100 metres long, the facility built by Mecalux accommodates 12,560 pallets. Additionally, Moderna Products manages all operations with Easy WMS. This software solution monitors every step – from order receipt to shipping – providing complete control over the company’s pet supplies.
Moderna Products has also installed the WMS for Manufacturing module to integrate the warehouse with the production lines and gain end-to-end traceability of its raw materials.
Bonte says: “Automation was the logical step. Our logistics processes had to align with the robotic advancements already underway in our production operations.
“We opted for automation to expand our space, enhance safety and make our processes more environmentally friendly. As a result, we no longer require traditional lighting.”
Automation, the backbone of the facility, ensures the uninterrupted flow of goods between the centre’s various zones. Five twin-mast stacker cranes handle pallet movements inside the storage aisles.
Meanwhile, a conveyor system transports pet products to the manufacturing and picking areas. With these upgrades in place, Moderna Products looks forward to continuing its commitment to caring for dogs and cats, which it has done since 1980.
