Planned Storage Systems (PSS), one of the UK's leading independent designers, manufacturers and suppliers of innovative storage solutions has beaten off stiff competition to win a major order from Nisbets, to design, supply and install a VNA (very narrow aisle) racking system for its new facility in Avonmouth near Bristol. Nisbets has established an enviable reputation as supplier of first choice in the very competitive commercial catering equipment market. PSS was awarded the contract for its service, quality products, cost effective solution and renowned project management skills.
In-depth consultations with the client and detailed site surveys allowed the PSS Team to create the optimum solution. PSS's technical team used the Company's Stronglock VNA high bay racking making maximum use of the building height providing Nisbets with the target number of pallet locations.
The 9,890m2 complex, previously owned by Imperial Tobacco, is being renovated over a two to three year period to Nisbets' design. PSS was appointed to remove an existing lightweight welded frame VNA racking system from a 2,200m2 area and replace it with the more robust PSS Stronglock product with its bolted construction. Stronglock facilitates a more cost effective maintenance programme to deal with any repairs and renewals throughout the life of the structure.
Since Nisbets needed to maintain an operational site during the project, PSS carried out the work in two phases. Phase one involved installing up to 13.5 metres high racking into the non-racked areas of the warehouse. PSS delivered considerable savings to Nisbets by reusing the existing guide rails. P&D stations installed at one end of each row increase the throughput speed on the narrow aisle truck allowing the truck to pick up the pallet from a precise position time after time and thereby reducing the pick up/deposit cycle.
Project Manager for Nisbets, Roy Grinham said: "Having worked with PSS before, we knew they had the expertise and experience to deliver what our business needed. They maximised the space in the storage area to enable the stocking and rapid picking of thousands of different product lines for Nisbets' expanding customer base. PSS has provided us with excellent service and a first-rate job."
The Stronglock VNA racking system maximised the use of vertical space and has provided Nisbets with a system that can accommodate its increasing need for intermediate storage. Designed to carry heavy weights in each pallet slot, the racking system was completed on time and within strict budget constraints.