New Look, one of the leading fashion retailers in the United Kingdom, has implemented a state-of-the-art solution to enhance its distribution center operations. The company, known for its high-speed distribution center that processes thousands of customer orders daily, has partnered with eLocker to roll out a smart asset management system.
The implementation of this new solution was necessary to address the critical need for quick access to handheld devices in the fast-moving environment of New Look’s distribution center. Any delay in accessing these devices could potentially disrupt the entire operation.
Rob Galbraith, Head of Supply & Change Management at New Look, stated, “In our fast-paced distribution center, we needed a solution that enabled our handheld devices to be tracked and organized within seconds. eLocker helps us reduce wait times for our customers and makes everyday tasks easier to complete.”
The previous manual process at New Look’s distribution center was prone to human error and caused excessive walking distance across the 1.4 million square foot facility. This resulted in queues during peak periods, leading to lost time and additional operational costs.
To improve efficiency and reliability, Rob conducted a detailed analysis of the smart locker market and compared virtual and fixed systems. The key priorities for New Look were cost-effectiveness, operational efficiency, and finding a solution that was truly fit for purpose.
After evaluating various options, New Look found that many fell short in terms of security and accuracy. For instance, virtual lockers offered limited security and using GPS in a warehouse did not provide accurate location data. It was clear that New Look needed a system that could enhance accountability, reduce downtime, and give managers greater control without hindering operations.
eLocker’s smart asset lockers were the perfect fit for New Look’s needs. The company deployed over 400 lockers across its Lymedale distribution center, providing staff with instant, 24/7 access to the devices they need to efficiently perform their jobs.
One of the standout features of eLocker’s solution is its detailed tracking capabilities. Not only does it track who accessed a locker, but it also records which item was taken or returned. This level of precision is made possible through the use of long-range RFID and barcoding, providing full visibility and control for New Look.
Another key feature for New Look was the integrated charging within the lockers. This ensures that devices are always powered and ready to use, eliminating the need for separate charging areas and reducing the risk of downtime.
Unlike many off-the-shelf systems, eLocker worked closely with New Look to design a custom solution that fit the layout, processes, and specific needs of the distribution center. This collaboration ensured that the solution met all operational requirements and was tailored to New Look’s workflow.
The installation process was simple, fast, and seamless, thanks to the close collaboration between New Look and eLocker’s deployment team. Naveed, eLocker’s Solution Delivery Manager, stated, “From day one, New Look had a clear vision of what they needed to achieve, and our role was to deliver that vision with as little disruption as possible. We’re confident this system will drive significant improvements in efficiency, accountability, and overall asset control.”
New Look is already seeing the benefits of having a structured and intelligent approach to device management. By reducing delays and improving visibility, the company expects to see significant improvements in operational efficiency in the coming months.
If you’re interested in learning how smart asset lockers can transform your business operations, get in touch with eLocker to discover tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.