Hunkemoller | Case Study | SSI SCHAEFER

A new distribution center for a growing fashion brand

Hunkemoller is one of Europe’s leading lingerie brands with more than 700 stores in 12 countries. As the company grew, its former warehouses reached capacity limits. Manual processes often led to long processing times. To support its strong growth in retail, e‑commerce, and international franchise operations, Hunkemoller required a new, central distribution center – one that could increase throughput, automate carton handling, and support future growth.

Almere, the Netherlands, was chosen as the location for this distribution center. Hunkemoller relies on an automated solution from SSI SCHAEFER.

High-performance miniload system

The heart of the installation is a high‑performance miniload system designed for maximum efficiency and long-term scalability. The fully automated SSI Miniload system comprises six aisles and more than 90,000 storage locations for cartons. No trays are required, enabling direct carton handling and efficient use of space. The modular design allows the system to be expanded later with three additional aisles for increased capacity.

Additional components of the new warehouse solution

A dynamic conveying network connects all operational areas. The 2.5‑kilometer conveyor loop links goods‑in, palletizing, the miniload system, picking, and shipping – ensuring continuous and reliable carton flow across all levels.
In addition to the SSI Miniload system and conveying system, SSI SCHAEFER equipped the distribution center in Almere with PR 600 type pallet racks accommodating 3,100 pallets.
To support transparent and stable operations, the WAMAS MFS material flow system controls all processes and visualizes system status and KPIs in real time. This enables early detection of disruptions and contributes to efficient maintenance management.

“Before, it took us a few days to make the goods available. Today, the goods are immediately available as soon as the last carton has been unloaded.”

Ben Griffioen

Logistics Manager, Hunkemoller

Ben Griffioen

Logistics Manager, Hunkemoller

Future-proof solution from SSI SCHAEFER

Since going live, the new distribution center in Almere has become the logistics backbone for Hunkemoller’s European store network and its global franchise and online partners. Automated carton handling drastically reduces inbound processing time. The scalable miniload system and the conveyor network prepare the company for long-term growth and enable efficient throughput even at peak workload.

Highlights of the solution

Fully automated SSI Miniload system with six aisles and over 90,000 locations for cartons
Modular system design with the option to add three additional aisles for future growth.
Direct carton storage without trays for efficient processes.
2.5 km conveying system connecting all key logistics areas.
Integrated pallet racks PR 600 with 3,100 pallet locations for additional storage flexibility.
WAMAS MFS ensures seamless material flow and real-time insights