Feb 3, 2009 9:02 AM

FKI Logistex has won a contract in excess of $10 million with broadline foodservice distributor Gordon Food Service (GFS). It will provide an automated material handling system for the new GFS regional multi-temperature distribution center (DC) in Kenosha WI. This is the second FKI Logistex system installation for GFS since completion of the Shepherdsville KY distribution center in 2003.

The new Kenosha DC was designed to provide enhanced service to regional customers while cutting transportation distance and costs. This new 480,000-square-foot DC is the largest GFS facility in the region and will include five pick modules, multiple slapper lines, a turnkey conveyor system, and a UniSort XV sliding shoe sorter. The system, which has more than 30,000 feet of conveyor, relies heavily on FKI Logistex software and controls to maximize throughput while maintaining segregation of temperature zones and a strict order stop sequence for loading shipments.

This business model called for a customized DC, which was developed in partnership with the FKI Logistex Solutions Development Group. FKI Logistex advisors worked closely with GFS on planning, design, and simulation to create a personalized system to handle the company’s freezer, grocery, and warehousing needs.

Construction on the new DC began in June 2008, and FKI Logistex will begin the system installation in spring 2009. The Kenosha DC is scheduled to open in early 2010.