1.000th AutoStore® robot as a milestone at the Ottobeuren site
Christ Packing System: Modernization of small parts logistics with an AutoStore® system
At its Ottobeuren site, Christ Packing Systems GmbH & Co. KG has modernized its small parts logistics with a compact AutoStore® system. The solution implemented by HÖRMANN Intralogistics improves material supply for mechanical engineering and enables efficient, process-reliable organization of all small parts while at the same time providing a high degree of flexibility for future requirements.
The concept
Christ Packing Systems GmbH & Co. KG, based in Ottobeuren, is one of the leading manufacturers of packaging and automation solutions for industrial and pharmaceutical applications. The company decided to introduce an AutoStore® system in order to cope with the constantly increasing number of variants and the growing requirements for precise production supply.
The aim was to modernize small parts logistics, stabilize processes and sustainably increase efficiency in the internal material flow with a highly compact, automated solution.
Objectives and challenges of the project:
Christ Packing Systems needed a solution that:
- provide a high storage density in a minimal space,
- provide all small parts quickly and reliably,
- drastically reduce search and travel times,
- increase process reliability and minimize sources of error,
- integrate into the existing building structure,
- and at the same time remain scalable to allow for future growth.
In addition, the system had to be integrated into ongoing operations
without disrupting current production processes.
The solution in detail
A compact AutoStore® system was implemented for Christ Packing Systems that is precisely tailored to the spatial and process-related requirements of the site.
The system comprises:
- 5 AutoStore® robots for dynamic storage and retrieval
- 4 ergonomic conveyor ports for goods receipt & picking
- 4.934 bins for structured and maximally compacted article organization
- A grid with dimensions of 10.70 × 10.00 × 4.76 m, optimally fitted into the hall environment
- An integrated service platform for maintenance and operational accessibility
A special feature of the system is the installation of the golden 1,000th AutoStore® robot, which HÖRMANN Intralogistics has delivered as part of its customer projects. This milestone underlines the importance of the project and the long-term experience in AutoStore integration.
The robots work continuously on the grid, bringing the totes directly to the ports and enabling fast, ergonomic picking. Automatic container management ensures a high level of process reliability and transparency. The system has a modular design and can be expanded at any time if required.
Facts & key figures
| AutoStore® warehouse |
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"We are delighted - the space savings are enormous, the space utilization is absolutely efficient and the speed is impressive."
Daniel Kuhn & Felix Kaufmann
Project Managers in Operations, Christ Packing Systems GmbH & Co. KG
About Christ Packing Systems
Christ Packing Systems develops and manufactures high-quality packaging and automation solutions for customers
in the pharmaceutical, medical, cosmetics, food and non-food industries. With a high level of vertical integration and many years of experience, the company
realizes tailor-made end-of-line packaging systems and supports its customers worldwide
with precise and reliable technology.
Results and benefits
With the AutoStore® system, Christ Packing Systems has a much more compact storage structure that enables a higher number of items to be stored in the same space. Automatic container provision shortens internal processes and reduces manual search and travel times. At the same time, the standardized container organization ensures clearly defined processes and traceable inventory management.
The feedback from Christ Packing Systems clearly reflects the effect of the new solution: thanks to the compact system architecture of Autostore, more usable space is now available, and the higher provisioning speed ensures a stable supply for production. This gives Christ Packing Systems a reliable, easily expandable basis for future requirements.
Contact us
Do you see yourself in the Christ Packing story with challenges and possible solutions for your own business? Feel free to contact our project planning experts without obligation. We will give you an assessment of your current and optimized material flow, automation options and an initial target price.
Women who make a difference at HÖRMANN
HerStory
There are people behind every system, every figure, every project. Their careers, backgrounds and motivation are individual, and that's what makes them exciting. In HerStory, female colleagues from the HÖRMANN team talk about their everyday lives between technology, challenges and emotions.
What drives them, challenges them and what they have changed. Whether in IT, sales or on the construction site: they are all actively shaping the future of our intralogistics. Not as an exception, but as a natural part of our team. With HerStory we show: Women are indispensable in the Hörmann team and have long been part of it.
Our female employees tell their story
Full Stack Developer
Mozhdeh Sampour
Some people change companies - Mozhdeh Sampour changed countries as well.
Since mid-2023, she has been part of our team as a Full Stack Developer and a driving force in the new development of our software solution HiLIS.
IT Administration
Sanja Peric
At 22, she's already working full-time and at the heart of our IT
Sanja Peric has been part of our internal IT team since November 1, 2023. As an IT administrator, she supports our two long-standing colleagues who were in dire need for additional hands to keep up with our growing organisation.
Robotics
Anna Kehmstedt
Anna's story: From university straight into the heart of intralogistics
Some people just write their thesis to complete their education - Anna Sophia Kehmstedt decided to script a whole new career while she was at it!
In October 2023, she joined us as a working student in the Robotic Solutions department, then went on to become Head of Robotics.
We believe in performance and not in pigeonholes.
This is why we consciously promote different perspectives and create working conditions that enable people to contribute: Regardless of gender, origin, age or stage of life.
HerStory is more than just a look at women in technical professions. It is a statement for a working environment in which visibility counts, attitude is required and teamwork is based on trust.
Diversity is not a goal for us, but a prerequisite. It is our path - in intralogistics, in everyday life and into the future.
HerStory puts women at the center.
Not to exclude others, but to create visibility. Many areas of our industry are still male-dominated to this day, but our HÖRMANNschaft thrives on everyone who takes responsibility, gets involved and drives new things forward.
HerStory - Episode 2:
Anna's story: From university straight to the heart of intralogistics
Some people just write their thesis - Anna Sophia Kehmstedt scripted a whole new career while she was at it
In October 2023, she joined us as a working student in the Robotic Solutions department. Instead of approaching the industry slowly, Anna seized the opportunity straight away and asked herself a big question:
How can medium-sized companies exploit the full potential of automation?
She developed the answer in her Master's thesis and landed with flying colors:
Grade 1.0
Funding award
Best Master's degree
However, Anna doesn't think in terms of degrees, but in terms of opportunities. Today, she is already Head of Robotics in the AutoStore department and is actively shaping the future of intralogistics with fresh ideas, a clear attitude and a great deal of courage.
"My Master's thesis was the starting signal for a world that inspires me. I didn't just want to talk about automation, I wanted to implement real projects and I received great support from HÖRMANN. The fact that I have now sold my first project myself shows me that I can really make a difference here."
3 questions for Anna
When was the moment you knew: "This is my place"?
When I controlled a robot for the first time during my studies, it was clear to me that I wanted to work in automation. The more I learned about the complexity behind it, the more fascinating it became. Seeing how an entire system works automatically still inspires me to this day.
What was your biggest hurdle and how did you overcome it?
Being taken seriously. As a young, petite blonde, I was often ridiculed, mistaken for an intern or confronted with jokes. That was annoying and sometimes frustrating, but that's exactly what sparked my ambition. I wanted to show that ability, expertise and perseverance have nothing to do with appearances. Today, I see this as a strength: if you are underestimated, you can surprise even more.
What would you like to say to women who are still hesitating to go down this path?
Just do it! It's a great feeling to do what you're really passionate about and to carve out your own place. That's what makes you really proud in the end.
We are glad to have such strong personalities like Anna in our team. People who don't ask what is possible, but just show up and make things possible.
Stay tuned: In the next issue of "HerStory", we will tell another exciting story.
HerStory - Episode 2:
Sanja's story: Locked down or ready to rise?
At 22, she's already working full-time at the heart of our IT
Sanja Peric has been part of our internal IT team since November 1, 2023. As an IT administrator, she supports our two long-standing colleagues who desperately needed some helping hands to keep up with our growing organisation.
What sounds like a classic career start on paper was in fact anything but ordinary: Sanja completed her training as an IT specialist for system integration almost entirely during the Corona period. A phase in which personal support, genuine interaction and direct exchange were often neglected. And yet she made her way.
Our approach: our internal IT thrives on personal interaction with colleagues. It's not just about processing tickets, but about solving real challenges and making the day-to-day work of many people easier.
Since joining us, Sanja has grown further into the world of IT and intralogistics every day.
She brings a fresh perspective, new energy and the determination to go her own way - even in an industry that is still often male-dominated.
"If I hadn't had the courage to just give it a go back then, I might never have discovered my dream job. I don't stand for a quota, but for my performance."
3 questions for Sanja
How did you experience your training during the pandemic and what helped you to keep going?
The pandemic had a big impact on my training. I had to learn to work independently early on, especially in homeschooling, which demanded a lot from all of us. My trainer was very supportive and showed me that I wasn't alone. That helped me to keep going.
What was it like for you as a young woman starting out in a technical environment?
I didn't find it easy to get started, I lacked specialist knowledge and you come up against a lot of opinions. But my interest and ambition helped me to familiarize myself with many topics. The varied tasks in particular boosted my motivation. With every new piece of knowledge, it becomes more understandable and then it's really fun.
What would you say to other young women who are interested in IT but are still hesitant?
I didn't know whether the topics would suit me and how I would fit into such an environment as a 16-year-old. But if I hadn't tried it, I wouldn't be where I am today. I've learned to stand behind my opinions and do what I really enjoy. Don't let anyone tell you that IT is not for women. If you're curious and willing to learn, all it takes is one thing: the courage to just go for it.
We are proud to have Sanja on our team - because she shows that courage, curiosity and a willingness to learn are just as important as experience.
Stay tuned: we will be telling another exciting story in the next issue of "HerStory".
HerStory - Episode 1:
Mozhdeh's story: With code, courage and cultural change
Some people change companies - Mozhdeh Sampour also changed countries, all in one go.
Since mid-2023, she has been part of our team as a Full Stack Developer and a driving force in the new development of our software solution HiLIS.
Originally from Iran, she found her way to Germany with us. A new language, a new environment, new challenges and a clear focus: helping to shape the intralogistics of tomorrow with intelligent code and fresh ideas.
Since then, Mozhdeh has not only contributed her technical expertise, but also her very own view of collaboration, change and cultural diversity.
"Change is never easy, but it opens doors to opportunities that you could never have imagined. My journey into IT and to Germany has been challenging, but every step has made me stronger. Looking back, I would do it all over again"
3 questions for Mozhdeh
How was your personal journey to Germany and what helped you to arrive?
Moving to Germany was a big step, not only physically but also emotionally. I left my home country, my family and everything familiar behind to start a new chapter in a new culture and language. What helped me the most was the support and friendliness of my team and my strong will to develop personally and professionally. The opportunity to work in a modern, forward-thinking company gave me a sense of purpose and belonging right from the start.
What do you experience as a woman in the IT industry?
IT has always been my passion and I am proud of this path. I see every step as a learning opportunity and look forward to continuing to grow. I feel valued for my skills and respected as a person, which motivates me to continue to develop and encourage other women to discover their potential in the tech world.
What would you like to pass on to other women who want to take bold steps - professionally or personally?
Don't be afraid to leave your comfort zone. Be brave and trust yourself. Growth comes from daring to do things that feel unfamiliar or difficult at first. You don't have to have all the answers, just the willingness to get started.
We are proud that Mozhdeh is part of our team and that she shows with her story how change begins: with courage, talent and openness.
Stay tuned: In the next issue of "HerStory" we will tell another exciting story.
Reference AutoStore
World's first combined chilled and ambient temperature AutoStore® system for online retailer flaschenpost SE
Industry first: HÖRMANN Intralogistics has implemented innovative micro-fulfilment solutions for flaschenpost SE with combined chilled and ambient temperature AutoStore® systems. The systems in Langenfeld and Cologne set new standards in automated eGrocery logistics with intelligent combined workstations.
Fast delivery needs smart logistics
As a growing online supermarket with the promise of "delivery within 120 minutes", flaschenpost SE faces particular logistical challenges: The extensive expansion of the product range to include food and the rapidly growing demand require highly efficient intralogistics. Over 30 warehouse locations supply more than 200 cities in Germany with beverages, food and everyday products.
HÖRMANN Intralogistics has developed a globally unique solution for this: AutoStore® systems for different temperature zones are brought together at specially developed combined work stations. Staff pick chilled and non-chilled goods in parallel for one order. The successful pilot system in Langenfeld was followed by the commissioning of the second system for Cologne - the 50th AutoStore® project from HÖRMANN Intralogistics.
The concept
The heart of the solution is the intelligent combination of two AutoStore® systems with different temperature ranges at specially developed combined work stations. The "Chilled" system for refridgerated goods operates at a constant 2°C in a fully enclosed environment. Directly adjacent is the "Ambient" system for items at room temperature.
In both temperature zones, AutoStore containers are stacked on 16 levels in the grid system. Red-Line robots move tirelessly on the rail system and supply the ports for storage and picking.
The combined workstation: where both worlds meet
The two temperature zones come together at each combined workstation: The dry goods from the ambient system arrive at the carousel port, while the chilled goods from the chilled area arrive at the specially insulated conveyor port. Staff pick from both ports in parallel into the flaschenpost containers on the in-and-out conveyor system at the workstation, which transports the picked orders to the delivery vehicles
The solution in detail
HÖRMANN Intralogistics supplied complete systems from a single source for both locations: from planning and AutoStore® installation with all robots and ports to the complete housing and cooling technology for the chilled systems. The combined workstations were specially developed to meet the requirements of simultaneous picking from both temperature zones and enable efficient handover to the flaschenpost delivery drivers.
The systems are designed for operating times of 16 hours, 6 days a week and offer growth potential in terms of both performance and storage capacity. The configuration of both systems is based on extensive simulations and takes into account the specific requirements of the respective locations.
This advanced architecture for automated eGrocery distribution centers is the result of an intensive project planning phase and trusting cooperation between HÖRMANN Intralogistics and flaschenpost SE.
Project goals and challenges:
Automation for growing requirements
The key challenge was to efficiently manage demand spike and expanded food range with automated technology without jeopardizing the 120-minute delivery advertised to customers.
World-wide innovation in temperature zones
The different temperature requirements of fresh and dry goods had to be married in one integrated system. The solution combines maximum energy efficiency with minimal cooling losses and still enables flexible, parallel picking at specially developed combined work stations with insulated conveyor ports for chilled goods and carousel ports for dry goods.
Facts & key figures
Facts
- Chilled system: approx. 8.500 containers, 18 Red-Line robots, 8 conveyor ports, grid size approx. 10 m x 40 m
- Ambient system: approx. 10.000 containers, 25 Red-Line robots, 8 carousel ports, grid size 8 m x 40 m
- Performance: approx. 1,000 container deliveries per hour, up to 12,000 item transfers per day
- Conveyor technology: approx. 100 m of connecting container conveyor technology
- Special feature: pilot project in existing property
| Langenfeld site: | Cologne site: | Both systems: |
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"The extensive expansion of our product range to include food and growing demand required further development of our intralogistics processes, employing automation technology. The cooperation with Hörmann Intralogistics in the design and detailed planning of the innovative solution, which was tailored to our needs, was very smooth and trusting."
André Damkowski
Senior Logistics Engineer at flaschenpost SE
Picture gallery
About flaschenpost
The online supermarket flaschenpost SE delivers food, drinks and everyday products to more than 200 cities in Germany. With the promise of "delivery within 120 minutes", the company has established itself as a leading fast delivery service. Over 20,000 employees ensure that customers receive their orders quickly and reliably from more than 30 warehouse locations.
Contact us
Do you recognize yourself in the flaschenpost story with challenges and possible solutions for your own business? Feel free to contact our project planning experts without obligation. We will give you an assessment of your current and optimized material flow, automation options and an initial target price.