Interview with Karl Quinlivan, Logistics Manager at Coca-Cola HBC

About Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland

Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland is the strategic bottling partner to The Coca-Cola Company on the island. It is responsible for the manufacture, distribution, sale, and channel marketing of its beverage portfolio as well as locally owned brands. Recently, the company equipped its Knockmore Hill warehouse with Mecalux’s semi-automated Pallet Shuttle. The storage system accommodates 9,000 pallets within a compact footprint while streamlining receiving and dispatch operations via motorized shuttles and tablets.

Mecalux sits down with Karl Quinlivan, Logistics Route to Market Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, to learn how the semi-automated Pallet Shuttle system has increased the capacity and efficiency of the company’s warehouse.

• What logistics challenges does Coca-Cola HBC face in Ireland and Northern Ireland?

  As a fast-moving consumer goods company, our key metric is DIFOTAI: delivery in full, on time, and accurately invoiced. We need to manage our storage, stock control, and distribution processes as efficiently as possible to meet our clients’ needs and operate cost-effectively.

• What objectives did you set when upgrading your supply chain?

  We’re always looking for ways to optimize our infrastructure and build a borderless supply chain capable of serving the entire territory at minimum cost.

  The Pallet Shuttle has provided us with the storage capacity we required and improved our efficiency

• Why did you choose to invest in Mecalux’s Pallet Shuttle system, and what impact has it had on your operations?

  The Pallet Shuttle has provided us with the storage capacity we required and improved our efficiency in receiving and dispatch operations. Today, the workflow is far more dynamic because the associates and the system work simultaneously. I’d also highlight how intuitive the interface is. Operators use a tablet to send commands and independently track the shuttles, without the need for additional support.

• How would you assess your collaboration with Mecalux throughout the project?

  

  It was a very positive experience. From the outset, Mecalux offered us flexible design options. The installation itself was carried out quickly and in line with safety and health guidelines. Furthermore, the team was always available to answer any questions during implementation.

• How does this solution contribute to your future strategy?

  By integrating new technologies into our manufacturing and logistics processes, we’re advancing steadily toward Industry 4.0, enhancing efficiency and quality at every stage.