STIHL Celebrates 100 Years with Eight New Kardex Shuttle Vertical Lift Modules at Knoxfield Distribution Centre

Victoria Sampsonidis
 
As STIHL Australia celebrates 100 years of innovation, the company has strengthened its national distribution network through the installation of eight Kardex Shuttle Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) at its Knoxfield Distribution Centre in Victoria.The investment increases storage capacity, enhances spare parts distribution and supports efficient order fulfilment across STIHL's nationwide dealer network.
 
The project marks another milestone in the long-standing partnership between STIHL and Kardex, which has spanned more than two decades. Through this partnership, Kardex solutions have supported STIHL's evolving operational requirements as the business continues to grow and enhance service levels across Australia.
 

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Supporting a Growing National Spare Parts Network

The Knoxfield Distribution Centre plays a critical role in supporting STIHL's dealer network throughout Australia. As part of STIHL's global commitment to long-term product support, spare parts are retained for extended periods, creating the need for efficient, high-density storage solutions.

To support future growth, Kardex reviewed STIHL's existing carousel and mezzanine storage systems, inventory profile, warehouse layout and operational requirements. Following this assessment, the Kardex Shuttle Vertical Lift Module solution was selected to maximise storage capacity while supporting the high-performance requirements of both order fulfilment and inventory replenishment operations.
 

The new installation utilises approximately 12 metres of available warehouse height and is around four metres taller than the previous carousel systems.

By making better use of vertical space, the solution delivers close to three times the storage density of the existing arrangement while maintaining fast and reliable access to inventory.

 

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Maximising Space and Warehouse Efficiency

The Kardex Shuttle operates using a goods-to-person principle, automatically delivering inventory directly to the operator when required. This reduces travel time, improves picking efficiency and helps maintain accurate inventory control while making optimal use of available warehouse height.

Consolidating inventory within the automated storage system has also freed up valuable floor space within the distribution centre, creating additional capacity for pallet racking and bulk-pick operations.

By combining high-density storage with automated retrieval technology, STIHL has created a more efficient warehouse layout that supports productivity, inventory accuracy and operational performance while providing a scalable platform for future growth.


 

Key Takeaways

  • STIHL Australia has strengthened its national distribution capabilities with the installation of eight Kardex Shuttle Vertical Lift Modules at its Knoxfield Distribution Centre.
  • The new automated storage solution delivers close to three times the storage density of the previous carousel and mezzanine storage arrangement.
  • By utilising approximately 12 metres of available warehouse height, STIHL has increased storage capacity without expanding its facility footprint.
  • The project has freed up valuable floor space for additional pallet racking and bulk-pick operations.
  • The Knoxfield Distribution Centre supports both spare parts and finished goods distribution across STIHL's nationwide dealer network.
  • The installation builds on a long-standing partnership between STIHL and Kardex spanning more than 20 years.

 

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Supporting the Next Century of Innovation

Founded in 1926, STIHL has become one of the world's leading manufacturers of chainsaws, outdoor power equipment and battery-powered tools. As the company enters its second century of operation, the investment in warehouse automation provides a scalable foundation for continued growth.

The project demonstrates how automated storage solutions can help organisations increase storage capacity, optimise warehouse space and improve operational efficiency without expanding their facility footprint. For STIHL, the new Kardex Shuttle installation ensures continued support for its dealer network and customers while positioning the business for future growth.

The installation represents another milestone in the long-standing partnership between STIHL and Kardex, demonstrating how automated storage solutions can support operational excellence, supply chain resilience and sustainable growth.

 

 

 
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Victoria Sampsonidis

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