Case Study: McKesson achieves faster, energy‑efficient, high‑throughput pharmaceutical distribution with Honeywell Intelligrated automation

McKesson - Customer Case Study

McKesson, the world’s largest pharmaceutical wholesaler, needed a new distribution center in Lakeland, Fla., to handle rapid population growth, high medication demand, and complex storage requirements (refrigerated drugs, controlled substances, FDA‑required vaults). Concerned about throughput, accuracy and flexibility, McKesson engaged Honeywell to modernize its facility using Honeywell Intelligrated automated material handling solutions.

Honeywell implemented a complete Intelligrated system—including motorized driven roller (MDR) conveyors, an IntelliSort® sliding shoe sorter, two‑level pick modules with pick‑and‑pass conveyors, and digital verification stations—streamlining order flow to 10 shipping docks. The Honeywell solution delivered measurable gains: a six‑month ROI on the MDR belted incline, elimination of 147 drive motors, 30–70% reduced AC requirements depending on volume, efficient handling of 45,000+ SKUs in a 225,000 sq. ft. DC, and noticeably improved throughput, accuracy and energy savings.

McKesson

Craig Stewart

System Integrator