Case Study: Schnellecke Logistics achieves 25%+ throughput increase and uninterrupted production supply with Körber AG retrofit solution

Retrofit-solution during ongoing operation

Schnellecke Logistics needed to modernize the miniload logistics center in Glauchau after 20 years of service because the old conveyor and automation components had become the system bottleneck. The upgrade had to be completed without interrupting three-shift, just‑in‑time operations, so Schnellecke Logistics contracted Körber AG to deliver an automation and conveyor retrofit with material-flow optimization and modern PLC control.

Körber AG executed a two‑stage retrofit—first installing a bypass and interim PLC/material‑flow controls during a plant holiday, then replacing the old conveyor system with new pallet/tote conveyors, transfer stations, a ~240 m² platform, ergonomic workstations and S7‑PLC controls—bringing the system back online in six months (September 2017). The solution cut forklift traffic and routes, improved ergonomics and material flow, and increased throughput by more than 25% (from 380 to 480 KLT/hour), securing supply for the adjacent automotive plant.

Schnellecke Logistics