In July 2005, Poundland opened a new 300,000 square foot dedicated distribution centre that handles between 8 and 9 million items per week – approximately 700,000 cases, with stock value estimated at £24million (retail value).  This new facility services over 150 stores across the country. 

The Jivili solution includes 50 Datalogic Rhino-NET vehicle mounted mobile computers, Datalogic’s Keep Connecting and Mobile Configurator software; all working off an existing Symbol 5100 RF infrastructure. 

The Datalogic units are supported by a next business day enhanced swap out contract.  Initially roll out will take place at the new distribution centre in Bilston, followed quickly by the rest of the Poundland warehousing and distribution operation.

The Datalogic Rhino-NET vehicle mount mobile computers run a 5250 emulation, providing a user friendly ‘Green Screen’ for picking operatives. Using the JDA Merchandise Management System key codes are used at every point within the warehouse, and the picker is directed to the correct bay and the correct product using electronically created pick lists.  Overall the solution will provide up to date visibility of stock and picking activities at all times and deliver greater pick accuracy.

The Rhino-NET™ from Datalogic is designed for all operating conditions, and is capable of working in sub-zero environments.  Providing a superior protection class (IP65) and intuitive usage of the constantly illuminated keyboard, Rhino-NET™ is a flexible solution for vehicle applications in extremely harsh environments. Thanks to its particular mounting bracket, Rhino-NET™ is also immune to vibrations and mechanical shocks.

Mo Rahman, Poundland’s IT Services Manager commented “We chose the Datalogic Rhino-NET mobile computers for a number of reasons, but mostly it was because of the simplicity of operation and ease of integration with our AS400 system using terminal emulation.  They are also incredibly rugged and come as a complete, compact unit with everything integrated.  It’s important for us that there are no external or add-on parts, such as an aerial or keyboard, to reduce the potential for breakages and downtime.”  

About the relationship with their new supplier, Mo commented “This is the first time we have worked with Jivili and we have built a superb relationship.  They interpreted our requirements well and, because they’re not tied to any one manufacturer, they were able to introduce us to the Datalogic products because they were best suited to our requirements.  They won the business from our incumbent supplier by offering a great complete package, including high levels of service as well as a competitive price.  They have delivered everything they said they would and have gone beyond my expectations of the service we would receive.”