Warehouse Systems Limited (WSL) has recently completed the installation of a total storage and order picking system into a new distribution centre for Bridisco Limited.

Bridisco is the largest independent wholesaler and distributor of electrical and gas equipment ranging from small contracting lines to fridges, freezers, televisions and DVD players. Bridisco currently has over 20 trade centres throughout the UK with a total stock vale in excess of £ 30 million. As part of an ongoing programme of expansion, Bridisco recently opened a new northern distribution centre in Leeds and further trade centres are planned in the future.

Strategically situated alongside the M62, the new distribution facility will support Bridisco's trade centres in the north of England, thereby reducing the space constraints at the company's main 7.5 acre distribution warehouse in north London, which has almost reached full capacity.

WSL was commissioned to design and install a versatile system which would be capable of storing a massive and very diverse range of products including Micromark and Powerlectric, which are Bridisco's own brand products. Bridisco currently has approximately 5,000 lines in total.

The system installed by WSL covers three floors. The ground floor area has been fitted out with pallet racking for bulk storage and also designated for the faster accurate picking of goods. A single, two-tier mezzanine floor was assigned for the storage of boxes which, depending on size, can be stored on either longspan racking or adjustable shelving.

Commenting on the recent installation, WSL's Sales Director, Neville Proctor, says, "We worked very closely with Bridisco to provide a total storage and order picking system that exactly matches the customer's requirements. Since its commissioning, the site has operated extremely successfully and there are already plans for future expansion."