The system at a glance
AS/RS shuttle aisles
cartons storage capacity
Pick-to-Light locations
Automatic stacking stations
The project
How do you transform an outdated distribution center into a fully automated operation without shutting down the ongoing operation for a single day? For Zeeman, this wasn’t a theoretical challenge, but a realistic starting point. Inther Group took on the challenge and, together with Zeeman, developed a unique logistics story centered on technology, collaboration, and courage. A journey filled with technological innovations, logistical puzzles, and organizational challenges—but above all, a shared belief in a powerful concept.
“It’s a complete redesign of all processes, systems, and working methods. Moving from a 25-year-old vibrating sorter operation to a state-of-the-art shuttle system, all within the same building, challenged us to the max.”. – Bas Hoekstra – Director Supply Chain Zeeman
In 2018, Zeeman embarked on an ambitious project to modernize its existing logistics operation. The retailer, known for its extensive store network across Europe, wanted to say goodbye to its outdated, manual sorting system and transition to a future-proof, automated concept that could seamlessly grow alongside the organization’s retail ambitions. Together with Inther, a comprehensive solution was developed that prioritized efficiency, ergonomics, and scalability. A key focus was improving the fill rate of roll containers, increasing the flexibility of SKU offerings, and enabling just-in-time delivery to more than 1,400 stores in Europe. Adding to the complexity was the fact that all of this took place in a brownfield site: the existing building in Alphen aan den Rijn remained operational throughout the entire renovation.
Technical System Features
| Component | Specification |
| AS/RS Shuttle | 6 aisles |
| Storage capacity | 60,000 – 100,000 cartons |
| Sorters | 2 Natrix sorters |
| Channelizers | 2 |
| Pick-to-Light workstations | 20 |
| Pick-to-Light locations | 960 |
| Automatic loading | 6 Elten stacking stations |
| Load carrier type | Rolling containers |
“With so many different suppliers, Inther has performed its integration role well, a reliable partner that brings the components together into a single, functioning whole.” – André Peppelman – Supply Chain Development Manager Zeeman
Moreover, while many logistics projects begin with a single optimization – such as a new picking process or the addition of a shuttle – Zeeman opted for a complete system transformation. They wanted to not only renew their logistics operation but completely rethink it: new processes, a new system design, new technologies, and collaboration with multiple integration partners. Inther was tasked with bringing all of this together. “They essentially tackled the entire architecture from top to bottom in one go: building, system, WMS, integration, everything. That made it a massive project for both Zeeman and Inther,” says Martijn Herder, CEO of Inther Group. Inther Group acted as lead integrator in this project, taking responsibility not only for the design, system selection, integration, and implementation of the chosen solution, but also, and more importantly, for connecting all the links in the chain. And there were quite a few of those.
The benefits at a glance
- No more SKU limits: each box can be individually controlled
- Optimal container loading through sequence-based supply
- Flexibility in flow management: direct cross-docking, inventory, or order picking
- Integrated AI and pattern recognition for depalletizing
- Reduced physical strain and improved ergonomics
Why Zeeman chose Inther Group
The unique combination of:
- Flexible system design with a shuttle at its core
- Complete SKU independence and sequencing
- Experience with similar projects (Westfort, Snellman)
- The proven approach of intensive preparation and co-creation
- Hardware-independent integration from start to finish
Project details in brief
- Client: Zeeman
- Sector: Non-food retail (clothing, accessories)
- Location: Alphen aan den Rijn (NL)
- Objectives: Increase load factor, improve availability, optimize ergonomics
- Solution type: Fully integrated warehouse system
- Details: Implementation during continuous operations (not greenfield), limited dock capacity
- Technologies: Shuttle, (de)palletizers, pick-to-light, algorithm-loading, AMR, WMS integration
- Goods flows: OEM cross-dock, inventory, picking
- Partners: Manhattan, DGS, TGW, CICT, Elten, Lantech
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