Highly Automated Storage System Maximizes Productivity for Finnish Ready Meal Producer Kokkikartano

Logistics center expansion increases capacity and lays the foundation for future growth.

Automated Material Flow Drives Capacity and Efficiency

Great food depends on high-quality ingredients, the right recipe, and careful preparation. That’s the formula for success Finnish ready meal specialist Snellmanin Kokkikartano Oy has followed for over 25 years. As demand for their products continues to grow rapidly, so do the requirements for efficient, scalable logistics.

Kokkikartano set out to future-proof its supply chain by re-evaluating its warehouse operations and identifying the need for a highly automated material flow solution at its site in Kerava. For this, the family-owned company turned to SSI SCHAEFER, a global leader in intralogistics. Together, they developed a solution that ensures the company can continue meeting high demand without compromising quality.

Production Directly Linked to Storage, Picking, and Shipping

The new intralogistics solution is seamlessly connected to the production line. Finished goods are automatically transferred to storage, order picking, or shipping - no manual handling required. All of Kokkikartano’s 180+ product variants can now be picked from the same system, making them available for delivery faster than ever before. 

“Many of our products are shipped directly to customers without being stored for long. A highly efficient process from production to delivery is crucial - and the direct link to the picking zone makes a big difference.”

Tommy Snellman
CEO Kokkikartano
Kokikkartano_165_Tommy_Snellman
Tommy Snellman
CEO Kokkikartano

Pick by Light System Minimizes Errors, Increases Speed

To further streamline operations, SSI SCHAEFER implemented a Pick by Light system: every storage location is equipped with a light display that shows key data like product number and quantity. This semi-automated approach minimizes picking errors while increasing speed and accuracy. Once picked, products are transported one level down to the palletizing area, where they are prepared for shipment. All processes take place in a temperature-controlled environment between 4°C and 6°C, ensuring optimal product quality throughout the cold chain.

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50% More Storage Capacity with SSI Flexi Shuttle System

At the heart of the new setup: a two-aisle SSI Flexi Shuttle system. Designed for dynamic small parts storage, this modular, scalable solution integrates shuttles, lifts, and racking to make the best use of available space. With 40,000 bin storage locations, the new system increases Kokkikartano’s warehouse capacity by over 50% - creating the flexibility needed to support long-term business growth.

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“We want to avoid heavy lifting and manual handling wherever possible. This automation solution allows us to move full bins directly to palletizing without physical strain on our staff.”

Tommy Snellman
CEO Kokkikartano
Tommy Snellman
CEO Kokkikartano

Kokkikartano Gains in Ergonomics, Scalability, and Local Service

Beyond the productivity gains, the system also improves workplace ergonomics. Now fully operational for over 18 months, the system has proven both reliable and effective. While the early days brought the usual challenges seen with any large-scale project, Snellman notes that operations now run smoothly and consistently. 

To ensure long-term performance, SSI SCHAEFER provides on-site service support from its local team in Finland. As Kokkikartano plans to double its production volume within the next decade, the flexible, scalable nature of the solution ensures it’s ready for what’s next. And with SSI SCHAEFER as a trusted long-term partner, the company is well positioned to handle future challenges with confidence.

Solution related products

SSI Flexi Shuttle

SSI Flexi

Pick to Light

Pick by Light and Put to Light

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