Overview

A major plumbing and HVAC distributor modernized its supply chain operations to support rapid growth, overcome labor challenges and strengthen next-day reliability across a multi-branch network.

By implementing Tecsys Elite™ WMS integrated with AutoStore automation, the organization transformed its distribution model — achieving near-perfect order accuracy, increased throughput and a scalable foundation for continued expansion.

Business profile

Industry

Plumbing, HVAC and industrial distribution

Model

Hub-and-spoke network with central DC and regional branches

SKUs

28,000+ active products

Fulfillment cadence

Daily branch replenishment for next-day pickup

Challenge

The distributor’s warehouse processes were built around a legacy ERP-based warehouse management module, which limited visibility, scalability and automation readiness. As customer demand and SKU complexity increased, the operation faced a familiar set of challenges:

Manual, travel-intensive picking slowing throughput

Labor constraints and difficulty hiring qualified staff

Inflexible technology unable to support planned expansion

Limited integration capabilities with modern automation

Leadership recognized that continued growth depended on a new warehouse model — one capable of delivering greater efficiency, flexibility and visibility across its network.