The previous warehouse layout relied on traditional shelving that offered limited space efficiency. Finding items often required moving between floors and covering long distances on foot. With the new automated system, storage is compacted and items are delivered directly to the operator. This has led to significant time savings. As Warehouse Manager Leif-Tore Telseth says:
“We save enormous amounts of time, so from a business perspective it’s great. And we wouldn’t have managed the turnover we are aiming for in the coming years without this improvement.”
Reduced internal transport and more streamlined movement patterns also contribute to lower energy use and a clearer overview of goods, supporting more sustainable daily operations.
For those working in the warehouse, the changes are substantial. The new equipment ensures safer handling and improved ergonomics, with all picking performed at an appropriate working height and without the need for ladders. Lighting and indoor climate have also been upgraded. Leif-Tore explains:
“The working day has become so much better. Better lighting, working height, and far less walking and strain on the feet. You no longer have to climb ladders and deal with the risks that are involved.”
Employees working on service tasks now walk thousands fewer steps per day — a direct result of better planning and layout. Noise levels are lower in the office areas, and a new break and lunchroom provides a more pleasant space for rest during the workday.
A key element in the project has been employee involvement. The warehouse team was given the opportunity to propose solutions, test ideas and participate actively as
the new layout took shape. As Leif-Tore describes it:
“I gave the guys free rein to think about how they wanted the warehouse to work, and eventually we agreed on layout and logistics solutions. They’ve done a fantastic job.”
Despite the extensive work, operations have continued without interruption. The warehouse even delivered record high service output during the transition, while 3,000 items were moved from the old system to the new one.
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With increased activity across both service and newbuild deliveries, the upgraded warehouse gives Brunvoll Volda a solid foundation for further development. “Now we are thoroughly tuned for better growth, since the warehouse processes are more organised and run much more efficiently,” says Leif-Tore.
The warehouse uses the same type of system as the facilities in Molde and Dalen, which supports shared competence, easier maintenance and coordinated service agreements.
The project is now nearing completion, with only small adjustments remaining. A new floor may also be installed later this year, depending on final approval.
Reflecting on the process, Leif-Tore adds:
“There were no surprises, but everything became more efficient and turned out even better than we had expected. The everyday working situation for each employee has also changed quite fundamentally.”
