Multinational Terumo saves 30% time in scanning process
Through collaboration with CaptureTech
Mattias Geelen is Continuous Improvement Officer at Terumo Europe. He is responsible for process optimizations at the international medical manufacturer’s logistics center in Genk. Terumo aims to be progressive and a leader in innovation and quality. This applies not only to the company’s products but also to the way they distribute them. “In our search for logistics tools and software that would allow us to fulfill those ambitions, we came across CaptureTech,” Mattias says. “They designed a complete solution that will allow us to continue for many years to come, even in these challenging, logistical times.”
Medical multinational
Terumo is a Japanese manufacturer of pharmaceutical products and medical equipment. Its headquarters for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region and one of its three European production facilities are located in Haasrode, near Leuven. The multinational distributes its products for the European market from Genk.
“Our distribution center in Genk is 30,000m² and employs about 100 people. Of those, 80 are logistics employees. They ensure proper shipping of about 1,500 shipments per day. That’s about small parcel shipments, but they could just as easily be full trucks. From here we distribute pharmaceutical products such as parts for corona vaccines. In addition, cardiovascular materials and equipment mainly leave here.
Quality, innovation and accuracy
Quality is essential in the medical sector and thus also for Terumo, Mattias Geelen emphasizes. But Terumo, he says, goes one step further.
“We are a particularly innovative company. Our quest for innovation never stops. Moreover, we extend that into every aspect of our operations, including logistics.
I can proudly say that we have over 99% stock accuracy. That, of course, is top notch. But keeping that figure high is also a challenge. The logistics industry is experiencing turbulent times and we must guard against them. More than that, we must always anticipate the next storm.”
The bigger picture
In that ongoing quest for process optimization, Mattias learned about CaptureTech. An initial introduction followed in early 2021.
“We were still working then with outdated hardware that was no longer supported by the latest software. Needless to say, this caused frustration in the workplace and posed risks to the continuity of our work.
After market research, we ended up with CaptureTech. The first contact immediately gave us a good feeling. At no point did we get the impression that we were sitting at the table with someone who wanted above all to sell. On the contrary, CaptureTech immediately profiled itself as a thinking partner with an eye for the bigger picture.”
A complete solution
After this good first impression, Terumo decided to place an order with CaptureTech for a completely new scanning hardware. The company chose hand-held Zebra MC33 scanners and all the supplies needed to use them optimally.
“CaptureTech presented us with several brands, from which we eventually selected 55 hand-held scanners from Zebra. We also ordered the necessary batteries and Smart Locker with charging systems. To ensure healthy working conditions today and in the future, we also completed our order with some UV devices with which we disinfect the scanners without using chemicals. Thus, with the help of CaptureTech, we are also doing our part for a sustainable economy.”
Work faster and healthier
Of course, the implementation of these devices was not done without thorough testing. The results of this test spoke for themselves.
“We first used the old devices alongside the new ones. In identical situations, the Zebra devices delivered 25 to 30% time and efficiency gains in the scanning process. The devices are lighter and the batteries last longer, up to three full shifts. That also means shorter distances and less walking back and forth for employees.
And that is by no means all. The new devices also allow our people to scan at an angle. So they no longer have to bend or stretch. This provides better ergonomics and greater working comfort.”
Service and long-term cooperation
In addition to the excellent products, Mattias Geelen is also very satisfied with CaptureTech’s service before, during and after the implementation of the new devices.
“What typifies the people at CaptureTech is that they really explore how to move your business forward. Of course, quality devices help with that. But the big added value is still in the good service you get as a customer. Do you have a question? Then you get a prompt answer. Is there a problem? Then someone is quickly on site to solve it. For us that is of great importance because that is the basis for a long-term cooperation.”
