Updating Warehouses to Best Practices: Jocott Brands Case Study

Jocott Brands specializes in manufacturing and distributing aerosol products. At the onset of our engagement, their operational model included storing aerosol products at an offsite location. While functional, this setup introduced inefficiencies in their logistics process and increased costs due to rental and freight expenses. Recognizing the need for a more streamlined and cost-effective solution, Jocott Brands sought to consolidate its storage operations by creating an on-site facility that adhered to stringent fire safety regulations.

Client Challenges

Jocott Brands faced several hurdles in their pursuit of an on-site storage solution for their aerosol products:

• Regulatory Compliance: Aerosols are highly flammable, requiring storage facilities to comply with rigorous local and state fire codes. Designing a compliant storage solution was a non-negotiable priority.
• Cost Management: The existing reliance on an offsite storage facility incurred significant rental and freight expenses, driving up operational costs.
• Space Optimization: Any proposed solution needed to maximize storage capacity while maintaining accessibility and efficiency in inventory management.

To ensure compliance with fire safety codes, AK Material Handling Systems collaborated with Wolverine Fire Protection, where a fire engineer was introduced to the project. Their expertise helped in designing and installing an in-rack sprinkler system that met all necessary fire safety standards. The overarching goal was to eliminate the dependency on external storage facilities and bring operations in-house without compromising safety or functionality.

Solution Provided

Recognizing the complexity of Jocott Brands’ requirements, our team at WireCrafters collaborated closely with their management to design a custom storage solution. The plan included the construction of a dedicated, enclosed storage facility tailored for aerosol products. Key features of the solution included:

• Facility Specifications: The design enclosed a 76’L x 20’D x 33’H area on their premises, ensuring adequate capacity for their inventory.
• Selective Pallet Racking: The design integrated optimized racking systems to maximize vertical and horizontal space while maintaining easy access to stored items.
• Safety Standards: The facility was engineered to meet all applicable fire safety and building codes, prioritizing both compliance and risk mitigation.

Additionally, AK Material Handling works with several trusted manufacturers, such as WireCrafters, Spaceguard Products, Cogan Wire, and Folding Guard products, ensuring top-quality solutions for our clients.

Implementation Challenges

Although the proposed solution was conceptually straightforward, several challenges arose during implementation:

1. Permit Acquisition: Given the hazardous nature of aerosol storage, securing the necessary permits from local authorities required extensive documentation and multiple rounds of review, which delayed the project timeline.

Design Adjustments: The original facility design had to be adjusted to meet evolving regulatory requirements, demanding flexibility and problem-solving from all stakeholders involved.

Project Execution

Under the leadership of Jake Koski, design expert at AK Material Handling Systems in Maple Grove, Minnesota, the project advanced through the following phases:

1. Planning and Coordination: Regular communication with Jocott Brands ensured alignment on goals and expectations. Close collaboration with local authorities facilitated the eventual approval of permits.
2. Construction: Once all regulatory hurdles were cleared, the facility’s construction proceeded according to the approved design. Our team’s expertise in implementing storage solutions ensured efficient execution while maintaining a sharp focus on safety.

System Integration: The selective pallet racking systems were installed and optimized for seamless inventory management, completing the facility’s transformation into a functional and compliant storage space.

Results Achieved

The successful completion of the project delivered measurable benefits for Jocott Brands:

1. Cost Savings: By consolidating storage operations on-site, Jocott Brands eliminated the need for offsite storage and reduced freight expenses, leading to significant cost reductions.
2. Operational Efficiency: The custom storage facility optimized space utilization and streamlined inventory management, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
3. Regulatory Compliance: The facility’s design met all fire safety and building code requirements, ensuring compliance and providing a safe environment for the storage of highly flammable aerosol products.

The collaboration between Jocott Brands and WireCrafters successfully addressed the client’s need for a safe, compliant, and efficient on-site storage solution. This project exemplifies AK Material Handling’s commitment to providing customized solutions that drive cost savings, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance for our clients.

Looking to Optimize Your Warehouse?

If your business faces similar storage and compliance challenges, our team at AK Material Handling Systems is ready to help. Contact us or call us at (866) 764-4929 to explore customized solutions tailored to your warehouse’s operational needs.