Analyzing And Improving Warehouse Operations Through Simulation - A Case Study At Bakes Flagship Thao Dien

Abstract

The landscape of contemporary warehousing is rapidly evolving, with facilities transforming from basic storage units to dynamic centers that contribute added value to the supply chain. Research has consistently highlighted the critical importance of strategic warehouse design and management in enhancing operational efficiencies. This paper delves into the operations of Bakes Flag Ship, a leading bakery chain with extensive warehousing requirements, situated in the bustling commercial hub of Vietnam. The primary aim is to scrutinize the efficiency and efficacy of the warehouse functions, with a focus on the optimization of space and the streamlining of operations through the lens of a case study. To dissect and understand the complexities of Bakes Flag Ship's warehousing processes, we employed Discrete-Event Simulation (DES), leveraging it as a tool to preempt potential risks and unearth latent inefficiencies within the system. The simulation model was developed with the integration of Rockwell's ARENA software, drawing on extensive data collected from the company's operational database. Key aspects such as the inflow and outflow processes, along with workforce management, were meticulously examined and recalibrated. The resulting model provides a vivid depiction of the current operational state, serving as a reliable foundation for proposing actionable solutions. These solutions were tailored to align with the overarching objectives of the warehouse and the practical constraints identified during the case study. With this study, we aim to present actionable insights that can significantly uplift the productivity of Bakes Flag Ship's warehouse operations, focusing on critical areas such as order picking and storage allocation, contributing to the organization's robust supply chain management.