AutoStore & JTL-WMS: How SportFits automated its warehouse processes in record time
Limited space, increasing order numbers, high manual effort – many online retailers are familiar with these challenges. As their success grows, so do the demands on warehousing and shipping speed. If you want to remain competitive in the long term, you need a system that grows with you – and automated warehouse systems that speed up processes and reduce costs.
When SportFits launched its own online business, it ran for a few months without a professional merchandise management system. However, it quickly became clear that efficient growth is hardly possible without digital control. The decision in favor of JTL-Wawi was made not only for functional reasons, but also because a complete logistics and distribution system could be built on it. Today, SportFits uses JTL-Connector and JTL-easyAuction in addition to JTL-Wawi. At the heart of the warehouse processes is JTL-WMS – especially in conjunction with AutoStore. The result: maximum space utilization, error-free order preparation and a scalable setup for further growth.
In this article, we show you how SportFits has successfully implemented warehouse automation, what advantages AutoStore offers in combination with JTL-WMS – and why this solution can also be worthwhile for you.
Before: Manual processes and limited storage space
SportFits sells a wide range of sports and outdoor articles. However, with increasing success in eCommerce, the existing warehouse structures quickly reached their limits. Space was at a premium and manual commissioning was time-consuming – especially with high order volumes or seasonal peaks.
The team was faced with a crucial question: how can a growing product range be stored efficiently and economically in a limited space? It was clear that the existing structure was not fit for the future. A solution was needed that was not only scalable, but also automated and closely integrated with the ERP system – without lengthy implementation projects. The combination of AutoStore and JTL-WMS met precisely these requirements.
The solution: AutoStore and JTL-WMS as a well-coordinated team
In view of the growing logistical requirements, SportFits decided to take a logical step towards automation. The choice fell on the AutoStore system, a robot-based storage concept that combines compact storage with maximum process speed.
However, it wasn’t just the hardware that was decisive for success, but the perfect coordination with the software: JTL-WMS, the warehouse management system from the JTL product portfolio, offers a native interface to AutoStore. This means: no isolated solutions, no complex integration project – but an end-to-end digital warehouse concept from a single source.
The crates of the AutoStore system automatically move to where the required goods are stored and bring them to the packing table.
“It was important for us to find a solution that is not only efficient, but also integrates smoothly into our existing system landscape,” explains Martin Bauer, CEO of SportFits. This is exactly what the combination of AutoStore and JTL-WMS does – from goods receipt to shipping.
With this decision, SportFits set the course for future-proof warehouse automation that promises maximum efficiency both in terms of space and processes.
How AutoStore has changed the daily warehouse routine at SportFits
Since the AutoStore system was commissioned, day-to-day warehouse operations at SportFits have changed fundamentally. Where manual processes used to dominate, autonomous robots now work in a highly compact grid warehouse. The items are stored in space-saving containers that are automatically transported to the picking station – without detours or search times.
The entire system is controlled via JTL-WMS, which coordinates all warehouse movements in real time and automatically transfers the picking orders to the AutoStore system. The seamless integration ensures that all processes – from storage to shipping – are mapped digitally and can be traced without gaps.
Implemented conveyor technology makes the processes even more efficient.
Another advantage: the storage space is now used much more efficiently. AutoStore makes it possible to store many times more items in the same amount of space – a decisive factor, especially in urban locations with limited space. At the same time, the system is extremely quiet, low-maintenance and scalable – ideal for dynamic online business.
Inventories have also become easier: As all stock is recorded digitally and every access is documented, SportFits can provide information quickly and reliably – not only internally, but also to customers.
Measurable results: What SportFits has achieved with AutoStore & JTL
The switch to an automated warehouse system with AutoStore and JTL-WMS has not only changed the day-to-day work at SportFits – it has also had clear economic effects. Particularly noticeable: the efficiency of the warehouse processes has increased significantly: The picking process now runs eight times faster than with manual picking. Picking times have been massively reduced as the robots bring the required items directly to the workstations. This not only reduces walking distances, but also errors – a plus for customer satisfaction and the returns rate.
Space utilization is another success factor: thanks to the compact AutoStore system, SportFits was able to increase its storage capacity many times over in the same space. This is a real competitive advantage, especially for growing product ranges.
Direct integration with JTL-WMS ensures permanent inventory transparency.
There is also an effect on personnel: instead of tying up resources in routine tasks, the team can now concentrate on value-adding activities – such as customer service or product range maintenance.
Thanks to the direct integration with JTL-WMS, permanent stock transparency is also guaranteed. Stocks can be monitored and controlled in real time – including automated replenishment processes and simplified inventory.
Future strategy for retailers: What AutoStore & JTL-WMS can also do for your warehouse
The success story of SportFits impressively shows that automated warehouse systems are no longer a topic for the future, but a real competitive advantage in today’s eCommerce. The combination of AutoStore and JTL-WMS in particular offers a fast, scalable and economically viable entry into warehouse automation.
Picking with AutoStore is 8 times faster than with the manual picking process.
The most important advantages at a glance:
Maximum space utilization Up to 75 % less storage space required – ideal for growing product ranges in limited space.
Seamless integration into JTL-WMS No complex IT project – the systems are coordinated and ready for use in just a few days.
Real time data availability Permanent inventory transparency, automated processes, reliable replenishment control.
Scalability The system grows with you – modules and storage robots can be expanded at any time.
Fast inventory Automated inventory recording saves time and nerves.
Whether you are a medium-sized retailer or a growing large company – the advantages of this solution speak for themselves.
Automated growth now
SportFits shows what efficient online business can look like today: automated warehouse technology, digital processes and a system that grows with the company. The combination of AutoStore and JTL-WMS makes exactly that possible – without complex interface projects, with noticeable effects on efficiency, scalability and customer satisfaction.
If you want to continue to grow as an online retailer, there is no getting around automated warehouse systems. Getting started doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated – provided the hardware and software mesh perfectly.
Are you wondering whether AutoStore is right for your company? We will be happy to advise you and find out together what warehouse automation could look like in your business model.
