Warehouse automation in the construction material and lumber industry A case study of the Swedish company Derome Bygg & Industri AB

Abstract

Suppliers of construction materials face an increasing demand for efficient logistics operations, while the use of automation in their supply chains remains limited. A key challenge lies in the bulky and heavy nature of construction materials, which complicates handling and automation. This study investigates how Derome Bygg & Industri AB (DBI) can improve their logistics through implementation of automation in picking, packing, and loading operations. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including interviews with DBI logistic managers and operational staff, on-site observations, analysis of historical company sales data, and a literature review focusing on warehouse design, automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies. Empirical data was also collected from suppliers of automated equipment. The study examines DBI’s current operations and develops a categorisation of product groups suitable for automation. Several technological solutions were found suitable to DBI’s context. The analysis indicates that wooden planks and sheet materials offer the greatest potential for efficiency gains through automation. The findings provide practical implications to support DBI’s future investment decisions and contribute to a broader understanding of warehouse automation strategies in the construction material sector.