(COLUMBUS, Ohio, 25 March 2003) - Exel, a manufacturer of supply chain management systems, was selected by Laufen Ceramic Tile, a Roca Company and a global leader in the ceramic tile business, to design, implement and manage its distribution center in Los Angeles. The new facility will centralize Laufen's presence in the southwestern United States to better serve a rapidly growing consumer market for ceramic tile.
The distribution center will merge operations conducted from hub locations located adjacent to Laufen's stores. Exel will receive inbound products from Roca Company factories in Spain, Brazil and Peru through the port of Long Beach, Calif., and inland freight from its domestic factories in Ohio and Oklahoma. In addition to coordinating outbound distribution to Laufen's customers in six states, Exel will also deploy and manage a warehouse management system.
According to Armando Aldrey, vice president of logistics, Laufen Ceramic Tile, Exel's ability to deliver a complete warehousing solution, and its success in handling ceramic tile and other building materials was a major factor in the decision.
Aldrey said. "As a U.S-based company with distribution centers all over the country, Laufen offers high quality service to the American consumer."
Increasing sales of ceramic tile in the North American market has led Laufen to embark on a value chain management initiative to improve customer service. With Exel's help, it aims to minimize transportation costs, centralize inventory, and accelerate the delivery of products to market.
"Given the complexities of the ceramic tile market, Laufen was looking for a partner with a strong regional presence as well as a proven track record in building materials and distribution," said Jim Stetz, director of business development, Exel.
Exel's logistics solutions address and carry out the unique needs of industrial building materials warehousing and distribution functions.
