FKI Logistex (St. Louis) will supply very-narrow-aisle (VNA) automated storage-and-retrieval systems (AS/RS) for six new Preferred Freezer Services (Newark) facilities. With the new contract more than 100 FKI Logistex VNA cranes will be in operation in Preferred Freezer’s public refrigerated warehouses across the United States.
In addition to the equipment contract, Preferred Freezer managers signed a fixed-price, full-service, parts-and-maintenance contract for all sites using the FKI systems. The agreement annually budgets preventive maintenance while providing complete coverage for everyday and predictive maintenance, normal-use parts, and emergency breakdown repairs. Rather than Preferred Freezer hiring and training its own skilled personnel, FKI Logistex will absorb all responsibility for service and maintenance.
The FKI Logistex Condor high-bay VNA solution is a hybrid crane that stores and retrieves pallet-size loads in very narrow aisles. Top-guidance and a fully enclosed, heated cabin reportedly enable Preferred Freezer to achieve higher levels of throughput, accuracy and productivity in its freezer storage systems.
Preferred Freezer Services has more than 75 million cubic feet of freezer storage in 14 facilities across the United States, with three facilities actively under construction. Delivery of the new crane systems is scheduled to begin in June 2007.
