Automation and software solution provider for the warehouse and distribution sectors, Fortna, has been selected by City Logistics to design and deliver a state-of-the-art materials handling and sorting system for its Johannesburg distribution centre.

City Logistics is a privately owned logistics enterprise, founded in 1988, which serves the Southern African region.

The company boasts a robust distribution network across Southern Africa and strong partnerships with a number of leading retail brands, requiring a significant investment in infrastructure to meet demand and to allow it to scale with confidence.

Fortna says the solution it will install is capable of handling both standard parcels and non-conveyable materials; items traditionally difficult to automate. This will reduce the manual touchpoints.

Ryan Gaines CEO, City Logistics, says Fortna was chosen after a robust review of a number of potential solutions.

“Factors that we considered were the overall solution design, Fortna’s experience in retail logistics, which is core to City Logistics’ strategy, and Fortna’s global experience successfully implementing large-scale sortation projects,” Gaines continues.

Thomas van Workum, president, International at Fortna, adds: “In a competitive and evolving landscape, adopting robust and future-proof technology is essential to staying ahead”.