Full pallet loads of the most popular product in the distribution centre are arranged in an aisle format at ground level when using the FlexiPiCK.

Visitors to the Warehouse Technology Group (WTG) open day, on 21 May, at the WTG's Logistics Research and Innovation Centre in Manchester, will see a live demonstration of a new method of case layer picking that is expected to change the way companies operating in the grocery retail sector design their supply chains.

With the introduction of the FlexiPiCK, UK truck manufacturer Flexi Narrow Aisle believes the new method has the advantages that layer picking offers without the need for palletising robots, AGVs, wire guidance, conveyors or other costly forms of automation.

Flexi sales and marketing director John Maguire says: "By applying the FlexiPiCK layer quantity concept to pick the 20% of top-selling volume lines, the savings on warehouse manpower can be mind-blowing. This product really is a game changer as visitors to the WTG event will see for themselves."

Layer picking makes it possible to pick single or multiple layers of products and allows the user to build up mixed pallets quickly, safely and efficiently with minimal manual labour.

When using the FlexiPiCK, full pallet loads of the most popular product in the distribution centre are arranged in an aisle format at ground level and with assembly stations positioned at the end of each aisle.

The FlexiPiCK's integrated hydraulic arms and pads lift single or multiple layers of product and deliver each individual layer picked to an assembly station where a load is made up of full layers. Additional pallets can be used to secure each layer for easier separation of products at the regional distribution centre or retail store.

The WTG's Logistics Research and Innovation Centre is a 12,000 sqft (1,115 sqm) space that is fitted out with many of the latest warehousing innovations. Besides the FlexiPiCK system, the open day will provide visitors the chance to see and assess a broad range of warehousing and supply chain-related products and services in a 'real world environment'.

Simon Dixon, managing director of Hatmill Logistics Supply Chain Advisors, will deliver a keynote address that focuses on the real cost-saving opportunities companies can identify and implement when developing a new or reconfigured warehouse or regional distribution centre facility.

The demonstration day is open to all companies active in the supply chain sector.

WTG is a collaboration of about 20 companies involved in the manufacture and supply of specialist equipment to the warehousing and logistics industry. It was established to provide an insight into the latest technology available to companies operating warehouses and distribution centres.

Other WTG partners include ASG Services, Chess, Knapp, Union Industries and Interroll.