Their diverse client base includes restaurants, schools, hospitals, and catering companies, all of which depend on the reliability of Brakes' supply chain and its ability to deliver fresh and frozen food products on time and in optimal condition. Given the critical nature of temperature control in the food distribution industry, Brakes continuously seeks to upgrade its facilities to meet the highest standards of efficiency and food safety.
Challenge:
Brakes were faced with the dual challenge of replacing outdated refrigeration units and optimising space within their existing facility. Their operational demands were increasing, driven by growth in orders and they needed to store larger volumes of fresh and frozen products.
Moreover, the physical layout of their existing cold storage facilities was not optimally designed to handle their high amount of goods. This created inefficiencies in the handling and movement of stock between refrigeration and freezing areas. Brakes needed a partner who could deliver a customised solution capable of solving these issues and providing a scalable platform for future growth.
Solution:
Working closely with Brakes, CRS Group designed and installed a fully customised 15-box Mega cold storage complex, a solution that aligned perfectly with the client's needs for greater refrigeration capacity and enhanced operational efficiency.
The key features of the solution included:
- Cooling Unit at 4°C (10x37m):
An innovative cooling unit large enough to store fresh produce and chilled goods. It was designed with four loading dock pods to allow seamless, rapid loading and unloading, significantly improving workflow and reducing handling time.
- Freezer Unit at -18°C (7.5x10m):
The freezer section was constructed to store frozen products under optimal conditions. The size and capacity of the freezer ensured that Brakes could handle increased volumes of frozen stock, particularly during peak demand seasons.
- "Door-in, Door-out" System:
To streamline operations, the refrigeration and freezer units were connected via a "door-in, door-out" system. This design allowed for the smooth and efficient transfer of goods without compromising the cold chain. This feature greatly enhanced the efficiency of Brakes' internal logistics.
- Modular Construction with Insulated Sections:
CRS utilised 40ft insulated modular sections to build the complex. The modular design not only reduced installation time but also offered Brakes the flexibility to expand or modify the complex in the future. The entire structure was elevated 1.3m on steel adjustable platforms to ensure ease of access and to protect the system from potential flooding or ground-level damage.
- Advanced Cooling Technology:
The installation was equipped with 10 Thermo King Magnum Plus refrigeration machines. These units are known for their energy efficiency and precision in maintaining consistent temperatures, which is vital for both fresh and frozen food products. This feature significantly reduced energy consumption, contributing to lower operational costs for Brakes.
At CRS, we understand that no two businesses are the same, and thus no two solutions should be identical. Prior to the installation, our team conducted a thorough site assessment, analysing Brakes' operational requirements, space constraints, and future growth projections. This collaborative approach ensured that the final design addressed not just the immediate need for more cold storage but also provided a foundation for long-term success. Throughout the project, CRS offered full consultancy services, guiding Brakes from the planning phase through to the final installation, and providing ongoing support to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Our team is committed to providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients, ensuring satisfaction and support throughout every stage of the project. Get in touch to learn how we can help your business grow!
