In the fast-moving world of fashion and consumer goods, peaks in demand can be both predictable and sudden. Whether it’s the holiday rush, a back-to-school surge or a viral social media trend, warehouses need to be prepared to scale up operation fast. The key isn’t building for maximum capacity year-round, but designing systems that handle the seasonal required throughput, while also having the ability to scale flexibly when it matters most.
Scaling smart, avoid over-dimensioning
Designing your warehouse to handle peak throughput 100% of the time might seem like good planning, but it often leads to wasted resources, excess technology and idle equipment. The smarter approach is to build for typical throughput and ensure your systems can scale efficiently during surges.
That’s the philosophy behind TGW Logistics’ approach: design warehouse solutions to address specific needs. Instead of overloading facilities with technology, TGW Logistics builds scalable systems that deliver the agility needed to respond to market changes, whether they’re forecasted or not.
Tactics for handling peak demand
1. Inventory ramp-up
When demand surges, so does the need for on-hand inventory. Modern automation helps manage this increase efficiently. Automated inbound systems streamline the receipt, processing and storage of goods, while Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) maximise space and accuracy while reducing manual labour.
TGW’s FlashPick® system takes efficiency further by enabling mixed-SKU tote storage and maximising shuttle transport capacity. Though manual item selection may slightly affect throughput, the gain in storage density and order flexibility outweighs the trade-off.
2. Maintenance and readiness
Automation is only as effective as its availability. TGW’s Lifetime Support Services ensure equipment and software operate at peak performance through proactive maintenance, auditing and testing. Regular system checks, professional cleaning and preventive adjustments ahead of high-demand seasons help avoid downtime and disruptions.
3. Training seasonal staff
Even the most advanced warehouse needs capable hands. Flexible staffing models are crucial during busy periods, but they only work if temporary staff are trained properly. Preparing ahead, whether by cross-training existing employees or converting packing stations to picking stations, keeps operations running smoothly when volumes spike.
Meeting the demands of Fashion and Consumer Goods logistics
In fashion and consumer goods logistics, change is the only constant. One viral TikTok video can turn an overlooked product into an overnight sensation. Flexible warehouse systems give businesses the agility to respond in real time.
Today’s consumers don’t wait for monthly trend reports. They react instantly to influencers, livestreams, and red carpet moments. For warehouses, that means scaling up without hesitation. Implementing modular, scalable automation enables companies to handle surges in e-commerce and retail demand seamlessly.
Automation that moves with market trends
TGW Logistics equips clients with systems that adapt dynamically rather than sit idle during slower periods. Its modular automation architecture supports omnichannel fulfilment, allowing seamless reconfiguration between e-commerce and retail orders as priorities shift.
Need to pivot overnight? TGW’s software makes it simple to scale operations up or down, reprioritise orders and reconfigure workflows. Ahead of peak periods, TGW’s support teams assist with updates to warehouse management systems, optimising flow patterns and speeds for new demand scenarios.
Always ready for what’s next
TGW Logistics builds peak readiness into every solution. From scalable automation and modular storage systems to proactive service and support, its approach helps businesses stay agile and resilient in an unpredictable market.
With flexible systems in place, warehouses can confidently handle any surge – planned or unexpected – while maintaining efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.
Peak season is coming. Is your warehouse ready?
www.tgw-group.com
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