As one of the country’s leading retail chains, SPAR Albania operates a fast-growing network of ca 80 stores, requiring a highly efficient and reliable logistics system to ensure smooth supply chain operations. With the increasing demand, the company faced challenges in optimizing warehouse space utilization, reducing return transport costs, and improving the efficiency of goods handling across its distribution network.
To tackle these challenges, SPAR Albania partnered with K.Hartwall to implement in their operations the 3-sided Foldia® roll container, a durable and foldable intralogistics solution designed to enhance operational efficiency.
“K.Hartwall 3-sided Foldia® roll container has significantly improved our operation efficiency, reduced costs, and enabled a better product handling, ultimately enhancing both business performance and customer satisfaction. The collaboration between our companies has been a massive success, we look forward to a long and prosperous partnership.” says Ani Hafizi, Chief Financial Officer and Manjola Sala, Supply chain manager, at SPAR Albania
Unlike conventional roll cages, the Foldia®’s unique design allows it to be folded and stacked compactly in a 5:1 ratio, significantly reducing the volume of empty containers transported back to the warehouse.
Key Benefits of Foldia® for SPAR Albania
Optimized Return Logistics & Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of the Foldia® roll container is its high nesting ratio when folded, allowing for more efficient truck loading when returning empty units. By minimizing the number of trucks needed for returns, SPAR Albania lowers transportation costs while reducing CO₂ emissions, contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.
Increased Warehouse and Store Space Utilization
Warehouse as well as Store efficiency is crucial. The Foldia® roll container’s foldable structure enables better space management, allowing for improved storage density and more streamlined inventory organization. This enhancement helps SPAR Albania increase throughput while maintaining a clutter-free working environment.
Improved Handling and Worker Efficiency
The Foldia® roll container is designed for easy handling, making it simpler for warehouse personnel to transport, load, and unload goods. This reduces time spent on order picking and replenishment, enabling faster deliveries to stores and improving overall supply chain efficiency.
Reduced Product Damage and Enhanced Safety
The robust but lightweight structure of the Foldia® roll container ensures that products remain well-protected during transit, significantly minimizing damage. Additionally, the ergonomic design improves safety for warehouse and transport staff, reducing the risk of injuries caused by unstable or bulky loads.
Driving Efficiency and Sustainability in Logistics
By integrating the K.Hartwall 3-sided Foldia® roll container into its operations, SPAR Albania has successfully streamlined its warehouse and distribution center logistics, leading to better efficiency, cost savings, and a more sustainable business model. The ability to reduce return transport costs, optimize storage, and improve handling efficiency has allowed the company to serve its growing network of stores more effectively, ensuring timely product availability while maintaining operational excellence.
As SPAR Albania continues to expand, investing in smart logistics solutions like Foldia® will remain a key strategy for enhancing supply chain performance, reducing environmental impact, and supporting the company’s long-term growth.
Anton Van Ginneken
Sales Manager, Western Europe
[email protected]