Darren Beckett

Just Some Random Thoughts About The Bible

Diamond Unveils New, Stronger Boxes, Other Improvements at SDCC Retailer Lunch

• Diamond gave their presentation at the Diamond Retailer Lunch at SDCC on Friday, kicking things off with a look at how things are going in Diamond’s distribution centers, including progress made in reducing issues thanks to their new Illuminating Pick to Light technology as well as upcoming improvements in shipping boxes to reduce damage.But first…
  
  Christmas will come early this year. One week early, that is, as retailers will get their Christmas week shipment one week early for a Tuesday release.
  
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  Shawn Hamrick, Diamond VP of operations, took the stage to show off Diamond’s recent innovations in warehouse and shipping procedures, with the Illuminating Pick to Light technology.
  
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  Pick data is embedded into the barcodes, and quantity lights up when they scan the box and they pick the quantity. Items are placed into the box to confirm the pick, and the box heads down the line on the way to the retailer.
  
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  Diamond has made improvements in shipping, with shortage numbers down 34% at Plattsburgh and 25% at Olive Branch since the technology went live at each center.
  
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  Diamond has a solution. Working with an international paper and box supplier, Diamond is creating new 200/400 ct. box designs. They don’t look different, but feature a 100% flat interior on the bottom. These flat-bottomed boxes got a big applause from the audience. Must be a lot of Queen fans.
  
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  The new boxes have no seam on the inside, hopefully resulting in less damage. They will have handholds as well, and glued bottoms instead of tape. Crush test for new boxes vs. old show a big difference, with point of first failure for old boxes at 737 pounds, and new boxes at 3200 pounds. They should be out in the fourth quarter, as Diamond is working on new box machines.
  
  Diamond then moved on to announcements, which we’re covering separately. Stay tuned!