Why Growing Your Warehouse Facilities Boosts Your Business

November 7, 2019

Warehouse management is one of the most commonly overlooked processes in the business world. More often than not, the warehouse is perceived as a storage site only, which is an inaccurate definition of its functions. Indeed, warehouse management plays a significant role in the growth of your business. For a start, without a warehouse, you wouldn’t be in a position to satisfy your customers with timely deliveries. More importantly, the warehouse is the crucial link that connects online shoppers to your business. To get a little dramatic about the purpose of an organised warehouse, it’s where the magic happens. Indeed, it’s the only part of your business that turns your customers’ desires into reality. Up to the warehouse, the order is no more than a virtual list of items. But the warehouse gives life to each order, keeping, in the process, your business afloat. As such, you can’t afford to ignore the crucial role of your warehouse in your growth strategy.

You’re wasting space

First of all, space comes at a cost. Managing your warehouse space to maximise the use of vertical storage solutions and organised floor divisions allows your business to reduce waste. Indeed, there is nothing more damaging to your capital than keeping a disorganised warehouse. You want to be able to store your items effectively in the smallest possible space as it can save you a lot of money and time in the long term. 

You’re wasting opportunities

What’s the point of training seasonal warehouse staff? Indeed, warehouse facilities are likely to hire temporary staff during the Christmas period, for instance, to help manage the peak in demand. However, more often than not, seasonal employees don’t receive appropriate training, as the business considers it would be a waste of time and money. However, sending your new employees to a forklift course, for instance, can help to keep your warehouse running on busy days. Additionally, the seasonal staff is more likely to come back to the company – such as the Christmas regulars. Training will ensure you can build a reliable team of experts, even if you work with them only a handful of weeks every year. 

You’re wasting money

Can you keep your stocks secure? Streamlining your processes within the warehouse can prevent damaged stock. Indeed, you want to reduce handling during the storing and packing procedures to keep risks low. Therefore, you need to eliminate unnecessary operations and task divisions. As a business, you can’t afford to send products that are dirty or broken. However, failure to keep product interactions to a minimum in the warehouse could affect the quality of your stocks. 

Your team doesn’t care

Your warehouse team needs to be valued and appreciated. Unfortunately, warehouse workers can sometimes suffer from their remote position. Indeed, while office desk employees are often seen working, warehouse teams tend to feel into oblivion. As a result, the warehouse can become an unpleasant work environment. Compared to the office where employees can enjoy the break room and the kitchen, the warehouse facilities are minimum. Providing recognition and comfort can show your team you care, and in turn, encourage them to care about their tasks. 

Your warehouse plays a vital role in your business image. It’s the place where orders are packed. Therefore, creating an environment where orders can be packed timely, effectively, and with care will affect your customers positively.

Mark Asquith

That British podcast guy, Mark is co-founder of Captivate.fm, the world's only growth-oriented podcast host. A Harvard, TEDx, Podcast Movement and Podfest speaker (amongst many more!), he's a wildly approachable Brit and Star Wars/DC Comics geek.

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