Press Releases

Looking ahead: DCs focusing on recruiting employees and implementing technology in 2005

(Boonton, NJ, December 27, 2004) — Employee recruitment and retention and implementing new equipment and technology are the key areas that warehouse and distribution center management will focus on in 2005, according to a report from industry newsletter Distribution Center Management.

“In fact,” says editor Troy Reynolds, “staffing is such a large issue in some areas that many industry experts anticipate it will once again become difficult to find qualified warehouse staff at all levels.”

The industry has found some creative ways to deal with the shortages in qualified labor. Many companies continue to find success using temporary agencies to help staff the warehouse. That way, management can evaluate a temp before deciding to bring him or her on as a full-time hire. “It also offers flexibility,” notes Reynolds, “and makes it easier to cut staff in case there’s a downturn in business.”

Another approach to meeting the need for hourly people, notes the report, is using the local fire department as a labor pool. Firefighters typically work four days on and three days off, and they are often looking for part-time work. Companies train the firefighters on the warehouse systems and processes, and use them on their days off from the fire station. This approach has also been used with success in college towns by working with a local fraternity.

The full text of the report, “DCs focusing on recruiting employees, implementing technology in 2005” is available online at the newsletter website, http://www.DistributionGroup.com/dcmsample.php.

About the Distribution Group

For more than 40 years, Distribution Group publications have helped distribution center and warehouse managers increase productivity, cut costs, and meet increasing customer demands. Distribution Group publishes Distribution Center Management newsletter, books and reports, and a free e-newsletter.

Website: http://www.DistributionGroup.com