Develop a long-term distribution master plan, including the design and implementation of the distribution operation, to accommodate unprecedented growth.

Candle-lite® is a leading manufacturer of the highest quality, best value candles and candle accessories for fragrance and home décor. FORTE served as the consulting engineering and systems integration firm for the development of a multi-year, multi-phased distribution master plan. Initial phases consisted of a new 250,000 sq. ft. facility completely outfitted with an automated pallet delivery conveyor system erected over a railroad track and through a new 150 foot-long bridge. The distribution center is also equipped with a high rise, narrow aisle rack system; and an automated order picking/label application/high-speed shipping sortation system. Candle-lite employed FORTE's WMS integration services to assist in the selection and implementation of a WMS system.

• Subsequent expansion phases include the addition of adjacent facilities furnished with similar material handling systems, for a total campus build-out of 700,000 sq. ft. on 26 acres.

• Improved order accuracy
• Quicker order turnaround time

“With FORTE, Candle-lite® has assembled a world-class team to execute what is the largest single capital project in the history of Lancaster Colony® Corporation. I cannot expose the stockholders to anything less than the very highest potential for a successful project.”

- Group VP, Candle-lite®,
A Division of Lancaster Colony® Corporation