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Crate & Barrel, TZA increase cooperation

After using Pro Track Warehouse at its distribution centers for several years, Crate and Barrel has extended it`s use to its two additional distribution centers. Additionally, the company will also implement the use of engineered labor standards in these new locations. The use of standards in combination with labor management software throughout the entire distribution network will maximize Crate and Barrels workforce productivity and utilization.

"TZA has helped us build internal competence and engrain a continuous improvement philosophy, rather than just rolling out software," said John Ling, Crate & Barrels` Vice President of Logistics. "Involved employees energize our mission. TZA`s Productivity Improvement Programs do a tremendous job in increasing employee morale, which at the end of the day results in better customer service."

Founded in 1962, Crate & Barrel is one of the most influential and respected housewares retailers in the U.S., operating more than 140 stores in 25 major markets nationwide. Crate & Barrel employs more than 6,000 associates and issues about 15 million catalogs annually. The company also sells merchandise on its website. Tom Zosel Associates (TZA) is a logistics consulting company, and the main competencies of the company (based out of Chicago) include strategic planning, material handling engineering, productivity improvement programs, transportation system design and logistics software solutions. TZA`s sees it`s critical advantage being its hands-on operational expertise, which allows it to create and implement innovative solutions for even the most complex distribution challenges.