Scalable Logistics Concept
Kubota

Future-Proof Logistics Structures Through Increased Automation

How could we help?

Our client, Kubota Baumaschinen GmbH, based in Zweibrücken, is part of the internationally active Kubota Group and is one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of compact and short-tail excavators. The facility serves as the central production, logistics, and sales hub for the European market.

With the background of plans for significant production growth through 2035, Kubota faced the challenge of fundamentally realigning its logistics structures, which had evolved over time.

The task:

The goal of the joint project with ifp consulting was to develop a sustainable, scalable logistics concept that would meet both the increasing volumes and the requirements for efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

ifpconsulting Logistics Consulting: Client testimonial from Kubota Baumaschinen GmbH regarding the project “Scalable Logistics Concept and Increased Level of Automation.” “ifp consulting provided us with significant support in developing a future-proof logistics concept, consistently challenging existing structures in the process. Through a combination of methodological depth, practical relevance, and a clear economic assessment, we were able to establish a solid basis for decision-making regarding far-reaching investments. The structured support—from developing the target vision to the bidding process for new warehouse technologies—was particularly valuable.”

What have we achieved?

In the focus: key figures and results

84% increase in the level of automation

Introduction of 3 New Warehouse Technologies

Payback period of less than 5 years

Ask our experts

Ask our experts

Client voice Kubota

Pascal Matheis

Logistikkoordinator Kubota Baumaschinen GmbH

“ifp consulting provided us with significant support in developing a sustainable logistics concept and consistently challenged existing structures in the process. This not only brought clarity but also made actual implementation possible.”

By combining methodological depth, practical relevance, and a clear economic assessment, we were able to establish a solid basis for decision-making regarding far-reaching investments.

“The structured support we received—from developing the vision to issuing a request for proposals for new warehouse technologies—was particularly valuable.”

Our contribution

Problem

The existing logistics operations at the Zweibrücken site rely heavily on manual processes and are not designed to accommodate the planned growth. Without structural adjustments, rising production volumes would have led to increased staffing requirements, longer transport routes, and additional space needs. At the same time, inconsistent master data in some areas, as well as structural limitations of the existing buildings, make it difficult to scale the current infrastructure easily.

Challenges

  • Special Requirements for Technology Selection Due to Heavy and Oversized Items in the Custom Machine Building Industry
  • Master Data Gaps as a Planning Risk
  • Building Restrictions on the Existing Property

These framework conditions were taken into account early on and translated into robust, actionable solutions.

Approach and methodology

ifp consulting took a holistic, structured approach to the project, closely involving Kubota’s core team. At the outset, existing logistics structures were critically examined in vision-building workshops, and innovative solutions were discussed. In addition, an innovation presentation provided external technological expertise to spark ideas for future automation possibilities.

Building on this, ifp consulting developed a comprehensive logistics concept that included the technical and economic evaluation of suitable warehouse technologies. Key components included the sizing of future logistics spaces, the development of several layout options, and the design of automated intralogistics transport systems. To support the decision-making process, the target concept was evaluated economically using the dynamic net present value method.

ifp consulting prepared bid documents for three warehouse technologies, supported the procurement process, and developed specific recommendations for action based on technical, economic, and quality criteria.

The solution:

The jointly developed strategic concept enables a significant increase in the level of automation and lays the foundation for sustainable growth through 2035. Through the introduction of three new warehousing technologies, optimized material flows, and efficient process design, the performance of the existing logistics system can be significantly improved.

Result and outlook

Step-by-Step Implementation of the New Logistics Structures

Based on the target concept and the results of the bidding process, Kubota Baumaschinen GmbH is beginning the phased implementation of the new logistics structures

In the coming years, the company will focus on the detailed planning, implementation, and commissioning of the selected warehouse technologies will be the focus.

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How we can optimize your processes

Our team of seasoned professionals brings decades of experience in production and logistics optimization. By partnering with ifp consulting, you gain access to industry-leading insights, methods, tools and technologies that deliver immediate and tangible improvements. Contact us now to make the transformation and optimization of your processes a success!