On Wednesday October 19th, 2011 CMHDS members toured Best Buy Canada’s Distribution Centre in Langley, B.C. The company and facility have some unique challenges and approaches to business and logistics which made this a can’t miss tour.
- Dual Brand Strategy – while much of the public is unaware, Best Buy & Future Shop actually have the same parent company and actively establish locations close to each other to enhance market share. The facility serves retail locations for both chains and will share some of their challenges and successes.
- Helping Out Santa! – Best Buy’s product lines are at the top of a lot of peoples Christmas Wish Lists so each year Best Buy sets up a temporary separate warehouse (this year’s operation will be 200,000 sq.ft.) to address the seasonal needs. Staff will discuss how they set up, operate and shut down this temporary warehouse all within a 12 week period.
- Security is an increasing concern for many warehouses these days and with a facility full of some of the most sought after electronics on the planet, Best Buy needs to ensure their company is protected. One strategy attendees experienced when they came in the door was the “full body scanners”.