Even though they might vary in size and scope, the beverage warehouse represents a very expensive multi-functional asset that requires astute management.

For beverage warehouse operations, a library of consumer trends are making operators view automation as the go-to solution in storage and retrieval.

Pressure to adapt processes to accommodate SKU proliferation is felt by manufacturers and distributors seeking methods to best suit their operation.

With UNEX carton flow and storage shelving, distributors can optimize their warehouse storage utilization so that distributors can add more products in the same footprint, the company says.

To increase storage density, UNEX Manufacturing Inc. developed UNEX SpeedCell, a high-density storage solution that increases storage density by as much as 60 percent, the company says.

To keep up with burgeoning stock, warehouse experts are “looking up” and strategizing storage solutions that deal with decreased high-moving SKUs and the challenges of “long tail” slow-moving products.

Growth and change in the beverage market has created trends that impact not only new product development and packaging design, but also extend into warehouse and distribution centers.

Home improvement shows have put a spotlight on the benefits of customized closet organizing systems. Yet, when it comes to warehouse operations, it’s going to take more than a visit from “The Property Brothers” to accommodate the expansive needs of a beverage manufacturers and distributors.

From an operations perspective, a warehouse is more than just bricks and mortar or metal siding; it’s a day-to-day activity that handles zillions of beverage cases. But what does it cost to do that?

Chicago-based Mintel’s Global New Products Database shows that between January 2015 and January 2016, 5,226 new beverages were launched in North America.