These items do not flow through the pick modules, but instead are pulled directly from the bulk storage and VNA racks and taken to an automated pack and labeling station. From there they are taken by lift truck to an outbound postal shipping lane. The new automation has doubled output and nearly tripled the hourly pick rate, allowing Verizon to do much more same-day picking while pushing cutoff times back by 2 hr. Facility associates have also been very responsive to training initiatives, and strive for constant productivity increases. They've taken ownership of the operation.
Reeves adds that the upgrade has made substantial improvements in the facility's operations.
We're very pleased. Morris also believes that being a part of Verizon has a great upside for the Westfield facility. He says the company's new logistics organization will build on the distribution strengths of the former GTE and Bell Atlantic operations. The proven technology and resulting improvement in processes demonstrated in Westfield will be leveraged across Verizon. I see nothing but growth for us.