Comprehensive automation at IMPETUS with Smartlog technologies
Storage and order preparation in the textile sector
As part of its continuous improvement strategy, IMPETUS has entrusted Smartlog with designing and implementing a comprehensive intralogistics solution that automates the entire material flow, from the looms to order dispatch. The operation begins with the Smartpick robotic system, which is responsible for intermediate storage (WIP). From there, the material flows to different points in the production process. An AutoStore system will also be installed, which manages the finished product and executes order preparation for picking and shipping. The entire system will be coordinated by Galys WMS warehouse management software, integrated with IMPETUS’ ERP, and culminates in the automated delivery of prepared orders to a transport system that transfers them to the shipping area.
The main objective of this solution is to improve operational efficiency, ensure full traceability, increase storage capacity, and reduce preparation times.
Measurable results that support the solution
The AutoStore system will operate with a total capacity of 12,000 containers and 8 robots performing more than 1,700 movements per day, reaching a flow of up to 212 presentations per hour. At the same time, the Smartpick system will continuously manage 2,640 boxes, maintaining 24-hour inbound and outbound operations. Galys WMS will coordinate preparation orders in real time, ensuring synchronization with IMPETUS’ ERP and enabling accurate inventory management and movement traceability.
A benchmark in the international textile industry
Founded in 1973 and based in Barqueiros (Portugal), IMPETUS has consolidated its international leadership in the textile sector after five decades of activity. What began as a company dedicated to underwear and homewear has evolved into a diversified portfolio that includes technical textile solutions for the workwear, sportswear, and functional sectors, with or without seams. Its constant commitment to innovation and sustainability is reinforced by this strategic investment in logistics automation.
The textile industry is characterized by high product turnover, traceability requirements, frequent changes in demand, and the need to optimize every available cubic meter. IMPETUS faced challenges such as managing highly variable references, synchronizing production and shipping, optimizing storage space, and improving order fulfillment performance. In addition, the need to operate in three shifts required a robust, scalable, and energy-efficient solution.
A tailor-made installation
The solution developed by Smartlog combines complementary technologies that cover the entire material flow. The process begins in the knitting area, where the boxes are directed to the Smartpick system, which acts as an intermediate buffer, and continues to AutoStore, where finished products are stored and orders are prepared for shipment. The system ends with the direct delivery of orders to the transport system that takes them to the shipping area.
AutoStore consists of a grid structure with 13,774 gross positions, 12,000 330 mm high containers, 8 robots, 3 carousel-type picking stations, and 2 conveyor-type entry stations. Smartpick has 2 loading and unloading robots (which provide redundancy to the system), 2 conveyors with 40 buffer positions each, and a 12-level vertical structure. Both systems are managed by Galys WMS, whose touch interface and customizable filters facilitate operation and real-time analysis.
Thanks to this Smartlog solution, IMPETUS will double its storage capacity compared to traditional solutions, eliminate movement in order preparation, ensure complete traceability, and reduce operational errors. AutoStore allows for flexible absorption of demand peaks, while Smartpick stabilizes the supply of intermediate products to production, resulting in a more agile, sustainable, and performance-oriented operation.
Reduced preparation times will increase productivity and safety in the warehouse. The system’s modularity allows for maintenance without interruptions and provides room for future growth, both in capacity and flow.
From a strategic perspective, this collaboration provides IMPETUS with a scalable infrastructure capable of responding to market demands and consolidating its position as a leader in intralogistics automation.
Smartlog’s close support during the initial phase of data analysis and solution design has been very fruitful, resulting in a comprehensive proposal that adapts to our current needs and, in turn, allows us to grow without operational limitations. We particularly value the Smartlog team’s experience, technical knowledge, and proactive approach. We are eager to take this important qualitative leap in the management of our logistics processes, which will allow us to respond with agility and precision to market needs.
Collaborating with a company like IMPETUS, with such a clear vision in terms of efficiency and sustainability, was key to developing a tailored, modular, and future-proof solution. This project is a new example of our ability to create advanced logistics solutions adapted to the particularities of the textile sector