For more than three decades, Zuma & Son’s Distributors has worked with companies in industries such as food and beverage, automotive, and health and beauty. When the company outgrew its Miami warehouse, it knew it needed to find a space that could keep its cold-storage inventory in good condition without paying exorbitant costs.
But the Florida heat had other plans. On a good day, the indoor temperature reached 75 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, the distributor’s chocolate inventory did not hold up well. Air conditioning was an obvious need, but keeping the entire warehouse cool wasn’t a practical solution.
Carlos Zumarraga, owner of Zuma & Son’s Distributors, reached out to Miner for advice. Fortunately, Carlos connected with Miner at the right time: after they acquired their new space, but before they moved their inventory and equipment into it. As such, they had a blank slate to work with.
Dividing curtains provide the right solution
Along with Dwight Gibson, a key account consultant at Miner, Carlos determined the best way to balance low air conditioning spend with adequate temperatures for its chocolate was to segment the warehouse space with a barrier. The team sectioned off one 300 square-foot corner of the building for this purpose.
But instead of building walls, we selected a custom-made curtain wall (100 feet by 30 feet by 30 feet 5 inches). The wall has a 12-feet-by-12-feet strip door so forklifts and stock pickers can move in and out of the space. Finally, we installed an air conditioning unit to keep the sectioned-off area cool.
The top of the curtain is an opaque green, matching Zuma & Son’s Distributors logo. The bottom is clear, which makes the room feel bigger. It also helps workers move in and out of the area safely. Through the curtain they can see where racking and inventory is located before they enter the space.
Another satisfied Miner customer
Carlos was impressed with the quality of the curtains, as well as how promptly Dwight jumped into action. He also appreciated the professional advice and the fast turnaround time.
Today, Carlos’ main warehouse has a temperature of about 74 degrees Fahrenheit, while the separate storage area for the chocolate is a consistent 71.4 degrees. Because this area has its own dedicated A/C unit, Carlos and his employees can choose to push the temperature lower inside the partition if needed. The chocolates are no longer melting, which means Zuma & Sons isn’t losing inventory or profits to the hot Florida climate.
Melting chocolate isn’t a unique problem. Many warehouses, especially in warm climates, struggle with temperature control to keep inventory in good condition. If you’re facing climate control, spacing, racking or other equipment problems in your facility, reach out to Miner. Our experts will talk through your challenges and help develop a solution.
