Bulmers

Bulmers is one of Ireland’s most recognised drinks brands and part of the C&C Group. Their
primary manufacturing and distribution operations are based in Clonmel. Bulmers operates a
large-scale, fast-moving warehousing environment with strict requirements for traceability,
accuracy and efficiency.

Timewise Systems’ relationship with Bulmers began in 2003 as part of a wider C&C Group
Directive aimed at meeting the traceability objectives of the 2003 Traceability Act.

Initially, Timewise was brought on to deliver a full wireless network and deploy handheld and
vehicle-mounted computers for Bulmers’ Clonmel facility. This was to be integrated with their
IBM AS400 ERP system. The project was a success, and it opened the door for a long-term
partnership.

As Bulmers continued modernising their operations, the focus shifted to their picking processes.
Timewise introduced the idea of voice-directed picking as an alternative to traditional vehicle-
mounted units. Following extensive research and European site visits, Bulmers and Timewise
jointly committed to deploying a voice-directed system. This was the first of its kind in Ireland
and it fully integrated with their AS400.

Bulmers required a picking solution that would significantly enhance accuracy and productivity,
all without disrupting existing ERP systems or operational flow. The system needed to suit the
high-volume, high-velocity nature of their warehousing environment and deliver measurable
ROI.

Timewise carefully analysed Bulmers’ workflows and requirements, and in March 2006,
implemented a bespoke voice-directed warehouse system.
The results were immediate and striking:

•  Picking errors dropped to near zero.
• Accuracy reached 99.99%.
• Productivity improved by over 30%.

The system also eliminated the need for manual double-checks, reduced customer complaints,
and stopped unnecessary replacement shipments resulting from false error claims.

Bulmers could now trace every item to the time, location, picker, and truck. Thus, the company now has
a process that saves both time and money.

The success was so significant that the project won the prestigious BT Inspired IT Project of the
Year Award in 2007.

Voice was used where it made the most impact, namely, in picking. Other disciplines like pallet
handling still benefited from vehicle-mounted screens due to the site’s size and operational
demands. This pragmatic approach ensured the best-fit tech was used in every area.

The system was supported and maintained by Timewise until late 2024. At this stage, Bulmers
upgraded to Timewise’s latest Android-based voice-directed picking system, which went live in
February 2025. This refresh marks the next phase of their journey together.

Bulmers continues to benefit from a robust, high-performance warehouse solution tailored to its
needs. Highlights include:

• Industry-leading accuracy and productivity in picking.
• Substantial cost savings and fraud prevention.
•  Seamless long-term support from Timewise.
•  A relationship built on 20+ years of trust, collaboration and, most importantly, results.

Timewise’s longstanding service to Bulmers and C&C Group has extended beyond Clonmel.
When C&C acquired Gleeson&Co. (a Timewise client with 10 sites already using voice),
Timewise merged and now supports systems across the expanded network.

Bulmers’ collaboration with Timewise stands as a testament to what’s possible when deep
operational knowledge meets smart, practical innovation. From the initial deployment in 2006 to
the latest Android-based upgrade, Timewise has consistently delivered flexible, high-
performance warehouse solutions that meet the real-world needs of fast-moving manufacturers
and distributors.

The return on investment was exceptionally fast by industry standards. As a result, the
relationship continues to thrive today.