thyssenkrupp Materials Services creates virtual warehouse

Germany-based thyssenkrupp Materials Services has announced it has digitized its range of products and consolidated it in what it says is the world’s largest virtual warehouse. With more than 37 million sq. ft. of storage space at 271 operating sites around the world, the company has digitally connected its global inventories of more than 150,000 steel and nonferrous metal products, offering around-the-clock access through its new omnichannel structure, enabled by an artificial intelligence system.

Customers can place orders via individual customer portals, EDI interfaces, and online shops. A new B2B portal will go live in summer 2018.

The company distributes rolled steel, stainless steel, tubes and pipes, nonferrous metals, specialty materials, and plastics, as well as services such as processing and logistics, warehouse and inventory management, and supply chain and project management.