ALIGNJV
ALIGNJV see increased on-site productivity and efficiency through Opus supply chain network.
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Challenges
In July 2017, ALIGNJV (a joint venture between Bouygues Travaux Publics, Sir Robert McAlpine and VolkerFitzpatrick) was awarded the C1 package of the UK High Speed Line 2 (HS2). C1 consists of 21.6km of high speed rail infrastructure. This included a 3.37km viaduct, 16.04km twin-bored tunnels and five vent shafts handling both intervention and tunnel ventilation facilities. A key challenge for such a high profile infrastructure project of this scale was going to be delivering safely, on time and on budget, with a backdrop of large sites needing frequent deliveries of critical products around the clock.
Solution
In December 2022 ALIGNJV chose the next-generation procurement delivery solution from VJ Technology, the VJ iStore®, which can result in up to 70% reduction in carbon emissions previously caused by daily deliveries to site, as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting sustainability and innovation in the sector.
The secure by design VJ iStore® is powered by our patented Opus software, an autonomous product management platform that enables 24/7, staffless click-and-collect environments to be conveniently located for secure, easy access to essential items for sale, hire or distribution. The VJ iStore® is located at ALIGNJV's site in Rickmansworth and consists of a 40ft bespoke modular shipping container which acts as a vending machine. It helps ensure that ALIGNJV contractors can be fed a constant supply of their most used products, that can be clicked and collected in a matter of minutes directly on-site at the point of need.
Over 30 ALIGNJV contractors are authorised to procure and collect from the VJ iStore®, a unique solution from VJ Technology. There are almost 300 SKUs available 24/7 ranging from bolts, washers, nailed, anchors, resin, locks, foams and brooms.
The Opus technology ensures products are available 24/7 which in turn increases productivity significant and are only paid for once they have been collected, positively impacting cash flow. It is replenished once every 10 to 14 days as managed by the active stock control system, resulting in an up to 70% reduction in carbon emissions previously caused by daily deliveries to site.
About the company
ALIGNJV is the joint venture between Bouygues Travaux Publics, a subsidiary of Bouygues Construction, Sir Robert McAlpine, and VolkerFitzpatrick, a subsidiary of VolkerWessels. Its combined experience, both in the UK and worldwide, in delivering high-profile infrastructure projects safely, on time and on budget, has long established a strong reputation. In July 2017 the Align joint venture was awarded the C1 package of the UK High Speed 2 line (HS2). C1 consists of 21.6km of high-speed rail infrastructure. This includes a 3.37km viaduct, 16.04km twin-bored tunnel and five vent shafts handling both intervention and tunnel ventilation facilities.
Results
Opus has achieved transformative results for Align, contributing to a reduced environmental impact, improved product availability and reduced downtime.
Environmental Impact:
Align has been able to minimise supply chain emissions and delivery service mileage with Opus. Through the use of an Opus-secure container (pictured) they make more infrequent deliveries whilst maintaining customer service levels. This simple but effective approach aligns with their commitment to reducing their own but also the supply chain carbon footprint.
Product Availability:
The solution enables 300 leading items to be held on site for use by contractors authorised by the client. Peter Mckeown, Cross Passage Superintendent, Align said: “We use the VJ iStore® 24/7 and so far, 25% of our orders have been out of hours – before 8am or after 5pm – and 15% have been on weekends. Previously this could have resulted in project delays and or rescheduling but this solution enables us to continue.