Lean warehousing: A case study of a Greek warehouse

Abstract: Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study is to firstly identify and illustrate the problems within a selected warehouse. This dissertation is based on the 5s lean tool and also aims to develop solutions in order the warehouse to work in a more efficient way. Methodology: For this thesis, the observation method has been chosen as the most suitable way of gathering the necessary data. For 50 days, I had an active appearance in the warehouse where I observed the employees and the warehousing operations, I applied the 5s lean tool and finally the rest of the days I studied the results this tool brought both in the warehouse and employees as well. Findings: The findings of this research indicate that a lean warehouse can finally exist with the help of a lean tool; in our case the 5s lean tool. In general, the warehouse does not remind the initial situation that I faced the first day. However, as every environment is different, great attention must be paid from warehouse managers, owners and lean practitioners on which methods and tools they will decide to apply in the warehouse. Key Words: lean, wastes, lean warehousing, warehousing, 5s lean tool.