Thinventory solution supports smart meter installation

Thinventory is supporting infrastructure specialist M Group in its drive to install 1.3 million smart meters across Yorkshire through a water industry first logistics solution.

At the peak of the programme, the water team at M Group will be replacing 30,000 meters a month, 170 per hour, for Netmore, on behalf of Yorkshire Water.

M Group wanted a solution which not only improved efficiency but also improved sustainability by reducing emissions through travel.

The specialist found the traditional solution of storing the meters in the centre of Yorkshire would quickly become inefficient and challenging to manage, with over 40 unique items potentially needing to be replenished daily.

Using Thinventory’s locker networks has meant M Group’s experienced workforce of plumbers and meter installers can get the assets needed to a location close to them, cutting travel time, while also improving the reverse logistics of disposing and recycling the old meters from the network. Thinventory delivers and collects parts from lockers overnight.

The lockers have benefitted M Group through:

• A quicker start of the day, with parts delivered overnight.
• A reduced time searching for parts in large storage rooms.
• A reduced time queuing to collect parts.
• A more convenient location close to engineers’ homes, to collect the parts.
• A more convenient time frame for engineers to collect the parts, with 24/7 access.
• Faster returns for repair or recycle.

Liam Saddler, Head of Operations for Smart Metering at M Group, said:

“Thinventory’s locker solution offers a secure and intelligent approach to managing our meter and consumable inventory.

“Given the high volume of installations needed for the smart metering programme, it was crucial to find a solution that provides comprehensive inventory visibility and makes sure our engineers are compliant.

“This solution also reduces engineer mileage and drive time, increasing productivity and lowering emissions. I’m proud to bring this solution to the water industry to make sure our smart metering programme continues to run efficiently.”

Stuart Miller, Thinventory Chairman, said:

“We’re delighted to partner with M Group on a solution which will redefine infrastructure deployment efficiency.

“Our locker network shows how intelligent tech-driven logistics can transform largescale projects by meeting the needs of engineers, reducing travel, improving asset access and supporting sustainability goals.

“This partnership demonstrates our commitment to enabling operation excellence across critical infrastructure sectors.”