When a Fortune 100 retailer sought to reduce rising labor costs and improve efficiency at 10 high-traffic distribution centers, it turned to KBS to transition janitorial and specialized utility functions from in-house teams to an outsourced model. Over the past six years, that decision has delivered measurable savings and sustained operational performance at scale.
The Challenge:
Across its network of large distribution facilities, the client was managing a full slate of janitorial and specialized operational responsibilities using in-house labor. As warehouse operations grew more dynamic, internal teams struggled to maintain efficiency while supporting utility tasks. These certified functions had to be performed by higher-wage staff, driving higher labor costs.
The Solution:
KBS transitioned all 10 sites to a fully outsourced facility services model, consolidating janitorial and certified utility functions into one cross-trained workforce. By unifying previously separate in-house teams, KBS created a more flexible labor structure capable of
supporting all the client’s needs while reducing overall labor costs.
The integrated scope included full-service commercial janitorial coverage across warehouse floors, offices, breakrooms, restrooms, and shared spaces, along with battery changing for forklifts and powered equipment, baler operations and corrugate truck loading, tote washing, and on-call facility maintenance such as striping and painting. Supported by national scale and standardized training programs, KBS deployed quickly across distribution environments and delivered immediate operational efficiencies.
Results:
Reduced operational costs while increasing efficiency across a complex distribution portfolio.
- Delivered $250,000 in annual cost savings through strategic outsourcing of facility services
- Achieved96% (Excellent) Food Safety and 100% (Outstanding) Environmental
internal audit scores at one of the larger distribution centers - Successfully transitioned 10 distribution centers nationwide into a standardized outsourced model within weeks
The attention to detail sure does show as we walk the building. It is the cleanest it has ever been in my 24 years at this facility.
- Facility General Manager
