A convergence of technological innovation, economic forces and labour factors are driving the rapid growth of warehouse automation to meet the demands on supply chains. In the last several years, consumers have shifted more; it is certainly exciting times for automation within the logistics supply chain. With such a vast array of technologies on offer for the movement of goods around the warehouse, including solutions such as AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), goods-to-person (GTP) systems, shuttles, smart storage, conveyors, and unit sorters, confidence in warehouse automation is at an all-time high, according to LAC.
This article was first published in the April 1st 2023 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.
Between labour pressures and consumer appetites for e-commerce purchases, the need to improve the speed and accuracy of the “pick” in fulfilment operations is growing. Advances in robotic technology, including software-driven autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), enable robots to improve productivity and throughput in warehouse operations that serve both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce retail. Piece-picking robots play an increasingly important role in order fulfilment operations, according to Jim Lawton, Vice President and General Manager, Zebra Robotics and Automation. These robots reduce the inefficiency and errors created by the sheer size of today’s warehouses, where line associates frequently have to walk miles and search for bins stacked on multi-story shelving units often for a single item.
The CILT(UK) Awards for Excellence celebrate and recognise excellence across transport, logistics and supply chain. There are 12 prestigious categories in areas such as: warehouse operations; freight transport; technology and innovation; diversity; rising star and more. Now in its 30th year, the industry will join together on Thursday 28 September at The Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square, London, for a special ceremony to applaud the brightest talent and most pioneering logistics and transport organisations across the UK.
DB Schenker, a leading supply chain management and logistics service provider, commenced operating one of the largest automated e-commerce facilities servicing its retail customers in Spain, Portugal and France. The site is equipped with a Goods-to-Person picking system to handle around 120,000 units per day based on Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) provided by Geek+, the global leader in AMR technology. The system features innovative pick-and-pack solutions for a fast and flexible online-order fulfilment as well as an efficient handling of returns.
The demand for flexible, scalable warehouse robotic systems is booming, fuelled by a shortage of skilled labour and the need to cut costs. Robotics specialists, equipment makers, systems integrators, and industrial truck manufacturers are coming to LogiMAT 2023 to present their latest solutions for deploying industrial and service robots for enhanced flexibility and efficiency in intralogistics. The market segment of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), shuttles, cobots, carrybots, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for warehouse logistics has reached a reliable level of sophistication that is fuelling demand among customers and boosting growth among the providers.
It’s exciting to see the developments in robotics, which improve speed and accuracy in the warehouse.
George Simpson
Features Editor
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