The new World Robotics 2025 statistics from the International Federation of Robotics on industrial robots showed 542,000 robots installed in 2024 – more than double the number 10 years ago. Annual installations topped 500,000 units for the fourth straight year. Asia accounted for 74% of new deployments in 2024, compared with 16% in Europe and 9% in the Americas.

This article was first published in the October 15th 2025 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.

Element Logic, the world’s first and largest AutoStore® partner, is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement to acquire BS Handling Systems, a leading provider of intralogistics solutions in the United Kingdom. This acquisition will mark a significant step in Element Logic’s strategic growth, further strengthening its footprint in the UK market, and reinforcing its position as a leading provider of fully integrated warehouse automation solutions in the UK and Ireland. BS Handling Systems brings over 20 years of experience delivering tailored material handling and warehouse solutions, including conveyor systems, sortation solutions, mezzanine floors, racking, and packaging.

KNAPP has supplied an automated solution for the formation of store-friendly, mixed pallets at Migros Aare’s distribution centre in Schönbühl, Switzerland. The Schönbühl DC supplies over 150 stores with fresh food products across the meat, fruit & vegetable, dairy, bakery and convenience food sectors. End-to-end automation at the facility ensures error-free and reliable order fulfilment.

The FBPS 600i safety bar code positioning system from Leuze is now also available with PROFIsafe interface. The interface allows users to connect the device directly to a safe PLC, while the safety bar code positioning system is also available with two SSI interfaces. Both models are suitable for applications up to Performance Level e, for example for the exact positioning of cranes including stacker cranes.

Automatic vehicle restraint systems engage at the push of a button, securing the trailer’s rear wheel without the need for manual intervention and once in place, the restraint remains locked until released. Because the process is automated, engagement happens every time, eliminating the risk of human error. Automatic systems, such as Stertil Dock Products Combilok®, can also be integrated with dock traffic lights and other equipment for a complete solution.

Innovative warehouse technologies such as robotics and automation have a key role to play in achieving sustainability goals in the retail industry, according to research from Inteq, a leading integrator of automation and robotics technology for supply chains. Almost 9 in 10 (88%) directors and senior leaders across the UK retail and eCommerce sector surveyed by Inteq agree that implementing robotics and automation in warehousing can improve sustainability by enhancing energy efficiency, reducing waste, optimising space utilisation and lowering transportation emissions. This comprises just under 2 in 5 (39%) who somewhat agree with this, but just under half (49%) who strongly agree.

With ever greater demand placed on warehouses and a shortage of labour, the need for robotics and automated solutions is set to increase.

George Simpson

Features Editor

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