As retailers face increasing pressure to deliver faster, more accurate order fulfilment, the need for high-throughput automation has never been greater. According to McKinsey, over 60% of consumers now expect same-day or next-day delivery as standard. This shift is putting unprecedented pressure on fulfilment operations to be both fast and flexible.
While traditional shuttle-based systems have long been the go-to solution for high-volume operations, a new generation of technology is challenging the status quo. AutoStore High-Throughput (HTP), powered by Swisslog’s SynQ software, is redefining what’s possible in goods-to-person automation. With its unique architecture and proven performance, AutoStore HTP is helping retailers achieve unprecedented levels of speed, flexibility, and reliability.
The limitations of shuttle-based systems
Shuttle systems typically operate on a “few-to-few” basis, where a limited number of shuttles serve a limited number of pick stations. This design can create bottlenecks, particularly in systems requiring more than 10,000 picks per hour. To overcome these limitations, shuttle systems often rely on complex order consolidation processes involving extensive conveyor networks.
In contrast, AutoStore’s “all-to-all” architecture allows any robot to access any bin and deliver it to any pick station. This enables true one-touch fulfilment and allows pick stations to be configured around customer needs rather than system constraints.
“AutoStore’s all-to-all design gives retailers the flexibility to scale without compromise,” says Marcus Uprichard, Swisslog AutoStore Sales Director UK & Ireland. “It’s a game-changer for businesses looking to optimise throughput without adding complexity.”
Delivering unmatched throughput and density
AutoStore now supports over 200,000 picks per hour, making it the highest-throughput goods-to-person technology per square metre. Its cube-based grid eliminates the need for aisles and conveyors, maximising storage density and enabling automation in even the most irregular spaces.
While shuttle systems may offer vertical scalability, they often require significant floor space for conveyor networks. This raises questions about the true value of unused vertical space versus the cost of consumed floor space.
“We’ve seen AutoStore systems outperform traditional ASRS in both speed and space utilisation,” Marcus adds. “It’s not just about throughput; it’s about doing more with less.”
Reliability that retailers can count on
AutoStore’s modular architecture ensures 99.7% uptime globally. If a robot stalls, others can reroute and continue operations seamlessly. Swisslog’s SynQ software further enhances resilience by dynamically reallocating inventory and optimising bin selection based on demand.
Unlike shuttle systems, which often require resident engineers and complex maintenance, AutoStore is simpler to service. While Swisslog does offer resident engineer services, many of its customers maintain their systems independently after training, reducing long-term operational costs.
Built for high-volume retail logistics
AutoStore HTP is helping retailers move beyond operational constraints, enabling fulfilment strategies that are faster, smarter, and built to scale with demand.
With over 400 installations worldwide, Swisslog has refined the AutoStore deployment process to deliver faster commissioning and tailored performance simulations. Retailers can now evaluate system capabilities against their own inventory and order profiles.
“Our experience has enabled us to refine our software platform and streamline installation processes,” says Marcus. “With these advancements, AutoStore closes the throughput gap for retailers while maintaining advantages in simplicity, density, scalability and availability.”
Unlocking the future of fulfilment
AutoStore HTP is redefining what’s possible in high-throughput retail logistics. By combining unmatched speed, space efficiency, and operational resilience, it empowers retailers to meet rising customer expectations without compromising scalability or control.
Whether you’re navigating peak season demand, expanding your product range, or streamlining last-mile delivery, AutoStore HTP offers a flexible, future-ready foundation for fulfilment success.
To discover more about AutoStore HTP and how the solution can transform high-throughput operations, visit swisslog.com to arrange a discussion with an expert.
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