Warehouses have always been at the forefront of innovation. While the ancient Romans were not the first to store essential goods like grain, they dramatically expanded the scale and sophistication of warehousing, embedding it into trade networks across the Mediterranean and beyond.
One impressive example is the Horrea Lolliana, preserved in intricate diagrams engraved in marble. The plans show a complex of rooms designed for different goods and two sets of stairs down to the River Tiber. Infrastructure like this meant that two thousand years ago, Rome’s population could rely on year-round access to staples such as olive oil and wine, along with foods sourced from across the empire.
Today’s consumers expect instant delivery of an ever-wider array of products, and warehousing continues to evolve to meet that demand. From cold storage for vaccines, to automation that boosts efficiency and solar panels providing renewable energy, the sector is constantly adapting to changing needs.
Against that backdrop, it is alarming to learn that transport, warehousing and logistics have been formally identified as lagging behind other sectors, in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). According to Bridge AI, a government initiative encouraging the uptake of artificial intelligence, just 0.4% of UK AI companies operate in the transport and storage sector.
Of course, AI comes in many forms, and not every solution will suit every warehouse. Even so, some logistics businesses are already benefitting from AI-enabled warehouse management systems, as well as tools for optimising picking routes and improving the diagnostic maintenance of complex equipment. Others are using AI-driven imaging technologies to inspect goods more accurately and efficiently. But the majority of firms have yet to realise the potential. Likely barriers include workforce skills, data-security concerns and funding challenges. The many smaller companies in our sector may simply lack the time to thoroughly investigate and understand the practical applications.
The UKWA’s mission is to help our members and it is clear that many will need some support to make the most of emerging AI opportunities. We need to start with a clear picture of the challenges, so it is good news that Logidot, a UKWA member, has secured Innovate UK funding, along with the University of Bath, to explore attitudes towards AI within warehousing businesses. They are seeking interview participants from a range of companies and roles.
There is also a positive side to the sector’s currently untapped AI potential: government funding is now available for information and training. The UKWA is working with PwC on the development of an AI Skills Hub and engaging with providers offering free training for warehousing companies.
To contribute to the AI research or find out more about the AI training that is available, please contact the UKWA.
Clare Bottle
UKWA, CEO
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