Yusen Logistics awards Swisslog automated warehouse contract in Singapore
Yusen Logistics, a provider of contract logistics and air and ocean freight forwarding, has selected Swisslog warehouse and distribution Solutions to deliver the “innovative AutoStore Automated System” in Singapore.
The autonomous robots, which sit on the top of an aluminium grid as part of the innovative storage system, is expected to go into operation in 2017.
This light goods automatic storage and retrieval system (AutoStore) investment is a result of Yusen Logistics’ insight into the philosophy of the shared economy and the need to manage rising business costs in the current global, lower-growth economy.
Francis Kwa, head of contract logistics, Yusen Logistics, says: “The future of logistics is paved with innovation and automated technology. The industry has been transforming and growing in the coming years. The third party logistics industry itself is gearing up to take on the challenges and the opportunities offered by the latest technological advancements.
“With innovative systems like AutoStore, it allows us to be ready for the future of logistics. Innovation will bring about a brighter future as new skills, and innovative products and services are created.”
A joint effort between Yusen Logistics and Swisslog, the Tuas Warehouse will be equipped with the innovative AutoStore system to serve multiple customers under one roof and to cater to its growing needs. Swisslog will be responsible for the implementation of the AutoStore System that includes approximately 16,595 space for stored items.
Kwa adds: “This investment enables Yusen to deliver five times more put-away and retrieval throughput without increasing current operating headcount cost. Storage volume is doubled in the same storage space in the warehouse.
“Doubling the volume of storage capacity within the current footprint coupled with productivity gains is the means to gain a competitive edge in a global economy that is being disrupted by technology. This investment is one of the many innovations Yusen is embarking on to become a truly global total logistics provider.”
Ng Kim Hung, managing director of Yusen Logistics, says: “Singapore is a key logistics hub in Asia, in particular Asean. This partnership with Swisslog is redefining cost, speed and flexibility in regional light goods distribution for our customers. This goods-to-person technology investment is a testament to Yusen investing in the future growth and transformation of Singapore’s logistics infrastructure.”
Dr Christian Baur, chief operating officer of the Swisslog Group and CEO of warehouse and distribution solutions division, says: “The Asia-Pacific region is an important growth market. I’m very excited about this order in Singapore. It’s a key step to grow our business and demonstrates the success of our global growth strategy.”
“Today, cutting edge technologies like AutoStore System are revolutionizing the logistics industry to provide faster and more reliable delivery.
Koh Seng Teck, head of southeast Asia, Swisslog’s warehouse and distribution solutions division, says: “We are excited to receive this order for our Innovative AutoStore solution from Yusen Logistics who is also actively involved in light goods distribution logistics.
“This partnership demonstrates our innovative solutions and the expertise of our team to transform the landscape for automation in logistics. We look forward to continuing to support Yusen’s growth.”