AutoStore launches new robotic system for warehouses

AutoStore, a warehouse automation company, has launched Pio, short for “Product In/Out”, which is basically an automated storage and retrieval system, or ASRS.

The company describes it as a “plug-and-play version” of its AutoStore cube storage technology tailored.

Pio has been specially designed for small and medium-sized businesses.

Based on a pay-per-pick service model, Pio allows SMBs, such as retailers of apparel, sporting goods, crafts, and cosmetics, to deploy robotic automation for a relatively low investment – enabling more businesses to gain access to the world’s best automation technology.

Mats Hovland Vikse, CEO of AutoStore, says: “We established Pio to make our technology available to smaller businesses.

“Only 15 percent of the world’s warehouses are automated, and fulfillment operations at smaller retailers are still largely manual.

“Pio levels the playing field so that enterprises of all sizes can take advantage of the space and cost efficiencies of automated storage and distribution systems.”

Retailers pay a fee per individual item picked; robots, ports, and software are owned and maintained by Pio. Users need only purchase product bins and the frames that the robots run on.

A Pio facility is modular and scalable and runs on standard plug-and-play software that connects to the most common online retail and shipping platforms.

In effect, Pio lets small and medium-sized business compete against much larger ones, with minimal capital expense, added labor, or need for additional floor space.

Magne Hatteland, VP and head of Pio, says: “Never before has the option for a fully automated storage and retrieval system been offered to the SMB segment – and certainly not with robotic technology that has been proven through multitudes of successful installations around the world for over 20 years.

“With Pio, you can expand without having to move, enabling users to run their businesses closer to customers. We are already seeing success with Pio systems operating at several high-profile retailers in Europe.

“Now that the system is available in North America, we are ready to support fast-growing independent retailers here as well.”