Robotics & Automation News

Where Innovation Meets Imagination

micro-fulfillment

AS/RS reimagined: The next generation of warehouse automation and micro-fulfillment

by

The modern supply chain is a battlefield of rising expectations. E-commerce demands faster deliveries, labor shortages persist, and the pressure to optimize every square foot of warehouse space is relentless.

In this environment, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), once considered foundational automation, are no longer just about static storage; they are being reimagined as dynamic, intelligent components at the very heart of advanced logistics.

This feature explores the cutting-edge designs, sophisticated integration with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), and their pivotal role in enabling the burgeoning micro-fulfillment trend. [Read more…] about AS/RS reimagined: The next generation of warehouse automation and micro-fulfillment

ASRS revenue forecast to reach $1 billion in micro-fulfilment centers

by

As retailers build micro-fulfilment centers (MFCs) to augment their distribution networks, automated picking solutions provide the speed and space maximization necessary for e-commerce efficiency and profitability.

According to a report by technology intelligence firm ABI Research, Automated Storage & Retrieval System (AS/RS) revenue within MFCs is expected to reach $1.2 billion by 2027, with uptake primarily seen in the grocery and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industries.

Ryan Wiggin, supply chain management and logistics industry analyst at ABI Research, says: “The need for high-density storage and fast fulfillment capabilities allows technologies to scale down and enable a flexible, bespoke frontline distribution network. [Read more…] about ASRS revenue forecast to reach $1 billion in micro-fulfilment centers

Fabric raises $200 million in new funding, bringing total to $336 million to date

by

Fabric, a company specialising in retail supply chain automation, has raised $200 million in Series C funding.

The latest round was led by existing investor Temasek, with participation from Koch Disruptive Technologies, Union Tech Ventures, Harel Insurance & Finance, Pontifax Global Food and Agriculture Technology Fund (Pontifax AgTech), Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments), KSH Capital, Princeville Capital, Wharton Equity Ventures, and others.

With a valuation of more than $1 billion, Fabric has established itself as a market leader in the on-demand fulfillment space, leveraging its proprietary robotic micro-fulfillment technology stack designed from the ground up to make on-demand fulfillment profitable and scalable for all retailers. [Read more…] about Fabric raises $200 million in new funding, bringing total to $336 million to date

Ahold Delhaize expands micro-fulfillment with Swisslog and AutoStore

by

Ahold Delhaize is expanding its micro-fulfillment capabilities as part of its omnichannel supply chain using warehouse automation technology from Swisslog and AutoStore.

Ahold Delhaize USA, a division of Netherlands-based Ahold Delhaize, is the parent company for Ahold Delhaize’s US companies, including its local brands, which comprise:

  • Food Lion;
  • Giant Food;
  • The Giant Company;
  • Hannaford and Stop & Shop;
  • Retail Business Services, a US support services company providing services to the brands; and
  • Peapod Digital Labs, its digital, e-commerce and commercial engine.

When considered together, the local brands of Ahold Delhaize USA comprise the largest grocery retail group on the East Coast and the fourth largest grocery retail group in the nation, operating more than 2,000 stores and distribution centers across more than 20 states and serving millions of customers each week through a wide variety of store formats with thousands of food and non-food items. [Read more…] about Ahold Delhaize expands micro-fulfillment with Swisslog and AutoStore

Last mile: Micro-fulfillment centers bring supply chains to the consumer

by

Over the last few years, as e-commerce sales have increased and customer expectations have shifted, there has been a steady race to move fulfillment closer to the customer.

Something once so innovative as two-day delivery has led to next-day delivery, which is quickly becoming obsolete as consumers demand same-day delivery.

This trend has accelerated during the Covid-19 pandemic, especially as more consumers become comfortable with online ordering of perishable items and groceries. One of the significant changes in supply chain strategies we are seeing as a result of this is the rise of fulfillment centers that bring fulfillment closer to the consumer. [Read more…] about Last mile: Micro-fulfillment centers bring supply chains to the consumer

Swisslog partners with retail chain H-E-B to build automated micro-fulfillment centers

by

Swisslog, a warehouse automation company, has partnered with H-E-B in San Antonio, Texas to support the company’s growing demand for online fulfillment.

H-E-B says demand for its online grocery services is continuing to accelerate.

Swisslog is working with H-E-B to build a number of automated micro-fulfillment centers to support the chain’s curbside pick-up and delivery business. [Read more…] about Swisslog partners with retail chain H-E-B to build automated micro-fulfillment centers

Fabric raises $110 million in new investment round backed by Kraft Heinz

by

On-demand fulfillment services startup Fabric has raised an additional investment to its Series B round from Evolv Ventures, the investment arm of Kraft Heinz, one of the largest global food and beverage companies in the world.

Led by a team of food, startup, and venture capital veterans, Evolv Ventures is focused on strategic investments in emerging technologies across the food value chain.

Their undisclosed additional investment to the $110 million-dollar round is a resounding vote of confidence from a leading food tech investor and the iconic food company. [Read more…] about Fabric raises $110 million in new investment round backed by Kraft Heinz