Discover how a leading UK grocery retailer introduced 45 Movu ifollow autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) into their warehouse fulfillment centers to successfully achieve:
Today, the UK grocery industry is worth around £208.6bn. For years the sector has been led by "the big four", who enjoy most of the market share. However, in recent years, their dominance has been disrupted by some new challengers using new technologies and boosting efficiencies. This has meant that staying still is no longer an option for the leaders in this sector and these businesses are now looking to improve their efficiencies across their logistics and operations. One significant area for enhancement is the introduction of warehouse automation. And that’s where we came in.
Aiming to improve reliability, efficiency and productivity
In 2022, we were contacted with the challenge of integrating our collaborative Movu ifollow AMRs into a warehouse operations across 193,750 ft2 area, 76,000 stock keeping units (SKUs) and 25,000 pallet locations. The traditional warehouse setup was leading to some delays, inefficiencies and an increased risk of errors in order fulfillment. The customer wanted to incorporate smart logistics and innovative technology to optimize the warehouse processes, streamline their operations and ultimately boost their efficiencies and overall productivity.
The benefits of the Movu ifollow AMRs system
Introducing our automated robots had several notable benefits, such as:
Improved efficiency:
We seamlessly integrated a total of 45 collaborative robots into the existing warehouse infrastructure. 11 Movu ifollow AMRs were implemented to manage the inbound operation. This allowed the site to process 100 pallets per hour and operate 24 hours a day. Additionally, a comprehensive fleet of 34 robots was used to oversee the picking of roll cages and pallets. Two robots assisted each picking operator to improve efficiency by checking quantities, moving goods to and unloading at the correct pick and deposit (P&D) station. The collaboration of robots and staff led to a 50% decrease in order fulfillment errors.
Increased productivity:
The Movu ifollow robots significantly reduced the time required for order picking and item location, leading to faster order fulfillment of 20 minutes. The AMRs also increased throughput by 50%.
Reduced costs:
By replacing forklifts, Movu ifollow decreased the operating costs of the warehouse by saving energy and minimal maintenance expenses. The AMRs are powered by smart, plug-in batteries.
Enhanced flexibility:
Although just 6.7 in. in height, Movu ifollow robots can carry payloads of up to 1.2 metric ton. Their agility meant they could handle all kinds of warehousing infrastructures and storage units. Additionally, they are designed to run in cold store environments from -13°F to +106°F to improve staff working conditions.
Maximum safety:
Using AMRs instead of forklifts reduced traffic around the warehouse and lowered safety risks. The robots can navigate around static and dynamic obstacles in the warehouse environment safely using its advanced 360° environment perception sensors, human safety scanner and collision avoidance systems.
Real-time analytics:
Movu ifollow fleet is managed with a user-friendly Warehouse Control System (WCS) connected directly with the customer Warehouse Management System (WMS), giving managers access to real-time data and analytics generated by the robots. This allowed them to monitor operations and easily optimize their processes.
Human collaboration:
AMRs serve as a great help in picking operations. Robots smoothly collaborate with pickers, automating order preparation and guaranteeing increased productivity, traceability and operational excellence. Human-AMR collaboration also minimises errors and the operator’s walking time.
The fast, intelligent and flexible way to automate a warehouse
This successful integration of Movu ifollow into an existing warehouse operation highlights the potential of collaborative robotics in the retail sector. By leveraging our advanced technology, the customer were not only able to improve efficiencies and productivity but also create a more motivating workplace for the staff. This case study shows the importance for businesses to embrace smart logistics to stay competitive and meet the evolving demands of the modern warehouse landscape.
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To discover how we can help you find the best automated solution for your warehouse, contact us today.
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