DS Smith invests in robot workforce

Sustainable packaging company DS Smith has invested in a fleet of ten automated guided vehicles, (AGVs), to increase efficiency at its Kemsley Paper Mill in Kent.

The electric Rocla vehicles by AGV manufacturer Mitsubishi Loginext Europe Oy, can operate 24/7 and perform several tasks around the fully automated warehouse, including collecting reels from production conveyors, storing, and picking them when orders come in.

The AGVs can transport paper reels safely around the warehouse at speeds of up to 8mph.

Ben Jennings, Mill Manager at Kemsley Paper Mill, said: “The recent boom in e-commerce has increased the demand for our papers and packaging. Every day, around 2,200-2,400 tonnes of paper leaves the Kemsley mill and so it’s critical that our talented team has the latest innovations to benefit our people, customers and the environment.”

Petri Petäys, Sales Director at Mitsubishi Logisnext Europe Oy added: “There is an increasing demand for sustainable, safe, and efficient solutions in the paper and packaging segment, driving interest in our solutions which are optimised over almost 40 years of experience across various industries.

“What sets apart this project with DS Smith, seamlessly realised with the local support of Logisnext UK, is the dedication and can-do attitude embraced by the Kemsley Mill team. This allowed us to create one of the most efficient implementations even during these challenging times.”