GXO deploys AMRs at grocery warehouses in UK and the Netherlands

GXO Logistics is introducing fleets of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to its customers, with the aim of improving both productivity and safety.

After successfully integrating robotics into operations for e-commerce and retail customers, GXO is now deploying platforms for grocery and large-item customers. GXO will be introducing a fleet of AMRs in the UK and the Netherlands over the next few months.

“Over the past 18 months, we have accelerated our deployment of modular technologies,” said Phil Shaw, GXO vice president, centre of excellence. “Because these AMRs are small and mobile, they have significant advantages over heavier, fixed installations.

“You can easily add AMRs when volumes increase during peak seasons and then redeploy them elsewhere. During the final quarter of 2021, our use of AMRs helped our customers manage the ongoing shift toward e-commerce in consumer buying behaviour.”

According to GXO, AMRs can boost productivity by up to 60% and improve accuracy. AMRs also improve the end-consumer experience. For example, AMRs can reduce the time it takes to process an order, which means GXO customers can extend their cut-off time for receiving orders and still be able to fulfil early delivery for consumers.

GXO’s deployment of AMRs is also designed to enhance safety, including the reduction of material handling equipment movements in the warehouse.

At warehouses around the world, GXO is increasing its use of AMRs deploying systems developed by 6 River Systems, Lowpad, iFollow and Locus. In one 40,000m2 distribution centre in the Netherlands, GXO is using Lowpad robots to optimise operations in the traditionally manually focused Food & Beverage industry. These AMRs are guided by custom software and routing algorithms designed to optimise the distribution process.

GXO added its automation and technology are key differentiators, helping to drive more value-added solutions across an increasing number of verticals. In 2021, the company deployed more than 2,000 new pieces of technology across our sites, up 100% year-over-year. GXO is currently testing 200 new technologies from around 100 new suppliers.