GXO invests in robotic sortation

THE ROBOTIC sortation solution is from Global Robotics Services (GRS), which is owned by GLP, a major global player in warehouse property development. GLP’s European operating portfolio consists of more than 8.5 million sq m.

The 30-day pilot took place at a GXO facility in Stradella, Italy, that houses an eComm operation. The installation of the robots took one week, with the 3D sortation robots programmed to feed 30 trolleys with more than 450 destination bins. The robots, which operate using a RaaS model, achieved a throughput of 1,200 units per hour — over 3x the speed of the previous solution — and could be further scaled to achieve a significantly higher throughput. The pilot also optimised workforce hours related to the sorting process, reduced sorting errors and increased the traceability of orders.

As part of the first phase, GRS has installed 17 sorting robots coupled with 15 3D robotic arms.

To date, GRS has completed over 30 robotics projects across Asia.

GRS CEO Hongming Chen said: “This first installation with GXO is a key milestone for GRS in Europe. Robots are becoming ever more present in the warehouse, and we understand the opportunity of automation and the value that can be created by optimising processes through this technology.”