Next-gen supply chain mechatronics the goal of latest Amazon acquisition

CLOOSTERMANS DESIGNS and manufactures mechatronics solutions used in Amazon operations to help move and stack heavy pallets and totes or package products together for customer delivery. Amazon began working with Cloostermans in 2019, and by focusing Cloostermans’s deep experience in engineering, machinery, and robotics, it plans to more rapidly deploy solutions in its workplace that support employees in their roles and improve safety at work, and also help reduce packaging waste.

“Amazon’s investments in robotics and technology are supporting how we build a better and safer workplace for our employees and deliver for our customers,” says Amazon vice president of global robotics Ian Simpson. “As we continue to broaden and accelerate the robotics and technology we design, engineer and deploy across our operations, we look forward to welcoming Cloostermans to Amazon and are excited to see what we can build together.”

Cloostermans’s team of approximately 200 employees will join Amazon Global Robotics’ European team. Last year, Amazon launched the European Innovation Lab in Italy, which focuses on new ergonomic technologies. Amazon is working on expanding design and manufacturing capabilities and recently announced a series of new robotic technologies, including Proteus, Amazon’s first fully autonomous mobile robot that uses advanced safety, perception, and navigation technology to maneuver around employees without being confined to restricted areas.

Since Amazon began introducing robotics into its facilities in 2012 by acquiring Kiva Systems, it has deployed more than 520,000 robotic drive units worldwide.

Completion of this transaction is subject to closing conditions.