Warehouse robots

History

2024

High cost of warehouse robotization - ₽150 thousand per 1 sq. m (Magnit data)

Director of Logistics Development "Magnit" Ilya Kuchma in early December 2024 announced the high cost of robotization of warehouse premises, which is about ₽150 thousand per square meter. At the same time, the current turnover of the company does not guarantee the return on such investments.

The representative of Magnit noted that the process of equipping the warehouse with robotic solutions can take from 6 to 14 months, during which the premises are idle, but the company continues to pay rent.

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Freepik

According to Ilya Kuchma, robotization will pay off only if the number of processed boxes from a square meter allows you to refuse to open new warehouses. Otherwise, investment will not bring the expected economic benefit.

Despite the high cost of warehouse robotization, Magnit is actively testing other robotic solutions. In particular, the company began testing the robot cleaner MARK-1 in the Magnit Family supermarket in Yaroslavl. The robot is equipped with a computer vision system including a laser rangefinder, three depth cameras, an optical camera and various sensors.

According to forecasts of Mordor Intelligence analysts, by 2030 the global market for automation and robotization of logistics will reach $120.6 billion. However, Russian retailers are still cautiously approaching large-scale investments in the robotization of warehouse infrastructure due to the long payback periods and the need to maintain a balance between automation and the efficiency of space use.

The MARK-1 robot, tested by the company, is able to efficiently perform wet cleaning of the premises, demonstrating significant savings in water and detergents. Thanks to obstacle classification algorithms, the robot can work in sales areas with visitors, avoiding collisions using a system of external light devices.^[1]

UAVs released that fly in warehouses without human input and read barcodes from goods

In early October 2024, Corvus Robotics announced a new Corvus One platform for inventory in warehouses using special unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The peculiarity of the system is that drones do not require any auxiliary infrastructure such as beacons, reflectors, etc. Read more here

Warehouse robots released that sync to avoid colliding

At the end of October 2024, Bear Robotics introduced the Carti 100 warehouse robots, capable of carrying loads of up to 100 kg and synchronizing work so as not to collide with each other. This ensures high efficiency and accuracy of operation, as well as uninterrupted interaction between operations, which increases performance and reduces costs. The adaptive design of warehouse robots allows them to be used in various environments, including areas with existing and new objects, as well as multi-level spaces. Read more here.

Presented a warehouse robot that scans goods for 100 thousand pallets every day

In mid-July 2024, the British company Dexory introduced a warehouse robotic platform that simplifies product accounting and logistics operations. The machine is capable of scanning products daily per 100 thousand pallets. Read more here

MIPT engineers have developed a storage robot

On August 6, 2024, representatives of MIPT announced the development of a storage robot. The solution proposed by the employees of the laboratory of digital special-purpose systems MIPT will replace the driver of loading and unloading equipment - a pallet transporter. In addition to the robot itself, Fiztech employees have also created software for a robotic warehouse, with which you can automate logistics processes. Read more here.

Humanoid robot that moves goods in warehouses released

At the end of June 2024, it became known that the logistics operator GXO Logistics signed an agreement with Agility Robotics on the use of humanoid robots Digit at the Spanx warehouse in Georgia. These machines are capable of performing various routine operations, such as moving goods. Read more here.

2023

Global sales of cargo delivery robots for the year reached $11.68 billion

At the end of 2023, the volume of the global market for robots for cargo delivery is estimated at $11.68 billion. This corresponds to an increase of about 25% compared to 2022, when costs amounted to $9.3 billion. Key factors contributing to the rapid expansion of the industry are the growth of the e-commerce sector, labor shortages and the need for timely delivery of goods. Market trends are covered in the Market Research Future survey published in early September 2024.

It is noted that one of the main drivers is the growing pressure on the logistics industry, which is rapidly transforming due to the rapid development of online commerce and multi-channel retail. These changes require improved efficiency and performance, which can be achieved with robotics. The introduction of such machines helps to free people from labor-intensive and monotonous tasks, such as collecting, packaging and sorting products. In addition, the use of logistics robots makes it possible to improve the accuracy of operations, and therefore reduce the number of errors. Ultimately, it provides cost savings.

Another growth factor is the development of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning and computer vision. Robots become smarter and more autonomous, so they can perform complex tasks with high efficiency. However, the development of new materials and components makes such machines more durable and reliable. Government initiatives are also driving the expansion of the industry: in the vast majority of countries, the authorities are aware of the potential impact of logistics robots on improving the sustainability of operations in various areas.

Structurally, analysts divide the industry into four segments: Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Mobile Manipulators, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). In 2023, revenue in these groups amounted to $1.5 billion, $0.9 billion, $0.4 billion and $0.2 billion, respectively. Material handling, assembly, packaging, warehouse management, and inventory management are key applications for logistics robots. In 2023, more than 40% of the total revenue came from the processing of materials. Bastian Solutions, Kuka, MiR, Swisslog, AGV System, Jungheinrich, Dematic, Yaskawa, Geek +, Locus Robotics, Omron, Hikrobot, Knapp and Fanuc are named among the major market players. Many companies are focused on developing robots that can function autonomously and interact with other systems to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.

Geographically, the Asia-Pacific region dominated in 2023 with a share of more than 40%: there is a growing adoption of automation, especially in, and China India. Japan In second place is Europe with 30% of total revenue: the development of the industry is explained by the presence of a large number of production and logistics companies. North America closes the top three with a share of about 20%. South America, the Middle East and Africa are relatively small, but have good potential.

At the end of 2024, industry revenue is estimated at $14.67 billion. Market Research Future experts believe that in the future, the average annual growth rate in complex percentages (CAGR) in the global market for robots for cargo delivery will be 25.56%. As a result, by 2032, costs on a global scale will rise to $90.6 billion.^[2]

The volume of the global market for packaging robots for the year grew by 6% to $2.04 billion

In 2023, the global packaging robot market reached $2.04 billion. This is 6% more compared to 2022, when expenses in this sector were estimated at $1.92 billion. One of the main drivers of the industry is the growing adoption of automation in various fields, including food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals and consumer products. Such data are given in the Market Research Future study, the results of which were published in early September 2024.

Packaging robots can perform repetitive tasks sequentially and quickly without any interruption, making them a suitable option for manufacturers who want to minimize costs and optimize operations. These machines have a number of significant advantages over traditional manual labor, the most significant of which are high efficiency, accuracy and performance. Analysts call the achievements in the field of robotic platforms another factor stimulating the development of the market. New technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning enable more advanced packaging systems with enhanced functionality. In addition, AI integration leads to smarter robots that can adapt to changing demands and operating conditions. The use of robotics also contributes to improving product quality: for example, such machines can be combined with various control systems. Collaborative robots designed to work alongside human operators are expected to contribute to the expansion of the industry as they improve safety and efficiency.

In terms of application, the packaging robot market is subdivided into areas such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, electronics, automotive, cosmetics and personal care products and others. The food sector secured the largest share in 2023. In terms of carrying capacity, the category "less than 10 kg" dominated: these robots accounted for about 37% of the total revenue. At the same time, the segments "50-150 kg" and "150-500 kg" demonstrate stable growth, which is explained by the demand for such machines in certain industries, including the automotive industry. The "over 500kg" sector, although a relatively small share, has significant potential in aerospace and construction.

Among the largest enterprises in the industry are named Kawasaki, ABB, Epson, Universal Robots, Rockwell Automation, Yaskawa, Denso, Mitsubishi Electric, Omron, Staubli, Kuka, Comau and Fanuc. Leading companies are investing heavily in research and development to improve the capabilities of packaging robots - increasing their performance, accuracy and functionality. Geographically, North America held the largest share in 2023 due to the active adoption of automation in the packaging industry. In Europe, the development of the market is due to strict requirements regarding the safety and quality of products. Significant growth is recorded in the Asia-Pacific region and Australia. South America, the Middle East and Africa are also showing robust demand, linked to higher investment in the food industry and drinks industry.

Analysts believe that in the future the industry will continue to develop. The CAGR (compound percentage CAGR) is expected to be 6.21%. As a result, by 2032, the volume of the global packaging robot market will rise to $3.5 billion.^[3]

Global warehouse robot market rises to $25.87 billion

In 2023, the global warehouse robotics market reached $25.87 billion. This industry is showing steady positive dynamics, as stated in a study by Market Research Future, the results of which were released in mid-July 2024.

Analysts are considering different types of solutions. These are, in particular, automated storage and extraction systems (AS/RS), conveyors and sorting devices, handling machines and various robotic complexes. The steady growth of demand in the market under consideration is due to several reasons. Among them are labor shortages, the need to reduce warehouse maintenance costs and efficiency efforts. In addition, the introduction of automation tools is stimulated by the rapid development of artificial intelligence and machine learning. As of 2023, virtually every major company uses warehouse automation software. Specialized software helps to keep records of stocks and process orders, which reduces the number of errors and, as a result, increases customer satisfaction.

Among the key players in the global warehouse robot industry are named Kardex, Murata Machinery, Honeywell International, Boston Dynamics, ABB, Swisslog Holding AG, Toyota Industries Corporation, SSI Schaefer and Vanderlande. Geographically, Asia-Pacific was the largest market for warehouse robots and automation in 2023. It is followed by North America and Europe.

The research says the industry is being boosted by the increasing penetration [[Internet of Internet of Things () IoT |[[Internet of Things (IoT)|Internet of Things (IoT)]]]]]]]]. Integrating these technologies into warehouse operations enables remote monitoring, rapid reporting, faster error resolution, and increased performance. Another important factor in increasing demand for warehouse robotics is the rapid growth of e-commerce, which has accelerated amid the pandemic. COVID-19 Large marketplaces operate a huge number of product items and process millions of orders every day. To ensure the efficient operation of such complexes, modern automation tools and robotic solutions are required.

The review notes that the warehouse robotics and automation market is characterized by the presence of many global, regional and local players. The regional market is highly competitive, and suppliers seek to increase their share in various ways. Companies compete in terms of reliability, cost and quality of robotics, as well as after-sales service. At the same time, the growth in the number of suppliers depends on market conditions, state support and the level of development of the region.

Warehouse robotics and automation are on the verge of a new revolution, fueled by growing e-commerce demand, increased labor costs, the need to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs, and technological advances in artificial intelligence, a Market Research Future study notes.

Analysts believe that in 2024 the costs in this area will rise to $29.85 billion. In the future, the CAGR (compound percentage CAGR) is expected to be 7.9%. As a result, by 2032, the global market for warehouse robots and automation platforms could reach approximately $54.81 billion.^[4]

A warehouse robot is presented, able to fold boxes on top of each other

German researchers have developed a self-balancing robot superior in ability to everyone else. The development became known on October 31, 2023. Read more here.

The first humanoid robot capable of walking stairs has appeared in Amazon warehouses

On October 18, 2023, Amazon announced the introduction of humanoid robots at its storage sites. The machine, called Digit, developed by Agility Robotics, is designed to reduce the burden on ordinary employees and automate routine operations. Read more here.

Woven robot grip weighing 130 grams is introduced, which holds 100-kg of cargo

On October 6, 2023, specialists from the Intellectual Robotics Research Center of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) announced the development of a soft and easy grip for robots that can hold loads of up to 100 kg. The product has a braided structure and weighs less than 150 grams. Read more here.

A warehouse robot has been developed and introduced in Russia that can ride around the room and carry 100-kg of cargo

In September 2023, the Cybersklad company presented its new solution for automating warehouse operations - a storage robot. 20 million rubles were invested in this project. Read more here.

A robot is presented that unloads 1000 boxes from a truck in an hour

In mid-March 2023, Mujin announced the TruckBot robotic system designed to unload trucks and shipping containers. The complex significantly increases the efficiency of this process, allowing you to unload up to 1000 product boxes from the truck per hour. Read more here.

2021: Global warehouse robot sales reach $4.65 billion

Global sales of warehouse robots in 2021 reached $4.65 billion, analysts at TBRC Business Research said. They were released on May 31, 2022.

According to experts, the volume of the market under consideration in 2022 will amount to $4.98 billion, and in subsequent years it will grow by 7.1%.

Sales of warehouse robots in the world for the year reached $4.65 billion

Robots used in warehouses automate important processes there. So, they move goods to the desired racks, sort them and in some cases provide storage. The researchers call the following companies the largest manufacturers of such robots (shares are not indicated):

• ABB;
• Amazon;
• Yaskawa Electric;
• Honeywell Intelligrated;
• Omron Corporation;
• Fetch Robotics;
• Fanuc;
• Bastian Solutions;
• Yamaha Robotics;
• Siemens AG.

The study notes that the robotic warehouse, unlike the usual one, allows you to reduce the participation of the operator at various stages of cargo processing. Warehouse robots cope with any action 3-4 times faster than humans. At the same time, they do not get tired, withstand significant loads and do not reduce performance. Automatic assistants allow you to optimize the movement of goods and inventory management, use areas more efficiently, and eliminate errors due to human factors.

According to analysts at TBRC Business Research, whose words are quoted in May 2022, despite significant technological progress, robotization of all warehouse processes is not yet possible. Even the most modern equipment to one degree or another requires human participation. An operator is still required when complex or variable actions are performed. Usually in a warehouse it is possible to robotize only a certain area or a specific process..^[5]

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