Knowles Logistics has stepped up its automation drive with a major investment in robotic co-packing technology aimed at boosting efficiency and productivity across its operations.
The UK supply chain specialist, which operates across the food, beverage and packaging sectors, said the new system would strengthen its ability to respond to changing customer demands while improving speed, flexibility and accuracy.
The co-packing robot, supplied by German manufacturer KUKA and customised by Cambridge-based automation firm Granta, has been designed to handle flexible repackaging of food products and packaging formats.
The technology will allow Knowles Logistics to create multipacks and bespoke promotional configurations more efficiently while adapting quickly to varying customer requirements.
The company said the robot arrives fully operational from KUKA’s factory, with Granta’s modifications enabling it to integrate directly into existing warehouse and co-packing processes.
Knowles said the investment would help deliver a more automated co-packing service capable of increasing precision and productivity across its supply chain operations.
Chief executive Alex Knowles described the investment as an important step in the company’s wider automation strategy.
He said: “It provides us with the flexibility to quickly reconfigure product formats to meet customers’ changing needs while simultaneously improving efficiency and productivity.”
Mr Knowles added the move reflected the company’s continued focus on delivering “smarter, faster, and more sustainable supply chain solutions”.
The new robot forms part of a wider programme of automation and digital investment across the business over the past year.
Knowles Logistics recently introduced autonomous cleaning machines including robotic scrubber dryers and industrial vacuum sweepers operating across its warehouse facilities.
The company said the machines have reduced the need for manual cleaning, allowing staff to focus on higher-value operational tasks.
It has also deployed inventAIRy XL, an inventory management drone designed to automate stock checking and improve accuracy, traceability and cycle counting across warehouse operations.
The business said the technology had proved to be a “game-changer” for its perpetual inventory teams and customer service offering.
Alongside automation investments, Knowles Logistics has also expanded its electric vehicle fleet as part of wider sustainability plans.
The company said it would continue exploring further digital and automation initiatives to improve operational efficiency, sustainability and customer service across its end-to-end logistics network.