Warehouse robots are being deployed at two major distribution centres in Japan as businesses look to tackle labour shortages, improve efficiency and speed up order fulfilment.
Warehouse automation specialist Exotec has commissioned two new Skypod systems for food distributor Mitsubishi Shokuhin and industrial supplier Trusco Nakayama.
The installations, delivered in partnership with IHI Logistics Industrial Systems, mark a further expansion of Exotec's operations in the Japanese logistics market.
Mitsubishi Shokuhin has introduced the technology at its new Food Service Distribution Centre in Soka, which handles almost 13,000 product lines.
These include food products, alcoholic beverages and professional supplies, with the facility serving a wide range of customers.
The Skypod system has been installed to reduce the distances warehouse employees need to travel, improve picking efficiency and automate operations involving goods stored at ambient temperatures.
The investment is also intended to help address labour shortages and improve working conditions while maintaining customer service.
Exotec said the installation marks the first deployment of its Skypod technology in Japan's food distribution sector.
The project forms part of Mitsubishi Shokuhin's wider strategy to develop a logistics network capable of supporting business growth through to 2040.
Meanwhile, Trusco Nakayama has introduced a fully operational Skypod system at its new Planet Aichi logistics centre, the company's largest distribution facility.
Covering approximately 89,000 square metres, the site handles industrial tools, consumables, safety equipment and other supplies.
It has been designed to accommodate a growing product range, with the number of stock-keeping units expected to exceed one million in the coming years.
The automated system includes nearly 32,000 storage bins, 37 robots and four picking stations.
The technology is intended to improve order accuracy, increase productivity and make better use of available warehouse space.
Both installations reflect growing investment in warehouse automation as Japanese distributors face pressure to increase throughput while managing workforce shortages.
Exotec said the technology could help businesses handle more complex distribution requirements while reducing the physical demands placed on warehouse employees.
Romain Moulin, chief executive of Exotec, said: “Japan is one of the world’s most demanding and innovative markets when it comes to logistics.”
He said the two installations demonstrated how warehouse automation could be adapted to different sectors, from food distribution to industrial supplies.
“The new systems at Mitsubishi Shokuhin and Trusco Nakayama demonstrate Skypod®’s ability to meet very different requirements while providing a concrete response to the challenges of productivity, labour availability and service quality.”
The company is now looking to build on the two projects as it expands its presence in Japan.
The developments highlight the increasing role of robotics in food supply chains and industrial distribution, as businesses seek to improve efficiency and maintain reliable deliveries.