Lyreco has completed a €25m overhaul of one of its key logistics hubs, introducing a fleet of robots to transform operations and boost efficiency.
The workplace products and services supplier has modernised its Villaines-la-Juhel site in north-west France, a major distribution centre responsible for handling around 60% of the 50,000 parcels it ships daily across the country.
The upgrade, which began in 2021, includes the construction of a new 3,000 sq m facility and the integration of an advanced robotic system developed by warehouse automation specialist Exotec.
At the centre of the transformation is Exotec’s Skypod system, with more than 100 robots now managing the storage, organisation and movement of parcels ahead of dispatch.
The technology has been designed to improve productivity and service quality while also enhancing working conditions for staff.
Lyreco said the system uses automated sequencing of outbound flows alongside advanced algorithms to optimise sorting and pallet building, helping streamline the preparation of large volumes of orders.
New ergonomic palletisation stations have also been introduced to make handling tasks easier and safer for operators.
The Villaines-la-Juhel hub is one of Lyreco’s most strategic logistics sites, and the investment forms part of a wider push to modernise operations and strengthen performance.
The company said the programme underlines its commitment to operational excellence, while also creating a safer and more efficient working environment for employees.