In context
In early 2023, warehouse automation was still largely the domain of large enterprises, with only about 15 percent of the world's warehouses automated. Smaller retailers and fulfillment operations continued to rely on manual processes, limiting their ability to compete on speed and cost. AutoStore's launch of Pio aimed to change that by bringing proven robotic storage technology to the underserved small and medium-sized business (SMB) segment.
What was reported
AutoStore, a warehouse automation company, unveiled Pio (short for “Product In/Out”), an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) described as a “plug-and-play version” of its cube storage technology. Pio is specifically designed for SMBs in sectors like apparel, sporting goods, crafts, and cosmetics, offering a low-investment entry point through a pay-per-pick service model.
Under this model, retailers pay a fee per item picked, while Pio owns and maintains the robots, ports, and software. Users only need to purchase the product bins and frames. The system is modular, scalable, and runs on standard plug-and-play software that integrates with common online retail and shipping platforms.
AutoStore reported that Pio systems were already operating successfully at several high-profile retailers in Europe, and the system was being made available in North America to support fast-growing independent retailers.
“Only 15 percent of the world's warehouses are automated, and fulfillment operations at smaller retailers are still largely manual.”
Why it mattered
Pio represented a significant step toward democratizing warehouse automation, enabling smaller businesses to adopt robotics without heavy capital expenditure or additional floor space. By lowering the barrier to entry, it promised to level the competitive playing field and accelerate the adoption of ASRS technology across a broader segment of the manufacturing and retail supply chain.
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-01-16 · “AutoStore launches new robotic system for warehouses”