In context
In mid-2023, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) were gaining rapid traction in manufacturing and logistics, driven by labor shortages and the need for flexible automation. As deployments scaled, the bottleneck shifted from robot hardware to local service and support capacity, making channel expansion a strategic priority for AMR vendors.
What was reported
Otto Motors, a provider of autonomous mobile robots, announced the Otto Certified Dealer program to deliver “high-quality service and support locally throughout North America.” The initiative brings over 215 regional offices and 2,000 technicians into the AMR service ecosystem, addressing rising demand for AMR deployments.
The company trained and certified select material handling equipment organizations to provide solutions and support matching Otto Motors’ quality standards. Certified dealers completed an intensive program covering design, installation, and maintenance of AMR systems.
Named dealers include Distribuidora LARCE (Costa Rica), Eastern Lift Truck Systems Group (eastern U.S.), MH Equipment, Papé Material Handling (western U.S.), and Toyota Material Handling Systems. Each brings regional reach and expertise in material handling, with some offering 24/7 service.
“We have hand-selected the top material handling equipment organizations in the continent to locally deliver the technical support and maintenance needed to deploy, maintain and scale automation systems.”
Why it mattered
The move signaled a maturing AMR market where vendor success depends on scalable service networks, not just robot technology. For manufacturers, certified dealer coverage reduces downtime risk and eases adoption of AMRs, accelerating automation in warehousing and production.
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-05-24 · “Otto Motors reveals North American sales and service expansion with certified dealers”