In context
In early 2025, warehouse automation was rapidly evolving to meet multichannel retail demands, with robots increasingly handling both storage and order fulfillment. Exotec's launch of its Next Generation Skypod system marked a significant step in making automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) more versatile and space-efficient.
What was reported
Exotec introduced the Next Generation of its Skypod system, featuring a more compact robot, a workstation for robot-to-robot picking, a high-throughput exchanger, and denser storage. These design changes, combined with new software, increase throughput at a single workstation by 50% and improve storage density by up to 30% compared to the previous generation.
A key differentiator is the system's ability to handle both each and case picking, addressing multichannel needs with one solution. It natively supports value-added logistics features that typically require external equipment, such as integrated buffering, perfect outbound sequencing, and pick-and-pack operations. This reduces the need for conveyors, sorters, external storage, and packing stations, shrinking the system footprint.
Exotec has deployed the system globally in stealth mode over the past two years, securing over 20 projects worth $400 million with customers including Oxford Industries and E.Leclerc. At E.Leclerc Seclin, the solution cut customer pickup time from 10-15 minutes to under 5 minutes.
Why it mattered
The Next Generation Skypod demonstrated how ASRS could evolve from simple storage to an integrated fulfillment hub, potentially reshaping warehouse design and reducing reliance on peripheral equipment. Its success with major retailers signaled a growing trend toward flexible, high-density robotics that can handle complex logistics processes.
“When designing the Next Generation Skypod, our goal was to create a solution that would set the industry standard of operational excellence and elegance for the next decade and beyond.”
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2025-02-09 · “Exotec launches new robot-based automated storage and retrieval system”