In context
In late 2025, European logistics operators faced persistent labor shortages and rising warehouse costs per square meter, prompting interest in automation that maximizes existing space without major infrastructure investment. The activation of Libiao Robotics' first AirRob system in Europe marked a notable step in bringing high-density goods-to-person automation to the region.
What was reported
Libiao Robotics' AirRob automated storage system became operational at CTPark Ostrava-Poruba in Czechia, implemented by local partner Sluno for logistics provider Geis Group. AirRob uses coordinated vertical-climbing pick robots and floorbots to deliver goods rapidly to workstations, operating in narrow 850mm aisles and servicing racks up to eight meters high without requiring major infrastructure changes.
Initially installed as a proof-of-concept, the pilot proved successful and was commissioned into real operations. Geis director of logistics Pavel Křížek noted that AirRob's accuracy and speed allow the company to free up warehouse capacity and avoid immediate building expansion. Sluno's Petra Tylová highlighted strong demand since an earlier trial, emphasizing the system's ability to optimize existing spaces by increasing capacity in both width and height.
AirRob is designed for retrofitting, with minimal impact on floor load or surface, and rapid deployment. Libiao's global head of sales Ronan Shen called the Czech project a significant milestone, noting that thousands of Libiao's mini-yellow floorbots already operate across Europe.
“We realise that the capacity of logistics spaces is not inflatable, so we asked for a solution that can work independently even in extremely narrow aisles and at the same time can service racks up to eight meters high.”
Why it mattered
This deployment demonstrated that dense storage and fulfillment speed can justify automation even where labor is available, offering a scalable model for retrofitting existing warehouses to meet e-commerce demands without costly new construction.
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2025-12-19 · “Libiao Robotics unveils first AirRob automated warehouse in Europe”