SSI SCHAEFER Supports Coop in Opening one of Europe’s Largest Automated Distribution Centers
After an intensive planning and implementation phase, Coop’s new state-of-the-art distribution center in Eskilstuna, Sweden, is now fully operational. Covering an area of 77,000 m², it is one of the largest automated distribution centers in Europe. In this new central facility, SSI SCHAEFER supports Coop with smart logistics software – enabling a system in which 95% of the picking processes are handled automatically. This advanced solution enables the leading Swedish grocery retailer to supply more than 800 of its own stores efficiently, sustainably, and with a strong focus on ergonomics.
Maximum efficiency through tailored automation
Coop is one of Sweden’s leading grocery retailers, with over 800 stores and a strong focus on sustainability and quality. Prior to the project, the company’s logistics were largely manual – a model that could no longer meet rising demands for efficiency, reliability, and business growth. To address these challenges, Coop decided to build a centralized, highly automated distribution center designed to increase efficiency while also creating more sustainable and ergonomic working conditions.
Mauro Lunardelli, Head of Business Unit Logistics Solutions at SSI SCHAEFER, emphasizes: "Our close collaboration with Coop demonstrates how innovative intralogistics solutions create significant value for companies, employees, and the entire supply chain. Thanks to our extensive expertise in complex retail projects, as well as our leading technology, software, and service competence, we were able to implement a future-proof, custom-fit solution from our modular system."
Sustainability as an integral part
In addition to boosting efficiency, the distribution center also plays a key role in supporting Coop’s sustainability strategy. Key measures include:
Electric trains for goods transport that significantly reduce CO₂ emissions.
One of Sweden’s largest rooftop photovoltaic system, estimated to cover around 50% of the distribution center’s annual electricity needs, while also reducing its carbon footprint. The remaining energy demand is met through other renewable energy sources.
Ergonomic work stations that promote employee health and ensure a safe working environment.
Örjan Grandin, CEO of Coop Logistics AB and Deputy CEO of Coop Sverige AB, highlights the importance of the project: "With the new facility, we’re creating a modern work environment that combines innovation, high-performance order picking, and a future-oriented corporate culture. These changes strengthen not only our growth as a company but also our appeal as an employer."
Seamless automation for a complex product range
A central element of the highly automated facility is the SSI Case Picking system for efficient order fulfillment, which is responsible for building store-ready mixed pallets. Nearly all process steps are fully automated:
After the pallets are stored in the high-bay warehouse by a total of 25 SSI Exyz pallet stacker cranes in the ambient and chilled areas, the goods are depalletized by ten robots. The individual units are then transferred into two automated small parts warehouses with over 600,000 tote and tray storage locations, served by about 280 lifts. The storage locations are managed by around 700 SSI Flexi shuttles, which handle triple-deep storage and retrieval.
The 3D-MATRIX Solution® enables storage, buffering, and sequencing within a single system and ensures 100% sequencing at maximum speed. The required sequence is specified and controlled by the in-house SSI SCHAEFER logistics software WAMAS. A total of 34 palletizing robots assemble the retail units precisely and layer by layer into pallets ready for dispatch. The SSI Pack Pattern Generator, as part of the WAMAS software, focuses on the stability, volume efficiency, and store-friendly design of pallets. The system processes a wide range of products and, thanks to the high degree of automation, enables particularly efficient and error-free picking - ideal for the requirements of a large-volume food retailer such as Coop. After interim storage in the dispatch buffer, the pallets are transported to the shipping area in the correct loading sequence and loaded for onward transportation.
Future-proof logistics for a dynamic industry
The highly automated distribution center sets new standards in terms of quality, scale, and long-term stability. Covering an area of 77,000 m², it ranks among the largest facilities of its kind worldwide – a logistics megaproject that defines new benchmarks. By strategically implementing state-of-the-art technologies, the facility ensures consistently high process security and delivery quality, even under changing market and environmental conditions. Automated processes, intelligent control systems, and continuous high precision create a resilient logistics structure – a key competitive advantage in an ever-evolving market environment. With the opening of this distribution center, Coop sets new standards for the future of automated and sustainable logistics – in close partnership with SSI SCHAEFER. “By automating key processes, we increase our overall productivity, ensure high and consistent quality, and improve our ability to deliver on time. At the same time, we reduce our environmental impact: With a higher fill rate on our pallets compared to a manual warehouse, the solution lowers our transport costs and our total environmental impact. We are very satisfied with the results and the collaborative partnership with SSI SCHAEFER,” summarizes Ulf Axelsson, Managing Director at Coop Terminals.