SSI SCHAEFER is presenting new software especially for stand-alone operation of the SSI LOGIMAT Vertical Lift Module. LOGIONE is a simple and intuitive storage location and article management system. The self-explanatory user interfaces support the operators and eliminate the need for time-consuming training. LOGIONE is now available for users to download free of charge from the intralogistics expert's website.

Digital warehouse management brings great benefits in terms of transparency and access times. But what if the Vertical Lift Module is not connected to a higher-level ERP system? Especially customers who do not have and do not need complex warehouse management benefit from very simple and fast storage and picking processes with LOGIONE. This makes the software a powerful solution.

The SSI LOGIMAT Vertical Lift Module has been a proven solution from SSI SCHAEFER for the storage and picking of small parts for many years. In addition to extensive basic functionalities, it offers a wide range of additional options and customization options to adapt it to special tasks, users or conditions. With LOGIONE, an option has now been added that has been tailored to the special requirements of a stand-alone solution.

All the basic functions of the Vertical Lift Module are supported by LOGIONE. This includes a simple search as well as fast storage and picking processes. The management of articles and storage locations is simplified by a visualization of the corresponding storage compartments. Important functions such as user management and the transaction log ensure transparency and help to optimize processes. The optional additional components for increasing ergonomics and efficiency - LOGIPOINTER, LOGITILT and LOGIWORK - are supported, as is the use of barcode scanners.

LOGIONE is an innovative solution and the first step towards digital transformation in the warehouse. Designed as a simple and clear system, it is easy to download and can be installed independently without additional hardware. Thanks to user-friendly dialogs and an intuitive interface, it is easy to learn to use - no extensive training is required.

The software supports the latest generation of Vertical Lift Module (SSI LOGIMAT type SLL) with a maximum of two access openings. Furthermore, the standardized LOGIDRIVER PLC interface must be installed and at least one 12" display must be available.

The SSI LOGIMAT is scalable and can be adapted to changing requirements. The Vertical Lift Module can be connected to a higher-level ERP system or even controlled directly from SAP - provided the corresponding software is available. It is also possible to integrate additional Vertical Lift Modules and manage them via the WAMAS Lift & Store intralogistics software.

With LOGIONE, SSI SCHAEFER has created a powerful and user-friendly software solution that enables entry into digital warehousing.

LOGIONE impresses with its modern and intuitive interface and user-friendly dialogs.

Specially designed for stand-alone operation of the SSI LOGIMAT Vertical Lift Module, LOGIONE offers easy-to-use storage location and item management.

• Expanding competencies in digitalization and technology with innovation start-up

• SupplyBrain GmbH provides data-based solutions in the very shortest delivery time

• Optimizing logistics processes, maintenance and energy consumption

Neunkirchen/Germany, Graz/Austria – In day-to-day logistics, companies are confronted with numerous challenges to which they must respond quickly and efficiently to avoid additional costs. The services of the recently founded innovation start-up SupplyBrain, part of the SSI SCHAEFER Group, strike a chord with countless logistics companies. SupplyBrain provides data-based software solutions that complement the company’s logistics software to optimize the core areas of the supply chain, increase efficiency and reduce operating costs.

In order to optimize the supply chain, SupplyBrain offers market-ready products with different approaches. A digital twin enables the companies to simulate alternative solutions and quickly determine the most efficient variant if, for instance, picking staff is absent due to illness or order structures change considerably due to varying market conditions. Another service component is the optimization of the maintenance strategy towards predictive maintenance. An AI-supported analysis of the utilization data determines the optimum maintenance window for the system components. Increasing energy efficiency is also part of the services offered by SupplyBrain. The optimized use of components is particularly important with regard to rising energy prices.

By founding SupplyBrain GmbH, SSI SCHAEFER invests in the expansion of their technology and digitalization expertise in the field of intralogistics. The start-up, led by Managing Director Mario Traar, consists of about 10 employees and is based in Graz, Austria, close to SSI SCHAEFER. Peter Edelmann, CEO of the SSI SCHAEFER Group, states: “We are excited that we act as a start-up incubator for SupplyBrain and thus expand SSI SCHAEFER's service portfolio to include rapidly available digital products and services. Systematic optimization of all processes and components strengthens the competitiveness of our customers and is an important step towards Intralogistics 4.0.”

SupplyBrain stands for the intelligent use of all the data which is accumulated in large quantities in the warehouse and often not used sufficiently as a basis for decision-making. The customers benefit from products and services that can be integrated smoothly into the company’s existing software. In addition to intralogistics software, SupplyBrain's solutions tap into artificial intelligence, simulation algorithms and real-time analysis of processes to provide a solid basis for short-term decisions for optimization in different areas.

Mario Traar, Managing Director of SupplyBrain, sees great potential in this area: “The future of logistics will not be constant expansion and coexistence of different systems, but rather the consistent networking and seamless integration of additional solutions. The products and solutions offered by SupplyBrain perfectly complement existing logistics software, such as WAMAS software by SSI SCHAEFER or SAP solutions.”

• New logistics concept for additional process automation upon request

• Higher flexibility in loading processes thanks to robotic solution

• Ensures constant, high-performance material flow with an optimum level of quality

If you would like to elevate your overhead conveying system to an even higher level of automation to render your warehouse processes more flexible and adapt them quickly to changing market requirements, you can now rely on a reliable robotic solution from SSI SCHAEFER. The adapted version of the flexible robotic solution, SSI Piece Picking, enables the automatic loading of pouches for the overhead conveying system SSI Carrier – consistent, precise and efficient. This ensures higher efficiency in material flows for warehouse operators.

Automatic loading concept

How this works: The items are transported in a load carrier e.g. bin or carton to the SSI Piece Picking cell on the conveying system. Thanks to the patented gripper technology, the gantry robot is able to pick items of various shapes and sizes quickly and safely. The robot takes the item from the load carrier – or a bin compartment – and places it onto a short conveyor belt within the robot cell. The conveyor belt transports the item to the transfer location, where it is gently transferred to the opened pouch of the SSI Carrier pouch sorter. The filled pouch is returned to the pouch sorter system and transported to its destination. 

The compact design of the robot cell and the loading station, which includes the infeed to the automatic transfer location, means that space can be used more efficiently. The automatic loading concept is 100% self-developed and produced in-house – therefore, it stands for high quality.

Gantry robots, the centerpieces of the solution

At the heart of the automatic loading station is the SSI Piece Picking robotic solution. It picks individual pieces fully automatically and ensures error-free product verification. This is made possible by AI-based object detection paired with an integrated weighing function. The outstanding performance of SSI Piece Picking is also supported by the associated software from the WAMAS portfolio. The software module is run as a completely integrated component of a WAMAS installation. Thanks to the fast integration of the robotic solution into a system – Plug & Play – the commissioning time is reduced considerably. Regardless of the industry, the robot application can be used for a wide range of goods and gets even better with every pick because the SSI Piece Picking solution gains experience with the help of machine learning.

Goals of automatic loading

The automatic loading station of the SSI Carrier pouches achieves various goals. Warehouse staff is relieved of monotonous, repetitive work and can focus on value-adding tasks. The warehouse operator gains more flexibility in their warehouse processes in order to better deal with the shortage of skilled workforce and adapt to changing market conditions. And last, but not least, system operators benefit from increased warehouse efficiency thanks to automatic loading. In other words, they receive a high-performance, top-quality 24/7, flow of goods with a solution that is 100% made by SSI SCHAEFER. 

The compact design of the robot cell and the loading station, which includes the infeed to the automatic transfer location, means that space can be used more efficiently.

Thanks to the patented gripper technology, the gantry robot is able to pick items of various shapes and sizes quickly and safely.

• Recording of sustainability performance indicators extended to 57 companies within the Group

• A renewed Bronze EcoVadis rating for the entire SSI SCHAEFER Group and, for 2025, for the first time, a Silver rating

• Opening of an automated distribution center with innovative technology in collaboration with Coop

The SSI SCHAEFER Group, a leading global solution provider for all areas of intralogistics, published its fourth voluntary sustainability report today. In doing so, the Group documents its consistent development regarding sustainability and underlines its commitment to taking responsibility beyond its own business activities. The report provides a comprehensive insight into strategic objectives, concrete measures and the ongoing implementation of the climate strategy established in 2023.

Despite the challenging regulatory situation for sustainability reporting, the SSI SCHAEFER Group is continuing its sustainability activities. The recording of CO₂ emissions was significantly expanded in 2024, from 22 to 57 companies in the SSI SCHAEFER Group, meaning that the reported Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions represent more than 80% of the economic activities within the scope of consolidation in terms of sales. In addition, a further four Scope 3 categories were reported on compared to the previous year. This work on the key figures creates an essential basis for a more targeted approach regarding sustainability aspects. 

“We are particularly proud of the Silver EcoVadis rating we recently received for the 2025 fiscal year, which places the Group among the top 15% of companies assessed; a success that motivates us to further increase our commitment,” says Peter Edelmann, CEO of the SSI SCHAEFER Group.

One particular customer reference in the reporting year involved the opening of one of Europe's largest automated distribution centers in a joint project with the Swedish food retailer Coop. The use of intelligent robotics and smart software has increased productivity and workplace safety. Various measures have also resulted in a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions. 

In terms of corporate culture, 2024 marked an important milestone: That year, the SSI SCHAEFER Group initiated the further development of its value-oriented corporate culture. Since then, employees across the organization have been actively shaping the “Fundamentals” – a compass of shared values that forms the foundation for responsible interactions with one another, with stakeholders and with resources. Thus, the Group is clearly positioning itself as a shaper of sustainable change in intralogistics and beyond. 

• SSI SCHAEFER combines robots, rack systems, work stations and IT environments to a high-efficiency complete solution

• New: Thanks to their combined climbing and driving capabilities, the agile ClimbBots optimize order processing

• Highest system availability thanks to full bot roaming

• Powerful picking performance with high storage density

• Short amortization period and flexible scalability

The new RackBot System Elevate option is a complete goods-to-person solution for the cost-effective automation of picking processes in rack systems with a height of up to 12 meters. With the expansion of their robotics portfolio, SSI SCHAEFER, a leading global solution provider for all areas of intralogistics, is living up to its claim of helping customers to meet growing demands with reliable and easy-to-integrate technology.

Full roaming – maximum flexibility and reliability

The process-related core of the new solution is a fully integrated swarm of autonomous mobile robots (AMR), ClimbBots. Thanks to their combined climbing and driving function, the ClimbBots be deployed on all horizontal and vertical routes in the warehouse. The roaming concept of the bot swarm allows each AMR to roam all aisles and areas in the warehouse and access any bin. If one of the bots fails, the remaining vehicles can take over its tasks at any time.

Since SSI SCHAEFER integrates the robots’ control into the warehouse's order management system, all required picking steps can be optimally sequenced and, if necessary, batched. As a consequence, the ClimbBots reduce the time between the creation of the order and the delivery of the bins to less than two minutes. In addition, the risk of picking errors is reduced to zero.

Thanks to their compact design, the bots can manage aisles as narrow as 900 mm. Their maneuverability makes transverse aisles unnecessary. And the available space can be used in the best possible way: For example, in a 12-meter-high system, up to 30,000 storage locations can be created on 1,000 m² of floor space. In such an environment, performance rates of up to 4,000 bins per 1,000 m² in one hour are possible. Depending on the contents being picked, 200 to 800 bins can be transported to the picking work station per hour.

Many years of industry expertise enable a wide range of use cases

“Until recently, semi-automated goods-to-person systems were primarily of interest to companies that could reliably forecast their picking processes. Anyone who wanted to invest in these solutions needed stable business development – usually over a period of seven to ten years,” explains Markus Külken, VP Product Line Material Flow at SSI SCHAEFER. “With RackBot System Elevate, this perspective changes fundamentally: We combine powerful, proven standard components to create a fully integrated solution with an extremely short payback period – in many cases, less than one year. This not only lowers the barrier to entry, but also enables sustainable business cases for semi-automated warehouse solutions in times of dynamic growth, seasonal fluctuations, or uncertain business conditions.”

Thanks to the high scalability of RackBot System Elevate, there is an extensive range of use cases are possible – from smaller rack warehouses with a few thousand bins to systems with six-digit bin quantities. This makes the option suitable both for entry into semi-automated warehousing and for business cases involving the integration of goods-to-person solutions into fully automated large-scale systems with high performance requirements.

“We can tap into decades of experience in the planning and construction of intralogistics systems. This means we can always offer our customers the solution that most sustainably meets their business goals,” explains Markus Külken. “This also applies to the goods-to-person environment, where, in addition to the new RackBot solutions, our proven miniload, shuttle and lift systems can also be used. What the layout of a new system ultimately looks like depends on the customer-specific needs.”

Comprehensive system integration

As a general contractor, SSI SCHAEFER supplies all components of the RackBot System Elevate solution and manages all sub-systems required to build a semi-automated picking warehouse. The automation experts pay particular attention to the integration of robot control with order management, regardless of which software solution the customer intends to use. In addition, there are numerous other integration services such as the connection of goods-in, distribution or production supply.

“Depending on customer requirements, we combine robots, rack systems, load types, work stations and IT environments to create powerful, overall solutions. Since we offer the necessary technologies and services from a single source, the customer has a single contact person for the entire system,” concludes Markus Külken, emphasizing how support is provided by local service teams. “The result is picking systems that can be quickly implemented and expanded, offering autonomous storage and retrieval of goods in different bins. This means that RackBot Systems can be ideally integrated into existing replenishment and picking processes.”

• SmartDrop increases the automation level of overhead conveying systems 

• New pouches with the drop function for automatic unloading

• Improved processes and shorter order processing times create added value

The SSI Carrier pouch sorter by SSI SCHAEFER, a leading global solution provider for all areas of intralogistics, achieves a higher level of automation thanks to the SmartDrop overhead conveying system module. The specially developed SmartDrop pouches facilitate automatic unloading directly at the work stations and reduce manual intervention to a minimum. The result: More efficient processes, shorter throughput times and a noticeable reduction in the workload for employees.

SmartDrop – this is how automatic unloading works

The pouch sorter moves the SmartDrop pouches along the rail system to the respective unloading stations located above the work stations. Once the SmartDrop pouch has reached the correct destination station, it is opened by the automatic unloading device and the item is guided to the work station. There, the items are scanned manually once more, packaged, and prepared for shipping. At the same time, the SmartDrop pouch continues on to the next closing station, where it is closed at lightning speed and is then ready to receive the next item.

Noticeably improved ergonomics at work stations

Automatic unloading not only improves processes, but also ergonomics at the shipping work station: Employees work entirely facing forward, without the need for major turning movements. The item arrives at the shipping table for further processing and can slide directly into a shipping carton. The wooden contact elements and the clear layout of the work station contribute to a pleasant working environment. Thus, there is only a single operating button to confirm an item. The generous storage space under the table provides room for individually required packaging materials, for example.

Advantages of SmartDrop

SmartDrop as an SSI Carrier module for the automatic unloading of pouches is a cost-effective solution that reduces the amount of manual product touches, leads to noticeably more ergonomic work and ensures higher throughput. In principle, automatic unloading is suitable for all types of items, whether in polybags or cartons. For companies seeking a further level of automation, SSI SCHAEFER also offers a robotic solution for the automatic loading of the pouches. 

SmartDrop as an SSI Carrier module for the automatic unloading of pouches is a cost-effective solution that reduces the amount of manual product touches, leads to noticeably more ergonomic work and ensures higher throughput.

The automatic unloading of pouches is suitable for almost all types of items, whether in polybags or cartons.

Swedish Agro Machinery AB, distributor and importer of farming machinery has decided to centralize its spare parts storage system and equip the new warehouse of 3,700 square meters with SSI SCHAEFER’s logistics solutions. Pallet and cantilever racks, shelves and SSI LOGIMAT® Vertical Lift Modules are parts of the solution. The result: a compact warehouse with up to 23,000 different parts and an overnight delivery.

In 2016, Swedish Agro Machinery took over the import of Claas products, a manufacturer of agricultural machinery, to Sweden and Norway. The new updated organizational structure needed a new facility to store spare parts efficiently. They chose to put it in Skåne Skurup, in the middle of one of Sweden's most fertile agricultural areas, also near Denmark and the center of the European continent. The challenge was, that they need to store parts in very different ways due to the various dimensions in the new warehouse. Swedish Agro already had realized some projects with SSI SCHAEFER in the past, so that is why they have been involved as a partner in the project since the very beginning.

Local presence is crucial for Swedish Agro. When an agricultural machine is on service, there should be no disruption, especially during the high season. That is why the company holds 25 workshops in the network with the extra focus on agricultural areas in Skåne, Västra Götaland, Östergötland and Uppland. Swedish Agro's commitment is to deliver the ordered spare parts for the next day if they are not in place locally.

Material flow supported by the new solution

The goods are delivered by trucks, unpacked at the work stations manually, sorted according to type and size and brought to different storage systems. Spare parts for agricultural machinery vary greatly in size, share and weight. It's everything from single bolts to input screws in the ten-meter class.

In fact, Swedish Agro needed ten different ways of storing. This includes long-span and cantilever racks for lying goods and compartments for storing standing moldings. This is very effective as some of the spare parts can be quite large. To utilize also the vertical space optimally, a narrow aisle has been set up with shelves. Smaller spare parts are stored in two SSI LOGIMAT Vertical Lift Modules, which accommodate around 16,000 items.

When goods are needed for an order, they are picked by a forklift or manually by an employee to be packed at the workstations for shipping. All orders received before 3.30 pm are delivered to the service workshops the following morning. This is possible thanks to dense logistics arrangements with overnight deliveries.

“Swedish Agro is loyal to its customers in maintaining quality and promised delivery terms. Our installation has been able to grow and develop with new opportunities, in line with the spare part's expansion. We are very happy to lead this project and support Swedish Agro with a system to perfect their material flow,” concludes Anders Jonasson, Sales Manager at SSI SCHAEFER.

With the new warehouse, Swedish Agro has strengthened their position by securing spare parts availability in the region and optimizing their capacities. Martin Gerdtsson summarizes: “The main reasons why we chose SSI SCHAEFER were that we really felt from the beginning that they already knew our needs through past cooperation and, of course, they had a solution for storing spare parts with a wide range of dimensions.”

Swedish Agro Machinery AB's new central warehouse in Skåne Skurup ensures overnight delivery capability.

The two SSI LOGIMAT® Vertical Lift Modules ensures the ergonomic storage and picking of around 16,000 mostly smaller items.

The narrow-aisle, which is set up with shelves, utilizes the vertical space optimally.

Cantilever racks provide space for storing long and bulky goods.

At a time when efficiency and flexibility are crucial in warehouse logistics, companies are faced with a pivotal question: How can growing needs and complex processes be optimally managed? The answer often lies in the interplay of intelligent hardware and powerful software. This is precisely where SSI SCHAEFER comes into play with the SSI LOGIMAT and WAMAS Lift & Store – a combination that not only optimizes processes but is also future-proof.

WAMAS Lift & Store offers optimum performance for your vertical lift modules. This makes it the perfect addition to the SSI LOGIMAT for precise control and management of items and orders. The software really comes into its own in applications with multiple machines: 

• Horizontal optimization: The software controls several vertical lift modules so intelligently that waiting times for operating staff are minimized. The alternating control of the machines ensures an impressive increase in efficiency. 

• Intuitive user interface: The integrated touch client enables simple operation, minimizes errors and ensures that staff are quickly trained – a major advantage in day-to-day warehouse operations. 

• Seamless integration: WAMAS Lift & Store can be easily integrated into the existing IT infrastructure and offers tried and tested interface technologies for maximum compatibility. 

A special feature is the manufacturer-independent functionality of the software. This means that existing vertical lift modules from other providers can also be integrated into the system, offering customers maximum flexibility. 

A part of the WAMAS portfolio

WAMAS Lift & Store is more than just a stand-alone software solution – it is part of the tried and tested WAMAS software portfolio. This combination offers tremendous benefits: 

• Regular updates: The software is continuously synchronized with the latest developments from the world of WAMAS. 

• IT security and performance: Customers benefit from the high standards associated with software that has been successful on the market for over 30 years. 

• Security of investment: With WAMAS Lift & Store, customers receive a solution that is not only equipped for today’s requirements, but also takes future developments into account. 

Flexibility and growth potential 

The requirements for warehouse logistics are constantly changing – and WAMAS Lift & Store grows with them. Customers can flexibly adapt the software using a corresponding interface, for example by integrating new hardware, such as scanners or RFID readers, or simply by connecting additional vertical lift modules. This ensures that the software remains future-proof and adapts to the company’s needs. 

The interplay makes all the difference

The efficient combination of SSI LOGIMAT and WAMAS Lift & Store offers companies a powerful, flexible and future-proof package. User-friendliness and simple implementation go hand-in-hand with the extensive possibilities of the software, which also performs complex tasks effortlessly. 

Let us take a look at other software solutions for the SSI LOGIMAT

In addition to WAMAS Lift & Store, SSI SCHAEFER offers a range of other software solutions that are specially designed for use with the SSI LOGIMAT vertical lift module and provide optimum support depending on the use case:

• LOGIONE: An intuitive stand-alone solution that is perfect for simple SSI LOGIMAT applications. It enables a quick start and is an excellent choice in the case of smaller projects or less complex requirements in particular. 

• connect:IT: An SAP-integrated solution allowing the seamless integration of the SSI LOGIMAT into existing SAP systems, ensuring maximum efficiency in environments where SAP is already heavily used. 

These software options complement the wide range of products and solutions by SSI SCHAEFER and offer individual answers to the specific challenges faced by companies. This way, our experts can select the software that best suits the individual processes and structures.

WAMAS Lift & Store is the perfect addition to the SSI LOGIMAT vertical lift module for optimum use.

The SSI LOGIMAT vertical lift module offers several software options that offer the best support for each respective application.

Apotea, Sweden’s largest online pharmacy, opened its new, highly automated warehouse in Varberg, Sweden, on June 17, 2025 – a state-of-the-art logistics center spanning 30,000 sqm, featuring a fully integrated automation solution from SSI SCHAEFER, a leading global solution provider for all areas of intralogistics. The project was successfully completed on schedule and is now ready for operation.

The new warehouse has been designed to meet Apotea’s growing needs, focusing on scalability, sustainability and faster deliveries to southern and western Sweden. The facility will be able to handle over 30,000 unique SKUs with an impressive volume flow – more than 50,000 orders and over 150,000 order lines per day, with the system capable of expanding to 70,000 orders daily as demand grows.

© Michael Jönsson / Vegafoto AB

“This new warehouse is equipped with a perfect automation solution developed in collaboration with SSI SCHAEFER. It makes us even more efficient and well-prepared for continued growth, but, above all, it means faster service for residents in southern Sweden,” says Pär Svärdson, CEO of Apotea.

The automation solution includes:

• SSI Cuby shuttle system with 174 shuttles and approximately 87,000 storage locations

• Automated small parts warehouse with nearly 45,000 storage locations as well as connected A-Frames (more than 2,800 product channels)

• A-Frame system for rapid processing of orders even at peak loads

• Integrated third party supplier picking robots for fast and precise order handling

• Advanced Pick Stations one-level and ergonomic work stations for gentle handling of sensitive products; Advanced Pick Stations are designed for future transformation into fully automated piece picking stations

• Conveying system connecting the entire facility, ensuring uninterrupted material flow

• WAMAS Warehouse Control System (WCS) logistics software, providing optimum support for a wide range of picking scenarios, and WAMAS Control Center, monitoring and controlling all processes – enabling warehouse management at the highest level

• Pick by Light to pick from pallets, facilitating efficient handling of larger volumes

• BD Rowa^TM Vmax dispensing robots for secure and automated handling of both prescription medications and non-prescription medications

The fully integrated system enables Apotea to manage the entire order flow automatically – from inbound to outbound – with high precision and efficiency.

“We are proud to once again be part of Apotea’s automation initiative, acting as the full-service provider of a fully automated warehouse solution that can grow with their future needs. Building on our successful project in Morgongåva, Sweden, the new logistics center will be highly automated from day one, with 100% of orders processed automatically. We look forward to continuing our close partnership and driving innovation in logistics together,” says Jenny Heinze, Head of Sales Nordic at SSI SCHAEFER.

Installation started in the third quarter of 2024, with commissioning taking place in conjunction with the inauguration on June 17, 2025.

Apotea, Sweden’s largest online pharmacy, opened its new, highly automated warehouse in Varberg on June 17, 2025. 
From left to right: Jenny Heinze, Head of Sales Nordic at SSI SCHAEFER; Mauro Lunardelli, Head of Business Unit Logistics Solutions at SSI SCHAEFER; Ann-Charlotte Stenkil, Chairman of the Varberg Municipal Council; Pär Svärdson, CEO of Apotea; Anna-Karin Dahlgren, Site Manager at Apotea Varberg; and Martin Andersson, Head of Business and Economic Development, Varberg Municipality.

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.

The distribution center operates with near-total automation, using state-of-the-art technologies. From goods-in to storage and store-friendly palletizing by robots, every process runs efficiently and seamlessly – across both ambient and chilled areas. The use of intelligent robotics and smart software not only boosts productivity but also improves workplace ergonomics and safety. 

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 30% 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.

The entire facility is managed by the intelligent WAMAS logistics software. As a central information platform, WAMAS enables seamless, data-driven monitoring and control of all processes – from incoming goods inspection to the finished shipping pallet. In addition, a resident maintenance team of around 80 technicians is on duty daily in shift operation. The team monitors, maintains, and optimizes the highly automated systems -from IT infrastructure to mechanical system components. With preventive maintenance and fast response times, these experts ensure maximum availability of the entire facility – 24/7, across multiple shifts.

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.

SSI SCHAEFER, the world’s leading provider of modular warehousing and logistics solutions, in cooperation with ORCA, the Philippines’ pioneering cold chain solutions provider, announced the opening of the country’s first world-class cold chain storage system in February 2020. In the heart of metro Manila’s industrial zone, the ORCA Taguig facility significantly increases the country's logistics capacity and preparedness for unforeseen events.

ORCA Cold Chain Solutions is the Philippines‘ first ever fully automated cold chain facility. It offers temperature-controlled logistics, warehousing and pre- and post-storage value added services to help food businesses and the agriculture industry prolong and maintain the freshness of their produce. Powered by Automated Storage Retrieval System (ASRS), the Taguig development was awarded Pioneer Status by the Bureau of Investments, under the Philippine Government Department of Trade & Industry.

ORCA Taguig has approximately 20,000 pallet positions of frozen storage in roughly a hectare footprint. This is an unprecedented feat and is made possible by the rack-clad technology of SSI SCHAEFER. With automation, ORCA Taguig can move up to 4,800 pallets in one day. The SSI SCHAEFER scope of supply comprises an impressive range from the fully automated high bay warehouse with earthquake and typhoon resistant rack-clad technology, conveyor technology, Get and Pick Stations (ergonomic goods-to-person workstations) to the logistics software WAMAS^®.

Currently, ORCA has three facilities in Metro Manila: Alabang, Taguig and the currently being built Caloocan. All three sites are strategically located in the capital of Manila and near ports and industrial zones. The Caloocan ORCA facility will also be fully automated and is currently being built jointly with SSI SCHAEFER.

ORCA handles frozen and chilled food products. Clients range from the Philippines‘ biggest fast food chains to exporters and importers and small food entrepreneurs. As a pioneer in the Philippine cold chain and supply chain industry, ORCA selected SSI SCHAEFER as a partner for its stellar track record in technology as well as in construction and even customer support.

Apart from the hardware, the SSI SCHAEFER supplied WAMAS warehouse management system provides real-time tracking of the goods. Aside from giving the clients of ORCA much peace of mind, it moreover allows them to efficiently track and move their goods according to a FEFO (First Expiry, First Out) system. Moreover, having accurate records ensures that all goods are accounted for, deterring pilferage, which is one other challenge that is unfortunately present in the country.

In a climate which has a lot of uncertainty, the technology and innovation provided by SSI SCHAEFER allow ORCA to reassure their clients with higher efficiency standards, accurate reporting, and quality customer service.

Agnes Degala, Vice President for Sales & Operations at ORCA Cold Chain Solutions, sums up the successful cooperation:

“ORCA is the first and only company in the Philippines to invest this heavily on what we call food infrastructure. With SSI SCHAEFER, we were able to make this grand vision a reality. As a sales head, we saw how customers gravitated to our brand because of the promise of automation. We also experienced firsthand the market perceive the value that innovation can bring. ORCA is indeed the only one of its kind in our country and together, we hope to create more of these world-class solutions for our nation.”