The Future of Intralogistics: Exotec and ILS Logistics in Eastern Europe
In an era where automation reshapes the logistics landscape, the recent partnership between Exotec, a leader in warehouse automation, and ILS Logistics, a prominent Polish logistics company, stands out as a pivotal development. Under this collaboration, Exotec’s Skypod robotic systems are to be implemented across ILS’s sites in several Central and Eastern European countries, including Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic. This initiative aligns with ILS’s ambitious growth plans and establishes a strong foundation for future operations.
The Partnership and Its Vision
The collaboration taps into the strengths of Exotec and ILS, leveraging advanced technology and logistics expertise. Exotec’s Skypod system was selected for its modular design, rapid implementation capabilities, and scalability—features that position ILS to adapt efficiently to evolving market demands. With this partnership, ILS aims not just to streamline its logistics processes but also to improve its market share and talent acquisition as it expands its operations across Eastern Europe.
The Inaugural Installation
The journey began at ILS’s headquarters in Zakroczym, Poland—a critical hub for distribution across Poland and the nearby Baltic states. This site became the first to receive the Skypod system, which consists of 200 autonomous robots capable of managing up to 60,000 storage containers. The successful testing of these robots in December 2024 marks a significant achievement in warehouse automation.
Collaborative Execution
Exotec, in conjunction with Polish integrator A1 Sorter, is overseeing the entire implementation process. A1 Sorter has a long-standing relationship with Exotec, making it a reliable partner in executing these ambitious projects across ILS’s 12 locations, serving a diverse array of sectors, including automotive, food, and chemicals. As construction progresses, plans are already in motion to implement the Skypod system across ILS’s entire portfolio by 2026, marking a new era for logistics in the region.
Expanding Capacity and Efficiency
One of the standout features of Exotec’s Skypod system is its ability to significantly enhance warehouse throughput. With the new automated systems in place, ILS’s capacity to process all stock-keeping units (SKUs) is projected to be five times higher than that of its competitors. This transformation is crucial for ILS, especially for its parent company, Inter Cars, who seeks to improve its logistics capabilities to meet customer demands more effectively. The goal is to ensure reliable supply, even offering deliveries up to three times a day.
A Broader Vision for Eastern Europe
The strategic deployment of Exotec’s technology will not be confined to Poland. ILS is also planning additional projects, including a new warehouse in Stęszew, Poland, scheduled to go live in September 2026. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the final efficiency acceptance of the new system at the RS Brașov site in Romania, expected to take place in September 2025. These expansions highlight ILS’s commitment to optimizing its logistics infrastructure across Central and Eastern Europe.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Rafał Tomaszewski, IT Systems and Solutions Manager at ILS, highlights the advantages of using Exotec’s Skypod technology. "Thanks to Skypod, we can implement a solution that is tailored to our organization’s requirements and supports our long-term growth," he states. The integration of this system is a testament to ILS’s readiness to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in its growth markets.
Krzysztof Skiba, Chief Sales Officer at A1 Sorter, emphasizes the transformative potential of automation in logistics. He acknowledges the significant impact that Exotec’s technology can have on long-term logistics efficiency and scalability.
Andreas Stöckl, EVP Sales Central Europe at Exotec, echoes this sentiment, illustrating how the Skypod system addresses the logistical challenges faced by ILS, especially in meeting the demanding delivery schedules set by Inter Cars. “With our Skypod system, we provide them with the optimal support needed to successfully implement their detailed and concrete business strategy,” he says.
A New Era for Logistics in Eastern Europe
The deployment of Exotec’s Skypod system across ILS Logistics’ sites marks a significant shift in the logistics capabilities of companies operating in Eastern Europe. As automation continues to redefine operational standards, this partnership represents not only a technological upgrade but also a strategic move towards achieving a more competitive edge in the logistics landscape. By harnessing advanced robotics and automation, ILS is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of modern logistics while effectively catering to the needs of various industries.