Exotec and E80 Group: A Game-Changing Partnership in Warehouse Automation
In an era where efficiency and speed are critical, the recent strategic partnership between Exotec, a leader in warehouse robotics, and E80 Group, a specialist in integrated intralogistics solutions, is poised to redefine the landscape of warehouse automation. This collaboration aims to introduce a joint offering that seamlessly merges Exotec’s innovative Skypod Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) with E80 Group’s robust suite of pallet-handling systems.
A Unified Automation Ecosystem
At the heart of this partnership is the ambition to create a unified automation ecosystem that integrates case, pallet, and item handling into a single scalable system. This integrated approach seeks to minimize complexity by eliminating the need for redundant equipment and systems, thereby streamlining warehouse operations significantly. For businesses in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) and grocery sectors, this means reduced operational costs, enhanced resilience, and accelerated fulfillment across various channels.
Addressing Supply Chain Challenges
In today’s fast-paced market, supply chains are increasingly pressured to consolidate operations—bringing together e-commerce, retail, and wholesale functions under one roof. The partnership between Exotec and E80 Group is a strategic response to this need. Instead of relying on segmented tote and pallet systems that often require complex integrations, the combined solution facilitates a seamless flow of goods, ensuring efficient navigation from inbound to outbound logistics.
Focus on CPG and Grocery Industries
Recognizing the unique hurdles faced by CPG and grocery industries, Exotec and E80 Group are concentrating their initial efforts on these key sectors. Warehouses in these fields must often manage high volumes of full pallets, mixed cases, and individual items swiftly. The new integration aims to address these challenges head-on, offering specialized solutions that cater to the operational demands of these industries.
Shared Philosophy and Vision
Romain Moulin, co-founder and CEO of Exotec, emphasized the shared vision driving this partnership. He noted that both companies are not just leaders in their respective technologies but also share a commitment to reducing operational complexity through innovative design. “We heavily invested into this partnership with E80 Group," he stated, "to design a joint solution that will set the new standard for end-to-end automation in the grocery and beverage industries and beyond.”
Exotec’s Modular Solutions
Exotec is renowned for its modular, turnkey warehouse solutions built around versatile components, with the Skypod system serving as the key engine for case and item picking. The proprietary Warehouse Execution Software, Deepsky, acts as an orchestrator within this system, effectively managing the movement of products across various automated equipment both inside and outside the warehouse.
E80 Group’s Expertise
Complementing Exotec’s capabilities, E80 Group excels in providing comprehensive intralogistics solutions tailored for production plants and distribution centers. Their offerings include everything from the unloading of raw materials and finished products to efficient picking, warehousing, and automated shipping processes, all coordinated through their sophisticated SM.I.LE80 software platform.
A New Model for Automation
Gabriele Grassi, deputy chairman at E80 Group, articulated the transformative potential of this partnership, stating, “This partnership marks an important step forward for the intralogistics industry. Together, we’re not just integrating two systems; we’re rethinking how goods can move seamlessly from production to store shelves or e-commerce.”
Looking Ahead
The integration of Exotec’s flexible AS/RS with E80 Group’s end-to-end solutions is expected to create a groundbreaking model for warehouse automation. This development not only aligns closely with evolving consumer demands but also sets the stage for future innovations in retail logistics, paving the way for smarter, more resilient supply chains.