Freespace Robotics Gears Up for Expansion with Matthews Automation Solutions
Freespace Robotics, an innovator in autonomous storage and order fulfillment systems, is making significant strides in the logistics sector through its partnership with Matthews Automation Solutions. Recently, Matthews, a division of Matthews International, expanded its investment in Freespace, marking a pivotal moment in their collaboration. This includes the purchase of a flagship Freespace ASRS (automated storage and retrieval system) for deployment at Matthews’ newly launched Atlanta center.
A Successful Showcase at ProMat 2025
The recent announcement follows a successful partnership at ProMat 2025, where Freespace drew attention in Matthews Automation Solutions’ exhibit. The event proved to be a fertile ground for networking as logistics professionals, integrators, and facility operators expressed keen interest in next-generation, high-throughput automation solutions. Standing out among the competitors, Freespace won the coveted Start Up of the Year award for its innovative high-density cube design.
Building Future Prospects at MODEX 2026
Looking ahead, Freespace plans to further exhibit its innovations alongside Matthews Automation Solutions at MODEX 2026. At this event, they will unveil enhanced capabilities and new deployment models designed to cater to various warehouse needs from the first to the last mile. This strategic move signifies the companies’ commitment to revolutionizing order fulfillment processes in an ever-evolving supply chain landscape.
Addressing Industry Challenges
Gary Cash, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Matthews Automation Solutions, commented on the partnership’s significance. He stated, “Freespace Robotics addresses key industry challenges—modularity, system interoperability, and rapid deployment.” This sentiment underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in navigating complex logistics hurdles while maintaining customer satisfaction.
The integration of Freespace’s innovative platform into Matthews’ operations will serve as a living showcase of their full-stack solution. This integration tightly couples advanced robotics with Matthews’ proven warehouse execution system, known as Nexus.
Nexus WES Software: A Seamless Integration
Nexus WES software orchestrates inbound and outbound workflows, inventory management, and sequencing tasks through seamless integration with Freespace hardware. This system provides real-time insights and control, allowing operators to manage numerous functions from a single dashboard. Such efficiency can significantly streamline warehouse operations, ultimately enhancing order fulfillment.
Karl Sanchack, COO of Freespace Robotics, emphasized the value of their collaboration, stating, “Matthews has been a valuable strategic partner, and their increased investment and system purchase reinforce the real-world demand for a smarter, more unified approach to warehouse automation.” This highlights the increasing customer desires for solutions that offer flexibility, performance, and scalability.
Revolutionary High-Density ASRS Cube Design
Freespace Robotics’ high-density ASRS cube is reimagining order fulfillment. By consolidating sortation, sequencing, buffering, each-picking, and storage into a compact, modular design, it is ideally suited for both new and existing facilities. Its intelligent “Carrier” robots can efficiently navigate deep storage lanes in under 40 seconds, performing simultaneous put-away and retrieval tasks.
Collaborations with Academia and Tech Industry
The innovative design was realized through a collaboration with Carnegie Foundry, a unique AI and autonomous robotics venture studio, backed by experts from Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center. This partnership has enabled Freespace to launch a disruptive technology that challenges conventional warehousing systems.
Flexible and Sustainable Architecture
The system architecture supports vertical and horizontal expansion and is capable of handling goods up to 100 pounds, accommodating both small items and traditionally non-sortable packages. Maintenance components are located outside the cube, and the rail-powered design eliminates the need for batteries. This optimizes uptime, safety, and sustainability, while simplifying the maintenance of robotic carriers and exit systems like lifts and conveyors.
Enhancing Throughput Across the Fulfillment Process
From cross-docking to last-mile staging, Freespace’s solutions allow warehouse operators to achieve higher throughput throughout the order fulfillment process, simplifying operations while maximizing space efficiency. This transformative approach is essential for businesses looking to remain agile and competitive in an increasingly demanding market.
Backed by Industry Leaders
With strong support from industry leaders like Matthews International, US Steel Corporation, NFI Industries, and the Carnegie Foundry, Freespace is well-positioned to scale operations. Their mission is to deliver a new class of automation solutions designed for adaptability, performance, and resilience, meeting the evolving needs of warehouse operations.
Freespace Robotics is undoubtedly on a trajectory of growth, bolstered by strategic partnerships and cutting-edge innovations that redefine the future of order fulfillment and warehouse automation.