Amazon has long been known to use robots in its warehouses and now, Walmart says that they will be doing the same thing. Like always, Amazon is forcing other companies to adapt towards automation and digitalization to stay competitive.
Amazon had a Head Start with Its Purchase of Kiva Systems in 2012
According to the story by Tech Crunch, Amazon has been able to stay strong despite multiple factors within the industry like supply chain problems, labor shortages, and the pandemic. Due to Amazon's adaption, other companies like Walmart are now trying to adapt as well.
Amazon purchased Kiva Systems back in 2012 giving it a head start but despite this, Walmart is also going aggressive when it comes to automation. When compared, however, Walmart's track record was described as "spotty" after the company abandoned its shelf-scanning systems in the case of the Bossa Nova robotics startup.
Symbotic to Scale Its Robots to All 42 Distribution Centers
Symbotic, a Massachusetts-based company, had a better fate with plans to go public via SPAC, according to its announcements in 2021. This was partly due to Walmart adding warehouse robotics to 25 different locations.
Both companies announced a deal expansion wherein Walmart's 42 distribution centers will be getting Symbotic systems installed. Although Walmart trusts the systems, the deal is not an easy overnight one.
Symbotic's Timeline for Walmart Robot Expansions
As per Symbotic, the rollout could take a total of eight years to finish and as Tech Crunch notes, the robotics landscapes "are on track to look extremely different in just under a decade." As per the SVP of Walmart, they are confident that it is time for their regional distribution center network to scale the use of Symbotic's technology.
It was also stated that in order to organize and optimize their inventory, high-speed robotics and intelligent software is needed. They also noted that the customers will be able to get their products more quickly and seamlessly through Symbotic Systems.
Multifaceted Systems of Symbotic
The company says that the system will help them revolutionize how they "receive and distribute products to stores." Tech Crunch notes that Symbotic systems are similar to Berkshire Grey in that they are multifaceted.
The multifaceted systems includes a combination of mobile robots that are Kiva-like to help move inventory around as well as robotic arms used for various attachments. Symbotic notes that the projected time is still being followed.
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What Symbotic Plans to Do with Walmart
According to Business Wire, the AI-powered chain company will be offering "end-to-end software-enabled high-density robotics platform" in order to help Walmart modernize. The company aims to increase inventory capacity as well as accuracy when it comes to receiving and shipping freights.
As per Chairman, President, and Chief Product Officer of Symbotic, Rick Cohen, the expansion of partnership will help reinvent the "traditional warehouse and distribution of consumer goods across the supply chain."
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Written by Urian B.
