Locus Robotics, a developer of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for fulfilment warehouses, has acquired Waypoint Robotics, a manufacturer of heavy-duty, omnidirectional AMRs.
The acquisition broadens Locus’ product line of AMR solutions designed to address use cases ranging from e-commerce, case-picking and pallet-picking to scenarios requiring larger, heavier payloads and fulfilment modalities.
“As order fulfilment and labour shortages continue to grow around the world, the acquisition of Waypoint Robotics will accelerate our ability to meet these global needs in just months rather than years, helping us drive the digital transformation of the warehouse,” said Rick Faulk, CEO of Locus Robotics.
Waypoint’s Vector and MAV3K AMRs can be fitted with a variety of modules and attachments, making them versatile and scalable for a host of applications. Furthermore, they are interoperable with other robots, and can communicate with machines and IoT devices throughout a facility.
DHL, which recently signed a 2,000 AMR deal with Locus as part of its efforts to digitalise its supply-chain processes, welcomed news of the acquisition.
“This acquisition, which adds a larger, heavier-weight autonomous robot capability to the Locus portfolio, is a good reflection of how they continue to address the customer requirements at the heart of their strategy,” said Sally Miller, CIO, DHL Supply Chain North America.
“I believe it will open up promising new opportunities in our partnership, support DHL’s ongoing efforts to deploy technologies that improve our customers’ supply chains, and contribute to the continued advancement of a competitive robotics market.”
Locus Robotics also recently announced that it has secured US$50m (£36.5m) in additional funding from existing investor Tiger Global Management to facilitate continued growth and expansion into new markets globally.
“At a time of increasing volumes and ongoing labor shortages, this new round of funding underscores how critical flexible, scalable, intelligent robotics automation has become to the warehouse and the supply chain,” said Faulk.
The additional funding adds to the investment made by Tiger Global in Locus’ series E round in February.
