Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn, in partnership with warehouse automation specialist Swisslog, has opened a new automated Home Shop Centre (HSC) in Zwolle, the Netherlands.
Building on the success of its first automated HSC in Barendrecht, this second facility was built to affirm Albert Heijn’s commitment to enhancing e-commerce capabilities through advanced automation technologies.
The new Zwolle HSC has been designed to handle 5,000 orders each week.
The facility utilises a combination of robots and software systems to automate the collection and packing of groceries.
An AutoStore system, a robotic storage and order-picking solution, has been installed to enable fast and accurate order fulfilment.
What’s more, QuickMove conveyors have been introduced to facilitate the seamless movement of goods within the warehouse, while SynQ software is hoped to enhance overall warehouse management.
Giulia Colombi, head of EMEA region, Swisslog, added: “Our partnership with Albert Heijn in developing the Barendrecht and Zwolle HSCs showcases the potential of automation in revolutionising grocery fulfilment.
“We are proud to support Albert Heijn’s vision of innovation and sustainability through our advanced technology and expertise.”
With around 300 robots, the overall efficiency of the Zwolle HSC site is set to increase significantly by reducing the manual workload for employees and ensuring improved service and fresh product handling for customers.
Sustainability is another key focus of the new facility, with the HSC housed in a BREEAM-certified building.
The integration of energy-efficient robotics and modern control technology will also help ensure minimal energy consumption, aligning with Albert Heijn’s environmental goals.
Albert Heijn and Swisslog first collaborated on the Barendrecht HSC, which the two companies claimed set a new standard for automated grocery fulfilment.
This project involved automating the warehouse with the AutoStore system, handling 45,000 orders weekly.
