DB Schenker, a global logistics service provider, has announced a partnership with German automation company Körber to deploy robotic and automated solutions at its new 18,000m² (193,750ft²) distribution hub in Prague.
The agreement will involve the deployment of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) by Körber, as part of what the two companies have described as a ‘highly-automated logistics ecosystem’.
The pair claims this is one of the biggest AMR deployments of its kind in Eastern Europe and will reportedly involve the installation of a wide range of automation and software components.
According to DB Schenker and Körber, these solutions will include a large conveyor system, value added service lines, a packaging area, a cross belt shipping sorter and more than 100 highly-integrated AMRs delivered by Geek+, a partner of Körber.
Körber’s software solution will be used to oversee the assignment of workflows to support efficient goods-to-person picking activities.
What’s more, approximately 15 workstations will be equipped with advanced put-to-light and pick-by-light systems for improved ergonomics and performance, according to DB Schenker.
The site’s ‘automation ecosystem’ will be designed so systems are integrated and intertwined to improve warehouse performance and customer services.
“DB Schenker has experienced outstanding success since its inception as an early innovator in the Eastern European market,” said Ingo Brauckmann, executive vice president contract logistics and SCM Europe at Schenker.
“With Covid-19 driving more consumers online, we are well placed to increase and improve the service offering for our rapidly growing consumer base.”
The two companies have partnered on several previous projects in warehouse management software, automation, voice and simulation and hope to have the automated solutions operational at the Prague site in early 2023.
“Our research has found that more than three out of four businesses make digitisation and process automation a strategic priority,” said Dirk Hejnal, CEO at the Körber business area supply chain.
“At the same time, the issues around workplace safety and labor retention have never been greater.
“That’s why we at Körber look forward to continuing our long-standing collaboration with Schenker.”
The relationship between Körber and DB Schenker dates back to 2006.
