2022 BEST 20 Warehouse Automation Companies Worldwide

These are the BEST Warehouse Automation Companies Worldwide:

 

 What are the main Warehouse Automation Suppliers? 

     

• DEMATIC
• SSI SCHAEFER
• VANDERLANDE
• INTELLIGRATED
• KNAPP
• DAIFUKU
• WITRON
• MHS GLOBAL
• TWG LOGISTICS
• SWISSLOG
• BASTIAN SOLUTION
• SYMBOTIC
• GEBHARDT
• KORBER
• MURATA MACHINERY
• FORTNA
• FIVES
• SYSTEM LOGISTICS
• SAVOYE
• KADEX MLOG 

      

Source: Modern Materials Handling

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The industry has experienced remarkable growth once again, with total revenue climbing from $29 billion to $31 billion 🚀🚀

Despite facing challenges such as Amazon's reduced spending on their FC network, rising global inflation, increased capital costs, and the negative impacts of the war in Ukraine, logistics automation companies still achieved an impressive growth.

A Research and Markets report found the market grew from $17.32 billion in 2022 to $19.78 billion in 2023 and predicts it will continue to boom over the next few years and is estimated to reach $33.59 billion by 2027.

This growth was primarily driven by the unstoppable demand for e-commerce and persistent labor shortages, which fueled the need for more and more warehouse robotics companies. 

In the top 3, Daifuku retained their leading position with a 3.6% increase, expanding the gap from the second-ranked Dematic who experienced a 5.5% decrease.

Honeywell claimed the third spot for the first time, despite reporting a -20.5% retraction.

Joining the list for the first time this year are three companies that specialize in automated high-density storage solutions.

These companies are Stow Group ($1.04 billion), with their rapidly growing Stow Robotics business, the resurging Symbotic ($593 million), and the innovative Autostore integrator Element Logic® ($527 million).

We must also acknowledge the impressive rise of FORTNA, the result of the successful merger between MHS and Fortna. They soared from 8th to 6th place, boasting a combined revenue of $2.1 billion. With their ambitious growth plans and the potential addition of THL Partners with AutoStore™, it wouldn't be surprising to see them break into the top 5.

Now, let's turn our attention to the remarkable transformations within the industry.

These companies have either exceeded expectations or showcased their consistent growth (which shouldn't come as a surprise if you read my post from 2021):

• Bastian Solutions achieved an incredible 81.9% growth in the first year under Aaron Jones's leadership

• AutoStore™, the talk of the town when it comes to high-density storage, also experienced an impressive 78.1% increase. With Mats Hovland Vikse at the helm, they continue to flourish.

• Mecalux, a long-standing participant on this list, continues their impressive year-over-year growth under the exceptional guidance of Javier Carrillo. They reported a highly respectable 33.9% growth, resulting in a remarkable 106% growth over the past three years, the highest among all businesses!

• The biggest surprise came from SSI SCHÄFER, which faced a -48.2% revenue decrease, dropping from No. 3 to No. 8 amid significant leadership changes. SSI Schaefer has always been recognized as a pioneering business in the industry and a former market leader. Will they be able to turn things around? Hopefully YES.

  

What are the main Warehouse Automation Suppliers? 

# DEMATIC

   

   

DEMATIC is one of the largest provider of warehouse automation worldwide.

The US based company  offers warehousing and inventory management solutions. Dematic's headquarters are in Atlanta, GA.

With a 21.2% growth rate in 2021, Dematic ranked as the number one materials handling systems supplier in the world with revenue of $3.2 billion. (Wikipedia)

The corporation has approximately 11,000 employees with production and research centers in the US, UK, Mexico, AU, BE, CN, IT, FR, ES, LT, and CZ.

Across six continents, it serves clients ranging in size from micro to multinational corporations. 

Since November of 2016, Dematic belongs to the KION Group company that reached €10.3 billion in 2021.

        

Dematic offers a wide variety of products and services for warehouse automation:

 

      Picture from Dematic's web

Dematic offers 360° solutions like AMRs, AGVs, pallet load AS/RS, mini-load, shuttle systems including  AutoStore consulting and implementation, high-speed conveyor and sortation, pocket sorters, palletizing and depalletizing and the Dematic IQ software suite.

Check these articles:  Types of ASRS Warehouse What is an automated guided vehicle?

 

# SSI SCHAEFER

SSI Schaefer is a privately held company that provides a wide variety of warehouse automation systems, allowing it to provide complete automation solutions.

In 2021 the group sales revenues grew 30% compared to 2020 reaching $3.73 billion. 

 

The company has completed numerous interesting projects for a wide range of industries and clients all over the world. Here are a couple of examples

Unilever automated warehouse: For Unilever, one of the world's largest consumer goods companies, SSI Schaefer designed and implemented a highly automated warehouse. The warehouse, which includes automated storage and retrieval systems, conveyor systems, and robotics, has helped Unilever significantly improve distribution efficiency and productivity.

Amazon logistics center: In Germany, SSI Schaefer built a large-scale logistics center for Amazon, complete with automated material handling systems and warehouse automation technologies. The facility has assisted Amazon in increasing the speed and efficiency of its order fulfillment operations.

Tesco distribution center: SSI Schaefer designed and built a cutting-edge distribution center for Tesco, one of the UK's largest retailers. The center, which houses a variety of automated material handling systems, has assisted Tesco in increasing the efficiency and accuracy of its distribution operations.

Automotive logistics solutions: SSI Schaefer has also provided logistics solutions for a number of major automakers, including BMW, Daimler, and Volkswagen. These solutions have included automated material handling systems, warehouse automation technologies, and logistics optimization software.

Do not miss  these articles:  What are the main warehouse automation trends? 20 Advantages of Warehouse Automation

 

# VANDERLANDE

In 2021, VANDERLANDE was again among the largest warehouse automation vendors worldwide.

Vanderlande belongs to the Toyota Advanced Logistics Group. 

 

Vanderlande provides a variety of subsystems and warehouse automation solutions. In August 2022, Vanderlande has announced a partnership with Kollmorgen to for their automated guided vehicle (AGV) applications.  

Robotics and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are essential developments in logistic processes, and Vanderlande's ADAPTO technology optimizes floor space while boosting storage density.

For efficient and cautious selecting and packing, Smart Item Robotics (SIR) can be included.

Furthermore, automated order-picking systems can increase accuracy to 99.99%.

Vanderlande provides scalable solutions (evolutions) such as HOMEPICK, STOREPICK, FASTPICK, and AIRPICK based on individual needs. Line and loop sorters are also available to boost productivity, throughput, and delivery accuracy.

According to the company's commercial report for fiscal year 2021   

"Vanderlande achieved record results in FY2021 despite the challenging times arising from the corona pandemic.  Parcel and Warehousing continued to grow in line with the resulting e-commerce boom. The company will keep making significant investments in developing and improving its logistic solutions."

# INTELLIGRATED

   

Intelligrated is a division of Honeywell's Safety and Productivity Solutions (SPS) group. 

 

The company reported that Intelligrated's sales increased by near 45% percent in 2021 reaching 2.94 M€.

On the other hand, 2022 results will be flat or declien due to "lower volume leverage and Intelligrated project inefficiencies". 

Intelligrated provides a wide range of automated material handling solutions for distribution, warehousing, and manufacturing.

Conveyor systems, automated storage and retrieval systems, order fulfillment systems, sortation systems, and robotics are examples of these solutions.

In addition, the company offers software and controls, integration services, and aftermarket support. Intelligrated's solutions are intended to improve material handling operations' efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.

   

# KNAPP

  

  

The KNAPP Group is a world-renowned supplier of intralogistics and manufacturing automation solutions with a particular focus on the healthcare, apparel, grocery, and industrial markets.

 

KNAPP counts on more than 5,000 members  in 53 offices around the world helping to shape the intralogistics industry of the future.

KNAPP reported a turnover of just over 1B€ in its most recent fiscal year, which ended on March 31, 2021.

 
KNAPP, which began as a two-person operation in 1952, is now recognized as a leading provider of cutting-edge integrated logistics solutions. industry customers with the best possible support.

• Material handling systems: KNAPP offers a range of material handling systems, including conveyor systems, sorting systems, and storage systems, to help businesses automate their logistics processes and improve efficiency.

   

 Picture from KNAPP site

 

• Warehouse automation: KNAPP provides a range of warehouse automation solutions, including automated storage and retrieval systems, automated guided vehicles, and robotic systems, to help businesses optimize their warehouse operations.

• Software solutions: KNAPP offers a range of software solutions for logistics optimization, including warehouse management systems, order picking systems, and transportation management systems. These solutions help businesses to manage their logistics processes more efficiently and effectively.

• Consulting and engineering services: KNAPP also provides consulting and engineering services to help businesses design and implement customized logistics solutions that meet their specific needs and requirements.

# DAIFUKU

  

DAIFUKU is a publicly traded organization with nearly 12,000 workers.

The company's principal activity is the design, production, installation, and maintenance of material handling and logistics equipment and systems.

Daifuku delivers material handling equipment to warehouse situations as well as non-warehouse environments (manufacturing lines, semiconductor clean rooms, airport baggage handling).

 

# WITRON 

 

WITRON is a privately held business with roughly 5,100 employee with 2021 turnover of 1.05 billion Euro. 

WITRON creates, implements, and manages custom intra-logistics solutions - highly dynamic order picking systems - for retail and industry.

Everything from logistics consultancy and logistics design to the realization of complete storage systems, order picking systems, warehouse software, warehouse management, PLC software, conveyor systems, stacker cranes, and service and system operation is available from a single source.

Warehouse solutions, whether highly automated, semi-automated, or manual, are all modular and built on standardized system components.

   

# MHS GLOBAL

   

  

MHS Global and Fortna have combined their brands to form a single, powerful brand that will be known as FORTNA from now on. 

 

MHS (without FORTNA) had 2021 revenue of $1.5 billion, up from $1.05 billion.

MHS and Fortna are industry leaders with deep talent and focused experience in designing, developing, and delivering transformative omni-channel and parcel distribution solutions

In a world where ever-increasing consumer demands are constantly met with supply chain disruption and other challenges, FORTNA provides customers with the partnership and solutions they need to meet tomorrow's demands.

 

# TGW LOGISTICS

 

TGW LOGISTICS is a private corporation with about 4,400 workers.

The TGW brand is particularly well-established in the EMEA area and made 924 million euros in revenue during the fiscal year 2021/22. T

TGW plans and implements highly automated, future-proof fulfilment centers around the world in the core industries of Fashion & Apparel, Grocery, and Industrial & Consumer Goods, as well as service and maintenance during ongoing operation.

TGW develops and manufactures all components in-house, from the software to the control system and robotics to the mechatronic modules.

The business made 924 million euros in revenue during the fiscal year 2021/22. The majority of profits are retained and reinvested in the business.

Recently, SAFELOG and TGW signed a strategic partnership agreement to foster their close collaboration and increase TGW Autonomous Mobile Robots offer

TGW counts on important customers in different industries like PUMA, COOP, MANGO, etc

More TGW in the news: 

• eGrocery specialist Picnic counts on TGW once again 

• TGW speeds up Belgian grocery specialist UpFresh

    

# SWISSLOG

 

SWISSLOG belongs to the KUKA Group.

From traditional high bay warehouses to cutting-edge robot-based material handling solutions

SWISSLOG revenue in 2021 was 650.9 M€ representing a 23,4% increase compared to 2020.

Swisslog provides a wide range of traditional and innovative automated warehousing technologies that provide quality, flexibility, and efficiency

Swisslog is currently the leading distributor and provider of AutoStore solution installation.

 

The company offers further goods-to-person systems, such as the PowerStore pallet shuttle, the CycloneCarrier, and the CarryPick automated guided vehicle (AGV).

    

# BASTIAN SOLUTIONS

 

BASTIAN SOLUTIONS  is a part of the Toyota Advanced Logistics North America.

BASTIAN SOLUTIONS offers Mobile robots, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), automated guided vehicles (AGV), goods-to-person technology, sortation, and conveyors.

Bastian is one of the main AutoStore implementation and distribution partner.

 

# SYMBOTIC

SYMBOTIC  is a provider of warehouse automation.

 

For the full fiscal year 2022, Symbotic reported revenue of $593.3 million, reflecting 136% growth year over year, a loss of $139.1 million, and an adjusted EBITDA loss of $89.8 million.

With its end-to-end, A.I.-powered robotic and software platform, Symbotic is reimagining the supply chain

Symbotic reimagines the warehouse as a strategic asset for the world's largest retail, wholesale, and food and beverage firms

Symbotic enables companies to move goods with unrivaled speed, agility, accuracy, and efficiency by leveraging next-generation technology, high-density storage, and machine learning to solve today's complex distribution challenges.

  

# GEBHARDT

 

GEBHARDT is a family-owned business with regional companies like Gebhardt Fordertechnik, Gebhardt Systems, and others.

GEBHARDT delivers:

• Warehouse Technology Systems 
• Handling, Moving, and Sorting
• Workstations
• Autonomous Guided Vehicles
• Goods Lifts
• Software 

 Gebhardt deploys its shuttle system, the OLS Shuttle, at client sites directly and through resellers in third-party projects.

Gebhardt also creates its Storebiter load handling equipment (hybrid shuttle/AGV), pallet AS/RS systems, and a suite of warehouse software. Notable clients of Gebhardt include Miele, Avnet Logistics, and Jager Direkt.

  

# KORBER

   

KORBER is a privately held firm (foundation-owned).

Korber Supply Chain's warehouse automation solutions include: 

• Supply Chain Software
• Voice, Vision & Mobility
• SAP Software Consulting & Implementation
• Autonomous Mobile Robots
• System Integration & Automation
• Material Handling Equipment
• Palletizing
• Parcel Logistics

KORBER in the news:

• Körber and Accenture to digitise TVH global warehouse network
• Körber to provide automated solutions for new DB Schenker distribution hub
• Körber is a Leader in the 2022 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Warehouse Management Systems

 

# MURATA MACHINERY

   

 

MURATA MACHINERY  is a privately held industrial services and manufacturing firm

Finland's CIMCORP and Sweden's AGVE are part of the Murata’s logistics and automation division.

Murata Machinery offers a variety of warehouse automation systems, such as classic AS/RS, shuttle systems, conveyors and sortation, and warehouse transporters (AGVs).

CIMCORP is well-known for its tire-handling gantry system, whereas AGVE is a well-established provider of AGVs.

 

# FORTNA

   

 

Private equity fund Thomas H. Lee Partners backs privately held FORTNA.

The Fortna framework consists of consultancy, design, planning, sourcing, execution, and lifecycle services

Utilizing best-fit automation technology and intelligent software, the Fortna Distribution Optimization Framework designs and delivers solutions. Fortna's framework uses Optimization ScienceTM to facilitate timely, precise, and financially rewarding order fulfillment via design-build solutions.

 

 

Depending on client requirements, the business receives subsystem mechatronics from several vendors

As a general contractor, Fortna is accountable for project completion, subsystem compatibility, and overall facility optimization.

Fortna has as clientele many Fortune 500 organizations.

In April 2022  Fortna and MHS Global merged to establish a multibillion-dollar corporation.

  

# FIVES

 

FIVES is a privately held company that designs and manufactures machineries, process equipment, and production lines.

The Smart Automation Solutions division of Fives designs, manufactures, and installs high-speed sorting systems and handling and automation solutions with high added value for the e-commerce, distribution, and general industry sectors.

 

A significant portion of Fives' warehouse automation revenue comes from parcel and other logistics companies including DHL, Austrian Post, and La Poste Group.

  

# SYSTEM LOGISTICS

 

SYSTEM LOGISTICS is a Krones Group member.

 The intralogistics division of System Logistics focuses on the food & beverage and grocery industries reaching near 130 M€ in 2022. 

The company is vertically integrated, with System Logistics engineering, manufacturing, and installing the majority of its deployed systems.

Among the famous projects of System Logistics are Coca-Cola Iberian, Coca-Cola HBC, Constellation Brands in Mexico, and Toscano Supermercati in Italy.

# SAVOYE

SAVOYE is a Noblelift Intelligent Equipment subsidiary

Savoye employs more than 800 people worldwide and provides warehouse automation and software solutions. 

In 2021, Savoye posted 191M€ in turnover and strengthened its team, hiring over one hundred employees. .

Before Noblelift purchased Savoye, it was a subsidiary of Groupe Legris. Historically, Savoye's product offering comprised the Intellis, Prodex, and a-SIS product lines.

Recent market demand for the X-PTS shuttle system has been exceptionally high. The micro-fulfillment center for Coop Liguria, the BELISOFT Logistics distribution facility, and the multi-phase modernization for Bigben Interactive are some of Savoye's most notable customer projects.

 Accordingly with Rémy Jeannin, CEO of Savoye: 

“Despite the ongoing health crisis, Savoye has achieved impressive growth. Together, despite market uncertainty, we have proved that we were able to support our customers throughout the world with efficiency and performance, while continuing our efforts in terms of development and innovation” 

Savoye in the news:

• Savoye to boost automation in KSA's booming logistics and supply chain market

• Savoye increases global footfall with 26% growth, breaks record turnover at Dhs796 million

   

# KARDEX MLOG

    

Kardex is a global intralogistics industry partner and a leading supplier of automated storage solutions and material handling system.

Kardex employs around 1650 people in over 30 countries.

Kardex is made up of two independently operated divisions: Kardex Remstar and Kardex Mlog

Kardex Remstar creates, manufactures, and supports dynamic storage and retrieval systems.

Kardex Mlog provides integrated materials handling systems and automated high-bay warehouses.

The two divisions collaborate with their clients throughout the life cycle of a product or solution.

This starts with assessing client requirements and continues through planning, implementation, and maintenance of customer-specific systems to assuring high availability and low life cycle costs through customer-oriented life cycle management.

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