Imagine nearly tripling warehouse picking speeds while simultaneously improving employee working conditions—all achieved in just over three months. This isn't science fiction, but the real-world achievement of automotive tools distributor ISN (Integrated Supply Network) through autonomous mobile robot (AMR) technology.
Facing growing business demands and the need for greater efficiency, ISN partnered with Körber Supply Chain and AMR provider Locus Robotics to modernize its warehouse operations. As North America and Britain's largest independent automotive tools distributor serving dealers and professional DIY enthusiasts, ISN had already implemented Körber's warehouse management system (WMS) over the past decade. The AMR implementation marked the next evolutionary step in operational optimization.
A 266% Leap in Picking Efficiency
The most dramatic improvement came in order picking speeds. By deploying Locus Robotics' AMR solution, ISN achieved a 266% increase in picking efficiency , resulting in faster order fulfillment, improved customer response times, and enhanced overall productivity. The robots' autonomous navigation and seamless WMS integration allowed human workers to focus on higher-value tasks like quality control and exception handling.
Enhanced Employee Satisfaction
Beyond operational metrics, the AMR implementation significantly improved workplace conditions. Traditional warehouse picking—often monotonous and physically demanding—was transformed as robots assumed the most labor-intensive aspects of the job. This shift enabled employees to engage in more meaningful work while higher efficiency translated directly into wage increases , boosting both satisfaction and retention.
Rapid Deployment: 106 Days to Operation
The project's accelerated timeline proved crucial to its success. From initiation to full implementation, the AMR system became operational in just 106 days —a feat made possible through close collaboration between Körber Supply Chain, Locus Robotics, and ISN's internal teams. This rapid deployment enabled quicker return on investment and more agile adaptation to market demands.
AMRs as Growth Accelerators
The technology's impact extends beyond immediate efficiency gains. By optimizing warehouse operations, ISN gained capacity to handle increasing order volumes while meeting diverse customer needs. The system's flexibility allows for quick operational adjustments as business requirements evolve. Perhaps most significantly, the AMR implementation has enhanced ISN's market positioning, differentiating the company in a competitive industry.
ISN's experience demonstrates how AMR technology has become integral to modern warehouse management. Through strategic partnerships, businesses can leverage robotics to achieve operational excellence while simultaneously improving workforce conditions—a combination that promises to reshape supply chain management in coming years.