Imagine being able to test cutting-edge logistics technologies in a real warehouse environment before making major investments. Kenco Logistics, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is making this vision a reality with its newly expanded Innovation Lab.
The Innovation Lab 2.0: A Real-World Testing Ground
The company has unveiled a 10,000-square-foot dedicated warehouse space that serves as a proving ground for emerging supply chain technologies. Unlike theoretical evaluations, this facility simulates actual operational environments, allowing comprehensive testing without disrupting live business operations.
"Even small-scale pilots of promising technologies can be disruptive in today's fast-paced logistics environment," said Kristi Montgomery, VP of Innovation and R&D at Kenco. "This lab lets us validate technologies in realistic conditions before our clients commit to major investments."
Why Physical Testing Matters
The lab addresses three critical industry challenges:
- Rapidly changing market demands
- Growing client expectations for digital transformation
- The explosion of new (and often overhyped) technologies
"Meeting service-level agreements while evaluating new solutions creates operational tension," Montgomery explained. "Our controlled environment removes this friction while delivering accurate performance data."
Key Benefits for Supply Chain Leaders
The Innovation Lab offers four strategic advantages:
- Risk Mitigation: Validate ROI before deployment
- Faster Implementation: Reduce technology adoption timelines
- Operational Efficiency: Optimize processes and sustainability
- Competitive Edge: Early access to transformative technologies
Technology Partners and Applications
Kenco has partnered with several technology providers to create this testing ecosystem:
NextShift Robotics
Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for flexible warehouse picking solutions that adapt to changing demand patterns.
Stocked Robotics
AI-powered platform that transforms conventional material handling equipment into autonomous fleets.
LogistiVIEW
Augmented reality smart glasses that project picking instructions directly into workers' field of view.
JDA and HighJump
Leading warehouse management systems for optimizing inventory control and order fulfillment.
Building the Future Supply Chain
Beyond technology testing, Kenco aims to create an innovation ecosystem connecting vendors, clients, consultants and academia. The company plans to expand the lab's capabilities and partnerships to drive broader industry transformation.
"We're committed to leading supply chain digital transformation," said Denis Reilly, Kenco's President and CEO. "This lab demonstrates our dedication to delivering validated, cutting-edge solutions that create tangible value for our clients."
The Innovation Lab represents a strategic investment in supply chain evolution, positioning Kenco as both a technology validator and industry thought leader. As logistics operations grow increasingly complex, such real-world testing environments may become essential for separating technological promise from practical performance.