More automation needed in warehousing as demand for capacity increases

The push for warehouse automation was already at full speed before the outbreak of COVID-19, but the global pandemic has forced companies to change their automation strategies from “good-to-have” to a “must-have.” 

The last couple of months have been quite challenging for most, if not all, supply chain managers as the pandemic introduced a new, complicated dynamic for distribution centers and factories. On the one hand, as most brick-and-mortar shops closed and consumers shopped more and more online, global e-commerce sales increased to nearly $27 trillion in 2020. On the other hand, rising demands, along with the need to keep workplaces safe and distanced and handle COVID-related absences, has led to understaffed facilities, which in turn has also resulted in many customers not receiving their goods on time. 

Several businesses have thus adopted a variety of measures such as staggered work schedules and greater automation. More companies will need to make automation and robotics a high priority as they look to drastically increase productivity and capacity to better cope with the COVID-19 crisis and rising demands and achieve long-term success.

By increasing the number of robots working in warehouses, companies can reduce human workers and effectively distance them during their shifts. In addition, robots can run inventories with higher precision and efficiency while minimizing touchpoints during a delivery and shipping process.

Nevertheless, wider adoption of robotics will be critical for businesses wishing to remain competitive and efficient. In fact, it is not only about introducing robots but also about learning to collaborate with them which, in turn, raises the need to hire more technologically inclined warehouse workers.

Overall, it looks like the near future of supply chain management will bring flexibility, adaptability, and scalability to distribution centers and warehouses. To take advantage of this, companies must adopt smart systems and effective strategies while facilitating real-time collaboration between robots and employees.

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