Office Depot: Flexible automation

When Office Depot decided to consolidate three distribution centers and a crossdock facility into one, new state-of-the-art DC in Newville, Pa., the office supplies retailer looked for an automated materials handling solution that was efficient and flexible. More importantly, they wanted a system that would deliver a competitive edge in the marketplace.

They found that edge in a goods-toperson picking solution featuring two different mobile robots (Kiva Systems, 781-221-4640). One robot handles cases while a larger robot moves pallet loads in the facility that went live just a few months ago.

Betting a part of your distribution strategy on robotic materials handling may seem like a risky move, especially given the conservative nature of retail distribution. But, Office Depot is convinced that the time has come for robotics in the DC; after three decades on the manufacturing line, robotics technology is proven, reliable and, says Office Depot, a potential game changer.