Exotec has announced that its UK partner LAC Logistics Automation has signed a contract to deploy Exotec’s Skypod system to iForce, the UK’s premier solutions provider for multi-channel fulfilment and returns.
LAC Logistics Automation’s new customer acquirement will accelerate Exotec’s expansion into UK market through the partnership. This is Exotec’s first major UK customer and represents a landmark deal for the French business, which was ranked 8th in the Financial Times FT 1000 list of fastest-growing European companies in 2022.
Exotec’s systems integrator partner in the UK, LAC Logistics Automation, was the driving force behind the deal, using its extensive knowledge of the industry and positive standing in the UK market to secure the contract. LAC will take charge of the supply and installation of the Skypod system, in close consultation with Exotec, at iForce’s 800,000 ft2 flagship facility in Corby, Northamptonshire, with the system due to go live in Q4 of 2022.
Skypod is an order picking system with robots that can climb racks up to 12 metres in height and retrieve products autonomously, before delivering totes to human-staffed or automatic picking stations. Racks are fully scalable, so storage capacity can be increased when required, or adapted to the architecture of the warehouse. Robots can also be rapidly added to increase throughput during peak periods.
Skypod also maximises storage density per square metre of floor space, without compromising speed of retrieval or flexibility. The system can operate 24/7/365 without impacting performance.
Remy Malchirand, VP of Sales Western Europe at Exotec, said: “Securing iForce as our first UK customer is a hugely significant moment for Exotec as we continue to expand our offering in the UK market. iForce has an impressive track record in providing tailored, tech-enabled fulfilment and returns solutions to a range of prestigious clients, so we’re delighted to be working with such a strong player in the field.
“This deal is also testament to the relationship we have with LAC Logistics Automation, who have provided invaluable support since we first began our partnership in 2020 and were so integral to this customer win. We both recognise the challenges that companies in retail, warehousing and distribution face relating to labour, warehouse space, throughput and the need to meet intense customer demand for a wide variety of products, so we’re excited about helping iForce achieve its goals.”
Mike Hilton, Chief Sales Officer at LAC Logistics Automation added: “We are proud to be working together with Exotec to bring the Skypod system to iForce. It is clear that Skypodhas transformed logistics operations in multiple business sectors across the globe due to its unique offering of speed, performance and flexibility. It was only a matter of time before the UK jumped on board, with iForce leading the way.”
Malchirand concluded: “Exotec has ambitious plans for the UK market, where we see huge potential for robotics technology in warehousing and logistics. We look forward to helping iForce transform their operations and see this customer win as the first of many in the UK.”
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