Kerry Logistics deploys robots to meet rising e-com demand

Kerry Logistics Network has begin with trials of using robots at various locations in Asia to meet rising e-commerce demand. The KoolBee robot has been utilised at facilities in Hong Kong, Tianjin and Dongguan and is said to boost productivity and accuracy. Kerry claimed that by using KoolBee, the overall sorting productivity is increased by 270%. The robots have the advantage of being quickly deployed, reconfigured and scaled up, significantly increasing the accessibility and flexibility of sortation automation compared with traditional fixed automation, the logistics firm explained. Samuel Lau, managing director – integrated logistics North Asia of Kerry Logistics Network, said: “The fashion e-commerce industry is rapidly evolving and consumers’ expectations for fast deliveries are getting higher every year. “KoolBee is our latest robotics roll-out under the ‘Kool’ banner to optimise sorting operations and bolster order fulfilment efficiency according to the specific needs of each customer. “It has proven beneficial in supporting customers in handling enormous orders during seasonal peaks and promotion-driven shopping sprees. Following this launch, we are set to utilise this technology for other customers and verticals.”