Collect&Go Boosts Efficiency with Autonomous Vehicles
Collect&Go, Colruyt Group’s online grocery service, is advancing its operations by introducing autonomous vehicles at its Londerzeel distribution centre. This innovation, developed in collaboration with Colruyt Group Smart Innovation, aims to enhance efficiency in the fresh foods section. Currently, 22 self-driving vehicles (SDVs) are in use, accelerating fresh produce picking by 20%.
20% Efficiency Gains
The Londerzeel distribution centre employs 260 staff members who now work alongside SDVs. This system streamlines logistics by autonomously navigating the warehouse and guiding employees to the correct locations. Each SDV has a screen displaying a list of products to pick and automatically determines the most efficient route, reducing walking distances and boosting productivity. Employees pick items from the list and place them in the SDV’s crates, carefully overseeing each step to minimize errors and maximize efficiency.
Innovating with a Human Touch
Tom Malfroid, Supply Chain Manager for Collect&Go, highlights the human-centric approach of this innovation. “Our SDVs exemplify Colruyt Group’s commitment to innovation with a focus on human interaction and efficiency. Employees have even named the SDVs, adding Daryl, Alessandro, and Fanta to our team.”
This initiative aligns with Colruyt Group’s efforts to optimize logistics while ensuring a positive work environment. Malfroid notes, “The SDVs reduce physical strain on employees, promoting ergonomic working conditions.”
Kim Vancauwenberghe, head of Colruyt Group Smart Innovation, underscores the project’s significance. “The collaboration between employees and SDVs is ideal for Collect&Go order preparation. However, each operation has unique requirements for speed and volume, necessitating tailored approaches. This solution is uniquely suited to Collect&Go’s needs.”
Colruyt Group Smart Innovation has extensive experience with SDVs, including testing unmanned vehicles for home delivery and developing self-driving pallet trucks. These initiatives demonstrate Colruyt Group’s leadership in integrating
Advanced technologies, focusing on efficiency and harmonizing human-machine interactions.
