Junichi Akiba, President and CEO of Daiwa Logitech Co Ltd, the company which operates logistics in the center, commented, “We have created this new model of shared logistics facilities using robots as our shippers require comprehensive logistics services. The Butler robotics system allows us to offer higher performance and realise higher productivity through shared logistics services. This delivers additional and exceptional value to each shipper to support their service level requirements.”

The robotics systems will handle a variety of items, reducing time for order fulfilment and cost per shipment, thus enhancing the productivity for each of the shared users. The Butler system is powered by GreyMatter, a software platform from GreyOrange that uses Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to optimise complex operations. It integrates multiple automation systems to synchronise material flow to gain the highest efficiencies.

The users include airCloset, a subscription-based online fashion rental service for women, Tokyo Otaku Mode; a leading e-tailer for Japanese Pop Culture and Waja, an e-commerce site which operates three marketplaces – Worldrobe for imported brands, Reason Outlet and Fashion Charity Project.

Nalin Advani, CEO - APAC, GreyOrange said, "With 70% of the population shopping online, Japan is one of the fastest growing e-commerce markets in the world. We are honoured to partner with Daiwa House Group and GROUND Inc to deploy the Butler system to accelerate order fulfilment and consolidation, and ensure consumers get their orders quickly.”

GROUND, the Japan exclusive distributor for the Butler goods-to-person robotics system from GreyOrange, in mid-2017 formed a business alliance to jointly develop with the Daiwa House Group a new generation of ‘Intelligent Logistics Center’ to significantly improve the productivity of logistics facilities.

Hiratomo Miyata, CEO of GROUND said, “The labour shortage in the logistics industry has become a critical issue. Automation of key processes for e-commerce fulfilment is a necessity for companies to maintain a competitive edge. We are pleased to be a part of such innovative initiatives with the Daiwa House Group. We look forward to working closely on supporting their clients and their businesses with the Butler system.”

The Butler system enables high-speed operations by automating inventory storage (putaway) and order fulfilment. It has been deployed in distribution centers in Japan, Hong Kong, India, Europe and the Americas for industries such as 3PL, e-commerce and retail.