GROUND's Remarkable Accomplishment at 2026 Logistics Awards
GROUND Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has been announced as the recipient of the Special Award for Innovation at the 2026 Logistics Awards. This honor was given in recognition of a collaborative project involving notable companies such as Saishunkan Pharmaceutical Co., BIPROGY Inc., and Takutec Inc. The project called "Challenge for Doubling Shipping Productivity without Increasing Workforce through Real-time Coordination of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) and Digital Picking Systems (DPS)" successfully set out to tackle growing challenges in the logistics industry.
In this project, GROUND partnered with BIPROGY Inc. to integrate AMRs with a digital picking system at Saishunkan's shipping center. This integration established a unique "hybrid operational model" through API connections, drastically increasing shipping capacity by applying digital guidance to accelerate processes, while eliminating the previously essential inventory check stage.
The successful implementation of this solution relied heavily on collaborative efforts with the manufacturers, particularly with Takutec Inc. The cooperation from Saishunkan and Saishunkan System Co. also played a crucial role. GROUND took the lead in providing AMRs, alongside managing data analysis, simulations, and comprehensive project management and implementation.
The logistics sector in Japan faces numerous complex challenges, especially due to the expansion of e-commerce which demands shorter delivery times and a wide variety of products in smaller quantities. The industry is also contending with chronic labor shortages and an aging workforce, compounded by increasingly intricate supply chains. In response, GROUND is leveraging its logistics operational system, GWES, integrating material handling technology, robotics, and existing systems. This includes a comprehensive logistics consulting and engineering service, instrumental in facilitating digital transformations throughout the logistics realm. Their approach not only automates individual systems and processes but also optimizes the overall functioning of logistics facilities.
Through their innovative integration capabilities and consulting strengths, GROUND aims to continue contributing to the sustainable transformation of the logistics industry in Japan. By implementing their proprietary products and advanced technology, they strive to ensure that their solutions not only enhance efficiency but also support the growth of businesses and the workforce involved in logistics operations.
Why GROUND’s Achievement Matters
According to the Logistics Awards presented by the Japan Logistics System Association (JILS), their reasoning for GROUND’s recognition highlighted the increasing challenge of labor shortages in logistics and projected increases in shipping volume. This project effectively utilized real-time connections between AMRs and DPS to double shipping productivity without increasing staff, showcasing a solution that could address widespread obstacles faced by logistics operators.
The innovative operational model built on careful analysis of the logistics environment successfully optimized the roles of picking and transporting, contributing to both productivity improvements and quality maintenance, while ensuring flexibility for future growth. Furthermore, it demonstrates a practical model of logistics digitization that other businesses can replicate and benefit from.
CEO Kei Yuya Miyata's Vision
Kei Yuya Miyata, CEO of GROUND, expressed his gratitude for the award, emphasizing that their concept of logistics digital transformation goes beyond equipment installation or workforce reduction. According to him, it represents a framework to support both business growth and the individuals working alongside technology. The collaborative efforts with various stakeholders have led to significant improvements in shipping capacity while allowing employees to focus on more valuable tasks.
Miyata envisions that by uniting data, technology, and insights from the logistics field, they can maintain consistency in fostering logistics transformations from conceptualization through implementation and ongoing operational support.
About Logistics Awards
The Logistics Awards aim to recognize organizations, institutions, and companies that have demonstrated excellence in advancing logistics practices. This year, JILS celebrates its 43rd award occasion, marking a rich history of acknowledging contributions to the logistics sector.
GROUND Corporation's Commitment
Founded in April 2015, GROUND Corporation specializes in logistics solutions powered by advanced technologies such as AI and robotics. With a vision to create a sustainable logistics future, they provide integrated management services, consulting, and engineering, helping major firms address challenges like labor shortages and operational efficiency. Through its innovations, GROUND continues to make impactful contributions to the industry, enhancing productivity across Japan's logistics landscape.