#France #Locus Robotics #LocusONE #Boulanger #Hénin-Beaumont

Locus Robotics Transforms Warehouse Operations at Boulanger

Locus Robotics, a forerunner in AI-driven automation, has marked a pivotal achievement by deploying its cutting-edge warehouse automation solution, LocusONE, at Boulanger, a prominent retailer in France specializing in consumer electronics and home appliances. This transformation represents a significant upgrade for Boulanger as it shifts from a traditionally manual process to a highly scalable and efficient robotic operation.

Boulanger’s recent efforts reflect the ongoing digital transformation within the retail sector in France, with leading companies embracing advanced technology to boost productivity and efficiency. The successful deployment of LocusOne signifies a crucial step towards meeting the evolving demands of the consumer market in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Outstanding Integration and Performance Gains

The initial implementation of LocusONE at Boulanger’s Hénin-Beaumont warehouse yielded remarkable results. Within only six weeks of going live, the company experienced a dramatic increase in picking productivity, doubling its output from 120 to over 250 units per hour. The deployment process, which took less than four months from initiation to full operation, was designed to seamlessly integrate with Boulanger’s existing Warehouse Management System (WMS) and material handling equipment (MHE) traffic. This integration allowed warehouse operations to continue without disruption while adjusting to the new system.

Boulanger’s ability to manage a vast array of consumer products effectively was strengthened by this advanced automation, which now distributes inventory to more than 200 retail locations across France. The swift adaptation of warehouse staff to work alongside the autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) has not only improved operational efficiency but also created a collaborative workspace prioritizing safety.

Key Achievements Post-Implementation

The results post-deployment have been impressive:

• - Productivity Increase: Picking productivity expanded from 120 units per hour to over 250 within six weeks.
• - Rapid Roll-out: The implementation of the system took a total of five months, showcasing the efficiency of the solution's integration.
• - High Throughput: The warehouse processed nearly 9 million units in less than a year, illustrating the scale and effectiveness of operations.
• - Comprehensive Supply Chain Support: Over 200 retail sites are now regularly stocked with a diverse array of electronics and home appliances.
• - Dynamic Scalability: The Locus fleet was expanded by 30% in just days, demonstrating its capabilities to handle sudden increases in demand.

Denis Niezgoda, Chief Commercial Officer at Locus Robotics, emphasizes that Boulanger’s transformation highlights the revolutionary impact of flexible automation on fulfillment processes. He noted that Boulanger's integration of LocusONE has provided the necessary scalability and agility to address evolving customer expectations, further contributing to the growth and modernization of France's logistics framework.

Boulanger’s Insight on Automation

Olivier Henin, Warehouse Process Manager at Boulanger, expressed how the collaboration with Locus Robotics has significantly changed their operational landscape. Following a surge in product volumes, Locus was quick to expedite fleet scaling, ensuring that Boulanger could meet customer demand without slowing down operations. Reflecting on their experience, Henin remarked on the flexibility offered by Locus, stating that the partnership has facilitated exploration into further automating additional workflows as they prepare for future endeavors, such as their upcoming 70th-anniversary campaign.

Looking Ahead: Future of Automation at Boulanger

The deployment of LocusONE has set a strong foundation for Boulanger, demonstrating the potential of AI-driven warehouse automation not just to enhance efficiency but also to mitigate challenges typically faced during peak seasons. By implementing orchestrated automation, Boulanger is well-positioned to adapt and evolve, ensuring that its fulfillment strategies remain robust and effective amidst a dynamic market landscape.

About Boulanger

Boulanger is a leading retailer in France, dedicated to providing high-quality consumer electronics and home appliances. With a commitment to innovation and exceptional customer service, Boulanger continues to adapt and grow to meet the needs of its customers across more than 200 locations in the country.

About Locus Robotics

Locus Robotics is renowned globally for its pioneering warehouse automation solutions that ensure remarkable flexibility and throughput. Powered by their proprietary platform, LocusONE, the company’s autonomous mobile robots are expertly designed to integrate into pre-existing warehouse systems to further enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs. With a partnership network involving over 150 industry leaders, Locus Robotics aims to transform logistics through scalable automation solutions.

For more information, visit Boulanger’s website or Locus Robotics’ website.