Daiwa deploys GreyOrange Butler robotics at Intelligent Logistics Centre in Tokyo

GreyOrange and GROUND announced the deployment of its Butler robotics operations at the Ichikawa logistics centre of Daiwa House Industry Co. Ltd (TSE: 1925). The Butler robotics system operates in a 7000sqm facility offering total logistics solutions that are shared and used for multiple shipper companies. At this site, named ‘Intelligent Logistics Centre PROTO’, the Butler goods-to-person solution automates material movement to deliver higher throughput and productivity.

The robotics systems claim to handle a variety of items, reducing the 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; an 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.

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 Centre’ to significantly improve the productivity of logistics facilities.

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