Edeka adds Knapp robots to automate meat order picking

German retail group Edeka is expanding automation in meat production. Now there are two Pick-it-Easy robots from Knapp working there.

Robots instead of manual labor

Nordfrische's distribution center in Lüttow-Wallun, east of Hamburg, has been running Knapp automation since 2019. The company supplies approximately 650 stores daily. The assortment is huge - approximately 2,500 types of fresh meat, sausages and delicacies.

The system was expanded by adding two robots. They collect orders individually around the clock. People no longer need to work hard manually.

AI and picking speed

Pick-it-Easy robots are equipped with AI for image processing. Smart grip technology allows them to confidently recognize different types of meat products.

Each robot makes about 450 picks per hour. The solution is scalable and works without interruption.

Machines take over other steps as well. Barcodes are scanned and each item is weighed. There is less manual labor, the quality of the process is higher.

“We have a large assortment, but the robot collects different products efficiently,” says the company’s managing director Matthias Biermann. “If necessary, we can pick orders 24/7 and relieve employees.”

Logistics at +2°C

The expansion of automation at Nordfrische builds on years of cooperation between Knapp and Edeka. The system area is 86,000 square feet. It processes up to 40,000 containers per day at a constant temperature of +2°C.

The process sources meat from nearby Edeka production and from other suppliers. Goods are received, pallets are disassembled and sent to the shuttle system with 70,000 storage locations. From there the products are taken for further work.

Combo for any volume

Orders are collected with an eye to the convenience of the stores. There are zones for goods with different turnover rates. Ergonomic goods-to-person Pick-it-Easy workstations, Pick-to-Light stations and two new robots. This combo provides high flexibility for any volume and order structure.

Collected orders are completed and optimized along routes. Automation helps stack goods on roller containers or pallets and place them in refrigerated boxes. The cold chain does not break. Isn’t this what retailers expect from modern logistics?

Software control

The seamless operation of all processes is based on the KiSoft software package from Knapp. It controls material flows from receipt to shipment.

KiSoft applications guide every order from start to finish. Show balances, capacity utilization and processing status.

The software optimizes storage strategies. Moves resources to where they are needed. Plans orders, routes and distribution of people.

“The KiSoft solution helps to better plan employee tasks in the warehouse,” explains Biermann. “It’s easy to master the software, the interfaces are friendly and the same - whether for picking, shipping or receiving.”

Resilience for the future

The latest automation expansion at Nordfrische shows how logistics is developing step by step. Systems adapt to new needs.

The collaboration between Knapp and Edeka allows for refined processes. Scalable solutions are created that are ready for the future. They respond flexibly to the market, growth and new challenges.

“The Pick-it-Easy robot gives us independence and strengthens the sustainability of the supply chain,” concludes Biermann. “We can collect orders around the clock, regardless of external factors. This is an important factor for the future of our company.”