How Robotics
is Transforming Intralogistics

Egor Zharikov
Associate Director of Partnerships, Yango Tech

The Labor Impact

One of the most profound effects of robotics is its impact on labor. While some view automation as a replacement for human workers, the reality is more nuanced. Collaborative robots, or cobots, are designed to work alongside humans, complementing their strengths. These systems can reduce walking distances by up to 50%, enabling workers to focus on tasks requiring decision-making while robots handle repetitive, time-consuming activities.

Financial and Operational Benefits

From an operational standpoint, robotics delivers measurable results. According to a recent study by McKinsey, warehouses that deploy automation solutions can increase productivity by 40-70%. This is particularly important in high-volume industries like e-commerce, where even marginal efficiency gains can translate into significant competitive advantages.

The financial case for robotics is equally compelling. While the upfront investment in robotics systems may seem daunting, the payback period is often shorter than anticipated - frequently under three years. Furthermore, with robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) models gaining traction, businesses can adopt automation with minimal capital expenditure, paying instead for performance and usage.

AI and the Next Frontier in Intralogistics

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is taking robotics to the next level. AI-powered robots are no longer limited to executing predefined tasks; they can now learn, adapt, and optimize operations in real time. For example, machine learning algorithms enable robots to predict inventory shortages, optimize picking routes, and dynamically adjust to shifting order profiles.
AI also enables predictive maintenance, reducing downtime by up to 20% and extending the lifespan of robotic systems. By analyzing sensor data, AI can identify potential issues before they become critical, ensuring continuous operations in high-demand environments.

Emerging Trends in Warehouse Robotics

Looking ahead, several trends are set to define the future of intralogistics. The rise of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) is one such trend. Unlike fixed automation systems, AMRs can navigate dynamically, making them ideal for warehouses with frequently changing layouts. According to ABI Research, the global AMR market is expected to exceed $18 billion by 2030.
Another trend is the integration of robotics with warehouse management systems (WMS). This integration enables real-time visibility into operations, facilitating data-driven decision-making. For example, warehouses equipped with AI-driven WMS can achieve up to 99% inventory accuracy, a critical metric in industries like pharmaceuticals and luxury retail.

Final Thoughts

As consumer expectations continue to rise and global supply chains become more complex, businesses must leverage robotics to remain competitive. The benefits are clear: higher throughput, improved accuracy, reduced costs, and greater adaptability.
For organizations willing to embrace this transformation, the rewards are substantial. By investing in robotics today, businesses can not only solve their current challenges but also position themselves as leaders in the logistics landscape of tomorrow.
The revolution in intralogistics is well underway. The question is not whether robotics will define the future of logistics - it already is. The question is how quickly businesses can adapt to this new reality.