Zebra Technologies Boosts Warehouse Efficiency with 30% Fewer Robots

Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), a global leader in digitizing and automating frontline workflows, has expanded its Symmetry Fulfillment solution to increase productivity and reduce costs in warehouse operations. The solution, which combines autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), wearable technologies, software, and analytics, is designed to maximize labor and robotic resources, improve throughput, and empower operational decision-making.



The expansion of Zebra Symmetry Fulfillment includes the introduction of new Zebra Connect Fulfillment AMRs, which enable frontline workers to load and unload orders to and from carts without requiring the AMR to remain permanently attached. This increases utilization and reduces the number of AMRs required in the fulfillment system. The solution is fueled by Team Intelligence, which coordinates each picker with a team of robots in a precise, directed workflow, improving throughput and operational decision-making.



Team Intelligence optimizes order-picking paths and reduces wait times for both pickers and AMRs by routing robots ahead of pickers, using detachable carts with increased cubic capacity, and decoupling AMRs from carts at key points in the operation. These optimizations result in a 30% reduction in the total number of robots required, lowering initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs while improving throughput and productivity.

The use of detachable carts with increased cubic capacity enhances pick density and adaptability to various product sizes. This allows pickers to handle up to 300% more volume, boost pick density, and eliminate AMRs wait times. The larger carts also allow the solution to adapt to various product dimensions, making it an ideal choice for warehouses with diverse product offerings.



The potential long-term benefits for warehouse operations include cost savings, improved throughput, attracting and retaining skilled workers, and scalability. The adaptable nature of the solution allows it to scale with the growing needs of the warehouse, making it a long-term investment that can accommodate changes in product offerings, order volume, and operational requirements.

In conclusion, Zebra Technologies' expansion of the Symmetry Fulfillment solution offers a compelling opportunity for warehouse operations to increase productivity and reduce costs. By maximizing labor and robotic resources, improving throughput, and empowering operational decision-making, the solution enables warehouses to meet growing demand and adapt to changing market conditions.