One of Northern Europe’s largest retail chains Enhances its Automation with Element Logic

Kesko Sweden, owned by Finnish corporation Kesko, comprises of K-Rauta, K-Bygg, and Onninen, making them one of the largest retail chains in Northern Europe. Their construction and technical trade segment, offers a wide range of products for both professionals and end consumers. Sales are conducted through an extensive network of stores, e-commerce, and digital services.

Importance of High Service Levels

For Kesko, it’s crucial to offer a high level of service, whether it concerns product questions, special orders, or more complex project deliveries. Over the years, they have developed and refined a range of services to simplify the customer journey, such as specialized transport, time-sensitive deliveries, and customized customer inventory. The company’s central warehouse had previously utilized vertical lifts, a type of semi-automated warehouse solution, which they now want to replace with a modernized solution.

Future-Proofing Warehouse Efficiency

To future-proof and further ensure that the customer gets what they have ordered within a short time, Kesko has invested in the flexible automation system AutoStore from Element Logic. Kesko is starting with a relatively small solution, but one that offers immediate space efficiency and is scalable for future needs. The installation includes a silo structure, allowing the addition of other equipment like takeaway tracks and other units. The picking efficiency is expected to be at 150 bin presentations per hour.

“Kesko is focusing on the Swedish market, and with a broad product range in both construction and technical trade, the central warehouse is a crucial hub for our logistics. We continuously aim to streamline our logistics and have chosen to collaborate with Element Logic in the installation of warehouse automation from AutoStore, as this provides an opportunity to work with industry leaders,” says Maria Andersson, Logistics Director at Kesko.

“Kesko is an impressive corporation that is now taking the next natural step in its automation journey for increased space and picking efficiency. The investment in AutoStore is fundamentally about being able to offer their customers increased delivery reliability,” says Jörgen Andersson, Sales Manager at Element Logic Sweden.

Element Logic’s Installation in Numbers:

• 10,000 bins (with space for a total of 15,000)
• 2 ports (with space for an additional 4)
• 6 robots
• From semi-automated to fully automated