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UNFI readies second distribution center with AI tech

Among the benefits are the ability to increase order capacity and cutting cost of order fulfillment

Bill Wilson, Senior editor at Supermarket News

January 30, 2024

1 Min Read
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The system, manufactured by Symbotic, is the second installation for UNFI and is part of the company’s goal to further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of its distribution center network.UNFI

Providence, R.I.-based United Natural Foods, Inc., will have an AI-powered robotic automation system in its Manchester, Pa., distribution center, which is expected to open this summer.

The system, manufactured by Symbotic, is the second installation for UNFI and is part of the company’s goal to further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of its distribution center network. The first AI automation system is currently being deployed at UNFI’s Centralia, Wash., distribution center and is on track to become operational in the first half of 2024.

Among the benefits UNFI expects to see with the system are the ability to increase capacity within its facilities and lower overall costs to fulfill orders.

The Manchester distribution center will be 1.3 million square feet, and the AI robotic automation system will provide robotic case pick capabilities in the dry grocery area, improve order accuracy, and automate the assembly of shopper order pallets.

The new technology, which is expected to be fully operational by Spring 2025, is part of UNFI’s multi-year transformation plan and is intended to enhance the shopper receiving and replenishment experience when the order is delivered at the store.  

“Automating key distribution centers, such as Centralia and our new facility in Manchester, will help us improve order accuracy and deliver a better overall customer experience, while also reducing operating cost,” said Erin Horvath, UNFI’s Chief Operating Officer. “Symbotic has been a great partner and we’re pleased that the Centralia installation is on schedule, allowing us to begin implementation of our next automation system in Manchester.”

Related:UNFI is cleaner, more efficient at distribution centers

 

About the Author

Bill Wilson

Senior editor at Supermarket News

Bill Wilson is the senior editor at Supermarket News, covering all things grocery and retail. He has been a journalist in the B2B industry for 25 years. He has received two Robert F. Boger awards for his work as a journalist in the infrastructure industry and has over 25 editorial awards total in his career. He graduated cum laude from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale with a major in broadcast communications.

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