L.A.C. Logistics Automation has signed a contract to deploy Exotec’s Skypod system to iForce, the UK’s premier solutions provider for multi-channel fulfilment and returns. This is Exotec’s first major UK customer and represents a landmark deal for the French business. 

Exotec’s systems integrator partner in the UK, L.A.C. Logistics Automation was the driving force behind the deal. L.A.C. will take charge of the supply and installation of the Skypod system, in close consultation with Exotec, at iForce’s 800,000 sqft. (74,00 sqm) flagship facility in Corby, Northamptonshire, with the system due to go live in Q4 of 2022.

Skypod is an order picking system with robots that can climb racks up to 12 m in height and retrieve products autonomously, before delivering totes to human-staffed or automatic picking stations. Racks are fully scalable, so storage capacity can be increased when required, or adapted to the architecture of the warehouse. Robots can also be rapidly added to increase throughput during peak periods.

Remy Malchirand, VP of sales - Western Europe at Exotec, says: “Securing iForce as our first UK customer is a hugely significant moment for Exotec as we continue to expand our offering in the UK market. iForce has an impressive track record in providing tailored, tech-enabled fulfilment and returns solutions to a range of prestigious clients, so we’re delighted to be working with such a strong player in the field.”

Mike Hilton, chief sales officer at L.A.C. Logistics Automation, adds: “It is clear that Skypod has transformed logistics operations in multiple business sectors across the globe due to its unique offering of speed, performance and flexibility. It was only a matter of time before the UK jumped on board, with iForce leading the way.”

Exotec has ambitious plans for the UK market, where the company sees huge potential for robotics technology in warehousing and logistics.