UK warehouse automation solutions provider Invar Group has entered into a partnership agreement with global robotic systems manufacturer Hai Robotics to include the manufacturer’s cutting-edge autonomous case-handling robotic (ACR) systems as part of the Invar solutions suite for customers in the UK, Europe and the USA.

Hai Robotics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of ACRs used in order picking, put-away and dispatch operations, while Invar Group has a global network of high-profile customers in sectors such as e-commerce, retail, pharmaceuticals, FMCG and manufacturing.

Craig Whitehouse, managing director of Invar Integration, says: “These are exciting times; robotics has transformed automation in the warehouse. Their flexibility, scalability and low-Capex appeal offers huge advantages over fixed solutions. Hai Robotics has a fantastic range of intelligent ACRs, well-suited to the varied demands of fulfilment applications, and so we are delighted to include Hai Robotics’ advanced ACRs in our fast-expanding solutions suite.”

Hai Robotics launched its first ACR system, the HAIPICK, in 2015 and has since developed a family of mobile robots with the ability to carry cartons as well as individual totes, offering the capability to bring multiple cases to pickers or conveyors in one movement.

Kane Luo, vice president of sales for Hai Robotics, says: “The partnership will be able to offer warehouse operators a unique and innovative solution that delivers higher fulfilment volumes, at lower operation costs and with better distribution efficiency.”