Ikea has embarked on the latest phase of drone adoption by rolling out an upgraded AI-powered system that will allow the drones to work efficiently alongside human workers in distribution centers. By integrating this new system into fulfillment spaces, Ikea’s operations will “run continuously,” the company shared in an announcement.
Ikea initially adopted drone technology in 2021 when it partnered with AI and robotics company Verity to develop an autonomous drone solution for warehouses. Currently, more than 250 drones operate across 73 locations in nine countries. With this next phase, the new AI-powered system will automate “the physically demanding and time-consuming task of stocking inventory” and enhance employee productivity. The system will support simultaneous inventory checks, increasing product accuracy and decreasing employee workload. The drones also will provide employees with real-time data so they can take immediate action on key tasks.
“Implementing a solution that truly makes a difference in our warehouses is an immensely rewarding experience,” explained Tommy Niemierowski, Fulfillment Project Implementation Manager for Ikea Belgium in a statement. “The installation process itself is relatively straightforward, and the reward is monumental, as it facilitates collaboration amongst various stakeholders.”
With employee well-being also top of mind, the new system’s AI and software have been fine-tuned with distinct safety features designed for distribution center operations.
A Flight Path for Innovation
Ikea went through a rigorous testing phase for the drone technology at a distribution center in Winterslag, Belgium, and is planning to deploy the drones in more locations over the next year, prioritizing Europe and North America. The retailer started implementing the drone technology in a distribution center in Perryville, Md. this summer.
“The Ikea drones use an artificial intelligence-based algorithm to identify and photograph product storage locations,” said Parag Parekh, Global Chief Digital Officer for IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), in a statement. “In addition, drone flights are pre-scheduled, utilizing a custom indoor positioning system to navigate higher levels of storage locations (for levels three and up). Equipped with obstacle detection capabilities, these drones can avoid collisions by rerouting their paths.’’ Ikea noted that the solution complies with all Data Privacy assessment requirements, including the safety, integrity and privacy of co-workers.
As the technology is rolled out in more fulfillment sites, Ikea will test new features and capabilities. For example, the retailer is exploring unit loads and rack inspection functionalities, as well as improving the analytics and insights component of the solution.
Ikea has invested heavily in technology to streamline order fulfillment and improve inventory operations, even in stores. By implementing solutions that take the time and effort away from employees, workers can instead focus on high-value tasks that enable better customer experiences, explained Sara Del Fabbro, Deputy COO at Ingka Group at this summer’s Retail Innovation Conference & Expo.
The retailer has tested new formats to improve omnichannel fulfillment operations as well as smaller, more experiential formats. For example, the Ikea Sleepeasy allowed NYC-area consumers to venture through a sleep-themed speakeasy. The retailer also has embarked on a nationwide bus tour to give college students exclusive access to new dorm room offerings.
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