How the Future Warehouse will look in 2020 and Beyond
Find out how the future warehouse will be making use of pioneering technologies in 2020 and beyond.
The ecommerce sector has seen immense growth in recent
years. In just the past year alone, the value of the industry has risen from
175 billion Euros to over 200 billion Euros, with 16 per cent of all retail
sales in the UK attributed to online purchases.
It is no wonder then that the face of warehousing and
logistics has begun to evolve in a highly significant way in order to keep up
with the ever-growing demand by internet shoppers. As a new decade looms,
technology is set to transform warehouses in London and all over the country.
Let’s take a closer look at precisely how the future warehouse will be making
use of pioneering technologies in 2020 and beyond.
Machine-to-machine (M2M) technology
The automation of warehouse operations is a trend that has
been growing for some time, but now, with the adoption of machine-to-machine
technology (M2M), warehouse management is set to become significantly more
sophisticated.
M2M systems control all the equipment a warehouse needs to
automate the production process or other areas of the supply chain. The
functionality can be used to power everything from conveyors and wrapping
machinery to automated packing machines and much more. M2M is able to control
the full sequence of events and monitor production stages, flagging quality
issues whilst monitoring the efficiency of the machines so that any issues that
may affect productivity are detected early on.
M2M for logistics and warehousing operators tends to be
based around machinery that is focused on order fulfilment. Product tracking,
data collection and reporting, equipment management, maintenance, repair,
status and despatch and more can all be automated using M2M technology, which
can be integrated with an in-house warehouse management system for the ultimate
in control.
Machine-to-machine technology has the power to streamline
operations and enhance customer service in a considerable way. The accurate
business intelligence produced by M2M is incredibly valuable in predicting
accurate delivery times for customers, so enhancing customer service and
reputation.
Internet of Things (IoT) for warehouses
The Internet of Things (IoT) is making big waves in many
areas of industry and commerce, and warehousing and logistics is no exception.
IoT has opened up realms of possibilities when it comes to
the supply chain. With devices connected across so many elements of the chain,
processes become much more streamlined thanks to the likes of real-time tracking
and data exchange.
Combine IoT with radio frequency identification (RFID), and
you have a system that can track absolutely any tagged item in an inventory,
creating a streamlined stock location system with all the vital intelligence
nicely condensed into a readily accessible database.
IoT connected devices have the ability to deliver greater
volume of information and much deeper levels than ever before, whether that’s
stock data or distribution information. State-of-the-art tracking systems allow
organisations to share real-time tracking information with their customers,
boosting customer satisfaction and streamlining communications. With less time
spent chasing information, productivity and efficiency excel.
Artificial intelligence and robotics
Whilst 2020 isn’t quite ready for a human and robot
co-working environment, it is safe to say that robots and artificial
intelligence (AI) technology are already having a significant impact on
warehousing and logistics efficiency.
With precision programming, AI and robotics are able to
streamline repetitive tasks, freeing up human workers to manage the more
complex jobs. It is unlikely the near future will see robots performing
intricate tasks, because the in-depth programming and highly sophisticated
software required just doesn’t exist yet.
Amazon is an industry leader when it comes to warehouse
robotics. Its workforce incorporates more than 100,000 small mobile robots,
capable of carrying entire shelving units of merchandise around the factory
floor, delivering them to human workers who are poised and ready to fulfil
customers’ orders. In the future, Amazon envisages huge improvements to the way
its robot employees work, moving from the set pathways they follow around their
warehouses to a fully automated environment.
AI and robotics in warehousing have the power to reduce
operational costs; to improve productivity; to enhance order accuracy; to speed
upcycle times, and to reduce safety incidents.
Wireless and voice-activated technology
Being tethered by cables to a set location was never going
to provide the flexibility warehouse personnel needed to do their jobs
efficiently. Wireless devices are already improving a number of supply chain
roles, freeing up staff so they can perform their tasks from anywhere.
Wireless access to inventory tracking platforms also means
everything from printing packing slips and labels to scanning barcodes and
updating stock levels can all be done on the go. And with data shared across
devices, everyone can see the latest information in real time, improving
communications and reducing the risk of errors.
Voice-activated technology is also set to play a much more
involved role in the future warehouse. As the name suggests, it uses spoken
commands to pick, pack and replenish stock, improving productivity and
accuracy, reducing operator training and delivering a higher return on
investment.
Finding
your future warehouse in London
Dohertybaines offers in-depth expertise in all aspects of
commercial warehousing for rent or for sale in London and the Home Counties. If
you are seeking commercial warehousing that will support your future growth
plans, you are welcome to contact our dedicated team on 020 7355 3033 for the tailored advice and specialist
guidance you need to source the ideal premises to suit your operation.
dohertybaines
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