John Lewis uses robots to increase work rates by 50 percent in Milton Keynes

John Lewis has partnered with Locus Robotics to introduce robots for the first time at its Fenny Lock distribution centre.

It is the first time the company has used mobile robotics automation and already it is paying off with a 50 percent increase in picking rates.

The AMRS, known as LocusBots, work alongside human partners to streamline processes and improving both productivity and efficiency, say Locus.

Not only as the LocusBots quick, but they reduce the need for workers to perform manual tasks such as pushing heavy carts or lifting items.

USA-based Locus Robotics is the market leader in autonomous mobile robots (AMR) for fulfilment warehouses.

The company says John Lewis wanted to improve productivity and efficiency and also meet the growing demand for orders from customers.

Rick Faulk, CEO of Locus Robotics, said: “We are delighted to be working with John Lewis as they embark on their Robotics journey at their Fenny Lock Distribution & Fulfilment Centre.

"Our LocusBots have proven their value time and again by enabling warehouses to easily double or triple productivity. We look forward to helping John Lewis leverage our cutting-edge robotics solution to enhance operations and ensure a positive customer experience."

John Munnelly, Distribution Director at John Lewis, said: "Locus stood out to us for their proven technology and their experience...The Locus solution has provided the performance levels and reliability we need to keep up with the increasing focus on efficiency and in support of our customer service standards."