IKEA has announced the next phase in its drone technology – an upgraded AI-powered system capable of operating alongside staff around the clock.
This advanced system will be integrated into fulfilment units, including DCs, which will run continuously, says the retailer. After a year of testing at its DC in Winterslag, Belgium, IKEA is ready to deploy its drones to more locations over the next year, starting starting with the Perryville DC in the US, where installation started this summer.
The next phase promises to further boost operational efficiency by automating the physically demanding and time-consuming task of stock inventory, which is otherwise handled by employees, says the retailer: “This shift will not only free up co-workers to enhance the customer experience but also provides IKEA with faster, more precise and accurate stock management.”
In 2021, IKEA launched an innovative collaboration with Verity, a provider of AI and robotics, to develop a fully autonomous drone solution for its warehouses. The first drone took flight in IKEA Switzerland, and today, more than 250 drones operate across 73 locations, in nine countries.
Tommy Niemierowski, fulfilment project implementation manager, IKEA Belgium, says: “Implementing a solution that truly makes a difference in our warehouses is an immensely rewarding experience. The installation process itself is relatively straightforward, and the reward is monumental, as it facilitates collaboration amongst various stakeholders.”
“The IKEA drones use an AI-based algorithm to identify and photograph product storage locations,” adds Parag Parekh, global CDO for IKEA Retail (Ingka Group). “In addition, drone flights are pre-scheduled, utilising 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.”