The use of robotics in retail has gradually expanded from being predominantly used in logistics and supply chains to being used in-store to help converge online and offline retail.
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Robotics is also increasingly being used in the delivery process to expedite fulfilment and enable shorter delivery times for customers. As with warehouse automation, many global retailers and businesses, including Amazon and Alibaba, are using autonomous vehicles and drones to help streamline fulfilment processes and mitigate the high costs of last-mile delivery. Driverless robots used for deliveries gained particular popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Leading apparel companies in robotics
High-growth industry leaders have streamlined their logistics and supply chain networks by incorporating robotics into their processes. While requiring upfront investment, robotics in warehouses significantly reduces operating expenses and drives efficiency and accuracy. Companies that do not invest in robotics and automation limit their growth opportunities.
Managing store inventory is a major problem for many retailers, with inaccurate tracking leading to lost revenue. Robots can solve this problem through constant stock-taking and shelf audits, identifying stock shortages. As robotics becomes more technologically advanced and artificial intelligence (AI) develops, the level of accuracy in tasks undertaken by robots will consistently grow and create new efficiencies for retailers and apparel manufacturers.
Leading adopters of robotics in retail and apparel are Amazon, Alibaba, Co-op, H&M, Ikea, JD.com, Kroger, Lowe’s, Nike, Ocado, and Walmart.
Discover the leading robotics companies in the apparel industry
Using its experience in the sector, Just Style has listed some of the leading companies providing products and services related to robotics.
The information provided in the download document is drafted for apparel industry executives and technology leaders involved in robotic solutions.
The download contains detailed information on suppliers and their product offerings, alongside contact details to aid purchasing or hiring decisions.
Amongst the leading vendors of robotics in the fashion industry are Grabit, GreyOrange, Cleveron, Ocado, Mujin, and Kindred.
Opportunities for robotics in the apparel industry
Robotics can help address the various challenges retailers and apparel manufacturers face, such as the need to profile customers, achieve greater personalisation, understand market trends, and improve operational efficiency. Logistics robots, industrial co-bots, and inspection cleaning, and maintenance robots should receive the most investment from companies across the retail and apparel value chain.
Robotic intelligence and cloud robotics will be lucrative investment areas for several retail and apparel value chain segments.
For full details (including contact details) on the leading companies within this space, download the free Buyer’s Guide below:
Frequently asked questions
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How is robotics revolutionising the apparel industry?
Robotics is transforming the apparel industry by automating tasks like inventory management, quality control, and packaging, improving operational efficiency. Robots assist in stock-taking, reducing human error and ensuring optimal inventory levels. In manufacturing, robotic systems streamline production lines, enabling faster and more accurate assembly of garments, which is crucial in meeting consumer demands.
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What are the key benefits of using robotics in apparel logistics?
Robotics improves speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency in apparel logistics. Automated systems handle tasks such as picking, sorting, and packaging, ensuring products are moved quickly through warehouses. This reduces labour costs and minimises human error, particularly in complex supply chains with high-volume shipments.
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How do robotics enhance sustainability in the apparel sector?
Robotics supports sustainability by reducing waste and energy consumption in apparel production. Robots optimise material usage, helping manufacturers reduce excess fabric waste. They also improve resource management in logistics, lowering the carbon footprint of apparel companies through more efficient handling and transportation processes.
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What are the main challenges of adopting robotics in apparel manufacturing?
The high upfront costs of robotic systems and the need for technical expertise are major challenges. Companies must also integrate robotics with existing workflows, which may require significant adjustments in operations. In addition, managing the change in workforce dynamics, with the shift from manual to automated processes, demands staff retraining and careful organisational planning.
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How are advanced robotics and AI impacting future trends in apparel production?
The combination of robotics and AI allows for even more intelligent automation, such as robots that can adapt to different materials and customise garments based on real-time data. These advancements enable mass customisation, helping brands to offer personalised products while maintaining high efficiency. AI-driven robotics will also continue to improve predictive maintenance, quality control, and production forecasting in the apparel industry, ensuring that companies can respond to market trends more rapidly.