Woolworths Australia names first Takeoff Technologies partnership stores

Woolworths Australia has said that its first supermarket featuring automated picking technology will launch later this year.

The retailer last year announced a tie up with Takeoff Technologies to implement automated micro fulfilment capabilities at an initial three sites. It would then evaluate the suitability of the technology for further roll-out.

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The first store to feature the tech will be in Carrum Downs in south east Melbourne. The solution will be housed in a 2,400 sq m extension that is being built at the back of the existing store. The other confirmed sites are in Auckland and Christchurch, New Zealand.

Brad Banducci, Woolworths Group CEO, says: “Our customer expectations are changing rapidly, with more and more turning to online shopping to help them in their busy lives. We are continuing to look for ways to enhance our customers' online experience, especially the speed at which we make orders available to them.”

“This partnership with Takeoff will allow us to deliver ultra convenience at a local level, with the ability to be even closer to the customer for that last mile delivery. We see the future of online delivery as a mix of our large scale fulfilment centres in major metropolitan areas and a localised approach that leverages the strength of our national store network.”