Ahold Delhaize ramps up automation efforts as coronavirus bites

Ahold Delhaize is accelerating its development of robotic technologies that can clean stores and process orders amid the coronavirus outbreak.

“All the researchers said this Covid-19 situation is so urgent, we see a direct application for our work right now because there’s a scarcity of people who can work in stores,” Bart Voorn, the Dutch grocery giant’s Director of Data, AI and Robotics, told The Wall Street Journal.

Elsewhere, Ahold Delhaize USA has announced Americold as its partner to build two automated frozen warehouses. These are part of a plan to transition to a fully-integrated, self-distribution model.

The move will expand cold storage space by 24 million cubic feet, or 500,000 square feet. The facilities will be located in Plainville, Conn., which will serve Ahold Delhaize USA’s Northeast brands, and in Mountville, Pa., which will serve its Mid-Atlantic brands. They will include an integrated transportation management system and end-to-end forecasting and replenishment technology.

“Through this expansion, we will continue to modernise our supply chain distribution, transportation and procurement through a fully-integrated, self-distribution model that will be managed by our companies directly and locally,” says Chris Lewis, Executive Vice President, Supply Chain for Retail Business Services, the services company for Ahold Delhaize USA.

“This will result in efficiencies and, most importantly, product availability and freshness for customers of our local brands – now and in the future – whenever, wherever and however they choose to shop.”