Ikea set to expand deployment of drone technology in Europe and North America over next 12 months after year of testing

Ikea has announced the next phase in its drone technology programme: an upgraded AI powered system capable of operating around the clock alongside co-workers.

This will be integrated into fulfilment units, including distribution centres.

After a year of testing at the retailer’s DC in Winterslag, Belgium, Ikea is ready to deploy its drones to more locations over the next year. 

The next phase will automate the physically demanding and time-consuming task of stock inventory, which is otherwise handled by employees.

This shift will not only free up co-workers to enhance the customer experience but also provides Ijea with faster, more precise and accurate stock management. 

In 2021, Ikea launched a 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.” 

Parag Parekh, Global CDO at Ikea Retail (Ingka Group), says: ‘’The drones use an artificial intelligence-based algorithm to identify and photograph product storage locations.”

“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.’’

Ikea is now looking to expand the solution further in Europe and North America, starting with the distribution centre Perryville, Ikea US, where installation started this summer.

Additionally, it is working on upgrading the solution with new functionalities.

Future developments include exploring unit loads and rack inspection functionalities, as well as improving the analytics and insights component of the solution.

Marcus Baumgartner, Head of Fulfilment & Core services, Ikea Retail (Ingka Group), says: ‘’We continue to embrace the benefits of technology and innovation, our goal is to create a better experience for our customers and a more ergonomic workplace for our co-workers.’’  

Claes Lindgren, Global Category Area Manager Logistics Services (Inter Ikea Group), adds: “The drones are a good example where we can achieve a win-win in both of these areas; by simplifying our processes in the logistics units, and hence, ensuring better inventory integrity leading to a better customer experience.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Drone technology is a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which is now open for entries.

The awards, sponsored by CADS, 3D Cloud, Retail Technology Show 2025, and Business France, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

It’s free to enter and you can do so across multiple categories.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.