THG Fulfil deploys 120,000 bin AutoStore system at Omega warehouse in Warrington, Cheshire

THG Ingenuity’s THG Fulfil offshoot has announced the launch of an AutoStore installation at its Omega warehouse in Warrington. It says that the move reinforces its position as the only AutoStore distributor offering Robots as a Service (RaaS).

RaaS allows customers to pay a monthly fee that covers the grid, ports, and robots. It is pitched as providing a more flexible, scalable approach to automation, allowing brands to access the technology without the high upfront capital outlay historically required.

The new AutoStore system features specifications including 120,000 bins, 100 R5 Pro robots, 20 outbound ports and six inbound ports. R5 Pro robots are equipped with rapid charging, enabling a significant reduction in charging infrastructure allowing for a robot count reduction of up to 15% compared to standard R5 robot grids, according to those involved.

The installation is projected to deliver a 25% performance uplift, compared to THG Fulfil’s existing AutoStore build at its Icon 2 warehouse in Manchester.

The business has maintained complete ownership and control of the entire implementation process. It serves as the principal contractor for infrastructure delivery, encompassing all flooring works, suspended ceilings, sprinkler systems, electrical installations and mechanical engineering requirements.

Tom Killeen, COO, THG Ingenuity (pictured above), says: "This new AutoStore installation is testament to our continued investment in new technology. We aren't just automation distributors; we are the only automation distributors who are also end users. We see ourselves as experts who understand the operational pain points and deliver end-to-end solutions that drive measurable business outcomes.”

“Our RaaS approach fundamentally changes how brands can access world class automation. By combining our technical expertise with flexible commercial models, we’re democratising access to the same automation capabilities used by the world’s largest e-commerce operations. Our unique position as both distributor and operator means we deliver solutions proven at the highest performance levels.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Automation will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.