Ocado Group installs automation and AI systems to boost Auchan Retail e-commerce operation

Auchan Retail reports completion of the first stage of construction of a fully robotised distribution centre in Wilcza Góra for Auchan Polska.

It said in a LinkedIn post: "This stage of the facility, with an area of over 17,000 m², was developed in close cooperation with Panattoni Poland and the general contractor, GOLDBECK Polska. Our partner Ocado Group is currently installing state-of-the-art automation and artificial intelligence systems to take Auchan's e-commerce to the next level. The centre will also receive the BREEAM "excellent" certificate."

Massive undertaking

Ocado.com is now fully running on OSP (Ocado Smart Platform), the online grocery retailer’s technology platform, following a legacy system migration. This is an end-to-end e-commerce, fulfilment and logistics solution that taps artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and automation.

In a LinkedIn post, Peter Thomas, VP of Engineering - E-commerce at Ocado, said: “I’m sure you’ll agree it looks and feels great, but the UX is just the start. It's a complete front to back tech transformation that will enable us to deliver even better experiences for customers and partners.”

He added: “The migration from our long standing and well loved legacy platform has been a massive undertaking. From the earliest prototypes through to final migrations, there’s been a cast of hundreds who’ve worked tirelessly to make it happen.”

“Congratulations to everyone in Ocado Tech, Solutions and Retail who’ve been a part of this. Tremendously proud of this and, of course, all the e-commerce tech teams here at Ocado Tech. Well done all. A true milestone.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

AI and automation will be key focus areas 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.