Amazon preps Integrations launch to self-install AutoStore systems beginning next year

Amazon is launching Amazon Integrations, an initiative that will enable it to begin self-installing AutoStore systems beginning in 2027.

The ultimate aim here is for the company to become even more vertically integrated. The move will see Amazon and AutoStore collaborate on changes to the latter’s system.

In a LinkedIn post, in which he cites unnamed sources, Brittain Ladd, a supply chain consultant and former Amazon executive, said: “Amazon has shut down its Local Vending Machine (LVM) fulfillment system and its latest picking robot, Blue Jay. I broke the story that Amazon has built a new modular fulfillment system it refers to as Orbital. Orbital is capable of being customised to fit inside stores or large logistics facilities.”

The US online giant is also, Ladd noted, opening a Supercenter in Chicago with a 50,000 square feet micro-fulfillment centre; an AutoStore system is being installed inside the MFC. Amazon is also planning to install an AutoStore MFC inside a Whole Foods Market store being built in Frisco, TX.

According to Ladd, the original idea was to leverage Orbital for MFCs and as a replacement for AutoStore. But it appears those plans have changed.

Ladd said: “Keith White, Chief Commercial Officer at Autostore, spent several weeks with Amazon in December to review their partnership and come to an agreement on terms, strategy, and estimated system purchases. I was unable to confirm the total number of AutoStore systems Amazon may purchase by 2030. However, a source stated, "It will be in the double digits."

“Amazon and AutoStore have discussed an acquisition but a deal couldn't be reached. I have stated in multiple LinkedIn posts and articles that Amazon will not maintain a partnership with AutoStore (or any other vendor) if it can't take on greater command and control including requiring design changes to their solutions.”

Enter Amazon Integrations. Element Logic has been selected to install six AutoStore systems for Exol sites, Ladd states. The project will include installation of technology from Berkshire Grey and Symbotic. The number of installations could reach 50 or more, according to Ladd’s source.

Amazon and AutoStore did not respond to our request for comment.

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

Supply chain automation will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards will open for entries in April. They celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Thursday, 15th October.

Check out our 2025 winners here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”

“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”

He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”

Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.