Exotec, a leader in warehouse automation and robotics, is making significant strides in the pharmaceutical sector through its latest partnerships with Hygie31 and Hartmann Group. These collaborations mark a pivotal expansion of Exotec's presence in this highly competitive industry, offering advanced automation solutions to enhance logistical operations.
Hygie31, a prominent entity in healthcare logistics, is set to integrate Exotec’s Skypod robotic system into its La Veuve warehouse. Spanning 1,500 square meters, the installation involves 38 Skypod robots capable of maneuvering autonomously in all directions and reaching heights of up to 11 meters. This strategic move is part of Hygie31’s ambitious plan to boost productivity by 600% over the next three years, alongside a substantial increase in product references from 23,000 to 70,000.
The installation is intentionally oversized to cater to future growth and will play a critical role in the rollout of Hygie31’s new supply tool, HygieStore. This platform is designed to offer French pharmacies faster access to a broader array of products. “With the addition of this new automated logistics platform, Hygie 31 group has acquired a modern tool, which is unique to the pharmacy market, providing a competitive advantage for its digital business,” said Hervé Jouves, chairman of Hygie31. He added that beyond operational efficiencies, this innovation will enhance working conditions by alleviating employees of repetitive and arduous tasks, allowing them to engage in more intellectual activities.
Meanwhile, Hartmann Group, a leading European provider of medical and care products, is also set to leverage Exotec's Skypod system to revolutionize its logistics. The adoption of the Skypods aims to double storage density and expedite order processing at Hartmann's site in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The installation promises to elevate working conditions, boost performance, reduce delivery times, and increase the volume of express deliveries. This integration, expected to be completed by early 2025, is pivotal for Hartmann's continued growth in the French market, according to Emmanuel Denoues, director of operations at Hartmann France.
Thomas Genestar, general manager for Western Europe at Exotec, expressed pride in the partnerships, highlighting the transformative potential of their Skypod system in optimizing storage and order preparation. "We are proud to support both Hygie31 and Hartmann France in their ongoing growth," he said, emphasizing the system’s benefits in enhancing efficiency and service quality.
The move by both Hygie31 and Hartmann to deploy Exotec's cutting-edge solutions reflects a broader trend in the pharmaceutical sector towards automation and innovation. As logistics and supply chain efficiency play an increasingly crucial role in healthcare delivery, collaborations like these demonstrate a commitment to not only maintaining but heightening competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Exotec’s Skypod system, known for its scalability and adaptability, is set to position these pharmaceutical companies at the forefront of logistics innovation. By enhancing operational capabilities and ensuring quicker, more reliable services, these partnerships underscore a paradigm shift in how healthcare products are managed and distributed.
As Exotec continues to expand its footprint in the pharmaceutical sector, the successful implementation of its Skypod system with leading firms like Hygie31 and Hartmann highlights its role as a vital partner for growth and operational excellence.