SSI Schäfer covers a wide range of solutions, not just for intralogistics. Too broad a scope? "The real challenge," says CEO Peter Edelmann, "is again ." Groundbreaking approaches like "FastBot" are intended to achieve this.
At the LogiMAT trade fair, Mauro Lunardelli, head of Logistics Solutions, presented the new scalability benchmarks, which ultimately amount to an enormous 10,000 double cycles per hour with a maximum load capacity of 50 kg. "We need new approaches," he explained to the international press at the start of LogiMAT. What's needed, he said, is smart networking of warehouse components instead of rigid structures, and a sensible integration of functionalities while simultaneously reducing complexity. This, it seems, practically demands a modular design. A fleet controller is intended to orchestrate the entire system holistically.
P.Edelmann, M.Lunardelli, B.Reichmuth (from left to right)
The new "FastBots" are designed to replace traditional conveyor technology and take over the storage, buffering, order picking, and sorting of a wide variety of load carriers. Different storage and order picking systems can be seamlessly coordinated between aisles of shelves and picking stations. "And all of this is Made in Europe," says SSI Schäfer.
The FastBots move collision-free in the tightest of spaces and at maximum density using a smart routing algorithm, which – ditto – naturally also reduces the CO2 footprint.
“Rigid conveyor loops in highly automated warehouses no longer meet the highly dynamic requirements of many companies. They need more flexible processes, scalable systems, and the ability to adapt their facilities to changing conditions at any time. Above all, companies depend on future-proof solutions that offer long-term investment security,” says Elmar Issing, Senior Vice President Solutions Architecture & Innovations at SSI Schäfer.
To put it somewhat abstractly: FastBots connect warehousing, order processing, and picking at a new level of performance. Thanks to their modular architecture, companies can start with smaller systems, explains Benno Reichmuth, head of the Products & Equipment division at ssI Schäfer. "We're not just for the big players," he says – although they have recently secured projects with extremely high order volumes. At the same time, the solution ensures maximum reliability through redundant structures.
The FastBots Solution offers maximum flexibility not only in storage dimensions but also in terms of layout. This allows for the flexible integration of any type of storage system and cube, workstation or picking station, as well as piece picking, sorting applications and any type of load carrier in a small parts or shuttle warehouse.
Furthermore, Reichmuth argues that there is no single, universally applicable maximum solution. Rather, all systems are legitimate, such as the Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) RackBot with its high-stack shelving system, the Logimat storage lift with its concept that saves up to 90% of storage space in the smallest possible area and requires only minutes of training for temporary workers.
Competitors among themselves. Photo: klk.
In light of the current hype surrounding "artificial intelligence," all of this still sounds a bit mysterious. However, since automation projects can also be implemented gradually, the focus here seems to be more on reducing complexity than on deploying the most advanced technology possible. Ultimately, warehouse technology should remain manageable – while still offering optimal efficiency.
In addition, SSI Schäfer has developed into one of the largest providers of software for intralogistics. Its comprehensive software portfolio covers all processes from warehouse management to material flow control and, with modern real-time analytics, smart data processing, and optimization algorithms, offers all the possibilities for sustainable resource management.
Exhibition stand at LogiMAT 2025
SSI Schäfer only recovered from a serious cyberattack in 2024. The group also includes SSI Schäfer Plastics, an expert in sustainable container systems and customized structural packaging, as well as solutions for the waste and circular economy.
At its international headquarters in Neunkirchen, Germany, and across six continents in approximately 80 operating companies and seven production facilities, SSI Schäfer employs more than 8,600 people. The group also includes the robotics specialist RO-BER, the SAP specialist SWAN, the robotics and AGV expert DS Automotion, and the start-up SupplyBrain. In fiscal year 2023, the company generated €1.91 billion in revenue.
