"Starlink" is the name of SpaceX's well-known satellite network. Logistics provider "Starlinks," on the other hand, is experienced in the Gulf States and has now launched its first large-scale robotics operation in Riyadh with Geekplus, a fleet of 39 RoboShuttle8, 126 P40, and 90 S20C robots.
Sorting robot
Driven by increasing demand for fulfillment in the region, the project builds on Starlink's commitment to operational excellence through the Solutions division's Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT) model. The Riyadh distribution center now operates with a fully integrated Geekplus RoboShuttle8 system and advanced sorting solutions.
High-throughput solution
RoboShuttle8 was designed for high-density, high-throughput operations and combines flexible tote-to-person automation with vertical storage capacities of up to 12 m. This increases capacity and efficiency without the complexity or investment costs of a fixed infrastructure. Since its implementation began, the system has delivered measurable operational benefits such as…
- up to three times the picking speed
- up to four times the storage density
- Almost two percentage points higher picking accuracy compared to manual processes
Merchandise and storage strategies were carefully selected to maximize performance.
“Our DBOT model means we manage the entire lifecycle from development to operation, ensuring that automation is not only implemented but becomes a success story for our customers,” said Makrem Kadachi, Managing Director of Solutions and UAE at Starlinks.
The RoboShuttle’s hybrid AMR design allows for seamless operation across multiple storage heights, combining the adaptability of mobile robotics with the space efficiency of conventional stacker cranes. Furthermore, its modular architecture paves the way for the smooth integration of a sorting solution into the existing picking workflow, which is crucial for e-commerce businesses with rapidly changing order patterns and volumes.
The P40 robots
“The success of this project underlines the strength of our RoboShuttle solution for the e-commerce sector,” said Wayne Tai, Sales Manager for the MENA region at Geekplus. “It offers the agility and scalability that fulfillment operations need for same-day delivery, especially in rapidly growing markets like the Middle East.”
Following the completion of the first phase, Starlinks and Geekplus intend to deepen their automation partnership.
