Rohlik Enhances Order Picking Efficiency with AI Robotics from Sereact

Rohlik Group Deploys AI Robotics to Revolutionize Online Grocery fulfillment

October 28,2025 – By archyde News Desk

The Online Grocery Retailer Rohlik Group is initiating a significant advancement in its logistics operations with the implementation of Artificial Intelligence Robotics,developed by Stuttgart-based startup Sereact. This deployment marks a pivotal move towards automating food picking within its fulfillment centers.

Initial Rollout adn expansion Plans

The initial phase includes the integration of 24 robots across Rohlik GroupS Knuspr and Gurkerl brands in Germany and Austria, specifically within their Berlin and Vienna fulfillment centers. Following this initial deployment,the program is scheduled to extend to Frankfurt,with ambitious plans for further scaling,potentially reaching several hundred robots in the coming years.

Andreas Küllmer, Head of Group Automation at Rohlik Group, stated that this AI robotics program was designed to redefine food logistics, paving the way for a more automated future. He emphasized the importance of deploying this technology across multiple markets to scale both the robotics technology and the foundations for future automated logistics networks.

Addressing the Challenges of Diverse Environments

A key component of this rollout involves testing critical performance indicators such as throughput and reliability, and ensuring seamless coordination between fresh and non-refrigerated products. The integration of robotics into both refrigerated and dry storage environments presents a significant technical challenge, requiring elegant adaptation and control systems.

Ralf Gulde,CEO of Sereact,highlighted that Rohlik’s initiative demonstrates the scalability of AI robotics beyond isolated pilot programs. He noted that by deploying robots in multiple markets, including those requiring temperature control, Rohlik is establishing a leading-edge e-grocery fulfillment network.

The “Cortex” Vision-Language-Action Model

Sereact recently launched “Cortex”, a proprietary Foundation AI model built on a Vision-Language-Action (VLA) framework. This model is designed to combine perception, reasoning, and control into a single, unified system. trained on over 100 real-world scenarios, Cortex operates independently of specific hardware, allowing the robots to adapt to changing conditions and unexpected situations. This capability aims to establish a more practical and adaptable form of embodied AI for logistics applications.

Did You Know? The global market for logistics robots is predicted to reach $20.8 billion by 2030,according to a recent report by Research and Markets.

Feature	Rohlik/sereact Implementation	Industry Average (2024)
Initial Robot Deployment	24 Units	Typically 5-10 units in initial trials
Model Adaptability	Hardware Autonomous	Often Hardware Specific
Training Scenarios	100+ Real-World Scenarios	20-50 Simulated Scenarios

Pro Tip: implementing AI-powered robotics in cold chain logistics requires specialized materials and algorithms to maintain temperature integrity throughout the picking and packing process.

The Growing Role of AI in E-Grocery

The adoption of AI and robotics in the e-grocery sector is rapidly accelerating, driven by increasing consumer demand for faster and more efficient delivery services. These technologies not only improve operational efficiency but also address labor shortages and reduce errors in order fulfillment. The integration of AI-powered solutions is becoming crucial for retailers looking to remain competitive in this dynamic market.

According to McKinsey, companies that invest in automation and AI are seeing a 20-30% reduction in order fulfillment costs. This trend is expected to continue as AI technology becomes more sophisticated and affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions About AI Robotics in Grocery

• What are the primary benefits of using AI robots in grocery fulfillment? AI robots improve efficiency, reduce errors, and address labor shortages.
• How does Sereact’s “Cortex” model differ from traditional robotic systems? Cortex is hardware-independent and can adapt to unexpected situations, unlike traditional systems programmed for specific tasks.
• What challenges are involved in integrating robots into refrigerated environments? Maintaining temperature control and utilizing materials that can withstand cold temperatures are significant challenges.
• Is AI robotics a cost-effective solution for grocery retailers? While initial investment is considerable, AI robotics can lead to significant cost savings through increased efficiency and reduced errors.
• what is the future outlook for AI in the e-grocery industry? AI is expected to become increasingly integrated into all aspects of e-grocery fulfillment, from inventory management to last-mile delivery.

What impact will AI-powered robotics have on the future of work in the grocery industry? What other innovations do you foresee in the e-grocery space?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What specific challenges in the e-grocery sector prompted Rohlik to seek a warehouse automation solution?

The Growing Demand for Automated Order Fulfillment

The e-grocery sector is booming,adn with it,the pressure on fulfillment centers to deliver speed and accuracy. Rohlik, a leading online grocery retailer, recognized this challenge and partnered with Sereact to implement cutting-edge AI-powered robotics, significantly boosting their order picking efficiency. This move addresses a critical need in the industry: scaling operations without sacrificing quality or increasing labor costs. Key terms driving this demand include e-grocery fulfillment, warehouse automation, and last-mile delivery.

Sereact’s AI Robotics Solution: A Deep Dive

Sereact specializes in developing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) equipped with advanced artificial intelligence.Their solution for Rohlik isn’t simply about replacing human pickers; it’s about augmenting their capabilities and optimizing the entire picking process. Here’s a breakdown of the core components:

* Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs): These robots navigate the warehouse floor independently, avoiding obstacles and dynamically adjusting to changing environments. They are the workhorses of the system, transporting totes and bins.

* AI-Powered Vision Systems: Sereact’s robots utilize sophisticated computer vision to identify products accurately, even with variations in packaging or placement. This minimizes picking errors.

* Warehouse Management System (WMS) Integration: Seamless integration with Rohlik’s existing WMS is crucial. This allows the robots to receive real-time order information and optimize picking routes.

* Collaborative Robotics (Cobots): While the AMRs handle transportation, Sereact’s system can also incorporate cobots for specific tasks like depalletizing or sorting, further streamlining operations.

This technology falls under the broader umbrella of intelligent automation and robotic process automation (RPA), increasingly vital for modern logistics.

how Rohlik is Benefiting from the Implementation

The partnership between Rohlik and Sereact has yielded remarkable results. Here’s how the implementation has impacted Rohlik’s operations:

* Increased Picking Speed: Robots significantly reduce the time it takes to locate and retrieve items,leading to faster order fulfillment. Reports indicate a speed increase of up to 30% in certain areas of the warehouse.

* Improved Order Accuracy: AI-powered vision systems minimize picking errors, reducing returns and improving customer satisfaction. Order accuracy rates are a key performance indicator (KPI) for e-grocery businesses.

* Reduced Labor Costs: While not eliminating jobs, the automation allows Rohlik to optimize its workforce, reallocating employees to more value-added tasks. This addresses the ongoing labor shortage in the logistics industry.

* Enhanced Scalability: The robotic system allows Rohlik to handle increasing order volumes without needing to drastically expand its warehouse space or workforce. Warehouse scalability is a major benefit.

* Optimized Warehouse Space Utilization: AMRs can navigate narrow aisles and work in tighter spaces than traditional forklifts, maximizing the use of existing warehouse space.

The Technology Behind the Efficiency Gains: AI and Machine Learning

Sereact’s success hinges on its advanced AI and machine learning algorithms. These algorithms are constantly learning and improving, leading to even greater efficiency over time.

* Path Planning: AI algorithms determine the most efficient routes for the robots to navigate the warehouse, minimizing travel time and congestion.

* Object Recognition: Machine learning models are trained to accurately identify thousands of different products, even in challenging lighting conditions or with partially obscured labels.

* Predictive Analytics: The system can analyze ancient order data to predict future demand and optimize inventory placement, ensuring that frequently ordered items are readily accessible. This relates to demand forecasting and inventory optimization.

* Real-time Adaptation: The robots can adapt to changing warehouse conditions in real-time, such as unexpected obstacles or changes in order priorities.

Real-World Request: Rohlik’s Dark Stores

Rohlik operates a network of “dark stores” – fulfillment centers dedicated solely to online order fulfillment. These facilities are specifically designed for efficiency, and the integration of Sereact’s robotics has taken that efficiency to the next level. The dark store model, combined with automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), is becoming increasingly popular in the e-grocery space.

Benefits of AI Robotics in Grocery Fulfillment

Beyond Rohlik’s specific success, the broader adoption of AI robotics in grocery fulfillment offers numerous benefits:

* Improved Freshness: Faster fulfillment times mean that customers receive fresher produce and groceries.

* reduced Food Waste: optimized inventory management and faster order processing can help reduce food waste.

* Enhanced Customer Experience: Accurate orders and timely delivery lead to happier customers.

* Data-Driven Insights: The robotic system generates valuable data that can be used to improve warehouse operations and optimize the supply chain.

Practical Tips for Implementing Warehouse Robotics

For businesses considering implementing similar solutions, here are a few practical tips:

1. Start Small: Begin with a pilot project in a limited area of the warehouse to test the technology and identify potential challenges.
2. Focus on Integration: Ensure seamless integration with your existing WMS and other systems.