What is the future of technology in the fulfillment and e-commerce market? To explore this question, we reached out to our technology partner specializing in automation and digitalization solutions, Knapp AG. Markus Neuper, Sales Manager for Retail Solutions at Knapp AG, and Anton Tschurwald, Vice President Retail Solutions shared their insights and ideas on the evolving landscape.

The e-commerce and fulfillment market is witnessing significant growth, driven by increasing demand and the need for enhanced capacity. To address these challenges, companies are turning to innovative technologies that promise to revolutionize the industry. Among the latest advancements is the Pick-It-Easy robot picking solution, designed by KNAPP AG to boost capacity and support future growth for e-commerce businesses.

One of the key issues that remains at the forefront is the management of returns. As customers continue to debate whether to charge for returns, the topic will undoubtedly stay relevant. Companies in logistics and automation business are dedicated to developing better solutions for returns handling, recognizing its importance in the overall customer experience.

Current challenges, such as complex customer requirements, rising cost pressures, and personnel shortages, are accelerating the trend towards full automation in logistics. KNAPP is at the forefront of this movement, aiming to make value chains more efficient through intelligent automation solutions. The integration of robotics and the strategic use of artificial intelligence holds immense potential to support the future of logistics.

Technologies like autonomous mobile robots, pocket transport systems, and intelligent packaging systems are pushing automation forward. With a strong emphasis on developing digital solutions and systems that connect all levels of the value chain. Whether in-store or online, businesses share a common goal: to ensure a stellar shopping experience for customers. The experience characterized by quick, error-free, and highly convenient delivery.

Looking ahead, KNAPP envisions a future where zero or one-touch fulfillment becomes the norm. Automated picking directly into shipping cartons, eliminating paperwork, and implementing highly automated returns processes are all part of this vision. By leveraging these advancements, KNAPP aims to help businesses fulfill their customers’ wishes efficiently, even in the face of resource constraints.

How do you see the future of technology in the fulfillment and e-commerce market?

What we currently see, even today, is significant growth in these areas. There’s increasing demand and a need for more capacity. We now have new products on the market, such as the Pick-It-Easy robot picking solution, which can boost capacity and support future growth for customers in the e-commerce environment. Additionally, returns continue to receive a lot of attention. Customers are debating whether to charge for returns or not, so the topic of returns will remain relevant in the future. We are constantly working on developing better solutions for this.

Radial also interviewed Anton Tschurwald, Vice President Retail Solutions at KNAPP AG, to gain insights into the collaboration between the two companies and the future of automated fulfillment. Discover his perspective on how KNAPP AG is leading the way in intelligent automation, leveraging robotics and AI to revolutionize logistics and e-commerce.