Coop Sweden’s largest automated distribution centre in Eskilstuna is now fully operational. Developed by German warehouse and logistics specialist SSI Schäfer, the site is designed to serve as the backbone of the grocery retailer’s supply chain transformation. Spanning 77,000 square metres, it is one of the largest of its kind in Europe.
The new distribution hub operates around the clock and is largely automated. Different from its competitors, SSI Schäfer uses robots for depalletising and store-specific palletising. For a long time, it seemed to be impossible to handle groceries at case level with robots due to due to their unstable and varied packaging.
The operation in Eskilstuna is driven by SSI Schäfer’s integrated automation portfolio. A total of 25 SSI Exyz stacker cranes handle pallet storage across ambient and chilled zones, while ten robots depalletise goods into two automated small-parts warehouses with over 600,000 tote and tray locations.
End-to-end automation
Storage and retrieval are powered by approximately 700 SSI Flexi shuttles working in combination with SSI Schäfer’s 3D-Matrix solution, which provides buffering and sequencing within a single system. The required sequence is managed and controlled by Wamas, SSI Schäfer’s logistic software.
Order fulfilment relies on the SSI Case Picking system, with 34 palletising robots assembling store-ready mixed pallets. The SSI Pack Pattern Generator module within Wamas optimises pallet stability, volume efficiency and store-friendly layouts, ensuring high picking quality across Coop’s complex grocery assortment.
Site serves more than 800 stores
The entire facility runs on Wamas logistic software, which acts as the central platform for real-time monitoring and data-driven control – from goods inspection to shipping. Around 80 on-site technicians maintain and optimise both the IT and mechanical systems, ensuring 24/7 availability.
Coop as one of Sweden’s largest retailers will use this newly automated distribution centre to supply more than 800 of its stores. “By automating key processes, we increase our overall productivity, ensure high and consistent quality, and improve our ability to deliver on time,” says Ulf Axelsson, Managing Director at Coop Terminals. “We are very satisfied with the results and the collaborative partnership with SSI Schaefer.”
The video provides insight into the automation of Coop Sweden’s distribution centre in Eskilstuna. (Video: SSI Schäfer)
