Symbotic is acquiring cellumation GmbH, a Bremen-based automation company behind the celluveyor sortation system. The deal adds an independently controlled, omnidirectional handling technology to Symbotic’s warehouse automation portfolio.
Celluveyor uses a large number of individual cells to move items in any direction. Its software coordinates transport and routing on the same surface, rather than relying solely on fixed conveyor paths. Symbotic expects the approach to deliver higher throughput and support more varied products in substantially less space than conventional conveyor sortation.
That space advantage could allow warehouse operators to allocate more of a facility to storage or other higher-value activities. Symbotic also sees potential for simpler inbound and outbound robotic cells and lower capital equipment costs.
Cellumation’s technology is already used by postal, e-commerce and logistics operators. Following the acquisition, the business will continue under its own name, serve existing customers and sell the celluveyor directly and through other integrators, as well as supplying Symbotic systems. Its technology platform will therefore retain a standalone market role.
The transaction also gives Symbotic additional European deployment experience, customer relationships and local leadership. Co-founders Hendrik Thamer and Claudio Uriarte will remain as the company’s chief executive and chief technology officer. The deal follows Symbotic’s acquisitions of ARMS Innovations and Fox Robotics, broadening a portfolio that combines integrated systems with products available independently. More information is available through Symbotic’s portfolio.
A multilingual professional experienced in Europe, Canada, and China, Herbert has developed invaluable networks in the automotive and energy industries. He has led high-profile projects involving ENBW, Mercedes-Benz Group, Siemens Group, and the Fraunhofer Institute.