Saudi Robot Automation Partnership – Logistics News
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Starlinks, a global logistics technology leader, has strengthened its long-term automation strategy with the successful completion of its first large-scale robotics deployment in partnership with Geekplus. The project, driven by surging fulfilment demand in the region, builds on Starlinks’ commitment to operational excellence through its Solutions division’s Design–Build–Operate–Transfer (DBOT) model.
The Riyadh distribution centre now operates with a fully integrated Geekplus RoboShuttle8 system alongside advanced sorting solutions. Designed for high-density, high-throughput operations, RoboShuttle8 combines flexible Tote-to-Person automation with vertical storage capabilities of up to 12 metres unlocking capacity and efficiency without the complexity or capital costs of fixed infrastructure.
Since the beginning of the deployment, the system has delivered measurable operational gains. Which has achieved:
Up to 3x the normal picking speed
Up to 4x the storage density
Nearly 2 percentage points improvement in picking accuracy compared to manual operations
A fleet of 39 RoboShuttle8, 126 P40, and 90 S20C robots now in operation
These results reflect Starlinks’ selective approach to optimising automation performance, with goods and stowing strategies carefully chosen to maximise output.
“Our DBOT model means we own the full lifecycle, from design to operation, ensuring that automation isn’t just deployed, but truly embedded into our customers’ success stories,” said Makrem Kadachi, Managing Director of Solutions and UAE at Starlinks. “This partnership with Geekplus shows how we combine operational expertise with best-in-class technology to deliver sustainable, scalable performance gains.”
The RoboShuttle’s hybrid AMR design allows it to operate seamlessly across multiple storage heights, combining the adaptability of mobile robotics with the space efficiency of traditional AS/RS systems. Its modular architecture also enabled the smooth integration of a sorting solution into the existing picking workflow critical for e-commerce operations where order patterns and volumes shift rapidly.
“The success of this project highlights the strength of our RoboShuttle solution for the e-commerce sector,” said Wayne Tai, Sales Director for the MENA region at Geekplus. “It offers the agility and scalability that fulfilment operations need to achieve same-day delivery, particularly in fast-growing markets like the Middle East.”
With phase one complete, Starlinks and Geekplus are set to deepen their automation partnership, focusing on further operational gains and reinforcing their shared vision of shaping the future of tech-enabled logistics in the region.
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