zebra technologies fetch 290mcrowe robotreport

Zebra Technologies Fetches 290 Million with RobotReport Acquisition

In a significant development in the world of warehouse robotics, Zebra Technologies has announced its acquisition of Fetch Robotics for an estimated $300 million. The deal marks a major milestone in the integration of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and logistics technology to optimize picking and fulfillment processes.

Fetch Robotics, based in San Jose, California, is a leading provider of AMR solutions that have been designed to automate material handling workflows in various industries. In addition to its robotic hardware, Fetch's software portfolio includes Workflow Builder, a drag-and-drop workflow development studio that enables customers and partners to quickly deploy automated material handling workflows.

Zebra plans to mesh Fetch's technology with its own workflow solutions for human workers, such as FulfillmentEdge and SmartSight products. According to Zebra, this approach can provide better orchestration of technology and people, especially when applied to users who have labor-intensive operations.

The acquisition is part of a larger trend in the warehouse robotics industry, where AMR providers are increasing their focus on software that not only controls the robots but also merges their activities with human workers and other material handling automation. Other recent deals include Otto Motors announcing partnerships with systems integrators in Ireland, the Netherlands, and Germany, while Kindred Inc. acquired 6 River Systems for $450 million.

Zebra's acquisition of Fetch Robotics demonstrates an increasing integration between warehouse robotics startup firms and larger systems integrators and logistics technology providers. Lincolnshire, Illinois-based Zebra had already bought a 5% stake in Fetch in a 2019 funding round but will now pay $290 million for the remaining 95%.

Fetch's success in optimizing picking in fulfillment centers and distribution centers, as well as supporting just-in-time material delivery in manufacturing facilities, has been a major factor in Zebra's decision to acquire the company. The move is expected to apply intelligent industrial automation to help reduce the impact of labor shortages in fulfillment, distribution, and manufacturing environments.

The acquisition is expected to have significant benefits for both companies, with Fetch gaining access to Zebra's extensive network of customers and partners, while Zebra will gain expertise in AMR technology and software. The deal marks an exciting new chapter in the development of warehouse robotics and logistics automation, and we can expect to see even more innovative solutions emerge in the future.

Zebra technologies fetch 290mcrowe robotreport