SMH: Robots have been taught to help pack groceries. But they’ll never do this

Image Credit: SMH / Penny Stephens

Coles has unveiled its $400 million automated customer fulfilment centre in Truganina, Melbourne, featuring 700 robots, AI, and 1000 employees, revolutionising online grocery orders. This state-of-the-art facility can process up to 10,000 next-day delivery orders daily with improved accuracy and efficiency, easing congestion in local stores. Robots in "the hive" collect items at speed, guided by sophisticated algorithms that optimise packing while ensuring product safety. RetailOasis Director Trent Rigby noted, “The industry is closely watching whether Amazon will expand into fresh food, as they would likely need to acquire a distribution network to compete.” As online sales grow across the sector, innovations like automation and AI are reshaping roles and operations in retail logistics. Read the full article here.