Countdown deploys micro-fulfilment tech to speed up online order packing

Countdown has launched micro-fulfilment centres that help speed up online order packing, completing New Zealand’s first eStore.

According to the company, the unit sorts and moves up to 11,000 products directly to its team of 200 personal shoppers in Countdown’s Penrose eStore in Auckland, saving them from walking up and down different aisles. 

“Micro-fulfilment technology will help us pull together packaged goods in minutes, saving our personal shoppers precious time to select quality fresh produce, meat and other perishable items,” said Sally Copland, acting MD at Countdown. 

Provided by Boston-based Takeoff Technologies, the new micro-fulfilment centre will increase the capacity to up to 15,000 orders each week.

“The technology is designed to help us deliver unparalleled speed and accuracy, and also keep us close to our customers for faster and more flexible home deliveries,” said Copland. “This speed is key to increasing the availability of same-day deliveries that more and more of our customers want.”

Countdown’s new technology marks the completion of New Zealand’s first eStore, which was opened ahead of original schedule as demand for home-delivered groceries surged during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

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