Picking the right partners is key to successful deployments of warehouse automation. Hy-Tek Intralogistics and Hai Robotics today said they have entered a strategic partnership with NAPA Auto Parts to deliver next-generation fulfillment automation in support of the transformation of its flow center operations.
“This project was about designing the right solution for the way we operate today while giving us the flexibility to adapt as our network evolves,” said Tyler Park, Senior Director in Design Engineering at NAPA. “Hy-Tek and Hai Robotics worked closely with our team throughout the design process, and the opportunity to evaluate the technology in Hy-Tek’s Innovation Lab gave us additional confidence that the solution would meet our operational requirements before implementation.”
NAPA Auto Parts is a leading global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts. The Atlanta-based company claimed that it has the largest network of parts and auto care in the U.S. with almost 6,000 stores and more than 18,000 auto care centers.
The NAPA Network is supported by nationwide distribution centers with approximately 800,000 available parts, accessories, and supplies. The company said its quality parts, rapid availability, and knowledgeable staffers help automotive service professionals, do-it-yourselfers and everyday drivers to keep cars, trucks, and equipment performing safely and efficiently. NAPA has also worked with Brightpick.
Hy-Tek Innovation Lab allowed evaluation in a live warehouse
The project combines NAPA’s operational vision, Hy-Tek’s systems integration expertise, and Hai Robotics’ automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). Its goal is to create a high-density, scalable, and flexible fulfillment operation to support NAPA’s long-term growth.
Hy-Tek Intralogistics is a leading provider of warehouse automation, software, integration, and supply chain optimization systems. The company engineered a system to help manage diverse SKU profiles through a unified ASRS tailored to NAPA’s operational needs.
Columbus, Ohio-based Hy-Tek used a multi-robot system from Hai Robotics. Early in the design process, the Hy-Tek Innovation Lab enabled the partners to evaluate the technology and refine it before deployment.
“From the beginning, our focus was on helping NAPA identify the right solution for its long-term operational goals, not simply implementing automation,” said Derek Miller, vice president of sales at Hy-Tek Intralogistics. “By leveraging our Innovation Lab, NAPA was able to evaluate the technology in a live warehouse environment, validate the system design, and move forward with confidence. That advisory approach, combined with strong collaboration between Hy-Tek, Hai Robotics, and NAPA, will deliver a solution built for long-term success.”
Hy-Tek also offers network optimization, the IntraOne software platform, robotics, advanced material handling automation, and aftermarket support. It asserted that it can integrate leading-edge technologies with existing systems to minimize disruption and accelerate return on investment (ROI) for customers across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Hai Robotics provides NAPA flexible storage
Warehouse operators are continuing to invest in automation to improve efficiency and meet growing customer expectations. Hy-Tek Intralogistics, Hai Robotics, and NAPA said their project exemplifies the value of combining strategic advisory, proven technologies, and experienced systems integration to deliver scalable fulfillment.
“This project demonstrates the value of combining innovative robotics with experienced systems integration partners,” said Hunter Senn, vice president of sales at Hai Robotics. “Together with Hy-Tek, we’re delivering an automated storage and retrieval solution that maximizes performance, optimizes warehouse space and gives NAPA the flexibility to adapt as its business continues to grow.”
Founded in 2016, Hai Robotics said its flexible ASRS can evolve alongside customers’ operational needs. The Shenzhen, China-based company said it combines robotics, software, and modular system design to help organizations increase efficiency, optimize space, and respond faster to changing demand.
NAPA’s project is designed to maximize storage density, improve throughput, and support its long-term operational strategy. By combining high-density storage with intelligent robotic automation, the companies said the system will improve order accuracy and accelerate fulfillment, enabling faster, more reliable service to customers with the potential for scalability.