Warehousing companies continue to search for technologies that can lower costs and support employees while meeting growing demands. In an industry shaped by labor shortages and the need for accuracy, ODW Logistics has invited automation into its operations with the Symmetry Fulfillment Person to Goods AMR system from Zebra Robotics Automation. Brian Chereson, driving warehouse automation initiatives at ODW Logistics, spoke alongside Cody Upp, commercial lead at Zebra Robotics Automation, about their joint experience and what the implementation means for logistics workflows. The conversation addressed the partnership’s impact on workflow efficiency, cost structures, and employee roles, raising questions about the future of automation in logistics. Demand for intentional automation solutions has risen, especially as businesses aim to adapt amid ongoing industry pressure.
Companies in the warehouse automation sector have experimented with various robotics models over recent years, from goods-to-person picking systems to fully autonomous mobile robots (AMR) in fulfillment centers. While earlier implementations centered on basic repetitive tasks, more recent solutions, such as Zebra’s Symmetry Fulfillment system, focus on scalability and integration within existing labor structures. While many logistics businesses deploy automation to address workforce shortages and speed up operations, integration and workforce adaptation remain key hurdles, just as ODW Logistics and Zebra Robotics Automation highlighted in their discussion.
Why Did ODW Logistics Choose Zebra’s Symmetry Fulfillment System?
ODW Logistics selected Zebra’s Symmetry Fulfillment AMR to address persistent labor cost pressures and the need for flexibility. The system’s autonomous mobile robots operate within the warehouse, delivering products directly to employees and thus streamlining order picking while lowering manual movement across the facility. The choice was influenced by the system’s ability to complement human workers rather than replace them, targeting improved efficiency and accuracy.
What Advantages Has the Automation Delivered?
The adoption of robotics at ODW Logistics has resulted in tangible benefits across multiple operational aspects. Chereson noted that order accuracy has improved and that the company is observing a steady reduction in labor costs. According to Cody Upp, the AMR platform is also designed to encourage positive employee experiences by removing dull and repetitive movement, which helps maintain workforce morale.
“The AMR solution lets employees focus on meaningful work rather than repetitive tasks,” said Upp.
How Are Employees Responding to Increased Automation?
Employee acceptance remains central to the transition, and leadership at ODW Logistics reported that clear communication and training helped smooth the integration process. Chereson explained that the workforce adapted to new responsibilities while maintaining engagement. The automation allowed staff to allocate more energy to quality control and problem-solving activities.
“Our team quickly adapted, viewing robotics as a tool to support—not replace—them,” Chereson stated.
Deploying automation in warehousing is not without challenges. The integration of flexible robotics requires upfront investments, ongoing support, and consideration for employee roles. Earlier reports on warehouse robotics highlighted concerns about job displacement and the time needed to realize lasting cost savings. As seen in this deployment, however, collaboration between ODW Logistics and Zebra Robotics Automation demonstrates how ongoing communication, thoughtful training, and transparent processes can foster both operational improvements and employee buy-in. The shift toward person-to-goods automation responds to market needs and emphasizes harmonious human-machine interaction, rather than total reliance on robotics. For companies evaluating warehouse robotics, assessing both tangible benefits and workforce impact is critical. Automation may streamline picking and fulfillment, but its true value is realized when it enhances—not overrides—existing operations.
- ODW Logistics adopted Zebra’s Symmetry Fulfillment AMR for efficiency gains.
- The automation system supports employee engagement and order accuracy improvements.
- Effective integration required clear communication and workforce adaptation.
