Ikea expands drone use for inventory management

Ikea has been utilizing drones for inventory management for some time, but is now expanding its use of the technology. The Swedish chain of department stores will deploy an upgraded AI-powered system that supports its employees throughout the day. The advanced system will be integrated into fulfilment units, including distribution centres, which will operate 24/7.

After a year of testing at its distribution centre in Winterslag, Belgium, Ikea now intends to deploy drones at more locations in the near future. This will further increase operational efficiency by automating the physically demanding and time-consuming task of stock-taking for employees. This will not only give employees more time to improve the customer experience, but will also allow Ikea to manage stock faster and more accurately.

Ikea embarked on its drone adventure in 2021 with an innovative partnership with Verity, a provider of AI and robotics, to develop a fully autonomous drone solution for its warehouses. More than 250 drones are now operating for Ikea at 73 locations across nine countries.

Greater productivity

The implementation of 24/7-operational drones significantly increases the efficiency of inventory management and improves employee productivity. Tommy Niemierowski, Fulfilment Project Implementation Manager at Ikea Belgium, speaks of a ‘hugely rewarding experience’. ‘The installation process itself is relatively simple and the rewards are great, as it facilitates cooperation between different stakeholders,’ Niemierowski says.

The integration of the new drones into Ikea’s warehouses is not only a big step in inventory management, but also a boost to employee welfare. By taking over the physically demanding task of checking inventory, these drones reduce the ergonomic strain on employees, allowing them to focus on lighter and more interesting tasks.

Advanced navigation

The Ikea drones use an AI-based algorithm to identify and photograph product storage locations. In addition, the drone flights are pre-planned, with a customized indoor positioning system helping them to navigate through higher-level storage locations. The drones are also equipped with obstacle detection, allowing them to avoid collisions by choosing a different route.

After the successful test in Winterslag, Ikea plans to expand the solution further in Europe and North America, starting with the Perryville distribution centre in the United States. In addition, Ikea is working on upgrading the solution with new functionalities. For example, the retailer is exploring applications for unit loading and shelf inspection, as well as improving the analysis and insight component.