AutoStore for Ringfoto: More efficiency and throughput for Europe's largest photo network

Ringfoto GmbH & Co. KG, Europe's leading purchasing cooperation for cameras, lenses and photo accessories, is relying on automation at its Fürth site. HÖRMANN Intralogistics was commissioned to implement an AutoStore system that will significantly increase storage capacity and picking performance.

Compact storage, maximum performance

The new AutoStore system will be equipped with 30,000 bins that are stacked on top of each other on 15 levels - a solution that has been specially adapted to the clearance height of the existing hall. Five Carousel workstations in order picking and four more in goods receiving ensure high process speed. In addition, two further frames are planned for future workstations to increase the flexibility of the system.

The HiLIS warehouse management system developed by HÖRMANN Intralogistics is responsible for controlling the entire system. It forms the interface between AutoStore and the connected logistics processes and ensures smooth process coordination. The storage capacity of the system is 180 containers per hour, while the retrieval rate is 719 containers per hour - a significant increase in performance compared to the previous setup. The system is supplemented by a cleaning station for the AutoStore robots to keep operations stable and low-maintenance in the long term.

Efficiency leap for Ringfoto

Christopher Wilhelm, Head of Logistics & Service at Ringfoto, sees the new solution as an important step for the future: "With the AutoStore system, we will not only make optimum use of our storage volume, but also significantly speed up the processes in incoming goods and order picking. The greater efficiency and increased throughput will help us to meet the growing requirements of our retailers even better."

The planned start of production (SOP) is scheduled for April 2026.

About Ringfoto

The RINGFOTO Group is Europe's largest photo association. More than 1,000 members, around 1,300 sales outlets and thousands of specialist consultants stand for the success and performance of the RINGFOTO Group.

The company has subsidiaries in Austria and the Netherlands and supplies dealers in 24 other countries such as Luxembourg, Italy, France and the Czech Republic. This means we also have a strong international presence.