HÖRMANN handover of the first AutoStore® system with direct AGV connection at Esders

With a new project at existing customer Esders, HÖRMANN Intralogistics is pleased to announce a "quantum leap" in automated warehouse systems. The combination of AutoStore® and driverless transport vehicles further increases the level of automation - beyond classic goods-to-person concepts to the complete autonomy of repetitive processes such as container handling and picking.

Esders GmbH expanded its existing AutoStore® system in Haselünne with an intelligent transport solution that moves containers fully automatically between the warehouse and picking. HÖRMANN Intralogistics had already implemented an AutoStore® grid with 3,000 bins and six robots for the storage and picking of measuring and equipment technology at the site in 2018. The system has since been expanded to 12,000 bins and ten robots.

Fully automated connection of the AutoStore® system to other warehouse areas

Nine SAFELOG XS 1 vehicles pick up the AutoStore® containers from the conveyor technology directly connected to the system, navigate autonomously through the warehouse and charge themselves independently at induction charging stations. 

Bernhard Esders, Managing Director of Esders GmbH, is satisfied: "The expansion of our AutoStore® system was a bold step, but it has paid off. The new transport solution has integrated seamlessly into our existing infrastructure and has already brought noticeable improvements after a short time. Our employees are relieved, throughput has increased - the fully automated networking between warehouse and order picking works."

This project is a first for HÖRMANN Intralogistics: for the first time, AutoStore® is being combined with an AGV fleet to further automate the material flow.

This project puts HÖRMANN Intralogistics at the cutting edge of current developments in the fast-moving and complex world of robotics and automation. The combination of AutoStore and intelligent transport robots in customers' live systems is a turning point in intralogistics - from semi-automated processes to fully networked, autonomous warehouse control.

"The project at Esders was the decisive practical test. After the intensive development phases, we can confirm today: The solution works as planned and meets all requirements. We have created a market-ready technology that we can now use successfully for further automation projects." summarizes Sebastian Behrens, Technical Expert Robotics at HÖRMANN Intralogistics.

The new automation solution at Esders was handed over to the customer at the end of 2025.