Consumers have a growing demand for fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the year. An effort to tackle the challenges that this demand creates on the supply chain is being pursued by Grupo Mas and Cimcorp. Together, they aim to modernize the distribution of fresh food using advanced automation technologies.
The supermarket and convenience store industry is rapidly evolving globally. Market research shows that the convenience store market is forecasted to reach $2.35 trillion by 2033, with a projected annual growth rate of 7.48% from 2028 to 2033. Simultaneously, the supermarket sector is adapting to meet changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.
Grupo Mas, a prominent Spanish food distributor with a history of over 50 years, has partnered with Cimcorp, a specialist in robotic handling solutions. This collaboration seeks to streamline operations and enhance efficiency without compromising on product freshness or employee well-being.
Grupo Mas manages a network of over 200 stores in Andalusia and Extremadura, facing challenges like limited space, increasing logistics costs, and a demand for greater efficiency. The integration of an advanced order-picking system by Cimcorp at Grupo Mas' distribution centers in Guillena and Sevilla in Spain is expected to lead to quicker deliveries, better employee support, and a more sustainable supply chain.
The implementation of this new system will enable Grupo Mas to prepare goods within 24 hours, ensuring flexibility in deliveries to their stores. Director of logistics and transport at Grupo Mas, Jose Manuel Martín Alba, highlighted that the automated system will streamline operations, enhance stock control, and create a safer work environment for the team.
Furthermore, the partnership resonates with Grupo Mas' sustainability commitment, which emphasizes the implementation of eco-friendly solutions to reduce environmental impact. Cimcorp's robotic technology and intelligent software will facilitate the swift movement of perishable goods through the distribution process, leading to decreased food waste and reduced shrinkage.
By automating their processes, Grupo Mas aims to improve the overall shopping experience for customers. Cimcorp's Director of Business Development, Hannu Kailasvuo, expressed pride in supporting Grupo MAS in this transformation, emphasizing that such automation technologies are designed to simplify operations, cut costs, and boost operational efficiency.