Ahold Delhaize Expanding Wearable Robotics Pilot

The Ahold Delhaize supply chain network (ADUSA Supply Chain), which recently announced that more than 85% of its network would be self-distributed by the end of next year, is expanding its use of exosuits in its grocery distribution centers following successful pilots.

More than 250 of the wearable robotic systems will be deployed. The suits, which are developed by Verve Motion and designed to improve safety and efficiency in the centers, are said to be soft, lightweight and easy to put on, and they’re expected to reduce strain on an associate’s back by up to 40% during a typical workday.

Feedback during the pilot from wearers included reduced fatigue, soreness and better posture.

ADUSA Supply Chain is a family of supply chain companies that serve the Ahold Delhaize USA – Food Lion, Giant Food, The GIANT Company, Hannaford and Stop & Shop grocery brands. In a statement, president Chris Lewis called out the importance of the physically demanding work of selecting product in a distribution center.

“The associates in grocery distribution centers are nothing short of superheroes who keep product flowing through the supply chain to physical and digital store shelves and ultimately to consumers’ tables,” he said. “This has never been further demonstrated than during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re proud to pilot solutions like this one that enable us and our partners to care for the workforce in distribution centers by helping associates reduce fatigue, work more effectively and reduce the likelihood of injuries.”