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FreightWaves · September 7, 2026

30 Warehouse Robots in One Lab? Kenco Tests the Future

Supply Chain & LogisticsRoboticsOperations
THE AI ANGLE
Orchestrating end-to-end multi-robot workflows and automating mixed-SKU palletization

Third-party logistics provider Kenco is expanding its Chattanooga Innovation Lab to 30,000 square feet to test approximately 30 robot types operating within integrated, vendor-neutral workflows rather than isolated point solutions. By orchestrating end-to-end processes like automated trailer unloading and random mixed-SKU pallet building, the lab pushes multi-robot systems to failure to de-risk live deployments across roughly 140 distribution centers. This development demonstrates a critical industry transition from standalone automation pilots toward large-scale, interconnected systems integration in contract warehousing.

THE TEACHING ANGLE
Students can evaluate the operational trade-offs between deploying single-point robotic solutions and coordinating complex, multi-vendor orchestration platforms within high-volume logistics facilities.

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