Exoskeletons: innovative helpers in retail logistics

by Julia Pott

Retail logistics employees move thousands of tons every day – they lift heavy loads, carry parcels and stack goods. New technologies have been revolutionizing the world of work in retail logistics for years and providing relief for these physically demanding tasks. One of these innovations is exoskeletons.

Exoskeletons are portable, mechanical support structures that serve to reduce physical strain and create ergonomic working conditions. They support employees during physically strenuous activities such as lifting, carrying or repetitive movements. Their targeted use in retail logistics can reduce the risk of injury, protect employees' health and increase efficiency. Some large retail companies are already using these practical aids.

In a significant step towards improving workplace ergonomics, IKEA has introduced over 400 exoskeletons in 14 countries. The innovative devices, developed by Ottobock, a German manufacturer of prosthetics, reduce the physical strain on employees during strenuous and repetitive physical activities in logistics and warehouse work. Biomechanical energy distribution redirects forces within the body. Kinetic energy is absorbed during movement, stored and released again as required to support stressed areas of the body.

IKEA and its employees have already noticed numerous benefits: Muscles and joints are less strained when lifting and carrying, making work feel less strenuous. Sensory measurements show that the posture of users is noticeably improved, particularly by stabilizing the back and protecting the spine. In addition, the exoskeletons not only protect the health of employees, but also contribute to a more inclusive working environment by making activities more accessible to a wider range of workers. The use of exoskeletons will be extended to other countries such as India, the Netherlands and Japan in the future.

The Witt Group, a multi-channel retailer from Germany, is currently testing four exoskeletons from Swiss company Auxivo in its logistics. The “LiftSuit”, “DeltaSuit” and “OmniSuit” models support the back, hip and shoulder muscles by counteracting the force of gravity during lifting and carrying activities. The devices are used in particular in areas such as incoming goods, replenishment and outgoing shipments.

The test phase, during which the exoskeletons rotate through various departments, has been well received by employees. Two trained specialists are on hand to provide support in fitting the devices correctly and promoting acceptance. The long-term goal is to sustainably reduce physical strain and provide targeted support to those employees who need the devices the most.

Retailers in Canada are also using exoskeletons to optimize working conditions. In the Welland warehouse of Canadian Tire, the “Apogee” e-exoskeleton from German manufacturer German Bionic is used to relieve employees during lifting activities in the 75,000 square meter warehouse. The device, which is worn like a backpack, offers weight compensation of up to 40 kilos per lifting operation and is primarily used for tasks such as unloading trucks, stocking shelves and loading goods onto conveyor belts.

Thanks to a rapid introduction phase, employees were able to get used to the new devices quickly. The exoskeletons not only provide physical relief, but also mental relaxation, as employees feel safer and more efficient in their tasks. For Canadian Tire, the use of the Apogee exoskeleton represents an important step towards improving occupational safety and efficiency in retail logistics.