Exploring the Current and Future State of Warehouse Automation : A Pre-Study for Sustainable Warehouse Developments

Date: June 2025 Level: Master Thesis in Product and Process Development, 30 ECT Institution: School of Innovation, Design, and Engineering, IDT, Mälardalen University Authors: André Kouki and Jesswilja Keriakes Title: Exploring the Current and Future State of Warehouse Automation. A Pre-Study for Sustainable Warehouse Developments Supervisor: Anna Granlund Keywords: Warehouse automation, warehouse digitalization, challenges, enablers, and collaborations Aim: The study explores the current state of warehouse digitalization and automation, identifying key challenges and enablers towards the future vision in warehousing companies. Research Questions: To what extent are different parts of warehouse operations automated and digitalized, and how are these initiatives managed? What are the key challenges related to automation and digitalization in warehouse operations? What are the key enablers for supporting warehouse automation and digitalization efforts? Method: The methodology is based on an inductive research approach grounded in qualitative empirical data collection through semi-structured interviews, and on-site observations. Interviews conducted with representatives from five companies and a reference group, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected empirical data. Conclusion: The study concludes that while many companies have begun implementing automation and digitalization solutions, with varying degrees of automation and digitalization many significant barriers remain. These include lack of internal competence, regulatory barriers, integration challenges, and resistance to change, among others. However, structured change management, industrial and academic collaborations, and continuous learning were the identified enablers for future advancement. A structured approach and continued development in these areas are necessary to achieve sustainable and effective warehouse digitalization and automation.