Swisslog has expanded its long-term partnership with Rexel, following the successful deployment of a next-generation AutoStore system at Rexel France’s logistics center in Miribel, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This collaboration continues Rexel’s transformation into a highly efficient and sustainable supply chain, meeting growing demand for performance and rapid delivery.
The 36,000 m² Miribel site, certified Breeam Very Good for its environmental performance, is designed to support Rexel’s mission of delivering products to regional branches and customers within 24 hours. At the heart of the new logistics solution is Swisslog’s AutoStore system, capable of housing up to 50,000 bins and operated by over 70 robots. The system features 13 picking ports and 6 receiving ports, managing more than 68,500 products. Powered by Swisslog’s SynQ WMS/WCS software, the system maximizes storage efficiency, accelerates order processing, and improves working conditions by automating repetitive tasks.
“Robotics allows us to delegate repetitive tasks such as box folding to machines, allowing our employees to focus on higher value-added tasks,” said a site manager.
The new system has significantly enhanced Rexel’s logistics capabilities, with picking speeds of 180 to 200 lines per station per hour across 13 active ports, achieving 18,000 order lines per day. Additionally, the system can replenish 3,300 bins daily and manage peak volumes of 3,500 to 4,500 products per day. This cutting-edge automation is part of Rexel’s broader strategy to modernize its logistics network, improving speed and accuracy while reducing manual labor.
Sustainability remains at the forefront of this initiative. The Miribel site features 471 solar panels on its roof, generating 30% of the building’s energy. This is part of a broader multi-million-euro investment aimed at improving energy efficiency across Rexel’s logistics network. The project aligns with Rexel’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while meeting rising demand for sustainable operations.
The Miribel facility builds on the success of Rexel’s first AutoStore system deployed in 2019 at their Saint-Ouen site, located near Paris. The Saint-Ouen center, equipped with a semi-automated 500 m² area, operates as a high-speed drive-through to ensure immediate order availability. This flagship location has already set new standards for speed and efficiency in Rexel’s logistics operations, and now the Miribel site will further enhance these capabilities.
Swisslog and Rexel have solidified their long-term collaboration with the signing of a 5-year maintenance contract in early 2025. This agreement includes the deployment of a dedicated team of Swisslog technicians at the Miribel site, ensuring optimal performance and continuous system upgrades. Services will include preventive maintenance, IT and software updates, and performance reporting, ensuring that the AutoStore system remains fully operational and adaptable to Rexel’s evolving needs.
This strengthened partnership represents a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the development of a resilient, high-performing supply chain that will continue to support Rexel’s growth and customer satisfaction.
