Siemens Achieves 78% Faster Picking, Major Cost Savings

Siemens is a global technology leader in industrial automation, electrification, and digitalization, with operations spanning more than 200 locations worldwide. The company delivers a wide range of products and solutions, including building technologies, energy systems, and advanced industrial equipment.

With a complex and diverse product portfolio, Siemens operates highly demanding supply chain environments that require precision, reliability, and scalability.

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Automation aligned with Siemens’ innovation strategy

To strengthen operational efficiency, Siemens installed an AutoStore system, empowered by Dematic, at its Chemnitz production and distribution facility in 2019. The system was fully operational by the end of the year.

The 34,002 sqm facility, in use since 2014, manufactures control cabinets for multiple industries and now benefits from a more efficient and reliable supply of small parts to production.

“Innovative technology has been at the core of Siemens for more than 170 years and it will remain at the core of the future we're building,” says Dr. Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG.

System design at the Chemnitz facility

The AutoStore system at Siemens’ Chemnitz site is designed to maximize space efficiency while ensuring a seamless flow of materials to production.

The solution operates across two levels. On the upper level, incoming goods are distributed to workstations, while the lower level handles the return of empty Bins. A conveyor system transports filled Bins into the Grid, where they are stored in a highly compact structure.

The aluminum Grid spans 760 sqm (8,180 sq ft) and consists of 16 layers of Bins, enabling high-density storage within a limited footprint. In total, the system contains 45,080 Bins, each capable of holding multiple items.

A fleet of 34 Robots operates on top of the Grid, retrieving Bins as requested by the software system. Using long grippers, the Robots access Bins stored deep within the Grid. When Bins are temporarily displaced, other Robots automatically reorganize them to maintain optimal structure.

Retrieved Bins are delivered to picking stations (Ports) at the edge of the Grid, where operators can efficiently access the required items.

Operational impact and business benefits

The implementation of AutoStore has delivered measurable improvements across Siemens’ warehouse operations, including cost savings, higher efficiency, optimal space utilization, and reduced energy consumption.

“The system achieves maximum storage density with minimal space requirements and thus ensures optimal use of space,” says Jessica Heinz, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Dematic Central Europe.

Carsten Sambo, Head of Inbound Logistics at Siemens AG (WKC), adds: “The advantage of the AutoStore system is the maximum consolidation of the warehouse footprint.”

Key results include:

• Up to 40% reduction in staffing costs
• 78% increase in picking productivity
• Nearly 60% reduction in storage footprint
• 24/7 automated operations enabling continuous efficiency and cost savings
• High system resilience, allowing operations to continue even if individual Robots go offline
• Improved accuracy through automated material flow and reduced picking errors
• Scalable design, enabling future expansion without disrupting ongoing operations

System Overview

• Grid: 760 sqm (8,180 sf)
• Bins (totes): 45,080 Bins
• Robots: 34 R5 Robots‍
• Workstations (Ports): 5 Conveyor Ports

Conclusion

The AutoStore solution at Siemens’ Chemnitz facility demonstrates how compact, automated storage can transform production logistics. By combining high-density storage with reliable, around-the-clock operations, Siemens has improved efficiency, reduced costs, and optimized space utilization.

With built-in scalability and system resilience, the solution provides a strong foundation for future growth while supporting consistent and efficient production workflows.