In the latest episode of Beyond the Barcode, host Tony Del Cid speaks with Mike Ray, Channel Sales Manager at Geek+, to discuss the growing role of goods-to-person automation in modern warehouses. Their conversation covers three critical topics: the labor and space constraints driving automation, the flexibility and scalability of Geek+ solutions, and the implementation process for warehouse automation.
Addressing Labor and Space Challenges with Automation
Warehouse operators face two major pain points today: labor shortages and space constraints.
“Labor shortages were already an issue before the pandemic, but they’ve only gotten worse,” says Ray. With workers in short supply, businesses need automation to offload non-value-added tasks, improve efficiency, and create safer, more ergonomic work environments. Geek+ solutions, like their goods-to-person robots, remove the need for excessive walking and lifting, reducing physical strain on employees while increasing productivity.
Warehouse space constraints are another growing concern. With warehouse vacancy rates low and real estate costs climbing, maximizing vertical storage has become essential. “Utilizing the full cube of your building is a game-changer,” Ray explains. Geek+ automation solutions allow warehouses to store and retrieve inventory more efficiently, minimizing the need for facility expansion.
Flexibility and Scalability: Why Modular Solutions Matter
One of the biggest concerns businesses have when considering automation is long-term adaptability. “Five-year plans used to be the norm, but now, businesses are lucky if they can predict one to two years out,” Ray notes. Geek+ systems are modular and scalable, allowing companies to start small and expand over time as demand grows.
With solutions like shelf-to-person and tote-to-person systems, businesses don’t have to commit to massive infrastructure overhauls upfront. Instead, they can incrementally add robots, storage racks, and workstations as needed. This approach minimizes risk and ensures that automation investments remain aligned with operational needs.
“Many companies have made the mistake of planning too far ahead,” says Ray. “They install a system based on a five-year growth plan, only to find that they’ve outgrown it in two years.” A modular, flexible approach prevents this problem while maintaining cost efficiency.
Implementation Timelines: How Fast Can You Deploy Automation?
For many warehouse operators, speed of implementation is a key factor in automation adoption. Geek+ has designed its solutions to be rapidly deployable, with lead times varying based on system complexity:
- Shelf-to-Person Systems: Can be operational in 3 to 6 months, with robots deployed quickly to improve fulfillment efficiency.
- Tote-to-Person Solutions: Require additional infrastructure, such as racking and floor modifications, leading to an average deployment time of 6 to 8 months.
- Four-Way Shuttle Systems: Designed for maximizing pallet storage, offering a space-saving alternative to facility expansion.
“Our ability to control production gives us an edge,” says Ray. Geek+ manufactures its own robots, allowing for better supply chain control and faster order fulfillment compared to companies that rely on third-party suppliers.
Key Takeaways
- Labor and space challenges are driving automation adoption. Goods-to-person solutions help businesses overcome workforce shortages and optimize warehouse space.
- Scalability and flexibility are essential. Geek+ solutions allow businesses to start small and grow over time, reducing the risk of over-investment.
- Implementation timelines are shorter than expected. Shelf-to-person systems can be up and running in as little as three months, providing a fast return on investment.
As automation becomes a necessity rather than a luxury, businesses must adopt efficient, scalable solutions to stay competitive. For those attending ProMat 2025, Geek+ will be showcasing its latest innovations, including new product releases designed to improve warehouse efficiency. “Automation is evolving every year,” Ray notes. “And at Geek+, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve.”
Interested in learning more? Let’s connect at ProMat 2025 to discuss how goods-to-person automation can fit into your operations!
How can we help improve your supply chain operations?
Schedule a consultation or contact Tompkins Solutions for more information.
