Penske Logistics Implemented Robotic Order Fulfillment

The transition to an automated bakery distribution system has improved accuracy and reduced labor requirements.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Robotics

Isometric editorial illustration of a stack of plastic bread trays beneath a robotic gantry in a clean warehouse environment. — Penske Logistics has successfully transitioned its bakery distribution network to a fully automated robotic system, achieving total order accuracy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Penske Logistics has shifted from manual to automated bakery distribution using a Cimcorp robotics system. This implementation has achieved 100% order accuracy while eliminating the need for manual overhead picking of bread trays.

Why it matters

The system addresses ergonomic risks inherent in manual logistics while improving throughput efficiency. It allows the company to scale operations in response to fluctuating demand.

The system utilizes automated handling for unloading, storing, and selecting bread trays that were previously stacked by hand to heights exceeding seven feet. This robotics approach replaces manual overhead picking with real-time data integration for supply chain management.

The players

Penske Logistics

A logistics provider managing complex supply chain operations and freight services across North America.

Cimcorp

A robotics manufacturer specializing in automated order fulfillment and material handling solutions for the food and beverage industry.

The details

The implementation replaces human-led manual tray stacking with an automated robotic architecture capable of managing complex storage and selection workflows. By automating the handling of bread trays, the facility eliminates the ergonomic strain of overhead manual tasks previously performed by personnel. The system relies on real-time data insights to optimize supply chain flows and maintain order integrity throughout the fulfillment process.

September 22, 2026: The automated system's successful implementation was confirmed.

The Tech Race

This deployment reflects a broader shift toward automated material handling in high-volume food distribution. It positions Penske Logistics within a competitive landscape where firms are increasingly prioritizing modular, data-driven robotics to handle labor-intensive sorting.

The adoption of these systems by major distributors reduces the physical strain on warehouse personnel by automating high-stacking tasks. Consumers benefit through improved order accuracy and supply chain stability for bakery products.

The takeaway

Automated handling is now a standard requirement for maintaining order accuracy in high-velocity logistics environments. Watch for future deployments of modular robotic architectures in other warehouse sectors as firms seek to offset labor constraints.