By Sanjeev Kumar, Founder, AlphaDroid
For years, intralogistics operations have been trapped in a mostly manual status quo, with
humans doing the vast majority of jobs and activities. However, with the advent of new-age
technologies, particularly robots, and artificial intelligence, businesses are on the verge of an automation explosion that is set to revolutionise various domains, with the supply chain being no exception. The supply chain landscape in India is complex, spanning diverse sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, and agriculture.
Nevertheless, the sector is poised for exponential growth, propelled by several factors such as increasing urbanisation, rising e-commerce penetration, and government initiatives like & Make in India and Digital India. Furthermore, according to Gartner, by 2026, 75% of large enterprises will certainly adopt some form of smart robots in their warehouse operations.
Today, with the advancement in technology, “Robotics as a Service” (RaaS) is gaining
significant traction in the supply chain as it automates tasks while enhancing efficiency and
productivity. Modern robots are a continuation of previous developments, and as businesses navigate the maze of an ever-changing market scenario, the need for agility, efficiency, and transparency is more critical than ever. Thus, from the bustling factory floors to the end-users, RaaS emerges as a beacon of innovation, ushering in a new era of supply chain advancement.
RaaS: An understanding and its significance
Robotics as a Service is a business model that allows warehouses and production centers to
automate their operations using leased technology solutions. According to Deloitte, RaaS helps companies leverage robotic process automation by leasing robotic devices and subscribing to a cloud-based service. RaaS allows businesses to perform tasks such as picking, packing, and transporting goods by renting or leasing robots.
Furthermore, RaaS systems provide organisations with access to a wide range of robotic
technologies like autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), robotic arms, and drones, which enable them to automate critical processes such as material handling, inventory management, and order fulfillment. Enterprises can use RaaS to increase productivity, reduce personnel costs, and enhance operational flexibility while maintaining scalability and agility. As a result, Indian companies are increasingly adopting RaaS as a solution to these challenges, ushering in a new era of efficiency and optimisation across their supply chain operations.
RaaS: Changing dynamics for the supply chain!
The use of Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) is becoming more common in different industries to improve productivity and efficiency, especially in manufacturing. RaaS-driven robots collaborate seamlessly with human workers to streamline production processes, ensuring high-quality output and faster throughput. Autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) also play a significant role in material transport by reducing cycle times and enhancing productivity. In the warehousing and distribution industries, RaaS-equipped robots have revolutionised inventory management and order fulfillment.
These robots operate autonomously and execute order-picking and packing tasks with precision and speed, resulting in reduced labor costs and fewer errors, improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. In the transportation and logistics sector, RaaS-driven drones are changing the game for last-mile delivery. These drones navigate complex urban terrains and deliver goods to remote locations quickly and efficiently, enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing carbon footprints. AlphaDroid, recognised as India’s first RaaS company, is at the forefront of making robotics and AI accessible and affordable to the Indian market. From the bustling factory floors to the end-users, AlphaDroid’s innovative approach is ushering in a new era of supply chain advancement in the country.
Future of supply chain automation
The global market for Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) is expected to reach $4 billion, with a
CAGR of 17.4% from 2023 to 2028, according to Markets and Markets. AlphaDroid, India’s first RaaS company is pioneering this transformative trend. RaaS has the potential to improve efficiency, speed, and innovation across the supply chain, making it a game-changer for businesses in India and beyond. By leveraging robotics and automation, companies can unlock new opportunities for growth, competitiveness, and sustainability in today’s fast-paced market. RaaS-enabled robots are transforming traditional practices, driving efficiency, agility, and value creation in various sectors, from factory to table. In summary, RaaS is a harbinger of change in India’s supply chain industry.