AWG partners with Takeoff on micro fulfillment centers

Kansas City, Kan.-based Associated Wholesale Grocers has partnered with Takeoff Technologies to make its online grocery order fulfillment solution accessible to AWG members.

Takeoff’s automated micro fulfillment centers can be built in the back of existing stores or stand alone, and they generally hold 12,000-20,000 of a location’s most popular stock-keeping units to make their selection for online grocery orders faster and easier, according to a news release.

Micro fulfillment centers can increase productivity by a factor of 10, according to Takeoff, because they allow items to be picked with greater speed, accuracy and efficiency. The systems also provide real-time information about inventory, which helps reduce substitutions.

“AWG has been exploring emerging technologies to address the ever-changing retail landscape,” Jeff Pedersen, executive vice president and chief sales and support officer for AWG, said in the release. “The partnership between AWG and Takeoff Technologies represents a significant opportunity for AWG and its members to profitably grow online sales.

“AWG’s mission is to provide its member-retailers all the tools, products and services they need to compete favorably in all markets served, all at the lowest possible cost,” Pedersen said. “This strategic partnership allows our members to stay ahead of the competition with a profitable expansion strategy and enhance customer convenience.”