E-commerce company Shopify is acquiring robot specialist 6 River Systems for $450 million (€409 million). The startup, which gained notoriety developing goods-to-man robot Chuck, can support Shopify in fulfilment.
Canada's Shopify originally provides software for online shops. In June, it announced the launch of the Shopify Fulfilment Network, which competes with Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA). Retailers can outsource fulfilment to Shopify. The company has set up a network of warehouses and logistics providers across the US. Smart software predicts what stock is needed per location to ensure fast and cheap delivery.
6 River Systems
The purchase of 6 River Systems gives Shopify access to the robotics experts who also founded Kiva Systems. With the deployment of autonomous carts, deployed alongside warehouse workers, Shopify aims to increase efficiency in its fulfilment centres. 6 River will continue to supply existing customers such as DHL and XPO Logistics after the acquisition.
"Shopify is tackling this in the same way as previous commercial challenges; by bringing together the best technology, we are helping everyone compete," said Tobi Lütke, CEO of Shopify. "With 6 River Systems, we bring technology and operational efficiency to large and small businesses around the world."
