In this episode of The Automation Insider, host Joe McGrath welcomes Allart van de Schootbrugge, Account Manager at AWL, to explore how robotics and integration strategies are changing the landscape of beverage logistics. As beverage distributors face growing labor challenges and increasing throughput demands, companies like AWL are stepping in with flexible automation solutions that go beyond buzzwords and into practical, scalable implementation.
This conversation provides a deep dive into what modern automation looks like in beverage logistics and why robotic integration is becoming a critical investment for the industry’s future.
Navigating a Labor-Constrained Environment
Beverage distribution centers today are navigating an increasingly difficult labor environment. As Allart explains, in markets like North America, it is no longer just about saving on labor costs. It is about the very real difficulty of finding workers to fill roles in high-intensity environments like picking, packing, and palletizing.
“In many cases, the workforce simply isn’t there,” Allart says. “That’s where automation starts to move from a cost-benefit discussion to a necessity.”
For beverage distributors dealing with heavy cases, complex SKU mixes, and tight delivery windows, robotic automation offers a path to both consistency and sustainability. Robots can handle repetitive and physically demanding tasks with precision, freeing up human workers to focus on more value-added activities.
AWL’s Evolution from Automotive to Beverage Logistics
AWL is known globally for its work in robotic welding, particularly in the automotive industry. However, in recent years, the company has applied its deep engineering capabilities to intralogistics, with a growing focus on beverage and high-throughput distribution environments.
“Where others see complexity, we see opportunity,” says Allart. “That’s always been our strength. We come from a background where precision and uptime are everything, and we’re bringing that same mindset to logistics.”
AWL now designs and integrates robotic systems for tasks like case picking, bin handling, and depalletizing. These systems are engineered to handle the wide range of packaging formats commonly found in beverage logistics, from shrink-wrapped cases to glass bottles and cartons.
Automation Designed to Support, Not Replace, Labor
A major theme of the conversation is the role of robotics in supporting, rather than replacing, human labor. Allart is clear that automation is not about removing people from the equation. It is about addressing labor gaps that are already impacting the industry’s ability to operate efficiently.
“The goal is not to eliminate jobs,” he says. “The goal is to keep the operation running when you can’t find the people you need.”
AWL’s robotic cells are built for these real-world conditions. They are designed to be modular, adaptable, and easy to deploy in existing facilities. From handling pallet layers to sorting mixed SKUs, the systems provide consistency and speed while reducing the risk of injury or fatigue.
Collaboration With Integrators Drives Success
One of the most important aspects of successful automation in beverage logistics is integration. Allart emphasizes that robotic cells do not function in isolation. They must work seamlessly within broader warehouse systems, including conveyors, warehouse execution systems, and software platforms.
That is why AWL partners with leading integrators like Hy-Tek Intralogistics. “Our partners understand the full warehouse flow,” Allart says. “We focus on building the robotic technology, and they ensure it fits within the complete solution.”
This collaborative model allows AWL to focus on its engineering strengths while ensuring customers receive end-to-end support and system performance.
Why Beverage Distribution Is a Strong Fit for Robotics
The beverage industry presents several ideal conditions for robotic automation. The products are typically uniform in size and shape within a SKU, the volumes are high, and the handling requirements are physically demanding. These factors make beverage logistics a strong candidate for scalable robotics.
“Robots are perfect for heavy, repetitive tasks where speed and accuracy matter,” Allart explains. “And that describes a lot of beverage operations.”
In addition, beverage distribution centers often face tight delivery windows and seasonal demand swings. Automation can help flatten those peaks by enabling operations to run multiple shifts without fatigue or loss of accuracy.
Vision Systems and Machine Learning Expand What Is Possible
Another highlight of the conversation is how advancements in vision technology and machine learning are expanding the capabilities of robotics in logistics. AWL leverages vision systems that can identify packages in real time, even when orientation or labeling is inconsistent.
These capabilities are especially important in beverage logistics, where packaging can vary greatly. A robotic system that can identify and handle different case types dynamically is a major step forward in flexibility and efficiency.
Machine learning also plays a growing role. “We are starting to see systems that can adapt to their environment, learn from real-world experience, and improve over time,” Allart says.
Starting Small and Scaling Smart
Allart encourages beverage distributors not to think of automation as an all-or-nothing investment. Thanks to AWL’s modular approach, companies can start with a single robotic cell and expand over time.
“You don’t have to automate the whole warehouse from day one,” he says. “Start with one process, prove it out, and build from there.”
This phased approach allows companies to manage costs, minimize disruption, and ensure each phase of automation delivers measurable value.
The Road Ahead for Robotics in Beverage Logistics
Looking ahead, Allart sees even more integration between robotics and data-driven warehouse systems. Real-time analytics, predictive maintenance, and simulation tools like digital twins will become more common as companies seek to optimize every aspect of their logistics operations.
He also believes that robotic systems will become more adaptive and intuitive. As machine learning advances, robots will need fewer programmed instructions and will be able to react more intelligently to the world around them.
“The systems of the future will not just execute tasks. They will understand their environment and respond to it in real time,” Allart says.
Final Thoughts
This episode of The Automation Insider makes it clear that robotic automation is no longer a futuristic idea. It is a practical, proven solution that beverage distributors are adopting right now to meet the challenges of labor shortages, throughput demands, and operational efficiency.
With a background in complex automation and a growing portfolio in logistics, AWL is uniquely positioned to help beverage companies modernize their operations. By working alongside integrators like Hy-Tek, AWL delivers solutions that are engineered for success and built for the real world.
To hear the full conversation and get more insights from Allart van de Schootbrugge, tune in to watch their episode of The Automation Insider.
