Automated Solution for Compact Container Storage

Please introduce yourself briefly, Nicola.
My name is Nicola Lang. I’ve been working in sales at Gridstore Robotics for a little over a year and a half. I support our customers and am responsible for the design and configuration of our storage systems.

What exactly is Gridstore—and what makes your system so special?
Our product is also called Gridstore and is a compact container storage system. A major advantage is that we can work with different container heights—all within a single system and a single shaft. Each container can handle up to 50 kilograms. They can be stacked not only within the system but also outside of it, since they feature a stacking flange. This makes our system particularly attractive to machine builders or other manufacturers who want to store heavy goods.

Another advantage is the flexibility in container mix. If you want to store items of different sizes, you’re not limited to a single height but can freely combine all three available heights. Additionally, the system is very easy to retrofit—we use only one type of robot, which simplifies scaling.

In which industries is Gridstore primarily used?
Our main focus is currently on the mechanical engineering industry. However, distributors who store heavy small parts, such as screws, also benefit from our system. Gridstore is fundamentally suitable for a wide range of industries—thanks to its high storage density and scalability. Additional robots can be integrated at any time, which makes us particularly flexible.

What are the biggest challenges—especially when it comes to planning and implementation?
Planning depends heavily on how much storage capacity and throughput are required—and, of course, on the on-site structural conditions. Existing buildings often pose a greater challenge than new construction because you can’t plan from the ground up. But our system has a highly modular design and can be easily adapted to existing structures.

Another important issue is fire safety. This is addressed on a case-by-case basis, but we can work with all standard solutions—from sprinkler systems to oxygen reduction to operation without sprinklers.

What about installations to date—where does Gridstore stand today?
We’re a young company and have been on the market since 2022. We’ve been actively engaged in sales and implementation since 2023. Currently, we already have two systems in live operation and are planning a third installation by the end of the year.

What developments are on the horizon for you?
A major focus is on further developing our software. We want to offer even more powerful, high-performance solutions. Another key area is piece packing—that is, the picking of individual parts with robotic assistance. We see great potential here, especially in light of demographic change. Automation is becoming increasingly important in many industries, and that’s exactly where we want to make our mark.

Thank you very much for the interview, Nicola—and for the fascinating insights.