Swisslog expands long-term partnership with Rexel to automate logistics in Miribel and Saint-Ouen
3. syyskuuta 2025
Swisslog, a specialist in intelligent logistics automation solutions, announces the expansion of its Partnership with Rexel following the successful deployment of a next-generation AutoStore system at Rexel France’s logistics center in Miribel, Ain, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
Spanning 36,000 m² and certified Breeam Very Good for environmental performance, this strategic site was designed to meet Rexel’s increasing supply chain demands for performance, responsiveness, and sustainability. The goal is to ensure delivery to regional branches and customers within 24 hours.
At the heart of the system is an AutoStore solution integrated by Swisslog. It houses up to 50,000 bins, operated by over 70 robots, and features 13 picking ports and 6 receiving (replenishment) ports, managing more than 68,500 products . This modular and ultra-compact system, powered by Swisslog’s SynQ WMS/WCS software, enhances storage efficiency and accelerates order processing. It also improves working conditions by automating repetitive tasks.
“Robotics allows us to delegate repetitive tasks such as box folding to machines, allowing our employees to focus on higher value-added tasks,” said a site manager.
This project marks a significant milestone in Rexel’s logistics transformation, achieving new performance benchmarks: 180 to 200 picking lines per station per hour across 13 active ports, totaling 18,000 order lines per day. The system can replenish 3,300 bins per day across 5 ports and manage peak preparation volumes of 3,500 to 4,500 products per day.
Strong commitment to environmental sustainability
This project is part of a broader environmental strategy: 471 solar panels installed on the roof already generate 30% of the building’s energy consumption. This effort is supported by a multi-million-euro investment in energy efficiency across Rexel’s logistics network.
Proven technology validated by initial deployment in Saint-Ouen
This flagship facility complements Rexel’s first AutoStore deployment in France, launched in 2019 in Saint-Ouen (Paris region), which introduced the first “R+” center – a large-format distribution concept ensuring immediate order availability. This 4,000 m² platform, equipped with eight loading docks, operates as a high-speed drive-through, providing their professional clients with enhanced responsiveness for their own activity. The site includes a semi-automated 500 m² covered area with 15,000 bins and 22 robots preparing orders. A team of approximately 20 warehouse staff verify the accuracy of orders placed in-store, via Rexel’s e-shop, or by phone.
Strengthened partnership with a 5-year maintenance contract
Building on the success of their collaboration, Rexel and Swisslog solidified their long-term relationship in early 2025 by signing a 5-year maintenance service agreement. Under this contract, Swisslog has deployed a dedicated team of technicians at the Miribel site, to ensure close monitoring, maximum responsiveness, and optimal availability of the AutoStore system and its components.
Recent enhancements include site analysis and testing, preventive maintenance, IT and software updates, compliance with new site safety standards, weekly performance reporting for the AutoStore and conveyor systems, and training workshops to support ongoing system evolution.
This strengthened collaboration reflects Rexel and Swisslog’s shared commitment to building a high-performing, sustainable, and resilient supply chain - driven by technological innovation and exceptional customer service.
About Swisslog
Swisslog delivers data-driven & robotic solutions for your logistics automation alongside reliable, modular service concepts. Collaborating with forward-thinking companies, we are committed to setting new standards in warehouse automation to provide future-proof products and solutions. As part of the KUKA Group, our customers trust the competence of our passionate employees – more than 15,000 people working across the globe.
www.swisslog.com & www.kuka.com
About Rexel
With revenues of €3.7 billion in 2024, Rexel is the French leader in professional distribution of products and services for the energy sector. The company designs and distributes electrification solutions across three markets: residential, commercial, and industrial, covering four main areas of expertise: energy distribution, HVAC, industrial automation, data communication, and security.
With a strong territorial network of 500 branches, 13 regional logistics centers, and a powerful digital offering, Rexel’s experts support and advise professionals in selecting and installing electrical solutions. The Rexel Group operates in 19 countries through a network of over 1,950 branches and employs more than 27,000 people. The company is listed on the Euronext Paris Eurolist market. For more information, visit Courant Positif, Rexel France’s media platform.
