Utilizing Autonomous Robots! Co-op Shizenha's New Logistics Center Begins Full-Scale Operations in June 2026!
Co-op Shizenha will launch full-scale operations of its new Kakogawa Center in June 2026. By introducing autonomous robots (AGVs), the facility aims to address labor shortages, improve picking efficiency, and create a better working environment while handling increased demand.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: April 24, 2026 at 00:30
- 🔍 Collected: April 23, 2026 at 16:02
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 23, 2026 at 18:30 (2h 28m after Collected)
The Consumer Co-operative Co-op Shizenha Orange Co-op Business Union (Headquarters: Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture / hereafter, Co-op Shizenha) has opened a logistics center utilizing autonomous robots in Kakogawa City, Hyogo Prefecture. Full-scale operations will begin in June 2026.
Exterior of Co-op Shizenha Kakogawa Center
On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, a press tour was held in conjunction with the completion ceremony. During the press tour, logistics personnel provided explanations regarding the picking system utilizing autonomous robots, a demonstration of partial operations, and the center's equipment and operational innovations.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony by related parties / Facility tour
About Kakogawa Center
Background of Kakogawa Center Construction
[Responding to Increased Demand and Scalability]
As demand from cooperative members continuously increases, existing facilities were nearing their capacity limits. The new center is designed not only to meet current demand but also with future expansion and line additions in mind, possessing the scalability to handle up to 50,000 orders, up from the current 22,000. It is positioned as a core hub supporting Co-op Shizenha's future business growth.
[Adapting to Changes in the Labor Environment (Diversification and Population Decline)]
Against the backdrop of the social issue of a declining working population, we are building a logistics system that does not rely excessively on human labor. Additionally, as the workforce becomes more diverse in terms of age and nationality, we have created a work environment where anyone can operate intuitively and physical strain is reduced.
[Responding to Changes in the Customer Base]
Along with changes in members' lifestyles and purchasing patterns, logistics operations such as high-mix, low-volume picking have become more complex. To respond to these changes, we decided to introduce the latest system that enables speedy and accurate processing.
Center Features
[Utilization of Autonomous Robots]
Previously, the picking of products delivered to members was done by delivery boxes flowing sequentially on a single line. However, because it was a linear production line, boxes not targeted for picking also passed in front of workers, creating the issue of wait times. The new center replaces this line with autonomous robots. By creating a system where only the delivery boxes needing specific products are transported to the workers, wait times are reduced, and efficient picking operations are achieved. This improves service quality by reducing time loss and minimizing picking errors.
Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) carrying one order / AGV Picking System
[Creating a Worker-Friendly Environment]
Considering the operations performed in a low-temperature environment (approx. 10°C), we are improving the work environment by introducing floor heating at the feet of picking workers. Furthermore, we have installed automatic stacking machines using robot arms to reduce the physical burden on workers.
[Installation of Dedicated Berths for Produce and Dry Storage]
We have secured a dedicated berth (parking space for loading and unloading) and traffic lines for our group company "Co-op Yuki Co., Ltd.," which procures organic produce. We also installed a dry storage room for long-term storage of vegetables like onions. A space for subdividing produce is also provided, actively serving as a place for employment support.
[Expansion of Recycling Facilities]
As part of its efforts to reduce environmental impact, Co-op Shizenha collects and recycles catalogs, egg mold packs (paper containers using recycled paper), plastic bags used for product delivery, meal kit trays, and reusable bottles, as well as cardboard used during product delivery. At the Kakogawa Center, we newly introduced a hydraulic jumbo press machine to compress collected paper catalogs. This is the second machine introduced, following the one currently installed at the Kobe Center.
Facility Overview
Exterior / Rest Area
Facility Name: Consumer Co-operative Co-op Shizenha Orange Co-op Business Union Kakogawa Center
Address: 192-2 Tsuchiyama, Hiraoka-cho, Kakogawa City, Hyogo Prefecture 675-0104
Site Area: 16,985.57 m²
Total Floor Area: 8,635.4 m²
Cold Storage Area: 6,860.25 m²
Installed Material Handling Equipment: AGV Picking System*, Bagging machine, Stacking machine, Scrap compactor
*AGV Picking System: A system that automates and streamlines the picking of products in the warehouse using Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) that move via magnetic tape or laser guidance.
"Towards a society where everyone can eat organic produce"
Co-op Shizenha develops its business in the Shikoku and Kansai areas, aiming for a lifestyle that coexists with nature while valuing face-to-face relationships with producers. It is a consumer cooperative that sets strict original standards, handling products that rely on domestic ingredients without food additives, and vegetables grown through organic and environmentally friendly agriculture. Including organic farming schools...
Exterior of Co-op Shizenha Kakogawa Center
On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, a press tour was held in conjunction with the completion ceremony. During the press tour, logistics personnel provided explanations regarding the picking system utilizing autonomous robots, a demonstration of partial operations, and the center's equipment and operational innovations.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony by related parties / Facility tour
About Kakogawa Center
Background of Kakogawa Center Construction
[Responding to Increased Demand and Scalability]
As demand from cooperative members continuously increases, existing facilities were nearing their capacity limits. The new center is designed not only to meet current demand but also with future expansion and line additions in mind, possessing the scalability to handle up to 50,000 orders, up from the current 22,000. It is positioned as a core hub supporting Co-op Shizenha's future business growth.
[Adapting to Changes in the Labor Environment (Diversification and Population Decline)]
Against the backdrop of the social issue of a declining working population, we are building a logistics system that does not rely excessively on human labor. Additionally, as the workforce becomes more diverse in terms of age and nationality, we have created a work environment where anyone can operate intuitively and physical strain is reduced.
[Responding to Changes in the Customer Base]
Along with changes in members' lifestyles and purchasing patterns, logistics operations such as high-mix, low-volume picking have become more complex. To respond to these changes, we decided to introduce the latest system that enables speedy and accurate processing.
Center Features
[Utilization of Autonomous Robots]
Previously, the picking of products delivered to members was done by delivery boxes flowing sequentially on a single line. However, because it was a linear production line, boxes not targeted for picking also passed in front of workers, creating the issue of wait times. The new center replaces this line with autonomous robots. By creating a system where only the delivery boxes needing specific products are transported to the workers, wait times are reduced, and efficient picking operations are achieved. This improves service quality by reducing time loss and minimizing picking errors.
Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) carrying one order / AGV Picking System
[Creating a Worker-Friendly Environment]
Considering the operations performed in a low-temperature environment (approx. 10°C), we are improving the work environment by introducing floor heating at the feet of picking workers. Furthermore, we have installed automatic stacking machines using robot arms to reduce the physical burden on workers.
[Installation of Dedicated Berths for Produce and Dry Storage]
We have secured a dedicated berth (parking space for loading and unloading) and traffic lines for our group company "Co-op Yuki Co., Ltd.," which procures organic produce. We also installed a dry storage room for long-term storage of vegetables like onions. A space for subdividing produce is also provided, actively serving as a place for employment support.
[Expansion of Recycling Facilities]
As part of its efforts to reduce environmental impact, Co-op Shizenha collects and recycles catalogs, egg mold packs (paper containers using recycled paper), plastic bags used for product delivery, meal kit trays, and reusable bottles, as well as cardboard used during product delivery. At the Kakogawa Center, we newly introduced a hydraulic jumbo press machine to compress collected paper catalogs. This is the second machine introduced, following the one currently installed at the Kobe Center.
Facility Overview
Exterior / Rest Area
Facility Name: Consumer Co-operative Co-op Shizenha Orange Co-op Business Union Kakogawa Center
Address: 192-2 Tsuchiyama, Hiraoka-cho, Kakogawa City, Hyogo Prefecture 675-0104
Site Area: 16,985.57 m²
Total Floor Area: 8,635.4 m²
Cold Storage Area: 6,860.25 m²
Installed Material Handling Equipment: AGV Picking System*, Bagging machine, Stacking machine, Scrap compactor
*AGV Picking System: A system that automates and streamlines the picking of products in the warehouse using Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) that move via magnetic tape or laser guidance.
"Towards a society where everyone can eat organic produce"
Co-op Shizenha develops its business in the Shikoku and Kansai areas, aiming for a lifestyle that coexists with nature while valuing face-to-face relationships with producers. It is a consumer cooperative that sets strict original standards, handling products that rely on domestic ingredients without food additives, and vegetables grown through organic and environmentally friendly agriculture. Including organic farming schools...