The processes in Kaufland logistics are complex and must interlock smoothly to ensure fresh goods arrive in stores daily. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential. To facilitate the increasingly demanding tasks of on-site teams, Kaufland is increasingly relying on technological support.
“We continuously examine how we can support our employees with new technologies. In a time where job profiles are constantly evolving, technical aids are an important element of empowerment. The aim of all measures is to support our employees, simplify processes, or accelerate them," says Daniela Beck, Managing Director of Supply Chain Management / Process Management.
Three new digital tools show how modern technology helps increase efficiency and safety in operations.
Data Glasses with Headset Function
A central role is played by the data glasses with headset function. They are used when technicians at a distribution center need support from colleagues at other
locations or from external service providers. Through an integrated camera, the connected experts see exactly what the on-site technician sees – live and in real time.
Via an integrated display, the technician can additionally display images or marked instructions. Instructions are received through headphones, clearly understandable even in loud environments. This means disruptions can be fixed more quickly, travel is eliminated, and knowledge transfer between locations is promoted simultaneously. Currently, the data glasses are in use at two logistics locations.
Support from the Air
Modern technology also supports maintenance from the air. Drones take over the inspection of roof surfaces, photovoltaic systems, and kilometers of terrain fences. They are already in use in Osterfeld, Möckmühl, and in Polish Wola. Especially, the distribution center in Möckmühl, with a roof area of almost 120,000 square meters, benefits from the flying helpers.
The drones provide thermal images
that reveal damage that remains hidden with conventional camera technology. Depending on the weather conditions, teams also inspect roofs and buildings for snow drifts or storm damage. The over three kilometers long fences of the logistics centers can also be efficiently monitored in this way. The rollout to additional locations is under review.
Step-by-Step Instructions via Augmented Reality
For tasks that do not occur daily, such as converting a tool, Kaufland relies on an augmented reality app. The platform from the start-up “GiriAR” is currently being tested in the meat plants. It offers step-by-step instructions on tablets or production PCs – supplemented by videos, images, direction arrows, and other graphical hints.
Language is deliberately not used to facilitate access for internationally composed teams. Logistics has accompanied the pilot test and developed initial use cases. The project team is currently defining topics relevant for multiple
locations to centrally create and reuse the instructions. The platform is regarded as a complement to existing work instructions and safety briefings.
Background Kaufland and the Schwarz Group
Kaufland is a subsidiary of the Schwarz Group. With around 14,200 stores and approximately 595,000 employees, the retail specialist, which also includes the discounter Lidl, is very active in the areas of digitization and AI.
With Schwarz Digits or Schwarz Digital, the group has even established its own division to develop trends, innovations, and new digital business fields. The in-house digitalization experts also support the Schwarz Group companies in digitalization and aim to harmonize group activities.
Under Schwarz IT KG (Schwarz Digits), all services related to cloud, cybersecurity, and e-commerce are consolidated. In addition to Stackit and XM Cyber, the online shops of Lidl and Kaufland are also part of Schwarz IT KG. Schwarz Digits has
