Facing a shrinking workforce, Japan is increasingly turning to automation to maintain its logistics operations. Amazon has now deployed one million robots in its Japanese warehouses. These robots work alongside human employees, handling repetitive tasks and heavy lifting, which makes the employees' jobs easier and safer.
This automation drive extends beyond Amazon, with other Japanese companies also investing in warehouse robotics to combat labour shortages. Generative AI models, like Amazon's DeepFleet, are being used to optimise robot movements, reduce congestion, and accelerate order processing. These advancements aim to improve efficiency and delivery speeds in the face of a dwindling pool of human workers.
Despite Japan's historical preference for human labour, the growing labour crisis is pushing companies to embrace automation. The trend is expected to continue, with robots taking on more roles in warehouses and other sectors to sustain economic growth.
