The global supermarket and convenience store industry is experiencing rapid growth and transformation. According to recent market research, the convenience store market alone is projected to reach $2.35 trillion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 7.48% from 2028 to 2033. Meanwhile, the supermarket sector continues to evolve, with major players adapting to changing consumer demands and technological advancements.
In this dynamic landscape, a noteworthy partnership has emerged between Grupo Mas, a leading Spanish food distributor, and Cimcorp, a specialist in robotic handling solutions. This collaboration aims to revolutionize fresh food distribution through advanced automation technologies.
Grupo Mas, a family-owned business with over 50 years of experience in food distribution, operates a network of more than 200 stores across Andalusia and Extremadura in southern Spain. Facing challenges such as limited space, rising logistics costs and increasing demand for efficiency, the company sought a solution to optimize operations without compromising employee well-being or product freshness.
The partnership will see Cimcorp implement an advanced order-picking system at Grupo Mas’ distribution center in Guillena and Sevilla, Spain. This system is designed to ensure faster deliveries, improved employee support and a more sustainable supply chain.
“With Cimcorp’s solution, we can prepare goods in 24 hours, giving us the flexibility and agility to deliver to our more than 200 stores,” said Jose Manuel Martín Alba, director of logistics and transport at Grupo Mas in a news release. “The system will reduce manual handling, streamline operations and improve stock control – all while creating a safer, more structured work environment for our team.”
The partnership also aligns with Grupo Mas’ commitment to sustainability, a pillar of the company’s business strategy. The company runs a dedicated “Zero Waste” program, which drives the implementation of sustainable solutions across all operations to reduce environmental impact. Cimcorp’s robotic technology and intelligent software will ensure perishable goods move swiftly through the distribution process, significantly reducing food waste and minimizing shrinkage.
From the customer’s perspective, this automation initiative promises to enhance the overall shopping experience.
“We are proud to support Grupo MAS in this transformation,” said Hannu Kailasvuo, director of business development at Cimcorp Group. “Our automation technology is designed to simplify complexity, reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency.”
The partnership underscores how automation is reshaping the future of fresh food logistics. As consumers increasingly demand fresher, high-quality products with minimal environmental impact, retailers and distributors are turning to technology to meet these expectations while maintaining operational efficiency.
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