Swisslog has announced the expansion of its Partnership with Rexel following the successful deployment of a next-generation AutoStore system at Rexel France’s logistics centre 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 six 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 marked 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, totalling 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 percent 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+” centre – 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.
