Vocollect to set up local operation
The Pennsylvania-based Vocollect Inc, a market leader in voice-direct warehousing technology, plans to expand to Thailand due to its high business potential.
Its hardware and software enable workers in warehouses to perform duties such as picking up goods from a particular shelf by following automated voice directions from their headsets without the need for printouts or barcode scanning.
‘‘The technology enables workers to process orders with hands and eyes free to improve safety and increase workers’ productivity,’’ said Ron Kubera, general manager and senior vice-president of Vocollect, a unit of Intermec.
The use of automated processes in warehouses in the region is increasing as a way to improve efficiency.
As customers now demand just-intime delivery and place smaller orders, the voice solution empowers employees at distribution centres to move freely without stopping to read documents or use scanners and other devices.
In Thailand, rising wages may drive companies to invest more in automation to improve productivity without having to hire more people.
Vocollect sees companies in the food and beverage, wholesale and retail sectors as potential customers because their businesses feature many items of stock and speedy delivery is needed.
Mr Kubera said the company has installed voice technology for one leading supermarket in Thailand.
He said the investment in voice solutions is higher than for conventional warehouse systems, but the old methods may cause errors and low productivity.