Robust.AI, a leader in AI-driven warehouse automation, has partnered with Saddle Creek Logistics Services, a multi-channel supply chain solutions provider, to implement its flagship collaborative robotics platform, Carter, at Saddle Creek’s Charlotte, North Carolina warehouse.
Carter has been deployed in the order fulfillment operation for a beauty client, automating tote delivery between multiple processing and labeling lines and over 20 designated drop-off points. Acting as a flexible, non-integrated “virtual conveyor,” Carter streamlines material flow without requiring fixed infrastructure. Robust.AI also customized Carter for Saddle Creek, increasing its payload capacity to handle more items per trip.
Since implementation, Saddle Creek has seen several operational improvements:
- Reduced manual walking time for tote deliveries, freeing workers for higher-value tasks
- Increased tote capacity per trip, boosting throughput
- Operator-directed actions, allowing human oversight when needed
- Balanced workloads between robots and staff
- Reduced floor congestion, creating safer, smoother operations
Anthony Jules, CEO of Robust.AI, said:
“At Robust.AI, we build automation that works for people, not around them. Our partnership with Saddle Creek shows how collaborative robotics can integrate seamlessly into real-world warehouse operations to deliver measurable results, quickly.”
Carter is an autonomous mobile robot designed to augment warehouse workforces. Its software-defined functionality allows it to switch between fulfillment picking, point-to-point transport, and mobile sorting, enabling drop-in automation that drives productivity gains for global logistics and manufacturing operations. By handling repetitive tasks and minimizing unnecessary walking, Carter allows employees to focus on higher-value responsibilities while reducing physical and mental strain.
Harshil Aghera, Senior Director of Technology and Innovation at Saddle Creek, commented:
“Order fulfillment demands speed, accuracy, and agility at scale. Robust.AI’s ability to provide rapid, customized solutions that automate operations without costly infrastructure upgrades helps us meet our clients’ evolving needs efficiently and cost-effectively. As we expand Carter use cases, we look forward to unlocking even greater flexibility and value for our clients.”
Adam Sauter, Regional Senior Director of Operations at Saddle Creek, added:
“Carter integrated easily into our existing workflows and supports a wide range of fulfillment activities. Its collaborative technology empowers our associates to be more productive and makes their work easier and less physically and mentally stressful, which is especially critical as we enter the busy holiday season.”
Carter’s deployment highlights the growing role of collaborative robotics in enhancing warehouse efficiency, productivity, and worker satisfaction without displacing human roles.
