Daifuku unveils new trio of Sorting Transfer Robots at LOGIMAT 2026

Hall 1, Stand 1J67

Daifuku has confirmed that LogiMAT 2026* will be the first European outing of its new Sorting Transfer Robot (STR) series, the SOTR-S, SOTR-L and SOTR-M. While the SOTR-M system will be in full demo mode at the Stuttgart event, its sister robotic solutions, the SOTR-S and SOTR-L will also be on the stand. Daifuku’s SOTR-M represents state-of-the-art tote management automation, while the SOTR-L and SOTR-S handles pallets and piece items respectively. All three of the new SOTR systems bring total flexibility to any warehouse.

Designed, manufactured, and tested in Japan, the new trio of SOTRs are now being introduced across the UK and Europe. Setting new standards in productivity, scalability and automation simplicity, the latest robot system from Daifuku is aimed primarily at businesses in the e-commerce, retail and parcel sector facing complex sortation challenges.

The SOTR-S is of particular interest to the European and UK automation markets, given its remarkable speed and flexibility. Travelling at up to 180m per minute – it is capable of handling 10,000 lines per hour, driving new levels of capacity and productivity. The system’s two-tier structure also ensures smooth traffic flow and unfettered efficiency. Thanks to its narrow aisle structure (enabled by tilting trays), the SOTR-S is under half the footprint of more conventional sorting systems. Compared to conventional sorting systems, the SOTR-S is rapid to install and simple to expand as required with the addition of vehicles or chutes.

Commenting on the new SOTR-S, Russell Hutchinson, manager of business development at Daifuku’s Europe branch, said: “In the face of rising order volumes and the increasing complexity of product types, traditional sorting methods often struggle with accuracy and efficiency.

“Manual processes lead to higher costs and slower throughput, creating significant warehousing and distribution challenges for businesses. Our new SOTR-S offers a solution designed to overcome these hurdles.”

Daifuku’s advanced technology ensures precise sorting of diverse items, enhances operational efficiency and adapts effortlessly to growing demands. By automating and optimising business’ sorting operations, the SOTR-S reduces labour costs and boosts productivity, delivering a rapid return on investment.

DAIFUKU CO., LTD., Halle 1, Stand 1J67

LogiMAT 2026 takes place in Stuttgart, Germany on 24-26 March 2026