An international plastics company is automating its internal transport processes at its German site with a customized solution from ek robotics. The aim is to create an uninterrupted, fully automated connection between the production area and a newly built logistics center – reliably and regardless of weather conditions.

For this purpose, a specially developed vehicle model from the OUT MOVE series is used. These outdoor AGVs were specifically designed for use in demanding conditions. "The transport robots are robust special designs that we equip with weather protection and customized interior concepts," explains Ronald Kretschmer, Chief Sales Officer at ek robotics. "This allows us to offer maximum adaptability for outdoor use – even in highly variable environmental conditions."

Inside the OUT MOVE is a powerful conveyor system with three separately driven roller conveyors, each capable of transporting up to 1,400 kilograms of material. Navigation is provided by an RFID guidance system installed in the floor, which ensures highly precise, flexible control throughout the entire outdoor area and is comparable in functionality to laser navigation indoors.

A project manager at the company emphasizes: "Automating the material flows between production and the logistics center is an important step toward the future for us. With the solution from ek robotics, we are not only improving our process efficiency, but also overall availability and safety in operation." For over 60 years, ek robotics has been developing intelligent, scalable transport solutions for automated intralogistics. Companies from a wide range of industries around the world rely on the manufacturer's expertise for maximum efficiency, reduced operating costs, and sustainably increased competitiveness.

ek robotics GmbH has filed an application with the competent local court in Hamburg to initiate preliminary insolvency proceedings under self-administration. The court has granted the application and ordered preliminary self-administration. The management of ek robotics GmbH remains fully in office and continues to lead the company. The restructuring of the company under insolvency law is being supported by experienced restructuring specialist Attorney Jochen Sedlitz and his team from the law firm GRUB BRUGGER. In addition, the court has appointed the renowned insolvency expert Attorney Stefan Denkhaus from the law firm BRL (BOEGE ROHDE LUEBBEHUESEN) as preliminary custodian to oversee the self-administration process. 

The goal of the restructuring process is to stabilize ek robotics economically and position the company for long-term success. The decision was made against the backdrop of a challenging market environment: restrained investment activity, economic uncertainties, and global market disruptions are currently impacting the industrial plant engineering sector. In addition, certain legacy projects with insufficiently offset additional costs are weighing on the company’s earnings. Discussions with affected customers have so far not yet led to economically viable solutions.

Business operations are continued without restrictions. All existing customer and supplier relationships remain fully intact. All service activities are also fully available and secured in the long term, beyond proceedings. The foreign subsidiaries of the ek robotics Group are not affected by the process.

M&A process initiated – initial investor discussions underway. 

In parallel with the self-administration process, the company has initiated a structured investor process to explore and implement additional strategic options for its future development. Initial discussions with potential investors have already begun. Andreas Lindemann, Managing Director of ek robotics GmbH, emphasizes: "Our goal is to stabilize ek robotics GmbH sustainably and position it for the future. The self-administration framework gives us the necessary entrepreneurial and legal scope to actively shape this path. We are confident that we will successfully navigate this process together with our employees, customers, and partners. Our sincere thanks go to everyone for their trust in us during this phase."

In conversation with Lisa – Project Manager and NextGen Talent at ek robotics

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