The Home Depot has acquired Simpl Automation to enhance its supply chain automation and delivery services.

Based in Waltham, Massachusetts, Simpl uses engineering and AI technology to help distribution facilities operate faster and more efficiently. 

The Home Depot said the acquisition supports its strategy of same-day/next-day fulfillment while also improving safety and increasing speed.

The deal follows a pilot at the retailer’s distribution center in Locust Grove, Georgia, where Simpl’s technology helped drive faster pick speed, faster cycle times and less product touches. 

Simpl also has a patented storage and retrieval solution that helps maximize storage density, allowing The Home Depot to house a broader assortment of high-demand products closer to the customer for more seamless delivery.  

“We’re focused on providing the best interconnected experience in home improvement by having products in stock and ready to deliver to our customers whether it’s to the home or jobsite,” said Amit Kalra, SVP of supply chain at The Home Depot. 

“By bringing Simpl’s industry-leading automation into our operations, we’re accelerating the flow of products through our distribution network to deliver with unprecedented speed and precision.” 

Last year, the company reported a 3.2 per cent sales increase to $164.7 billion, but its net earnings were down from $14.8 billion to $14.2 billion.