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3. Amazon Robotics (Kiva Systems)
When it first began, Amazon Robotics was known as Kiva Systems. Kiva Systems provided automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) for a variety of corporations, including:
- The Gap
- Walgreens
- Staples
- Gilt Groupe
- Office Depot
- Crate & Barrel
- Saks 5th Avenue
In 2012, Amazon acquired Kiva Systems for $775 million and rebranded it as Amazon Robotics. Since then, Amazon has allowed all of the robotics manufacturer’s previous contracts to expire, meaning that Kiva’s AS/RS robots now operate exclusively in Amazon warehouses.
Unlike most of its other acquisitions, Amazon has not integrated Amazon Robotics’ products into its e-commerce platform. Instead, Amazon uses them to support its own internal operations.
In the coming years, Amazon Robotics will likely play an increasing role in Amazon’s automated delivery services.
