Zebra Technologies Acquires Fetch Robotics - Expanding Automation Solutions

Zebra Technologies to Acquire Fetch Robotics

Zebra Technologies announced today its plans to acquire Fetch Robotics, a warehouse robotics company located in the Bay Area.

The acquisition is valued at $290 million, representing a purchase of 95% of Fetch, supplementing the 5% stake Zebra already held.

Growing Interest in Warehouse Robotics

This deal reflects the increasing interest in warehouse and fulfillment robotics.

Factors driving this growth include pandemic-related labor shortages and retailers seeking a competitive advantage against Amazon.

Investments are surging in both small and large robotics companies, such as Berkshire-Grey.

Zebra’s Aggressive Expansion

Zebra Technologies has been actively expanding its presence in the robotics sector.

The company launched its own retail robotics solutions, like the SmartSight inventory system, last year.

Furthermore, Zebra has invested in competitors of Fetch, including Locus, leading a $40 million Series D funding round last June.

Market Consolidation Strategy?

It appears Zebra may be aiming to consolidate the robotics market under a unified platform.

Locus CEO Rick Faulk previously expressed a preference for independent operation, emphasizing the need for companies to compete with Amazon.

He stated his company had no interest in acquisition.

However, Zebra’s recent actions suggest a strong desire to establish a significant foothold in the industry, and Fetch’s versatile offerings make it an ideal starting point.

Statements from Leadership

Zebra CEO Anders Gustafsson stated that acquiring Fetch Robotics will advance their “Enterprise Asset Intelligence” vision.

He believes it will foster growth in intelligent industrial automation by enhancing workflows and improving customer efficiency in automated, data-driven environments.

Gustafsson also highlighted the company’s commitment to optimizing the supply chain.

Fetch CEO Melonee Wise expressed excitement about joining Zebra and accelerating the adoption of flexible automation.

She emphasized the combined strength of their teams and technologies in delivering comprehensive solutions to address customer challenges.

Wise believes this collaboration will enable customers to meet increasing demand, reduce delivery times, and overcome labor shortages.

Deal Details and Timeline

Further details have been requested.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval and is anticipated to be finalized in the third quarter of the year.

This move positions Zebra Technologies as a major player in the rapidly evolving warehouse robotics landscape.