Logistics automation accelerates at International Logistics Exhibition 2025 – 4th INNOVATION EXPO

October 9, 2025

The International Logistics Exhibition 2025 INNOVATION EXPO was held at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo from September 8-10, drawing over 53,000 visitors—more than 8,000 above the previous edition. The event showcased a wide range of solutions for logistics and material handling automation, with strong attention on automated storage systems, autonomous transport, and robotics.

Next-generation automated storage systems

Okumura’s Rotary Rack H drew significant attention at the exhibition

Among the highlights was Okamura, one of Japan’s leading material handling equipment manufacturers, which unveiled the new model of its long-selling automated storage system, the Rotary Rack H. This multi-tier system rotates shelving units horizontally and integrates a newly developed buffer function between shelves and the automatic retrieval device to improve loading and unloading speed.

HIKROBOT’s case transport robot system displayed by Okumura

“The Rotary Rack has been one of Okamura’s flagship products since 1978, and continues to evolve for faster, more efficient operations,” said a company representative. Okamura also exhibited systems from global partners such as Norway’s AutoStore and China’s HIKROBOT.

Sharp proposed automation that utilizes existing warehouse shelves. Its Slim Tucker Robot Storage System uses an AGV equipped with a case-handling arm that retrieves boxes directly from conventional racks without modification. The 700 mm-wide vehicle can operate in 900 mm aisles, and its design allows handling of open-topped or front-access boxes—a flexible solution for retrofitting existing facilities.

ROMS introduced the Nano-Stream compact automated storage system, consisting of modular racks, detachable cranes, and case-transport AGVs. Proudly made in Japan, the system is compatible with commonly used domestic resin containers. President Maeno emphasized that domestic manufacturing provides advantages in operational support and maintenance. After the exhibition, the demo unit will become a permanent exhibit at the company’s “Heiwajima Lab” showroom in Tokyo.

Rapyuta Robotics showcased its modular Rapyuta ASRS system, designed for flexible installation—even across fireproof partitions. Its anchorless floor design allows easy setup in leased spaces. At the booth, Rapyuta invited user companies to share real-world experiences, including Nippon Shuppan Hanbai, which highlighted ongoing collaborative improvement efforts after system adoption.

Sharp proposed automation solutions that utilize existing shelving as-is

Rapyuta Robotics interviewed users on-site about selection criteria and implementation challenges

Compact and intelligent AGF/AMR systems

SoftBank Robotics’ booth showcasing its full product lineup, including TUSK FL10, highlighting comprehensive solution capabilities

A growing number of exhibitors focused on automated guided forklifts (AGF) and autonomous mobile robots (AMR), reflecting increasing demand for unmanned loading, unloading, and horizontal transport amid operator shortages.

SoftBank Robotics presented TUSK FL10, a compact AGF capable of on-the-spot turning and lateral movement within a minimal turning radius of 2,100 mm. It supports both 2D code and SLAM navigation methods. The company also introduced the TUSK E10 pallet-handling AMR, which can lift floor-placed pallets without requiring special bases—improving operational flexibility in existing warehouses. The E10 supports skid-type pallets without bottom boards, while another model accommodates standard grid-pattern pallets. The company also displayed its AutoStore automated storage system and PUDU T300 delivery robot, demonstrating broad solution capabilities.

Hakuou Robotics demonstrated three units of its AutoFork laser-guided AGF operating in synchronized transport. Shared sensing data between the vehicles enables efficient coordinated movement. “The compact turning radius and smooth acceleration allow visitors to experience the machine’s real capabilities,” said President Suzuki. The company also displayed models using vehicle bodies supplied under a partnership agreement signed with Mitsubishi Logisnext in June this year.

Tokyo Kikai Seisakusho (TKS) exhibited the V1000 AMR, which operates even on rough or outdoor surfaces. By integrating laser guidance, the company eliminated the need for magnetic tapes while maintaining a 1,000 kg payload capacity. “Magnetic guidance is often impractical for outdoor use. We’ve added laser and control technology to enable AMR functionality while keeping the same payload capacity,” explained a company representative. A larger 2,000 kg model, V2000, can also be equipped with laser guidance.

Hakuou Robotics’ AutoFork AGF equipped with vehicle body supplied by Mitsubishi Logisnext

Tokyo Kikai Seisakusho demonstrated the V1000 with laser guidance capability

Robots and digital platforms driving supply chain optimization

Depalletizing robot connected to collaborative palletizing robot via extendable conveyor

In the robotics segment, XYZ Robotics Japan, the Japanese subsidiary of the China-based robotics systems manufacturer, demonstrated a fully automated depalletizing and palletizing line by connecting its RockyOne container unloading robot with the RockyLight palletizing robot via an extendable conveyor. The system’s vacuum gripper can flexibly handle single or multiple boxes with independent pad control. “At exhibitions, we can explain these detailed capabilities and demonstrate how we differ from competitors,” noted the company’s marketing representative.

THK presented its newly launched Next-Generation Multi-Suction Hand TNH08-V09, featuring nine hollow shafts that move independently to conform to complex surfaces. Supporting payloads up to 7 kg, the hand is designed for automotive parts handling. “With the automotive industry’s shift toward high-mix production on shared lines, this hand eliminates the need to change grippers between different vehicle models,” the company representative explained.

Panasonic Connect highlighted its digital logistics solutions, integrating applications such as ZetesMedea warehouse execution software with the Blue Yonder Network supply chain data platform provided by its U.S. subsidiary Blue Yonder. The company also proposed inspection systems using cameras and various transport robots as connected devices.

Panasonic Connect emphasized that optimizing logistics requires visibility across manufacturing and retail operations, enabling AI-driven demand forecasting and end-to-end efficiency.