Locus Robotics recently unveiled a cold-storage hardware modification developed for HelloFresh that expanded chilled fulfillment capacity from 100 stock keeping units (SKUs) to 500 SKUs. The company, which provides warehouse automation solutions using autonomous mobile robots, supported the rollout through its Locus Origin platform.

Factor, a HelloFresh brand, initially deployed 13 Locus Origin robots in July 2025 as part of a pilot program focused on chilled fulfillment operations. The deployment later expanded by 26 additional robots within three months after early performance demonstrated reliable execution in temperature-controlled environments.

The system averaged a mission time of 3 minutes and 36 seconds from order induction through box drop-off, supporting faster fulfillment cycles in refrigerated operations where time sensitivity is critical. Locus Robotics also developed a heated motor enhancement and charging modifications to ensure robot reliability in cold storage conditions, enabling continuous operation inside chilled facilities.

The deployment supports approximately 12,000 sq. ft. of HelloFresh’s chilled fulfillment space, including two high-speed meal kit picking lines. The approach allows HelloFresh to move orders directly from induction to drop-off in certain workflows while maintaining order tracking and reducing reliance on fixed conveyor systems.

“HelloFresh is scaling one of the most demanding fulfillment models in the market: high volume, high variety, and temperature-controlled from start to finish,” said Jasmine Lombardi, chief customer officer for Locus Robotics. “By increasing capacity and expanding automation across HelloFresh’s portfolio of brands, Locus Robotics is enabling greater meal choice for its customers while maintaining the speed and precision its fulfillment model demands.”