IKEA Revolutionizes Inventory Management with AI-Powered Drones
IKEA is making significant strides in warehouse management by deploying AI-powered drones across its distribution centers worldwide. After a successful year of pilot testing at its Winterslag facility in Belgium, the Swedish furniture giant is set to expand this innovative technology to more locations in Europe and North America.

IKEA is taking inventory management to new heights with the expansion of AI-powered drones across its distribution centers in Europe and North America. This innovative initiative, as reported by HCA Magazine, aims to automate stock inventory, improve operational efficiency, and enhance employee well-being by reducing the physical strain associated with manual inventory checks.
Collaboration with Verity
Developed in partnership with AI and robotics provider Verity, IKEA's drone system employs advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to identify and photograph product storage locations. These autonomous flying devices are equipped with:
- A custom indoor positioning system for navigating higher storage levels
- Obstacle detection capabilities to avoid collisions
- Pre-scheduled flight paths for efficient operation
The drones can operate continuously, providing real-time inventory data without disrupting regular workflows. Since the initiative's launch in Switzerland in 2021, the fleet has expanded to over 250 drones operating across 73 locations in nine countries, demonstrating the effectiveness and scalability of the technology in improving inventory management processes.
24/7 Inventory Management
Continuous operation of the drone fleet enables simultaneous inventory checks without disrupting workflows, allowing employees to act on real-time data. This 24/7 inventory management system significantly increases product accuracy while decreasing workload. The drones' ability to navigate higher storage levels (three and up) using a custom indoor positioning system ensures comprehensive coverage of vast warehouse spaces. By automating the physically demanding task of stock inventory, IKEA has achieved faster and more precise management of its extensive product range.
Employee Well-Being Benefits
The implementation of AI-powered drones significantly improves employee well-being by reducing ergonomic strain and injury risks associated with manual inventory checks. This shift allows workers to focus on more engaging tasks that enhance customer experience and job satisfaction. By automating physically demanding activities, IKEA creates a safer work environment and enables its staff to redirect their efforts towards higher-value responsibilities, such as customer service and complex problem-solving.
Strategic Impact on IKEA
The integration of AI-powered drones represents a strategic move towards embracing cutting-edge technology in retail logistics. This initiative not only optimizes supply chain processes but also positions IKEA as a leader in adopting advanced technology for operational excellence. The company plans to further enhance the drone system with additional functionalities, such as unit load and rack inspection capabilities, and improvements in analytics and insights. By leveraging this innovative approach, IKEA aims to create a more efficient and responsive inventory management system, ultimately leading to improved customer experiences and a competitive edge in the retail sector.