The ADUSA Supply Chain, which serves Ahold Delhaize USA’s East Coast brands, has introduced wearable technology that enhances the safety and effectiveness of grocery distribution center associates, according to ADUSA Supply Chain. Over the past year, the company has been testing the Verve Motion exosuits, which help employees lift products.
“Selecting product in a distribution center is very physical work, and not only is it very physical, but it’s also critical,” said Chris Lewis, president, ADUSA Supply Chain, in a statement. “The associates in grocery distribution centers are nothing short of superheroes who keep product flowing through the supply chain to physical and digital store shelves and ultimately to consumers’ tables. This has never been further demonstrated than during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re proud to pilot solutions like this one that enable us and our partners to care for the workforce in distribution centers by helping associates reduce fatigue, work more effectively and reduce the likelihood of injuries.”
According to ADUSA, the product reduces strain on an employee’s back by 30 to 40 percent during a typical workday, meaning that each 22-pound item feels like 14 pounds. During the pilot, feedback from wearers has been positive with a vast majority reporting reduced fatigue, soreness, and better posture, said the company.
“Essential workers such as food and delivery personnel have carried us through a very challenging time," said Ignacio Galiana, CEO of Verve Motion, in a statement. “At Verve, our mission is to advance worker safety and performance to allow frontline workers to effectively execute their work, while focusing on their well-being.”
Related: Ahold Delhaize to Open Additional Self-Managed Distribution Centers; Sprouts Farmers Market Opens New Produce Distribution Center.