Step into the realm of technological innovation as we bring you an exclusive interview with Mr. Inderpreet Singh, Vice President of Sales at Addverb Technologies. Discover the driving force behind Addverb's groundbreaking solutions in the robotics and automation industry. Gain insights into their upcoming launches, strategic growth plans, and commitment to societal impact. Join us as we explore the intersection of innovation, business success, and social responsibility with one of the industry's key leaders.

 

Addverb Technologies has been making waves in the robotics and automation industry. Can you share a bit about your journey with Addverb and what motivated you to join the company as Vice President of Sales?

Joining Addverb as Vice President of Sales was a decision motivated by several compelling factors, deeply rooted in the company's culture of innovation and purpose-driven approach to business. Firstly, Addverb's reputation as a rapidly growing and innovative player in the robotics and automation industry was immensely appealing. The opportunity to be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking company, constantly at the forefront of technological advancements, presented an exciting prospect for someone with my background and expertise.

Moreover, my experience in driving revenue growth and expanding market presence perfectly aligned with Addverb's ambitious growth objectives. The company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and leading the market with cutting-edge solutions resonated deeply with my professional aspirations. The opportunity to lead sales efforts and contribute to Addverb's success story was, therefore, a compelling reason for me to join the team.

Additionally, what truly set Addverb apart was its unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world while achieving business success. The chance to be part of a company that prioritizes environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical business practices deeply resonated with my values and principles. I was drawn to Addverb's vision of using technology as a force for good, driving meaningful change and contributing to a better future for all.

 

Addverb Technologies is known for its innovative products and solutions. Could you give us some insights into any upcoming products or launches that the company has in the pipeline?

At LogiMAT India in February 2024, Addverb proudly introduced a triumphant trio of revolutionary robots that are poised to redefine efficiency, safety, and adaptability across various industries. These robots include Trakr, India's first-ever assistive dog robot, an advanced medical collaborative robot (cobot) for rehabilitation and imaging named Heal, and a cobot designed to enhance operational efficiency and safety named Syncro.

Trakr, with its nimble movement and sensing skills, is capable of autonomously traversing complicated terrain and participating in a variety of tasks. It is expected to transform sectors such as construction, oil exploration, defence, and security.

Heal, the medical cobot, is revolutionizing rehabilitation and imaging in healthcare by providing tailored therapy to stroke victims and simplifying medical processes with accuracy and speed.

Syncro, the collaborative robot, prioritizes safety while increasing productivity and flexibility in warehouse and manufacturing settings. It allows for seamless collaboration between people and robots to improve processes and promote safer working conditions. Overall, the introduction of Trakr, Heal, and Syncro represents a tremendous advancement in robotics technology and promises to bring about dramatic change in a variety of industries.

 

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the growth and expansion of Addverb Technologies in the robotics and automation sector? How do you plan to position the company for success in the coming years?

My vision for Addverb’s growth in the robotics and automation sector is based on innovation, collaboration, and customer-focus. We aim to stay ahead of technological advancements by investing in research and development and creating strategic partnerships with industry leaders. We will address the unique challenges of our clients across different industries and provide customized solutions that exceed their expectations. By expanding our global presence, strengthening our sales team, and fostering customer relationships, we will establish Addverb as a global leader in the constantly evolving landscape of robotics and automation.

I strongly believe in the importance of putting our customers at the forefront of our business. To achieve this, I will prioritize understanding the unique challenges and objectives of our clients. By doing so, we can provide them with tailored solutions and exceptional customer service which will, in turn, strengthen customer loyalty and drive long-term success for our company.

To position Addverb for success in the coming years, I intend to focus on enhancing our global reach and market penetration. This will involve expanding into new geographical regions and verticals while also deepening our presence in existing markets through strategic sales and marketing initiatives.

I also recognize the crucial role that talent acquisition and development plays in driving organizational growth. Therefore, I will prioritize building a high-performing sales team that is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive revenue growth and exceed customer expectations.

 

Addverb's commitment to innovation is evident in its product offerings. Can you shed light on any recent technological advancements or breakthroughs that have contributed to the company's success?

Addverb's Cruiser 360, the 4-Way Shuttle ASRS, sets a new standard for warehouse automation with its exceptional operational efficiency. Its most outstanding feature is its unmatched high storage density, which cleverly utilizes vertical space to maximize warehouse capacity. It can accommodate up to 10 pallets per square meter, making it highly space efficient. The system is versatile and flexible, moving items in both the x and y axes, and it adapts seamlessly to dynamic warehouse needs. With a robust load capacity of 1500 kg, it can handle diverse goods effectively, while its precise positioning system ensures accuracy during storage and retrieval.

We also recently introduced a cobot, marking a significant stride in advancing the integration of intelligent automation across diverse industries and establishing a new benchmark for collaborative robotics. Positioned at the forefront of this transformation, collaborative robots, affectionately known as cobots, are meticulously crafted for seamless interaction between humans and machines, heralding an era characterized by unparalleled human-robot synergy.

These cutting-edge technologies exemplify Addverb's commitment to operational excellence, efficiency, and adaptability in the rapidly evolving world of logistics and manufacturing. As we look to the future, Addverb remains dedicated to driving progress and empowering businesses with intelligent automation solutions that enhance productivity, optimize space utilization, and foster seamless human-robot collaboration. With our unwavering focus on innovation and customer-centricity, we are poised to lead the way towards a smarter, more efficient, and interconnected future of automation.

 

The robotics and automation industry is rapidly evolving. In your opinion, what are some key trends or developments that you foresee shaping the industry in the near future?

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs): These little robots are made to move around in warehouse settings on their own and carry out operations including order picking, inventory control, and product transportation for effective material movement. They can interact with human operators and readily integrate with current systems, increasing total efficiency.

Automated Guided Vehicles: AGVs have been around for a while and are frequently used in businesses for distribution and material transportation. AGVs can deliver items, travel predetermined routes, and communicate with loading and unloading stations autonomously, thanks to their autonomous capabilities.

Self-Driving Forklifts: Forklifts with autonomous technology can safely transport items, manoeuvre through warehouses and distribution centers, and handle pallets. These vehicles increase productivity, lessen product damage, and make the best use of available space in storage facilities.

The Rise of Cobots: Cobots are a new type of robot meant to collaborate with humans. Cobots, unlike their conventional counterparts, are differentiated by their smaller size, lower weight, and built-in safety safeguards, allowing them to function securely in close proximity to humans without the need for safety cages or blockades. Cobots' integral flexibility and safety make them a great choice for democratizing automation in a variety of sectors and applications.

Rail Guided Vehicle (RGV): It is a fast, flexible and easily installed material transport system that travels at a predefined path guided by rails or tracks. These robots are an efficient, cost-effective, and fast option for complex sorting applications.

Sorting Robots: An agile sortation system is crucial in enabling quick order fulfilment and requires a set-up that is easily deployable and scalable to meet demand fluctuations. With the increasing reliability of people on E-Commerce and the expectation of quick delivery, automation in sorting comes in very handy to sort a variety of product mix at high speeds. This helps in accurate delivery with minimal human intervention hence improving the overall efficiency of sorts/hours.

Warehouse Management Systems: Advanced WMS integrates with various technologies such as barcode scanners, RFID tags, and automated conveyor systems to streamline warehouse operations. WMS enables real-time tracking of inventory, efficient order fulfillment, and better utilization of warehouse space.

 

Addverb Technologies operates not only with a focus on business success but also with a broader vision for societal impact. How does the company align its goals with the larger vision for India's development, particularly looking towards the year 2047?

Addverb Technologies is deeply committed to achieving business success while also making a meaningful social impact. As we move towards the future, particularly the year 2047, which marks the centennial anniversary of India's independence, Addverb aligns its goals with a larger vision for the country's development. Addverb contributes to India's economic growth and development by driving innovation and technological advancement in the fields of robotics and automation. By providing industries with state-of-the-art solutions, we enable greater efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness, thereby fostering economic prosperity and job creation.

Moreover, Addverb envisions a future where technology serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth, social progress, and environmental stewardship. By continuing to innovate, collaborate, and prioritize the needs of society, we aim to contribute meaningfully to India's journey towards becoming a global leader in technology and sustainable development.

In this pursuit, Addverb will champion the "Make in India, Make for the World" initiative, creating world-class products and solutions that originate from India but have a global impact. This approach aligns with our commitment to driving technological innovation while fostering economic growth and promoting India's prominence on the global stage in a professional and impactful manner.

Addverb is committed to environmental sustainability and plays a proactive role in India's efforts to combat climate change and promote clean energy. Our focus on developing energy-efficient and eco-friendly solutions aligns with India's goals for environmental conservation and sustainable development.

By 2047, as India achieves significant milestones in economic development, technological advancement, and social progress, Addverb will stand as a proud contributor to the nation's success story. Through our relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to societal impact, Addverb will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping India's future as a global leader in technology and sustainable development.

 

Addverb Technologies has a reputation for delivering exceptional value to its clients. Can you share a recent success story or case study that illustrates how Addverb's solutions have helped improve operational efficiency or drive business growth for a client?

Our Robots and Automation solutions solve the 3D problem in the industry, as in we eliminate Dull, Dirty and Dangerous jobs by automating them. Today we have more than 350 customers and 800+ employees spread across the world. Our customers include the likes of Reliance, Indian Oil, ITC, Dabur, DHL, Maersk, Amazon, Flipkart, Lenskart to name a few.

HUL

Addverb collaborated with HUL to automate HUL's Chennai warehouse, achieving 24-hour order fulfillment with 9,500 picks per hour. HUL successfully delivered orders to 28,000 stores within 24 hours using Addverb’s innovative solutions like Rapido, Quadron, Box-It, and smart conveyors powered by Mobinity. This partnership enhances India's FMCG supply chain, fulfilling 5,000 customer orders daily and handling 8 to 11 lakh units during peak periods.

PepsiCo

PepsiCo collaborated with Addverb to automate its largest greenfield snack manufacturing facility in Kosi-Kalan, Uttar Pradesh, India. The 36,000 sq. ft. automation solution included Crane-based Double and Triple deep ASRS, Multi-Pro, Rapido, and Mobinity (Warehouse Control System). With a system throughput of 300 pallets/hour, the project's seamless execution empowered PepsiCo to swiftly implement the solution, showcasing extensive collaboration between the two teams.

DHL

DHL Supply Chain Services partnered with Addverb for apparel sorting and distribution near Columbus, Ohio. Addverb provided robotic automation hardware within 5 months, covering inbound and outbound operations such as Conveyance, Sorting, Storage, and Material Handling. The project had a Go-Live timeline of only 8 months. DHL now achieves over 100 units per hour compared to under 20 previously, experiencing a 300%+ increase in throughput efficiency and accuracy. Addverb's robotic sorting solution has significantly reduced manual processes at DHL's distribution facility near Columbus.

 

How does Addverb continue to meet and exceed customer expectations while staying ahead of the competition in the robotics and automation market?

Addverb is a company that prioritizes a customer-centric approach. This means that it focuses on understanding and addressing the unique needs and challenges of its customers. To achieve this, it actively seeks feedback and insights and tailors its solutions to meet and exceed customer expectations. The company invests heavily in research and development to drive continuous innovation in robotics and automation technologies. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements, Addverb offers cutting-edge solutions that provide tangible value to customers and differentiate it from competitors.

Addverb is also agile and adaptable in responding to changing market dynamics and customer requirements. It remains flexible and responsive to quickly adapt its strategies and offerings to stay ahead of the competition and meet evolving customer needs. The company forms strategic partnerships with industry leaders, technology innovators, and academic institutions to leverage complementary expertise and resources. By collaborating with partners, Addverb gains access to new technologies, markets, and insights, enabling it to deliver comprehensive solutions that outpace the competition.

Finally, Addverb prioritizes quality and reliability in its products and services. It ensures that customers receive solutions that are robust, efficient, and dependable by maintaining stringent quality standards and investing in rigorous testing and validation processes. This builds trust and loyalty among its customer base.

 

Addverb Technologies has been expanding its presence both domestically and internationally. What strategies does the company employ to enter new markets successfully and establish a strong foothold?

Addverb strategic approach to entering new markets involves a combination of thorough market research, strategic partnerships, localization, investment in sales and marketing, customer engagement, and continuous improvement.

Market Research and Analysis: Addverb conducts thorough market research and analysis to identify potential opportunities and challenges in new markets. By understanding the local regulatory landscape, customer preferences, and competitive dynamics, Addverb can tailor its strategies to effectively penetrate new markets.

Strategic Partnerships and Alliances: Addverb forms strategic partnerships and alliances with local companies, distributors, and channel partners to leverage their market expertise, networks, and resources. These partnerships enable Addverb to access new customer segments, distribution channels, and market insights, facilitating a smoother market entry and expansion process.

Localization of Products and Services: Addverb adapts its products and services to suit the specific needs and preferences of target markets. This may involve customizing product features, packaging, pricing, and marketing materials to resonate with local customers and comply with regulatory requirements.

Investment in Sales and Marketing: Addverb invests in robust sales and marketing efforts to raise awareness of its brand and offerings in new markets. This may include participating in industry events and trade shows, conducting targeted advertising campaigns, and engaging with potential customers through digital channels and direct sales efforts.

Customer Engagement and Support: Addverb prioritizes customer engagement and support to build strong relationships and trust with customers in new markets. By providing excellent pre-sales and post-sales support, Addverb ensures a positive customer experience and fosters loyalty, driving repeat business and referrals.

Continuous Improvement and Adaptation: Addverb remains agile and adaptable in response to market feedback and evolving customer needs. By continuously refining its products, services, and strategies based on customer insights and market trends, Addverb stays ahead of the competition and maintains its competitive edge in new markets.

By effectively executing these strategies, Addverb successfully establishes a strong foothold and expands its presence in new markets, driving sustainable growth and success.

 

Humans VS Robots has been a highly debated topic, How does Addverb Technologies address concerns about the potential displacement of human workers as robotics and automation technologies become more prevalent?

Addverb acknowledges the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of robotics and automation on human employment. To address concerns about the potential displacement of human workers, Addverb adopts a proactive and comprehensive approach focused on several key strategies:

  • Job Enhancement: Addverb acknowledges the value of robotics and automation in enhancing human productivity and efficiency, while avoiding the outright replacement of human workers. By automating repetitive and mundane tasks, Addverb enables employees to focus on higher-value activities that require creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Reskilling and Upskilling: Addverb invests in programs that reskill and upskill its workforce, providing employees with the necessary technical and soft skills to adapt to the changing demands of the workplace. Through training and development opportunities, Addverb ensures that employees remain relevant and competitive in the evolving job market.
  • Collaborative Robotics: Addverb promotes the adoption of collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside human workers in a shared workspace. These cobots enhance productivity and safety while preserving human jobs and facilitating harmonious human-machine collaboration.
  • Ethical Framework: Addverb adheres to a strong ethical framework in developing and deploying robotics and automation technologies. The company prioritizes human welfare and job security, ensuring that automation solutions are implemented responsibly and ethically.

Robotics and automation have greatly improved labour efficiency by automating repetitive and physically demanding tasks. This allows human workers to focus on more complex and value-added activities, leading to increased productivity and throughput in warehouse operations. Moreover, robotics and automation can help mitigate labour shortages and fluctuations in demand. With automated systems in place, warehouses can operate consistently and efficiently regardless of staffing levels, reducing the need for temporary or additional labour during peak periods.

 

Lastly, looking at Addverb's journey and your own experience, what advice would you give to aspiring professionals looking to make an impact in the robotics and automation industry, particularly in the context of India's growth trajectory?

Based on Addverb's journey and my own experience, I would advise aspiring professionals looking to make an impact in the robotics and automation industry to focus on continuous learning and skill development. The industry is constantly evolving, and to stay ahead of the curve, professionals need to keep up with the latest technological advancements, tools, and techniques. They should also be curious and open to exploring new ideas and approaches to problem-solving.

In the context of India's growth trajectory, I would advise professionals to understand the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Indian market and tailor their solutions accordingly. This could involve developing solutions that are cost-effective, scalable, and adaptable to local market conditions. It could also involve leveraging emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to drive innovation and increase efficiency.

Finally, I would advise aspiring professionals to prioritize collaboration and partnership-building. This could involve forming strategic partnerships with industry leaders, technology innovators, and academic institutions to leverage complementary expertise and resources. Collaboration can help professionals gain access to new technologies, markets, and insights, enabling them to deliver comprehensive solutions that outpace the competition. Overall, by focusing on continuous learning, tailoring solutions to local market conditions, and prioritizing collaboration, aspiring professionals can make a meaningful impact in the robotics and automation industry in India.