Yael Kochman
May 23, 2023
It all started with a random message on a Whatsapp group. From there, a short trip to Tel-Aviv and Rishon Letzion, where I discovered one of the most cutting-edge startups in retail tech and supply chain. 1MRobotics is building the next generation of nano-fulfillment centers. Learn more on our monthly featured startup corner.
The world of e-commerce and logistics is evolving rapidly, and the demand for efficient and streamlined operations is more significant than ever. In this dynamic landscape, 1MRobotics has emerged as a pioneer, providing cutting-edge automation solutions to address the challenges faced by industries worldwide. Founded by Eyal Yair and Roee Tuval, 1MRobotics has quickly gained recognition for its groundbreaking technology and vision for the future.
About one year ago, I met Gonen Gershuni, the company’s VP of Sales. At that point, the company was still in stealth mode, and nothing was shared on their website or Linkedin, but I got intrigued and reached out to Gonen to learn more. I was astonished by the innovative solution they were developing as I instantly recognized the potential for the kind of retailers Re:Tech is working with.
After our chat, Gonen joined the Re:Tech community (you can join too!), became an active member, and we even met at several events. Each time we spoke Gonen insisted that I must come to their facilities to see the innovation in person – and finally, I did. I got a personal tour of the facilities and got to see the cutting-edge tech they are building up close, and learn how it is already in full production with clients in groceries, electronic goods and other verticals.
The inception of 1MRobotics stems from Eyal Yair’s firsthand experience as a consultant for a logistics company. During his visits to warehouses manufacturing automation solutions, he recognized the untapped potential of the industry. Seeing the future of e-commerce hinged on logistics capabilities that the market was yet to provide, Yair realized an opportunity for innovation. It was during this time that he connected with Roee Tuval, and together they embarked on a journey to revolutionize the automation sector.
Eyal Yair, the Co-Founder & CEO of 1MRobotics, brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience and technical expertise to the table. Having successfully managed and promoted startups in the past, Yair possesses a unique blend of sales acumen, business development skills, and strategic thinking. With a track record of co-founding and leading four companies, including two successful acquisitions, he is well-versed in navigating the business landscape.
Roee Tuval, the Co-Founder & COO, complements Yair’s expertise with his profound knowledge in hardware, software, robotics, and electro-optics. With over 15 years of consulting experience for companies in Israel and abroad, Tuval brings a robust background in the technical aspects of automation solutions. His extensive involvement in the IDF elite tech unit further solidifies his prowess in this field.
As Yair and Tuval delved deeper into the field of automation, they realized that while large robotic warehouses were already well-served by existing solutions, the emerging nano-fulfillment warehouse market lacked comprehensive automation options. Recognizing the need for efficient automation to sustain this growing sector, they had an “aha moment” that laid the foundation for 1MRobotics. This realization marked the beginning of their journey to develop a pioneering solution in the micro-fulfillment and beyond.
Backed by their extensive industry knowledge and experience, Yair and Tuval swiftly assembled a talented team, drawing from their previous collaborations with IDF veterans. This collective expertise enabled 1MRobotics to develop a working product within an impressively short timeframe of less than a year. Such a remarkable achievement speaks volumes about the dedication, skills, and commitment of the team behind 1MRobotics.
Today, 1MRobotics provides two automation solutions: Genesis, a fully automated facility, and Flexsis, mini ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System), a collaborative automation solution. Genesis is a lights-out facility that offers end-to-end automation for various sectors without human intervention, catering to industries like retail, CPGs, consumer electronics, and similar-sized products. Flexsis caters to businesses with diverse product assortments, such as quick commerce, convenience stores, manufacturing lines, and warehouses, enabling them to streamline operations and reduce the need for employees. The company’s innovation, supported by their hyperlocal infrastructure, enables on-demand delivery and sets a new standard for efficiency and profitability in multiple industries.
At the core of 1MRobotics’ offerings lies their mini ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) module, a game-changer in the field of automation. This container-sized plug & play solutions can be easily deployed wherever and whenever required. By significantly reducing the need for human intervention, if not eliminating it altogether, 1MRobotics modules ensure operational efficiency while minimizing labor costs. Additionally, the deployment of 1MRobotics’ solutions contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional logistics processes.
Recognizing the immense potential of 1MRobotics, leading venture capital firms have provided substantial support. To date, the company has raised an impressive $25 million in funding from prominent investors, including Ibex Investors, Emerge VC, and Target Global. They graduated from Intel’s prestigious Intel Ignite program and were featured in industry publications such as Retail Dive, Retail Insider and Techcrunch.
We look forward to continuing following Eyal, Roee, Gonen and 1MRobotics on their journey and love having them as an active part of our community.
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