Ocado Intelligent Automation unveiled its new Ocado IQ cloud-based software suite last week at the MODEX event, introducing capabilities designed to revolutionize warehouse operations. The software allows two pick modes to run concurrently in a warehouse, tailored to each aisle based on density, velocity, and layout. Additionally, a feature named Smart Bypass facilitates direct-to-pick routing by eliminating meet-up points and badge-in delays, thus enhancing operational speed. The entire workflow—including picking, tasking, routing, and error resolution—is managed through a single interface.
The company asserts that these advancements can lead to a threefold improvement in picking productivity, with a return on investment achievable within as little as six months. Leah Holding, President of Ocado Group North America, highlighted the software’s flexibility, stating, “Most software systems lock you into a single pick mode for every aisle in your warehouse. What elevates the Ocado IQ software suite is its two concurrent pick modes that free operators from the one-size-fits-all pick strategies of the past.” She added, “Ocado IQ turns picking inefficiency into high performance execution for every item, every aisle, and every associate.”
In a separate development, Uber Eats has officially launched its services in Denmark, starting with the cities of Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense, which will follow later this April. This marks the company’s first foray into a series of new European markets planned for 2026, including Greece, Austria, Romania, the Czech Republic, Finland, and Norway. Matthew Price, Regional General Manager at Uber Eats, emphasized the enhanced choices now available to Danish consumers, stating, “Danes now have a new way to discover and order from their favourite restaurants.”
Price elaborated on the company’s strategy, noting the importance of providing a reliable and user-friendly experience for both customers and restaurant partners. “Denmark is one of Europe’s most digital and dynamic markets, with high expectations for quality, convenience, and value. We see clear demand, and we’re launching with Uber One, offering benefits like no delivery fees and cashback across delivery and Uber rides,” he said. The expansion into Denmark is part of a broader ambition to integrate grocery delivery services into its offerings while maintaining a focus on consumer needs.
Meanwhile, London-based restaurant brand atis is preparing to launch its first customer app in May, developed in-house over the past 18 months. This app is powered by atis’ proprietary technology, allowing complete control over Click and Collect ordering, loyalty programs, and the overall customer journey. With approximately 50% of orders currently placed digitally, atis anticipates that this figure will rise significantly post-launch.
By integrating Click and Collect with a new loyalty program, atis Insiders, the company aims to enhance customer personalization. The app will allow users to skip queues, earn rewards, save favorite custom orders, and access exclusive perks, including potential secret menu items. In addition, atis plans a citywide activation across London, featuring 100 hidden QR codes for customers to find, with free meals as incentives for early discoverers. Customers who download the app during the launch month will receive £5 off their first order.
In another significant move, Iceland Foods, the UK frozen food and grocery retailer, is enhancing its inventory and replenishment operations through a partnership with invent.ai. This initiative aims to tackle the challenge of maintaining consistent product availability across its extensive network of stores and distribution centers. By leveraging the AI-powered capabilities of invent.ai, Iceland Foods can transform complex sales, supply, and demand data into actionable insights, ensuring optimal product placement and availability.
Utilizing this platform allows Iceland Foods to factor in various elements, such as seasonal demand, promotions, and atypical sales patterns. The automation of replenishment decisions aims to provide operational teams with stock recommendations that minimize waste, reduce stockouts, and maximize sales potential. Matt Downes, Supply Chain Director at Iceland Foods, remarked, “AI is giving us the visibility and control we’ve never had before. We can now keep shelves consistently stocked with the products our customers want, reduce lost sales and improve the overall shopping experience across every store and distribution centre.”
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