Zalando and CEVA Logistics deploy AI robots for returns

Zalando and CEVA Logistics have deployed AI-powered dual-arm robots to automate the processing of returned fashion items. Developed by the German robotics company Sereact, the systems are currently operational at logistics facilities in Greven, Germany, and Świebodzin, Poland.

Unlike traditional warehouse robotics that require pre-programmed SKU profiles or specific training for every item, these robots utilize Sereact’s Cortex physical AI platform. This allows the machines to identify, grasp, and sort returned merchandise that they have not encountered before, addressing the high variability and unpredictable conditions typical of returns processing.

The deployment follows a Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) model and represents the initial phase of a broader initiative to expand automated returns management across European facilities.