When it comes to logistics and storage, unused space, complex inventory handling, and disorganized warehouses not only slow down operations but also become liabilities over time. A key contributor to this problem is the reliance of most traditional storage systems on long conveyor lines, numerous motors, and intricate networks of sensors to move and track inventory. These systems are space-intensive, expensive to maintain, and difficult to adapt as operational needs evolve.

To overcome this challenge, a smarter, more space-efficient system is needed.

Nekos, a Finland-based automation expert, has developed a high-density, low-footprint storage solution that directly addresses these common pain points by drastically reducing the number of motors, sensors, and conveyors required. Its systems also minimize energy consumption, maintenance needs, and waste—resulting in a solution that is both operationally efficient and environmentally sustainable. This makes it a future-proof choice for logistics teams facing both business and environmental pressures.

“Compared to old conveyor systems, our solution offers around 50 percent more capacity in the same footprint, with far fewer components. That means lower energy use, less maintenance, and a greener overall operation,” says Jaakko Laihorinne, CEO.

High-Density Storage with Fewer Components

At the core of this innovation is Nekos’ patented high-density tote and crate storage system, launched in 2016. Unlike traditional conveyor-based systems that require large gaps between stacks and equipment, Nekos places stacks directly on the floor with just 20 millimeters of spacing. Each stack can reach 2.2 meters in height, and a single unit can store around 40,000 crates. For growing operations, additional units can be added. Its compact footprint also allows installation in mezzanine areas or tight warehouse layouts. Nekos can customize the system for any crate or tote, offering high flexibility.

What sets the system apart is its simplified mechanical design. Instead of long conveyor lines, it uses just two conveyors and a proprietary “gripper” that grabs boxes from the conveyor, lifts them off, and places them on the floor or vice versa. This reduces costs, energy use, and potential failure points. With fewer moving parts and an open layout, it is easier to clean and maintain—critical for food and healthcare settings.

The system is intuitive and user-friendly, helping reduce onboarding time. It is fully CE-certified and includes key safety features such as light curtains, secured access doors, and mobile operator panels for safe manual control. Remote support allows technicians to troubleshoot issues quickly. Through partnerships with integrators such as KNAPP, Swisslog, Fortna, and Dematic, Nekos has made its solution globally deployable and compliant with regional standards.

Global Footprint

Nekos solutions currently serve a broad range of industries. In the UK, Domino’s Pizza uses the system to store pizza dough under temperature-controlled conditions before dispatch. In Australia, major grocery retailers use it to manage totes for home-delivery orders. In the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, crates buffer and distribute products to pharmacies and clinics. The system also supports reusable crate logistics, such as Euro Pool-style foldable boxes. In one case, a single installation managed up to 70,000 foldable crates in an automated logistics cycle. Nekos has helped logistics integrators complete more than 80 installations worldwide.

“We’re not just offering a solution for today—we’re building flexibility to evolve with our customers,” says Juha Murtojärvi, Head of Sales.

As logistics grow more complex and sustainability pressures increase, Nekos delivers a compact, intelligent, and environmentally conscious system that helps businesses operate leaner and smarter for the long term.