Automation Myths - Debunked

Warehouse automation continues to transform the logistics industry, but many businesses still shy away from investing—often due to widely held misconceptions. At Logistex —experts in warehouse automation—we aim to dispel eight common myths, supported by evidence from across the UK market. Let’s separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Automation is only for large businesses

Reality: Automation is now modular and scalable, making it viable for SMEs as well as enterprise-scale operations. Whether it’s adding ASRS, deploying AMRs, or integrating conveyor sortation, systems can be tailored to a smaller footprint and phased implementation. For example, many of our clients introduce automation incrementally—starting with a small, focused zone and expanding over time—delivering ROI long before a “full” rollout.

Myth 2: Automation is too complex to implement or operate

Reality: Despite its high-tech reputation, modern warehouse automation is designed for ease of use. Intuitive user interfaces, comprehensive training, and strong support structures simplify onboarding and daily operation . At Logistex, our in‑house Reflex Warehouse Execution System (WES) is built with accessibility in mind, and our 24/7 support team helps ensure operations run smoothly once live.

Myth 3: Automation is prohibitively expensive

Reality: While upfront costs exist, long-term gains in efficiency, accuracy, and reduced manual labour deliver strong returns. Automation lowers picking errors, minimises staff-related overhead, and enhances space use, often paying for itself in just a few years .

Myth 4: Automation reduces headcount and causes job losses

Reality: Automation typically transforms roles, not eliminates them. It frees employees from repetitive tasks like manual picking or data entry, enabling them to focus on higher-value activities such as equipment monitoring, analytics, and process improvement . In fact, studies predict net job growth: McKinsey estimates potential creation of 1.5 million new jobs by 2030 in automation-augmented environments.

Myth 5: It only works in brand‑new warehouses

Reality: Most automation deployments in the UK are retrofit projects. Many solutions can be installed within existing facilities—even occupying under‑used zones—without major structural alterations. Logistex specialises in design and integration—working within customers’ existing layouts and integrating with current rack and tote systems wherever possible.

Myth 6: Automated systems are unreliable or prone to downtime

Reality: Today’s systems include built‑in redundancy, real‑time monitoring, and remote diagnostics to ensure uptime. Preventive maintenance and robust support reduce risk—and providers often offer service-level agreements covering spares and emergency response . Logistex boasts one of the largest UK based support teams for automation—offering residential on‑site coverage, field engineers, and hotline support 24/7 to keep systems running smoothly.

Myth 7: Automation isn’t sustainable or environmentally friendly

Reality: Automated systems can improve sustainability by optimising energy usage, reducing waste from mis-picks, and increasing storage density. This yields smaller carbon footprints and more efficient use of space and materials . Combining energy‑efficient conveyors, intelligent routing, and software‑controlled batching slashes operational emissions.

Myth 8: AI, robotics and automation are only for the future

Reality: Norway, Sweden, the UK and other European markets are already embracing automation. According to research by Automate UK | PPMA Automation Robotics Trade Association, sales of robots to logistics and consumer goods firms spiked 31 % in 2024, with AMRs now commonplace across UK warehouses. Automation is not some distant horizon—it’s here, helping UK warehouses confront rising labour costs and increased customer demand.

Why Choose Logistex?

Logistex is an independent, employee‑owned systems integrator established in 1937. We deliver end‑to‑end automation solutions grounded in experience, flexibility, and impartiality— we don’t manufacture hardware, so we choose the best products for the job based on stock profiles, throughput planners, available space, and budget constraints. Our team manages project design, software development (with our in-house Reflex WES), integration of conveyors, robotics, sortation or shuttle systems to name a few, and post‑go‑live maintenance services.

Conclusion

These myths often stem from outdated stereotypes—automation is no longer an all‑or‑nothing gamble. Instead, it’s a scalable, user‑friendly, and versatile tool that enhances operations across sectors—from food & drink to fashion to 3PL logistics. At Logistex, we design every solution with flexibility, sustainability, and supportability in mind, ensuring that automation outweighs the perceived risks.

If you’re considering automation but hesitant—let's talk. Our team can help dispel concerns with real-world data and project-specific evidence from past installations. The future of warehousing is here—let us help you unlock it.

Interested in learning more? Explore our case studies to see how our approach drives ROI and reliability in real-world installations.