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The Aurora installation is Medline’s 24th AutoStore deployment nationwide and adds to a fleet of more than 2,100 robots operating across the company’s global distribution network.
The acquisitions reflect a broader trend across industrial distribution as companies expand service and repair operations tied to installed equipment bases to deepen customer relationships and generate steadier recurring revenue.
Manufacturers reported the longest supplier delivery delays since August 2022 as shipping disruptions and inventory stockpiling strained supply chains.
CEO D.G. Macpherson said Grainger’s AI deployments now fall into two primary categories: internal productivity and customer-facing digital capabilities.
Among Schneider Electric’s pilot users, 100% said they would recommend the new generative AI tools to colleagues. But only 55% said they were personally ready to use the tools themselves.
The announcement reflects growing competition among enterprise resource planning providers to embed agentic artificial intelligence directly into core business systems as distributors and manufacturers seek ways to automate increasingly complex operational processes.
Founded in 1969, cfm distributes HVACR equipment, parts, and supplies to residential and commercial contractors. The company is led by Lauren Roberts, who also serves as chairwoman of HARDI, the HVACR industry trade association.
The project also includes deployment of warehouse automation technology from Hai Robotics as part of a multiyear investment designed to increase fulfillment capacity and operational efficiency.
The company said Continental Fuel Group will pursue acquisitions of distributors specializing in bulk fuel, mobile fueling, on-site fueling and wholesale fuel delivery.
The clearest example of McKesson’s infrastructure build-out is its new Montreal distribution center, launched during the quarter as part of what the company calls its “supply chain of the future” initiative.