Leading wire and cable manufacturer Southwire has announced a partnership with robotics startup Ready Robotics to deploy automation technologies across five of its production facilities. The collaboration will see Ready implement industrial robotics, AGVs and IoT sensors at Southwire plants using their versatile ForgeOS platform.

Ready conducted automation potential assessments at Southwire's facilities, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, quality and safety through automation. By leveraging Ready's expertise in deploying robotics tailored to high-mix, low volume environments, Southwire aims to optimize operations.

The partnership will initially roll out automation at Southwire's customer service center in Georgia, utility products plant in Kentucky, and additional facilities across three states. Ready touts the project as a gamechanger demonstrating Southwire's commitment to cutting-edge manufacturing.

"Partnering with Ready Robotics provides an opportunity to accelerate continuous improvement through smart solutions fitting Southwire's innovation leadership," said Southwire Chief Engineer Alex Thomas.

For Southwire, the initiative also strongly supports its employee safety and wellbeing programs. Automating hazardous material handling tasks mitigates risks to workers while upholding production.

"Through collaboration between Ready Robotics and our teams, we plan to cultivate safety and automation for existing and future assets," noted Southwire VP of Operations Se Oh.

As a longtime technology leader in its industry, Southwire is strategically adopting robotics to boost its competitiveness. Teaming with Ready Robotics and its versatile ForgeOS gives Southwire a customizable automation platform to keep pushing boundaries.

The partnership exemplifies how robotics can unlock new potential in manufacturing without large upfront costs. For Ready, it represents a significant opportunity to prove the value of its flexible automation model. As more companies follow Southwire's lead, the future of robotic manufacturing continues to take shape.