Kmart has partnered with Vanderlande to automate its new omni-channel fulfilment centre at the Moorebank Intermodal Precinct in Sydney. As one of Australia’s largest and most recognisable retailers, Kmart will deploy Vanderlande’s Fastpick system to drive long-term efficiency and support the business’s growth across both physical and digital channels.
With over 450 stores across Australia and New Zealand – and a fast-growing online presence – Kmart serves millions of customers each week. As demand increases and consumer expectations shift, the company is investing in advanced automation to simplify its operations and create a future-ready logistics network.
“The investment in the new Moorebank omni-channel fulfilment centre will be an important part of our long-term strategy to modernise our supply chain and simplify store operations,” explains Phillip Irvine, Kmart’s GM – next generation supply chain. “Ultimately, this approach is about delivering even more value to our customers, which is central to who we are.”
Vanderlande’s Fastpick solution was selected for its flexibility, performance, and ability to support both store replenishment and e-commerce fulfilment within a single facility. The 100,000sqm site will combine high-speed shuttle technology, ergonomic goods-to-person workstations, and a crossbelt sorter capable of handling both cartons and polybags at scale.
“We are excited to join Kmart on this journey to optimise its supply chain and ensure that this is ready for the future,” says Jordan Thrupp, Vanderlande’s MD Australia. “The strong partnership we’ve built with their team has been instrumental in delivering the best possible solution, and we remain committed to supporting Kmart’s ongoing success.”
The Moorebank facility also features a large fleet of Toyota automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and very narrow aisle (VNA) trucks to support high-density pallet storage and internal material transport. All systems will be orchestrated by Vanderlande’s Vision warehouse control platform, which enables real-time optimisation across the full range of warehouse processes.
The solution is designed to address key challenges faced by the retail sector, including labour constraints, rapid fulfilment requirements, and the increasing complexity of omni-channel operations. By integrating goods-to-person technology with flexible storage and automated handling, Kmart will be positioned to adapt quickly as its business evolves.
“This project reflects our dedication to delivering scalable systems with fast and efficient order fulfilment,” says Stephan Heessels, Vanderlande’s executive VP for Warehouse Solutions. “Fastpick is the optimal solution for leading retailers, such as Kmart, facing unpredictable long-term growth across their store and e-commerce operations.”
The Moorebank site will serve as a flagship for modern retail logistics, showcasing how intelligent automation can support greater efficiency, safer operations, and better customer service across all touchpoints.
For both Kmart and Vanderlande, the project is a blueprint for future collaboration. From early design to execution, the two teams have worked closely to align system capabilities with strategic business outcomes. That partnership will continue well beyond go-live, with ongoing support and system evolution planned as part of a long-term vision.
As Australian retail continues to change rapidly, investments like these highlight how innovation and collaboration can drive resilience and competitiveness. With the Moorebank facility set to go live in the near future, Kmart is making a clear statement about the role of automation in its future.
“This isn’t just about faster picking or smarter software,” says Jordan. “It’s about building the kind of supply chain that supports a better customer experience for years to come.”
