Pallet racking and pallet storage: Number of installed storage and retrieval machines (SRMs) and high-bay warehouses (HBWs) – Worldwide – Europe – Germany

Specific figures on high-bay warehouse (HBW) and storage and retrieval machine (SRM) installations are often difficult to obtain, as much market data is published in specific reports by industry analysts such as Frost & Sullivan, Statista, or ResearchAndMarkets and is not publicly available. However, here are some examples and estimates from the industry, as well as specific trends, compiled based on accessible sources and reports:

1. Number of installed storage and retrieval machines (SRMs) and high-bay warehouses (HBWs)

Germany (leading European market)

According to various reports, between 200 and 300 storage and retrieval machines are installed in Germany each year. The number of installed high-bay warehouses varies considerably, as some projects are very large and encompass many storage locations.

A 2021 report shows that the German market for automated warehouse technologies holds a significant share of the European market, with an estimated number of over 1000 high-bay warehouses in operation, with approximately 50 to 100 new installations recorded annually.

Europe

In Europe as a whole, between 500 and 800 storage and retrieval machines are installed each year. Annual growth here is around 5 to 7%, depending on the country and industry demand.

Global

An estimated 2,000 to 3,000 storage and retrieval machines were installed worldwide in 2020. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years due to the growing demand for automated logistics in the e-commerce sector.

The market for storage and retrieval machines and high-bay warehouses will grow to approximately 5,000 to 6,000 units annually by 2025, with an estimated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 10–12%.

2. Market forecasts and growth rates

Global market volume for automated storage systems (including high-bay warehouses and stacker cranes)

The global market value for automated storage and conveying systems, which includes high-bay warehouses and stacker cranes, was estimated at approximately USD 7 to 8 billion in 2020.

This market is expected to grow to USD 12 to 15 billion by 2025, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10 to 12%.

Installations in various regions

North America and Asia-Pacific (especially China) are experiencing strong growth, with demand for storage and retrieval systems increasing particularly sharply in China. Thousands of units per year are expected in these markets in the coming years.

3. Important projects and major installations

Large-scale projects, such as those by Amazon or Zalando, have installed multiple high-bay warehouses in recent years, often connected to hundreds of storage and retrieval machines. Such projects can significantly influence the installation figures for individual countries or regions.

Automotive manufacturers and logistics companies are other important drivers of demand for high-bay warehouses, especially in the last 3 to 5 years.

4. Technological Developments

With the trend towards more automated solutions and Industry 4.0 technologies, storage and retrieval machines are becoming increasingly intelligent and powerful, leading to higher efficiency in warehouses. This trend will continue to strongly support growth.

Related to this:

• Top Ten Manufacturers and Suppliers of High-Bay Warehouses, Pallet Warehouses and Buffer Warehouses