Gildan Deploys 19 Robots for Safety, Efficiency in Eden Center

In 2025, S&S Activewear and Gildan have both embraced advanced warehouse robotics to enhance operational efficiency and worker safety in their distribution centers. S&S Activewear, a major North American distributor, implemented Geek+ PopPick technology to support its complex supply chain, enabling next-day shipping across 41 states and fulfilling 6 million orders annually with deep inventory and low error rates. Meanwhile, Gildan deployed 19 AI-powered putaway and picking robots at its Eden, North Carolina facility, designed to assist workers by transporting full product cases and lifting loads up to 600 pounds. These robots work collaboratively with human employees, improving safety by reducing manual labor and boosting workflow quality, while supporting Gildan's sustainable growth strategy focused on innovation, capacity growth, and ESG principles. The integration of robotics also opens new career development opportunities for employees through training on these technologies. Both companies reflect a wider industry trend toward flexible and intelligent warehouse automation, balancing human-robot collaboration to optimize distribution operations.