
Matthews Automation Deepens Freespace Robotics Partnership with Major System Purchase
Strategic Expansion and System Deployment
Matthews Automation Solutions strengthens its investment in Freespace Robotics. The company purchased a flagship ASRS for its new Atlanta facility. This strategic move follows their successful collaboration at ProMat 2025. The partnership demonstrates growing market demand for advanced warehouse automation solutions.
Proven Technology with Industry Recognition
Freespace Robotics earned Start Up of the Year at ProMat 2025. Their innovative high-density cube design attracted significant industry attention. The technology addresses critical warehouse challenges including modularity and rapid deployment. Matthews Automation recognizes the system’s potential for transforming order fulfillment processes.
Integrated Warehouse Execution System
The Atlanta deployment showcases full integration between Freespace hardware and Matthews software. NEXUS WES orchestrates inbound and outbound workflows seamlessly. The system provides real-time insights through a unified dashboard. Customers benefit from complete automation control and operational efficiency.
Advanced Robotic Capabilities
Freespace’s ASRS cube consolidates multiple warehouse functions into one system. Intelligent Carrier robots access deep storage lanes in under 40 seconds. The technology handles simultaneous put-away and retrieval operations. The design supports items up to 100 pounds, including non-sortable packages.
Enhanced Operational Efficiency
The system architecture maximizes space utilization and operational uptime. Rail-powered robots eliminate battery maintenance requirements. All service components remain accessible outside the storage cube. This approach simplifies maintenance while ensuring safety and sustainability.
Leadership Perspectives
Gary Cash, SVP at Matthews Automation, emphasized the partnership value. “Freespace addresses key industry challenges,” Cash stated. “We’re excited to bring this innovative platform directly to our customers.”
Karl Sanchack, COO of Freespace Robotics, highlighted market readiness. “Matthews’ investment confirms demand for unified warehouse automation,” Sanchack noted. “We deliver the flexibility and scalability operators need to compete effectively.”
Future Collaboration Plans
The partners will expand their presence at MODEX 2026. Freespace will debut enhanced capabilities and new deployment models. The technology addresses diverse warehouse needs from first to last-mile operations. Continued innovation focuses on adaptability and performance optimization.
Corporate Background
Freespace Robotics originated from Carnegie Foundry venture studio. The company leverages expertise from Carnegie Mellon’s Robotics Engineering Center. Matthews Automation provides global warehouse automation solutions. Both companies maintain headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions
What technology did Matthews Automation purchase?
The company acquired Freespace Robotics’ flagship Automated Storage and Retrieval System for deployment in Atlanta.
How does the Freespace system improve warehouse operations?
It consolidates sorting, sequencing, buffering, and storage into one compact system that handles items up to 100 pounds.
What makes Freespace Robotics unique in the market?
Their high-density cube design and Carrier robots that access deep storage in under 40 seconds without batteries.
Where will the new system be demonstrated?
The Atlanta facility will serve as a live showcase for potential customers and partners.
What are the maintenance advantages of the Freespace system?
All maintenance components are located outside the storage cube, and rail power eliminates battery replacement needs.


