MS Direct has brought a 25,000-bin AutoStore™ system into operation at its fulfilment centre in Kaufbeuren, Germany, in just 17 weeks. Delivered in close collaboration with intralogistics specialist Kardex and online outdoor retailer Bergzeit, the project is among the fastest AutoStore implementations of this scale in Europe, according to MS Direct.
Following automation projects in Arbon and Oftringen, Switzerland, Kaufbeuren marks MS Direct's first automated facility in Germany.
MS Direct was responsible for project planning, process integration and connecting the system to the warehouse management and e-commerce platforms, while Kardex handled the design and installation of the AutoStore solution. The system was integrated into the existing facility while fulfilment operations continued.
"We were able to go live so quickly because our processes, system interfaces and team were all ready when the system came online. We tested this approach in Switzerland, and we're now applying it at other locations."
Christian Neumayer
COO, MS Direct AG
Designed for fashion fulfilment, the AutoStore system combines high-density storage with efficient access to a wide range of products.
The installation includes:
Compared with a conventional warehouse, this footprint represents around 70% less floor space without compromising operational performance. The system is particularly well suited to fashion inventories, where numerous product variants need to be stored efficiently and remain readily accessible.
The system officially went live on 8 October 2026. Daniel Hauser of Kardex puts the implementation timeline into perspective:
"An AutoStore project of this scale typically takes at least six months from contract signing to go-live. In Kaufbeuren, it took just 17 weeks."
Daniel Hauser
Head of Business Unit AS Solutions, Kardex
For Bergzeit, one of the leading mountain sports retailers in the German-speaking market, the Kaufbeuren installation marks its first AutoStore deployment.
The retailer has worked with MS Direct since 2023, making its established e-commerce operations partner the natural choice for the project.
"This project shows what's possible when all partners work towards a common goal. Our customers will see the benefits, particularly during peak season, through faster deliveries. It's a genuine win for all three partners."
Thomas Lechl
Chief Logistics Officer, Bergzeit
The new installation is also creating skilled jobs in Kaufbeuren, including roles in equipment engineering and system support.
Thanks to its modular design, the AutoStore system can be expanded while operations continue, allowing MS Direct to increase capacity as needed.
MS Direct AG is a leading e-commerce partner, providing smart fulfilment and cross-border shipping solutions for online retailers. Its comprehensive services combine scalable fulfilment, physical logistics and digital solutions to support efficient e-commerce operations.
Whether delivering within Switzerland or shipping from the European Union to markets such as Switzerland and the United Kingdom, MS Direct helps ensure that online orders reach customers quickly and smoothly, turning shoppers into loyal customers.
Kardex is a leading global partner for intralogistics solutions, operating in an attractive and growing market. The Group offers high-quality automated products, standardised systems and comprehensive lifecycle services designed to ensure high system availability and low total cost of ownership.
Its dynamic storage and retrieval systems provide an accessible starting point for warehouse automation. The portfolio also includes integrated material flow systems, automated small-parts storage solutions and high-bay warehouses. As a global AutoStore™ partner, Kardex delivers flexible, modular storage and order fulfilment solutions.
The Group employs approximately 2,500 people across more than 30 countries. Kardex Holding AG has been listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 1989.
Founded more than 25 years ago as a small online platform for mountain tours, Bergzeit has grown into one of the leading mountain sports retailers in the German-speaking market.
Today, around 450 employees share their passion for the mountains through Bergzeit's online shop, two retail stores, Bergzeit Magazin and its RE-USE second-hand platform.
Bergzeit aims to help more people enjoy time in the mountains while preserving the mountain environment for future generations.