Daifuku Opens Tokyo Lab—a New R&D Hub for Advanced Technologies
Osaka, Japan—On March 11, 2026, Daifuku Co., Ltd. opened the Tokyo Lab in Minato, Tokyo, establishing a new base for the research and development of innovative technologies. This facility is designed to enhance the integration of AI and robotics in order to create next-generation material handling solutions.
Daifuku views AI as a crucial component in the evolution of material handling systems and is actively working to incorporate it into its operations. By leveraging next-generation robotics alongside advanced technologies such as IoT and digital twins, Daifuku aims to develop more sophisticated and autonomous material handling systems and solutions.
The Tokyo Lab is strategically designed to accelerate the transition from research to implementation, enabling Daifuku to seamlessly integrate forward-looking technologies into its systems. The lab focuses on the development of physical AI, which is essential for smart material handling equipment, and the advancement of new robotics technologies. This initiative will propel Daifuku towards achieving full automation in distribution centers and manufacturing facilities.
Initially, the Tokyo Lab will have a team of about 30 personnel, with plans to expand to 50 by the end of 2027 through internal transfers and new hiring. The lab will also foster collaborations with universities, research institutions, and startups to quickly apply innovative results across the company.
In conjunction with Shiga Works and Kyoto Lab, the Tokyo Lab represents Daifuku’s third domestic R&D facility. The Kyoto Lab was inaugurated in November 2025 and accommodates R&D teams focused on Daifuku’s main business sectors.
Takuya Gondo, Chief Technology Officer and General Manager of the Business Innovation Division at Daifuku Co., Ltd., stated, “Tokyo Lab is Daifuku’s central facility for developing next-generation material handling systems based on AI and robotics, as well as for furthering the technologies and expertise we have built over the years. We will rapidly explore and implement future-oriented technologies, driving the creation of new value.”
Tokyo Lab Overview
- Address: 1-2-20 Kaigan, Shiodome Building, Floor 19, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0022, Japan
- Floor Area: Approximately 1,000 m²
- Function: Research and development of new technologies and businesses from a medium- to long-term, company-wide perspective
- Main Facilities: R&D area, collaboration area, exhibition and testing area, office area
- Operation Start Date: March 11, 2026
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/daifuku-launches-tokyo-lab-to-drive-innovation-in-ai-and-robotics-for-material-handling-solutions/
