Voice picking baked in

BY INTRODUCING this innovative pick-by-voice technology, BAKO is modernising its order-picking processes and laying the foundation for sustainable growth, greater efficiency, and future-proof logistics. The roll-out began at its largest warehouse in Preston, where more than 74,000 items are processed each week across the categories of ambient, frozen, and chilled goods. Shortly after implementation, it became clear: LYDIA Voice impresses with its ease of use, high flexibility, and noticeable efficiency gains. Following the successful first weeks, the solution has already been extended to additional sites, including the newly acquired warehouse in Northern Ireland.

With its ongoing expansion, BAKO’s need for a modern, scalable solution grew significantly. The goal was to make picking processes more efficient while ensuring seamless integration with the new ERP environment. The voice system previously in use could no longer meet these requirements: while it had been a reliable tool for many years, it reached its limits as volumes increased and processes became more complex. Cumbersome voice templates, error-prone recognition, and limited flexibility meant the solution was increasingly seen as an obstacle. To continue meeting its high delivery standards in the future, BAKO opted for a more powerful system.

AI-powered speech recognition

BAKO chose LYDIA Voice, a solution that impressed from the outset. The AI-powered speech recognition works without prior training and performs reliably even in noisy warehouse environments. For on-site users, this means simply putting on the headset and starting straight away. “With LYDIA Voice, there’s no need for setup or worrying about background noise. Staff can get going immediately, just like in a normal conversation. That’s what convinces the team the most,” explains Dan Oxley, Assistant Warehouse Manager at the Preston site. This instant usability not only cuts training times for new staff considerably but also boosts acceptance among the workforce.

Adaptability

As part of an extensive market evaluation, BAKO reviewed various providers. The clear choice was LYDIA Voice, thanks to its seamless integration with the existing warehouse management system and its high adaptability. The flexible support provided during the project was particularly well received. “Whatever requirement we raised, the answer was always: yes, that’s possible. That flexibility really won us over,” says Oxley.

EPG also highlights the strength of the partnership: “BAKO recognised that their previous voice solution was no longer offering innovation. With LYDIA Voice, we are setting a new standard for intuitive operation, rapid onboarding and high ergonomics. We are delighted to have BAKO as a strong partner,” says Gavin Clark, country manager, EPG UK.

Around 75 employees are currently working with the solution, with a further 20 to 30 users due to come on board shortly. Close cooperation with EPG is another key factor in success: “If we have a question, one call is enough. Within minutes, we have a solution. There is no waiting days for an answer,” Oxley emphasises. The quick response times and collaborative support underline the importance BAKO places on dependable logistics.

For BAKO, the introduction of LYDIA Voice represents far more than a technical upgrade. It lays the foundation for consistently efficient, accurate and flexible logistics.