Storopack unit Opitz Packaging Systems partners with Smart Robotics on AI
Opitz Packaging Systems, the German packaging-machinery subsidiary of Storopack, has agreed a strategic collaboration with Dutch robotics maker Smart Robotics to combine packaging automation with embodied AI. The partnership, announced on 5 October 2026, will initially target robot-assisted palletising and end-of-line applications before extending to item-picking. The companies plan to present joint demo use cases and deepen sales cooperation, with details to be shown at Logistica Next in Utrecht in early November 2026.
Why this mattersIt signals machinery builders turning to specialist AI-robotics firms to add embodied AI to palletising and end-of-line lines rather than building it in-house.
- Opitz Packaging Systems and Smart Robotics announced the strategic collaboration on 5 October 2026.
- Opitz, based in Northeim, Germany, is a subsidiary of packaging specialist Storopack.
- Smart Robotics is a Dutch developer of AI-supported robotic picking and palletising systems.
- Initial focus is on robot-assisted palletising and end-of-line processes, later extending to item-picking.
- Opitz will take the lead integration role, embedding Smart Robotics' Embodied AI into its packaging machines.
- The partners will present joint demo use cases at Logistica Next in Utrecht in early November 2026.