Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) have emerged as game-changing automated storage and retrieval solutions in modern warehouse management. By leveraging vertical space through stacked trays delivered promptly to operators, VLMs optimize floor area usage, enhance inventory accuracy, and increase throughput speed. With the rise of e-commerce, industrial automation, and smart warehousing, VLM technology continues to develop rapidly, becoming a cornerstone for businesses seeking operational efficiency, ergonomic safety, and space-saving solutions.

According to Straits Research, the global vertical lift module sector was valued at USD 2.07 billion in 2024, and it is projected to grow from USD 2.26 billion in 2025 to USD 4.54 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth reflects increasing demand for intelligent storage systems driven by industrial expansion, real estate constraints, and advancements in automation.

Technological Updates and Innovation

  • Advanced Control Systems: Kardex recently introduced its upgraded Vertical Lift Module, the Kardex Shuttle, featuring the new Total Intelligence Concept (TIC) control system that combines modern software architecture with a user-friendly, multilingual touch interface. These features promote operational agility, faster picking, and reduced downtime via predictive maintenance.

  • Modular and Scalable Software: The TIC platform offers modular hardware and software designs enabling seamless integration of new features and adaptability to evolving operational demands. This future-proofs investments for businesses coping with rapid digital transformation.

  • Dynamic Storage and Dynamic Tray Height: VLMs smartly adapt shelf heights depending on stored items, maximizing storage density and efficiency. This capability is especially valuable for warehouses with variable product sizes.

  • Dual-Level Delivery Systems: New dual-level VLMs featuring vertical transport between multiple storage and delivery levels improve retrieval speed and allow simultaneous multi-operator access, boosting workflow efficiency in high-demand environments.

  • Ergonomic and Safety Enhancements: Designs focus on operator comfort, minimizing repetitive strain injuries, and improving labor productivity. Touchless technologies, smart weight detection, and automated access control improve hygiene, safety, and accuracy.

Key Players and Industry Dynamics

Leading companies dominate VLM innovation and production, supporting diverse industries such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, retail, and logistics:

  • Kardex Group (Switzerland): A global VLM pioneer, Kardex’s latest Kardex Shuttle with the TIC system marks a milestone in intralogistics, offering enhanced ease of use, connectivity, and operational efficiency.

  • Daifuku Co., Ltd. (Japan): Offers comprehensive automated storage solutions with integration for smart factory workflows, focusing on precision and scalability.

  • Bastian Solutions (US): Delivers tailored VLM systems for logistics and manufacturing enterprises, incorporating advanced robotic picking and warehouse management software.

  • Mecalux (Spain): Provides modular and adaptable VLM systems for European markets, emphasizing energy efficiency and sustainability.

  • DMG MORI (Germany), Swisslog (Austria): Known for integrating VLMs within advanced automation and flexible manufacturing systems.

Regional Insights and Growth

  • Asia-Pacific: The fastest-growing region, propelled by expanding e-commerce sectors and urban industrialization in China, India, Japan, and South Korea. Automated warehouse solutions, including VLMs, address rising labor costs and real estate constraints.

  • North America: Adopts VLM technology driven by sophisticated supply chain needs, labor safety concerns, and digital transformation mandates in logistics and manufacturing.

  • Europe: Focuses on energy-efficient, ergonomic, and modular VLM solutions within a mature industrial ecosystem emphasizing sustainability and smart warehousing.

Industry Trends and Recent News

  • The trend toward integrated artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive inventory management and operational analytics dramatically enhances VLM system decision-making, reducing errors and improving throughput.

  • Modularity and configurability dominate product designs, enabling businesses to customize VLMs to evolving workflows and expand capabilities incrementally.

  • Sustainability initiatives promote VLM designs with regenerative drives, reduced power consumption, and recyclable materials, aligning with corporate ESG goals.

  • The rise of e-commerce and omni-channel fulfillment fuels demand for fast, accurate automated picking, bolstering VLM adoption rates across industries.

  • Recent upgrades, such as Kardex’s TIC platform, enhance global user experience with multilingual interfaces and remote diagnostics for continuous operational excellence.

Future Outlook

Vertical Lift Modules will remain a cornerstone in optimizing warehouse operations amidst growing demands for efficiency, safety, and space management. Continued innovation in AI-powered control systems, modular architectures, and ergonomic design will drive broader adoption.

The shift toward Industry 4.0-enabled smart warehousing will place VLMs at the nexus of digital ecosystems, integrating seamlessly with warehouse management systems (WMS), robotic pickers, and data analytics tools for holistic supply chain visibility and agility.

Summary

Vertical Lift Modules in 2025 innovate through AI-driven control, modular scalability, and ergonomic design, spearheaded by leaders like Kardex. Growing adoption in Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe is fueled by e-commerce expansion and automation trends. VLMs optimize warehouse space and efficiency, essential for future-ready logistics.