Amazon acquires warehouse machinery and robotics maker Cloostermans

A worker sorts out parcels in the outbound dock at Amazon fulfillment center in Eastvale, California on Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021.

Cloostermans is a Belgian company that makes technology for warehouses. The terms of the deal were not made public.

Amazon began working with Cloostermans in the beginning of the year, using its technology to help move and stack heavy goods, as well as package products together for delivery.

Cloostermans will become part of the Amazon Robotics division. The unit was formed after Amazon acquired the company.

New machines are being launched by Amazon. The company introduced a package ferrying machine called Proteus in June. There are otherrobots that can help sort and move packages.

Ian Simpson, vice president of GlobalRobotics at Amazon, said in a post that the company is investing in technology to make its warehouses safer for employees.

Simpson said they look forward to welcoming Cloostermans to Amazon and are excited to see what they can build together

There has been debate about the benefits and drawbacks of warehouse robotics. According to an investigation by the Center for Investigative Reporting, Amazon has higher injury rates than other companies.

Cloostermans started as a repair shop for textile companies and later built industrial machines. The team of 200 employees from Cloostermans will join Amazon.

There is a deal with Amazon.