(Alliance News) - Ocado Group PLC on Monday announced an expansion to its partnership with Japanese retailer Aeon Next Co Ltd.

The Hatfield, England-based online grocer and technology licensor entered into an exclusive partnership in 2019 to develop the online operations of Aeon's grocery business using the Ocado Smart Platform.

OSP is a configurable end-to-end e-commerce, fulfilment and logistics solution that harnesses artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation to deliver operational efficiencies.

Ocado on Monday said a third customer fulfilment centre will be constructed in Kuki-Miyashiro, Japan and will go live in 2027.

This facility follows the first CFC opened in Japan in July 2023 and a second due to commence operations in 2026.

In addition, Aeon will upgrade its live operations using Ocado technologies including the automated On-Grid Robotic Pick picking solution which will deliver improved labour productivity, Ocado said.

Ocado Chief Executive Officer Tim Steiner said: "Ocado is helping Aeon Next to provide a seamless online grocery experience to customers across Tokyo. We can't wait to bring this service to even more customers in the years to come."

Further CFC's are planned in order to expand Aeon's existing network, Ocado said.

Ocado shares were up 5.7% to 346.78 pence each in London on Monday morning.

By Elijah Dale, Alliance News reporter

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