Briscoe Group and KNAPP: First technology partnership in New Zealand

The 25,000 square-metre distribution centre is scheduled to open in early 2026. The investment of at least NZD $100 million in the facility will significantly enhance Briscoe Group’s supply chain capabilities and efficiency. Located in Drury South, Auckland, this new centre will replace the existing 8,000 square-metre facility, expanding storage capacity by over four 4 times and accommodating KNAPP’s cutting-edge automated shuttle system.

Strategic Partnership with KNAPP

The automation contract, finalised in September 2024 after initial discussions began a year prior, represents a major step in Briscoe Group’s supply chain evolution. KNAPP’s advanced systems such as the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) Evo Shuttle and Pick-it-Easy Evo goods-to-person stations, will optimise storage and picking for smaller products such as apparel and footwear, driving efficiency across the board.

“This partnership with KNAPP allows us to improve stock accuracy and speed up fulfillment, creating a better experience for our customers while optimizing in-store inventory,” says Briscoe Group Supply Chain General Manager Darren Porteous. The automation will help improve on-shelf-availability of products in Briscoe Group’s stores, allowing the Group to replenish high-demand items as frequently as daily, improving both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. A range of online orders will also be fulfilled from the DC using the automation reducing the time from customer ordering to receiving their goods.

Growth and Job Creation

Despite the advanced automation, Briscoe Group’s workforce will grow. The current 45 full-time staff at the existing facility will more than double to around 100 employees over time, ensuring a balance between human expertise and automated efficiency. The site will handle larger items using traditional pallet systems alongside the automation for handling of smaller products.

Integrated Technology for Future Scalability

KNAPP’s automation will seamlessly integrate with Briscoe Group’s Warehouse Management System. This integration, powered by KNAPP’s robust and flexible central software suite, KiSoft software, will enable optimised stock placement, faster store replenishments and data-driven inventory management, ensuring the system is prepared for future retail growth.

“Our solutions are designed to help Briscoe Group achieve not just immediate efficiency but also long-term scalability, preparing them for the future of retail”, says KNAPP Australia Managing Director Michael Kemeny.

Installation of the KNAPP system will begin in late November 2025, and is expected to go live in Q3 2026, roughly six months after the site opens for operation.

About KNAPP

KNAPP is the technology partner for intelligent value chains. With expertise in robotics, software and AI, KNAPP helps businesses streamline supply chains and enhance operational efficiency.

About Briscoe Group

Briscoe Group Limited operates New Zealand’s premier homeware and sporting goods brands, Briscoes Homeware and Rebel Sport, across 90 stores. Committed to customer satisfaction and operational innovation, Briscoe Group continues to grow its retail footprint.