Quick Facts

• Home Depot acquired Massachusetts-based SIMPL Automation following successful pilot testing at its Georgia distribution center
• The warehouse automation startup’s ADAPTIV system increased pick speeds and reduced cycle times during trials
• Financial terms were not disclosed for the deal with the 22-employee company founded in 2023

Home Depot has acquired warehouse automation company SIMPL Automation to strengthen its same-day and next-day fulfillment capabilities. The retailer announced the deal without disclosing financial terms.

The acquisition follows successful pilot testing at Home Depot’s Locust Grove, Georgia distribution center. The test drove faster pick speeds, reduced cycle times, and fewer product touches, according to the company.

SIMPL Automation, founded in 2023 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, employs 22 people. The startup has raised $100,000 from investors including MassRobotics and Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.

The company’s core product is the ADAPTIV automated storage and retrieval system, launched in early 2025. The system targets high-density storage and goods-to-person workflows designed to increase storage capacity within existing facilities.

“We’re focused on providing the best interconnected experience in home improvement by having products in stock and ready to deliver to our customers whether it’s to the home or jobsite,” said Amit Kalra, senior vice president of supply chain at Home Depot. “By bringing SIMPL’s industry-leading automation into our operations, we’re accelerating the flow of products through our distribution network to deliver with unprecedented speed and precision.”

SIMPL’s technology uses advanced engineering and AI to help distribution facilities operate faster and more efficiently. The system’s patented storage and retrieval solution maximizes storage density, allowing Home Depot to house more high-demand products closer to customers.

The acquisition supports Home Depot’s broader supply chain expansion. The company has added nearly 200 facilities as of December to handle various roles, including fulfillment of high-demand SKUs and bulky building materials.

CFO Richard McPhail described Home Depot’s supply chain as “a strategic weapon” during the Modex 2026 conference in Atlanta. The retailer operates a $200 billion e-commerce operation backed by hundreds of distribution facilities and same-day delivery capability.

The warehouse automation market is experiencing rapid growth. The global market was valued at $31.21 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $119.86 billion by 2034, representing a 16.13% compound annual growth rate.

Other major retailers have made similar moves. Walmart acquired e-grocery automation firm Alert Innovation in 2022 and invested in Symbotic. Amazon previously acquired Kiva Systems to build internal automation capabilities.

Read more: Home Depot acquires warehouse tech firm to boost fulfillment strategy