Both are powered by the same industry-leading cube storage technology, but they’re designed to meet different operational needs. AutoStore is built for businesses of all sizes, while Pio is a warehouse automation solution designed specifically for SMBs and mid-sized businesses.
This guide breaks down how they compare, and how to choose the right fit for your business.
Shared Technology, Different Experiences
AutoStore is the global pioneer in cube storage automation, with over 1,700 systems installed worldwide. Pio is a brand created by AutoStore to bring the same powerful warehouse automation to small and mid-sized businesses in a compact, plug-and-play system.
Both solutions are part of the same technology ecosystem. The difference lies in how they’re delivered.
Small to mid-sized businesses
Typically 6–24 weeks
As fast as 4–12 days
CapEx or RaaS
Subscription-based (RaaS)
Custom integrations
Plug-and-play APIs, iPaaS, no-code tools
Unlimited
Up to 10,000 Bins, scalable by design
Tailored to customer
Standard with premium options
Fast, Scalable Automation, One Step at a Time
It’s important to understand that AutoStore enables fast go-to-market for businesses of all sizes, from compact, high-efficiency deployments to fully customized, high-throughput systems
Pio is a strategic entry point to cube storage automation. With standardized products like the P100, P200, P400, and P600, Pio reduces permitting and installation complexity while maintaining the performance and reliability AutoStore is known for.
As your business grows, you can move to a larger-sized Pio system (P600 is the largest) or transition to a fully customized AutoStore deployment.
Real-world example: Vakre Vene, a fashion retailer in northern Norway, had their Pio system installed and their team fully trained within a single week. Since then, they’ve tripled fulfillment speed, without disrupting operations.
Available Globally
We work with a global network of certified Pio partners, including Bastian Solutions, Reesink Logistic Solutions, Element Logic, Kardex, Strongpoint and THG Fulfil, to bring high-performance automated warehouse solutions to SMBs worldwide.
From layout planning to integration and support, our partners help you implement with confidence.
Learn more about how cube storage helps warehouses run faster, smarter, and with more control in Cube Storage for Small Businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a warehouse automated storage and retrieval system?
A warehouse automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) is a type of automation technology that uses robots to store and retrieve goods within a high-density grid. Both Pio and AutoStore use this cube-based automation system to maximize space and improve picking accuracy. - Is Pio part of AutoStore?
Yes. Pio uses the same trusted technology, delivered as standardized, plug-and-play systems for small and mid-sized businesses. - Can I scale my Pio system as my business grows?
Absolutely. Pio was designed with flexibility in mind. Just like AutoStore, you can add Robots, Bins, and Ports as needed, without major reconfiguration. It’s warehouse automation that grows with your business.


