Loblaw Deploys AI Gate Automation Across Canadian DCs

Loblaw Companies is scaling its deployment of AI-powered gate automation technology across multiple distribution centers and yards in Canada, building on initial results that reduced truck processing times and improved operational data quality.

The Canadian retail giant is expanding its use of Eaigle's Vision AI platform, which automates vehicle access control and captures freight data in real time at facility gates and yard operations. The technology uses computer vision to eliminate manual check-in processes that traditionally slow truck movements at distribution centers.

How the technology works

Eaigle's AVAC (Automated Vehicle Access Control) platform uses computer vision cameras to identify vehicles, read license plates and trailer numbers, and capture freight documentation without requiring drivers to stop for manual gate checks. The system integrates directly with warehouse management systems, transportation management systems, yard management platforms, and enterprise resource planning software.

The integration allows freight data captured at the gate to flow automatically into backend systems, reducing data entry errors and giving operations teams real-time visibility into which trucks are on-site and what freight they're carrying.

"We're always looking for practical ways to improve how products move through our network so we can better serve our customers," said Wael Yehia, vice president of national transportation at Loblaw. "Working with Canadian innovators like Eaigle allows us to leverage technologies that can help improve efficiency, support our operations teams and keep products moving reliably across our network."

Why it matters

Gate automation represents a practical application of AI that delivers measurable operational benefits without requiring wholesale changes to existing logistics infrastructure. For retailers managing complex distribution networks, reducing truck dwell time at gates directly improves asset utilization and can help address persistent driver detention issues that plague the industry. The technology also addresses data accuracy problems that cascade through supply chain systems when information is manually entered at multiple handoff points.

Deployment details

Loblaw and Eaigle did not disclose the specific number of facilities included in the expanded deployment or provide quantitative metrics on processing time improvements. The companies characterized the expansion as building on successful initial implementations that demonstrated improvements in driver experience alongside operational gains.

The deployment focuses on Loblaw's Canadian distribution network, which supports the company's grocery, pharmacy, and retail operations across the country.

These details were first reported by Truck News.