Global Pick to Light Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Pick to Light Market Size

• The global pick to light market size was valued at USD 582.61 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1,075.19 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 7.96% during the forecast period
• The pick to light market is witnessing robust growth, primarily driven by the growing adoption of smart warehouse solutions and technological advancements in logistics automation. As industries increasingly embrace digitalization and real-time inventory management, pick-to-light systems are being widely implemented to enhance picking accuracy, reduce errors, and streamline order fulfillment processes across manufacturing and distribution centers
• Furthermore, rising consumer demand for faster deliveries and operational efficiency is encouraging businesses to invest in secure, user-friendly, and integrated material handling systems. These trends are positioning pick-to-light solutions as a modern standard in automated order picking, thereby significantly accelerating market growth across sectors such as retail, e-commerce, automotive, and pharmaceuticals

Pick to Light Market Analysis

• Pick to Light systems, offering visual indicators for accurate product picking, are increasingly vital components of modern warehouse and order fulfillment operations due to their enhanced speed, accuracy, and ability to reduce human error
• The escalating demand for pick to light solutions is primarily fueled by the growth of e-commerce, increasing warehouse automation, and the rising need for real-time inventory management and productivity improvements
• North America dominated the pick to light market with the largest revenue share of 36.7% in 2024, characterized by the presence of advanced logistics infrastructure, high labor costs encouraging automation, and a strong base of e-commerce and third-party logistics (3PL) providers
• Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region in the pick to light market during the forecast period due to rapid industrialization, expanding e-commerce sector, and increasing investments in smart warehousing and logistics technologies
• The picking segment dominated the pick to light market with a revenue share of 61.3% in 2024, driven by its widespread use in high-volume e-commerce and retail warehouses for fast and accurate order fulfillment

Report Scope and Pick to Light Market Segmentation

Pick to Light Market Trends

Increasing Efficiency Through Automation and Smart Integration

• A significant and accelerating trend in the global pick to light market is the growing integration of automated systems with intelligent technologies to enhance accuracy, speed, and real-time inventory management in warehouse and order fulfillment operations
• For instance, modern pick to light systems now seamlessly integrate with warehouse management systems (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, allowing for centralized visibility and control of inventory movement across complex logistics networks
• Integration of machine learning algorithms and data analytics enables companies to predict order volumes, optimize picking paths, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Some advanced systems offer predictive maintenance and adaptive lighting indicators that guide workers based on workflow prioritization
• In addition, hands-free and voice-assisted picking options are gaining momentum. These systems improve productivity by allowing workers to receive instructions and confirm picks without pausing their workflow, helping reduce human error and speed up operations
• The ability to integrate Pick to Light systems with other warehouse automation technologies—such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotic arms, and conveyor systems—is further enhancing warehouse throughput and reducing dependency on manual labor
• This shift toward integrated, intelligent, and responsive picking systems is rapidly transforming fulfillment environments, especially in high-velocity industries such as e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and automotive components

Pick to Light Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Need Due to Rising Demand for Warehouse Automation and Order Accuracy

• The increasing complexity and volume of order fulfillment in e-commerce, retail, and manufacturing industries, combined with the demand for high-speed operations and accuracy, is significantly driving the adoption of pick to light systems globally
• For instance, in April 2024, SSI SCHÄFER launched an advanced modular Pick to Light solution tailored for high-density warehouses, integrating smart sensors and real-time tracking to enhance item visibility and reduce picking errors. Such innovations by major players are expected to boost the Pick to Light industry growth over the forecast period 
• As companies aim to streamline supply chains and minimize human error, Pick to Light technology offers significant benefits, including faster pick rates, reduced labor training time, and improved order accuracy—providing a clear advantage over traditional manual picking methods
• Furthermore, the growing need for operational transparency, real-time inventory tracking, and scalable warehouse systems are making Pick to Light solutions an integral component of modern logistics infrastructures
• The user-friendly design of these systems, combined with flexible implementation options—such as shelf-mounted, cart-based, or mobile units—contributes to their growing appeal across diverse industry sectors including electronics, automotive, apparel, and pharmaceuticals

Restraint/Challenge

High Initial Investment and Integration Complexity

• Despite their operational advantages, pick to light systems face challenges related to their relatively high upfront costs and the technical complexity involved in integrating them with existing warehouse management systems (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms
• For instance, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often struggle with the capital investment required for full-scale Pick to Light deployment, particularly when managing large SKU inventories or distributed fulfillment centers
• In addition, the customization needed for various types of picking processes—such as zone picking or batch picking—can make implementation time-consuming and require specialized expertise
• Companies that lack in-house IT or automation teams may find it difficult to ensure seamless synchronization between Pick to Light devices and their digital infrastructure, leading to potential disruptions
• Overcoming these challenges requires vendors to offer more modular, scalable, and cost-effective solutions. Market leaders such as Kardex and Dematic are addressing this with cloud-based Pick to Light platforms, subscription pricing models, and plug-and-play integration kits
• Nonetheless, ongoing support, staff training, and consistent system updates will remain crucial to drive the long-term adoption of Pick to Light systems, especially in fast-paced and high-variation logistics environments

Pick to Light Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of operation, method, power source, and application.

• By Operation

On the basis of operation, the pick to light market is segmented into putting and picking. The picking segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 61.3% in 2024, driven by its widespread use in high-volume e-commerce and retail warehouses for fast and accurate order fulfillment.

The putting segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 10.6% from 2025 to 2032, due to increasing applications in reverse logistics, inventory returns, and replenishment systems across modern warehouses.

• By Method

On the basis of method, the market is segmented into auto guided and manual. The manual segment held the largest market share of 57.8% in 2024, as it remains the go-to choice for small and mid-sized operations due to lower costs and ease of implementation.

The auto guided segment is expected to witness the highest CAGR of 11.2% from 2025 to 2032, fueled by growing investments in automation and robotic integration in large distribution and fulfillment centers.

• By Power Source

On the basis of power source, the market is segmented into wired and wireless. The wired segment led with a market share of 54.5% in 2024, owing to its stable power supply and durability in traditional pick-to-light systems.

The wireless segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 12.4% during the forecast period, supported by the demand for modular, scalable systems and advancements in battery technology enabling mobile operations.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the pick to light market is segmented into assembly and manufacturing, retail and e-commerce, food and beverages, pharma and cosmetics, and others. The retail and e-commerce segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 38.7% in 2024, due to booming online retail, increased SKU complexity, and the demand for error-free and rapid order processing.

The pharma and cosmetics segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 13.1% from 2025 to 2032, driven by stricter regulatory compliance, the rise of personalized packaging, and the growing need for precise and traceable order picking.

Pick to Light Market Regional Analysis

• North America dominated the pick to light market with the largest revenue share of 36.7% in 2024, driven by strong industrial automation trends and early adoption of warehouse management systems in industries such as e-commerce, automotive, and electronics
• The region benefits from high labor costs, prompting companies to invest in efficient order-picking systems such as Pick to Light to reduce human error and increase productivity
• Technological advancements in logistics and the rise of omnichannel retailing have further bolstered the demand for PTL systems across warehouses and distribution centers

U.S. Pick to Light Market Insight

The U.S. pick to light market with the captured the largest share of 67% in the North America pick to light market in 2024, attributed to the extensive presence of automated fulfillment centers and a robust e-commerce ecosystem. Key players such as Amazon and Walmart continue to invest heavily in automation, boosting PTL installations. The demand for real-time inventory management and fast order picking in retail and 3PL operations supports market growth. The U.S. also benefits from growing integration of PTL systems with WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) and ERP software.

Europe Pick to Light Market Insight

The Europe pick to light market with the is projected to grow at a substantial CAGR from 2025 to 2032, driven by increased warehouse automation and strict labor regulations. Companies are investing in PTL systems to boost efficiency and compliance with accuracy standards in industries such as vpharmaceuticals, automotive, and consumer goods. The need for flexible and scalable picking solutions in response to growing SKU volumes supports adoption. In addition, sustainability goals are pushing businesses toward energy-efficient and ergonomic picking systems.

U.K. Pick to Light Market Insight

The U.K. market is anticipated to witness notable growth due to rising demand for advanced warehouse automation in response to growing e-commerce activity. Labor shortages post-Brexit are encouraging warehouses to invest in solutions such as PTL that improve accuracy and reduce reliance on manual processes. High-density storage facilities in urban areas further drive the implementation of PTL systems for faster picking.

Germany Pick to Light Market Insight

The Germany pick to light market with the is expected to grow at a steady CAGR, led by its leadership in industrial automation and logistics innovation. PTL systems are being widely deployed in automotive and engineering sectors to enhance production-line efficiency. The country's emphasis on Industry 4.0 adoption, coupled with a strong base of manufacturing companies, is fueling demand for high-precision, semi-automated picking solutions.

Asia-Pacific Pick to Light Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific Pick to Light market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, supported by rapid industrialization and expansion of the e-commerce and 3PL sectors. Countries such as China, Japan, and India are increasingly investing in automation to handle large order volumes, labor shortages, and warehousing space constraints. Government-backed initiatives such as “Make in India” and “Smart China” are accelerating warehouse modernization and adoption of PTL technologies.

Japan Pick to Light Market Insight

The Japan pick to light market with the is a key innovator in PTL technologies, with adoption being driven by a strong manufacturing base and a shrinking labor force. The country's emphasis on precision and error reduction in high-tech and healthcare logistics makes PTL an ideal solution. Japan’s advanced robotics integration in warehouses creates a favorable environment for further PTL adoption, especially in electronics and pharmaceutical fulfillment.

China Pick to Light Market Insight

The China pick to light market with the held the largest revenue share in the Asia-Pacific Pick to Light market in 2024, driven by its vast logistics infrastructure and booming e-commerce market. Major local players and startups are actively offering affordable PTL solutions, enabling small and mid-sized businesses to automate operations. The rise of smart warehouses and government-backed digitalization programs are accelerating PTL deployments in retail, food, and electronics segments.

Pick to Light Market Share

The pick to light industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Daifuku Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Murata Machinery Ltd. (Japan)
• SCHAEFER SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL PVT LTD (Germany)
• Dematic (U.S.)
• Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)
• Vanderlande Industries B.V. (Netherlands)
• Swisslog Holding AG (Switzerland)
• KNAPP AG (Austria)
• Bastian Solutions, LLC (U.S.)
• AIOI-System (Japan)
• Turck (Germany)
• Lightning Pick Technologies (U.S.)
• KBS Industrieelektronik GmbH (Germany)
• Pcdata (Netherlands)
• IHI Corporation (Japan)
• SpeasTech (U.S.)
• Voodoo Robotics (U.S.)

Latest Developments in Global Pick to Light Market

• In June, 2024, AIOI, a company specializing in digital transformation solutions, launched a cutting-edge wireless light module for their pick-to-light systems. This innovative product incorporates NFC technology and includes shock-absorbing covers, making it highly functional and durable
• In March 2025, Dematic unveiled new integrated warehouse automation solutions at ProMat 2025 in Chicago, showcasing how Pick to Light modules are paired seamlessly with robotics (AMRs), AutoStore, and Dematic Multishuttle systems. These demonstrations underscored how Pick to Light systems can be fully integrated into next-generation fulfillment operations for enhanced speed and accuracy
•  In May 2025, at the Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Expo, Dematic showcased integrated Pick to Light demonstrations linked to AMR-driven bin‑to‑picker systems and high-density storage solutions (AutoStore). These live demos highlighted how Pick to Light modules enhance labor efficiency in both emerging and enterprise-grade environments

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