Abstract: A method of managing delivery resources comprising, for each of a plurality of delivery resources, defining a resource finalization time, an advance availability period, a deferred availability period, and a deferred availability release time. The method then further comprises, upon receiving a delivery slot request for an order, identifying delivery time slots for the order that can be fulfilled by one or more of the plurality of delivery resources, enabling selection of any one of identified delivery time slots, receiving a selection of one of the identified time slots and assigning the order to any of the plurality of delivery resources that can fulfil the selected delivery time slot and, after the resource finalization time of the assigned delivery resource, sending instructions to a storage and retrieval portion of the system to initiate picking and packing of the order, and loading of the order on to the delivery resource.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a storage and retrieval system which can be operated to efficiently deliver goods, for example groceries, using two different methods. Capacity within one or more delivery vehicles may be assigned to orders placed in advance for later delivery and also for rapid orders for quick delivery.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an apparatus and method for automated controlling of a logistical system such that immediate delivery of items is achieved whilst offering an enhanced range of different types of items to a majority of customers. Exemplary embodiments introduce a virtual distribution centre in which items are shared between fulfilment centres which are located close to a customer. An exemplary system includes at least three fulfilment centres, each fulfilment centre being configured and arranged to fulfil orders to customers and/or stores, and a control unit configured and arranged to control the at least three fulfilment centres. Each of the at least three fulfilment centres is configured and arranged to share items with at least one other of the at least three fulfilment centres.

Abstract: A method of improving visual recognition of an item amongst a plurality of items displayed by an electronic device having a display includes providing a number of sets of actual dimensions of a number of the plurality of items, respectively, the number of the plurality of items including the item. A scaling factor is determined using the number of sets of actual dimensions and a number of sets of image dimensions of a respective number of representations of the number of the plurality of items respectively contained in a number of images. The scaling factor is applied to a dimension of an image to be displayed containing a representation of the item, and the scaled image is displayed.

Abstract: A method of improving visual recognition of an item amongst a plurality of items displayed by an electronic device having a display includes providing a number of sets of actual dimensions of a number of the plurality of items, respectively, the number of the plurality of items including the item. A scaling factor is determined using the number of sets of actual dimensions and a number of sets of image dimensions of a respective number of representations of the number of the plurality of items respectively contained in a number of images. The scaling factor is applied to a dimension of an image to be displayed containing a representation of the item, and the scaled image is displayed.