A system (1) for picking up and feeding groups (4) of panels (2) to a work unit (6); the system (1) being characterized in that, in the course of the work stroke to remove and feed a first pack (4a) of panels from a stack (3) to the work unit (6) along a given path (P), the stack (3) is simultaneously raised to simultaneously form a second pack (4b) at the top (3a) of the stack (3), the second pack (4b) being ready for removal at the next cycle; and in that a push assembly (11) and a gripping assembly (12) are so raised, in the course of the return stroke along the path (P), as to avoid colliding with the second pack (4b) at the top (3a) of the stack (3).