Inside DHL's UK Robot & Automation Investment Strategy
DHL Supply Chain has continued to reinforce its commitment to manufacturing efficiency in the UK and Ireland by significantly investing in technologies that promise to transform logistical operations.
The primary focus is on deploying advanced robotics in warehouses to improve logistics operations and support key manufacturing sectors.
The integration of AI-powered robots allows DHL employees to concentrate on high-value tasks beyond simple package handling.
This transition not only boosts efficiency but also raises the potential for higher productivity within the manufacturing operations.
In alignment with DHL's Strategy 2030, which aims to leverage market opportunities for maintaining a leadership position in global logistics, the company focuses on smart integration within its supply chain processes.
Investment in technology for logistics
Discussing the investment, DHL CEO Tobias Meyer posted to LinkedIn: "As part of our Strategy 2030, DHL Supply Chain is investing £550m (€637m / US$737m) in the UK and Ireland to scale up our contract logistics capabilities – particularly in e-commerce and healthcare supply chains.
"A key part of this expansion: deploying 1,000 additional robots across our operations. These are not just machines – they represent our commitment to automation, digitalisation and innovation that enhances both customer outcomes and employee experience."
Embedding robotics for greater efficiency
Since 2017, DHL's partnership with Locus Robotics has played a pivotal role in advancing warehouse capabilities through the use of 500 initial assisted picking robots.
These collaborations have expanded alongside technological advancements, resulting in over 3,200 digitalisation projects implemented across the UK and Ireland.
Locus Robotics’ Origin models are currently at the heart of this transition, designed specifically for high-volume order fulfilment tasks in warehouses.
These robots reduce idle times, ensure accuracy and can handle a diverse range of packaging solutions, leading to doubled productivity levels across manufacturing and logistics.
The enduring capacity of robots to work without fatigue or the risk of injury allows for persistent operational workflows.
This ensures that employees can divert their energy towards innovative and strategic tasks that inherently boost the company's value.
New partnerships and innovations in robotics
In their endeavour to augment logistic processes, DHL has also collaborated with Robust.AI, utilising 'Carter' robots that excel in optimising real-time warehouse conditions.
This technology enables a more intelligent understanding of warehouse layouts, thereby enhancing inventory management operations.
With a 360º AI-optimised vision system and capabilities for instant movement, Carter robots enhance the safety and efficiency of each task, ensuring streamlined operations from one end of the warehouse to the other.
Expanding robotic deployment with Boston Dynamics
The integration of Boston Dynamics' 'Stretch' robot since 2023 has marked another feather in DHL's cap.
Not only have these robots increased the efficiency in North America, but they are also making strides in the UK and European facilities.
Stretch optimises tasks like unloading trucks and containers by handling up to 700 packages per hour and managing loads up to 23 kilograms.
This reduces the physical demands on employees, allowing them to focus on areas of the logistics process that require more human oversight and control.
Tobias adds: "While our robots might not be conversationalists, they are exceptionally efficient, precise and nearly tireless — powered by artificial intelligence. They take over hard physical work, enabling our employees to focus on other value-adding activities.
"This is how we're shaping the future of logistics: innovative, people-focused and ready for what’s next."
