Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
DHL Supply Chain Acquires Open Market to Enhance Colombian Logistics Operations
DHL Supply Chain has announced the acquisition of Open Market, a logistics and transport operator in Colombia, significantly enhancing its warehousing and transport capabilities. This deal includes 21 warehouses totaling 120,000m², 13 cross-docking platforms, and an owned transport fleet, along with the integration of approximately 4,100 Open Market employees into DHL's operations. The acquisition aligns with DHL Group's Strategy 2030, aimed at strengthening its presence in Latin America, particularly in life sciences and healthcare sectors. CEO Hendrik Venter emphasized that this move reflects DHL's commitment to enhancing capabilities in regions with sustained growth, particularly in managing complex supply chains for pharmaceuticals and medical products. Looking ahead, DHL's integration of Open Market is expected to bolster its logistics network across Colombia and Latin America. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, and Open Market's chairman noted that the company will focus on maintaining service quality during the transition. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Cold Chain Logistics IT in Logistics Transport and Distribution Warehousing Colombia logistics contract logistics
DHL Supply Chain and Locus Robotics Achieve One Billion Warehouse Picks Milestone
DHL Supply Chain and Locus Robotics have reached a significant milestone with their warehouse robots completing one billion picks. This achievement occurred at a DHL facility, showcasing the effectiveness of autonomous mobile robots in modern logistics operations. The milestone pick involved a pink beanie, underscoring the scale of automation in global logistics networks. This accomplishment is crucial as it highlights the rapid advancement of warehouse automation, driven by the partnership between DHL and Locus Robotics since 2017. The deployment of thousands of autonomous mobile robots across over 40 DHL-managed facilities has improved productivity in various sectors, including e-commerce and healthcare logistics. The technology has resulted in substantial operational gains, such as a 30-180 percent increase in units picked per hour and an 80 percent reduction in training time for staff. Looking ahead, DHL plans to further expand its collaboration with Locus Robotics, aiming to deploy 5,000 additional autonomous mobile robots. This expansion reflects the growing need for scalable automation solutions in response to complex order patterns in logistics. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
DHL Supply Chain Achieves 1 Billion Picks with Locus Robotics' AMRs
Locus Robotics Corp. announced that DHL Supply Chain has successfully completed 1 billion picks using its autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). This achievement highlights the sustained performance of warehouse operations, as emphasized by Mary Hart, senior content marketing manager at Locus. She noted that modern consumers expect reliability, which requires efficient warehouse orchestration to meet their demands. The significance of this milestone lies in the measurable improvements DHL has experienced since partnering with Locus Robotics in 2017. The deployment of thousands of AMRs across over 40 sites has resulted in substantial increases in units picked per hour, ranging from 30% to 180%, and an 80% reduction in training time. Brian Gaunt, vice president of digitalization at DHL Supply Chain, stressed the importance of software and data readiness in optimizing robotic deployments. Looking ahead, DHL Supply Chain plans to deploy an additional 5,000 AMRs in 2023, building on the success of its existing fleet. The billionth pick, a pink beanie, signifies not just a numerical achievement but also the potential for consistent fulfillment operations at scale. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
DHL's Logistics Trend Radar 8.0 Highlights AI's Role in Transforming Supply Chains
DHL's Logistics Trend Radar 8.0 reveals that artificial intelligence is evolving from a supportive role to an autonomous force in supply chains. This shift necessitates organizations to rethink workforce skills, safety, and governance to build resilient supply chains. As AI technologies like Agentic AI and AI Analytics emerge, they enable organizations to anticipate disruptions and optimize operations. The report emphasizes that while AI and robotics are reshaping logistics operations, the human element remains crucial. Technologies such as collaborative robotics and AI-powered assistants are enhancing employee productivity and engagement, allowing workers to focus on higher-value tasks. Business leaders face the challenge of equipping their workforce with the necessary skills to adapt to these changes. Looking ahead, the integration of AI into logistics will continue to evolve, with a focus on responsible deployment and collaboration between humans and machines. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI Couriers and Express IT in Logistics Jobs and Training AI in Logistics dhl
Bernard Wierzbik Appointed Managing Director of DHL Supply Chain Poland
In March, Bernard Wierzbik joined DHL Supply Chain as the Managing Director for Poland. His responsibilities include overseeing the growth of one of the largest logistics organizations in the country, which employs thousands and serves key sectors such as e-commerce, retail, FMCG, technology, automotive, and life sciences. Wierzbik emphasized the importance of contract logistics in today's economy, which extends beyond storage and transportation to designing entire supply chain ecosystems. He aims to create value for clients through modern logistics solutions, technology investments, and enhancing supply chain security amid geopolitical tensions and cyber threats. Looking ahead, Wierzbik is focused on strengthening DHL Supply Chain's market position and meeting evolving client needs. He believes that the company's commitment to innovation and its dedicated team will enable it to tackle future challenges effectively. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
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