How DHL is Using Robots to Streamline Its UK Supply Chain
DHL has made a US$737m investment in AI-powered robotics across its UK and Ireland operations, as it prepares for an era of supply chain logistics defined by automation and technology.
The company plans to deploy intelligent robots across its warehouses, enabling its employees to redirect their focus from manual tasks to more important activities.
This investment forms just one part of DHL's Strategy 2030, which positions technology adoption as central to maintaining the company's competitive edge in global logistics.
DHL CEO Tobias Meyer shared on LinkedIn: "As part of our Strategy 2030, DHL Supply Chain is investing 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."
How DHL's robotics strategy will work
The logistics company's collaboration with Locus Robotics, which began in 2017, has evolved significantly from an initial agreement for 500 assisted picking robots. The partnership has contributed to over 3,200 digitalisation projects across the UK and Ireland in the past three years.
DHL currently utilises Locus Robotics' 'Origin' models, which are collaborative mobile robots designed for high-volume order fulfilment.
These machines enhance productivity by eliminating unnecessary walking time and maintaining order accuracy. The robots feature adaptable configurations for multi-level shelving and various container types.
The technology's ability to operate continuously without breaks while handling heavy loads has transformed warehouse operations, allowing human workers to focus on strategic tasks.
Automating logistics
DHL's technology portfolio has expanded through a partnership with Robust.AI and its 'Carter' robots, which began trials in 2024. These mobile robots employ sophisticated AI algorithms to optimise picking processes and adapt to real-time warehouse conditions.
Carter's advanced features include embedded sensors, AI capabilities for improved layout understanding, and inventory management optimisation. The robot's 360-degree AI optimised vision system enhances navigation and safety, while its holonomic drive enables omnidirectional movement.
Further expanding its automation capabilities, DHL has integrated Boston Dynamics' 'Stretch' robots into its operations.
Following successful implementation in North America in 2023, these robots are now being deployed across the UK and Europe. A recent contract secured an additional 1,000 Stretch robots for DHL's logistics network.
The Stretch robots demonstrate impressive capabilities, processing up to 700 packages hourly and managing loads up to 23kg. Their specialisation in truck and container unloading has particularly improved workplace safety by reducing physical strain on employees.
"While our robots might not be conversationalists, they are exceptionally efficient, precise and nearly tireless — powered by AI," says Tobias.
"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."
