DHL Supply Chain has bought four
Sawyer robots to support its operations across the UK and Ireland.
The robots, which will be put to work
across the company’s 19 UKI co-packing and Production Logistics centres, have been designed so they
can work alongside humans.
In a statement issued today (5 May), DHL said:
“The robots automatically stop if they touch something unexpected, which means
that humans can physically be much closer to the robots without risk of harm.
DHL will be upskilling its existing co-packing teams to support its growth and apply
this new technology, hiring specialist roles such as Robotics Technician,
Project Engineer as well as other production management roles.
“The four Sawyer robots have been bought
following successful trials packing pet food, confectionery, aerosols and canned
drinks. Following this initial investment, DHL plans a strategic investment of
over £1 million in the next 12 months to enhance its commitment to robotics and
automation.”
Simon Woodward, Director of Co-Packing and
Production Logistics at DHL Supply Chain, said: “The rise of e-commerce has led
to a surge in the number of deliveries within the network and the flexible
nature of Sawyer allows us to quickly respond to changing needs, delivering
solutions to meet demands and fill labour gaps.”
DHL said that it is now exploring how
automation and robotics can be introduced at other points in the supply chain
as well as at its co-packing and Production Logistics operations.