Labour shortages caused by COVID-19 have caused havoc across the supply chain - and interest in automation. Today, DHL Supply Chain announced a US$15mn investment in robotics solutions from Boston Dynamics.

Logistics deal will speed up automation

The two companies have agreed to a multi-year deal which will begin with equipping DHL facilities with Stretch, a new robot created by Boston Dynamics’ which is designed to automate the unloading process at distribution centres.

Over the next three years, Boston Dynamics will provide Stretch robots to DHL warehouses across North America, which marks the first commercial purchase of Stretch.

Automation is vital for modern supply chains 

The DHL Supply Chain is committed to continuous innovation and digital transformation to optimise the end-to-end supply chain. 

“Investing in warehouse automation plays an important role in increasing operational efficiency and improving service for our customers”, said Sally Miller, CIO, DHL Supply Chain North America. “We’re excited to partner with Boston Dynamics to deploy its best-in-class robotics in our warehouses. The Stretch robot addresses complex industry challenges through flexible automation, which we’ll be able to replicate and scale regionally and globally”.

“Stretch is Boston Dynamics’ newest robot, designed specifically to remedy challenges within the warehouse space”, said Robert Playter, Boston Dynamics’ CEO. “We are thrilled to be working with DHL Supply Chain to deliver a fleet of robots that will further automate warehousing and improve safety for its associates. We believe Stretch can make a measurable impact on DHL’s business operations, and we’re excited to see the robot in action at scale”.

The first Stretch units in DHL warehouses will be deployed this year and across other facilities over the next few years.