DHL to deploy 1,000 additional robots across UK operations to support business growth

DHL Supply Chain is investing £550 million to expand its infrastructure and accelerate the rollout of automation across its customer operations in UK and Ireland.

The new investment highlights the UK’s importance as a "key region" for DHL Supply Chain and builds on the €1 billion the company has invested in automation over the past three years. To date, more than 3,200 digitalisation projects have been implemented across the UK, Ireland, and the broader EMEA region.

DHL’s contract logistics business plans to further expand its operations in the UK, Ireland, and globally through 2030, with automation, robotics, and digitalisation serving as key drivers of this growth.

It is also strengthening its focus on "moving beyond traditional vendor relationships" by prioritising co-development, testing, and scaling of robotics solutions with "leading innovators". This has led to the deployment of over 2,000 robots working alongside associates across the UK, Ireland, and the EMEA region.

As part of this effort, more than 750 assisted picking robots from strategic partners Locus Robotics and 6 River Systems are currently in operation across 18 sites in the region. Additionally, DHL has recently introduced the first Boston Dynamics Stretch robot in the UK for container unloading. These robots are capable of handling up to 700 boxes per hour, aiming to reduce physical strain on warehouse staff and improve efficiency in high-volume environments such as e-commerce.

Saul Resnick, CEO at DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland, said: "Our investment reflects the growing opportunities across the UK market. Customers are increasingly recognising the benefits of digitalisation and, to date this year, we’ve already surpassed the number of deployments achieved last year. What’s more, the integration of robotics and automation in customer operations is becoming more sophisticated, so customers are seeing greater benefits and faster ROI.

"This momentum is only possible with the right infrastructure and expertise in place, tailored to support high-growth industries like e-commerce and healthcare. That’s why we’re investing for long-term impact, ensuring we are the go-to supply chain provider. The UK’s new Trade Strategy reinforces this direction by supporting fast-growing sectors and enhancing access to global markets – priorities that closely align with our investment focus and customer needs."

It comes after the UK Government sets out its first Trade Strategy since leaving the EU, reflecting an emphasis on strengthening global trade networks and supporting high-growth sectors, while aiming to unlock £5 billion in new opportunities for British businesses.

DHL’s continued investment in automation and infrastructure in the UK and Ireland aligns with the strategy’s focus on high-growth sectors and resilient, future-ready supply chains.