DHL Supply Chain buys Sawyer robots
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.
