GXO deploys fleet of autonomous robots in the UK and the Netherlands
LONDON, UK | March 16, 2022
GXO’s global use of collaborative robots increased by 200% in 2021, improving efficiency, productivity and safety
Autonomous mobile robots are now integrated within the food distribution industry
Modular technology provides greater flexibility for customers who need to quickly adapt to changing product lines and consumer demand
GXO Logistics, Inc (NYSE: GXO), the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, is using fleets of autonomous mobile robots, or AMRs, to help customers in the 28 countries where GXO operates make significant productivity and safety improvements. After successfully integrating mobile robots into its operations for its e-commerce and retail customers, GXO is now deploying them for its food distribution and bulky goods customers. GXO will introduce a fleet of AMRs in the UK and the Netherlands over the next few months.
« Over the past 18 months, we have accelerated our deployment of modular technologies, » said Phil Shaw, Vice President Centre of Excellence, GXO. « Because these AMRs are small and mobile, they have significant advantages over heavier fixed installations. AMRs can be easily added when volumes increase during peak periods and then redeployed elsewhere. In the last quarter of 2021, the use of AMRs has helped our customers master the shift to e-commerce to meet consumer shopping habits. »
AMRs are capable of increasing productivity by up to 60% and improve accuracy. They also improve the end consumer experience. For example, AMRs can reduce the time it takes to process an order, which means GXO’s customers can extend the order cut-off time while still being able to ensure timely delivery to end consumers. GXO’s deployment of AMRs also increases security, including reduced handling of materials in the warehouse.
In warehouses around the world, GXO is expanding its use of AMR by deploying cobots developed by 6 River Systems, Lowpad, iFollow and Locus. In a 40,000-square-meter distribution center in the Netherlands, GXO is using Lowpad robots to optimize operations in the food and beverage sector, which is traditionally characterized by manual operations. These AMRs are guided by custom software and routing algorithms designed to optimize the distribution process.
GXO’s automation and advanced technology are key differentiators, helping to generate more value-added solutions in a growing number of verticals. In 2021, the company has deployed more than 2,000 new technology assets at its sites, a 100% increase over the previous year. GXO is currently testing 200 new technologies from approximately 100 new vendors.
To watch a short video of an AMR Lowpad in action, click here.
About GXO Logistics
GXO Logistics, Inc (NYSE: GXO) is the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider that is benefiting from the rapid growth of e-commerce, automation and outsourcing. GXO is committed to providing a diverse, world-class work environment for its 120,000 employees at 900 locations with approximately 18.5 million square feet of warehouse space. The company works with global customers to solve complex logistics challenges through technologically advanced, large-scale, and rapidly implemented e-commerce solutions. GXO is headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA. Visit GXO.com for more information, and follow GXO on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
