DHL Implements Plug and Play Robotics Platform to Cut Integration Time and Scale Automation Across Global Network

DHL Implements Plug and Play Robotics Platform to Cut Integration Time and Scale Automation Across Global Network

(IN BRIEF) DHL Supply Chain has deployed SVT Robotics’ SOFTBOT platform across its global warehouse network, significantly accelerating the integration of robotics and automation technologies. The plug-and-play, technology-agnostic platform enables deployments up to 12 times faster than traditional custom coding methods, reducing implementation timelines from weeks to hours in some cases. With over 8,000 collaborative robots already in use, DHL is leveraging the platform to transition toward modular, flexible warehouse systems that can quickly adapt to changing operational demands. The platform also provides real-time monitoring, centralized control, and enhanced data visibility, supporting more efficient coordination between human workers and robotic systems. Currently active in 30 sites and set to expand to more than 100 globally, the initiative marks a key step in DHL’s broader digital transformation and automation strategy.

(PRESS RELEASE) WESTERVILLE, OH, United States, 17-Mar-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — DHL Supply Chain has introduced a major advancement in warehouse automation by deploying SVT Robotics’ SOFTBOT® platform across its global operations, enabling significantly faster integration of robotics technologies. The new plug-and-play solution allows the logistics provider to implement robotic systems up to 12 times faster than traditional approaches that rely on custom coding, supporting its broader strategy to accelerate automation across its network.

With more than 8,000 collaborative robots already in operation worldwide, DHL is scaling its digital transformation efforts by adopting a technology-agnostic platform that simplifies the integration of diverse robotics solutions. Previously, each new automation deployment required bespoke coding, often taking six to eight weeks to initiate. The introduction of pre-built SOFTBOT connectors eliminates much of this complexity, allowing faster deployment and more efficient expansion of automation capabilities.

The platform also supports DHL’s transition from rigid, monolithic systems to more flexible, modular warehouse environments. This approach enables the company to integrate multiple automation technologies and adapt quickly to evolving operational needs, customer demands, and emerging innovations.

Sally Miller, Global CIO of DHL Supply Chain, highlighted the importance of agility in the logistics sector, noting that the SOFTBOT platform enables seamless connectivity between robotics and warehouse systems while providing real-time monitoring and scalable deployment across multiple sites.

In addition to faster integration, the platform offers a centralized, multi-site dashboard that allows teams to oversee operations globally. Tim Tetzlaff, Global Head of Digital Transformation at DHL Supply Chain, noted that the platform has already delivered tangible benefits, including the rapid replication of Goods-to-Person solutions across Europe with integration completed in just a few hours, as well as the introduction of new operational technologies in Asia Pacific without disrupting ongoing operations.

The unified data layer provided by the platform enhances visibility into both automation performance and workforce activity, helping DHL manage hybrid environments where human workers and robots operate side by side. This contributes to improved efficiency, safety, and coordination across warehouse operations.

AK Schultz, CEO and Co-Founder of SVT Robotics, emphasized that DHL has increasingly been able to implement solutions independently using the platform, reducing costs and accelerating deployment timelines while gaining valuable data insights.

Currently live across 30 DHL Supply Chain sites, the SOFTBOT platform is expected to expand to more than 100 locations globally over the next three years, positioning DHL to further scale its automation initiatives and leverage data-driven logistics solutions.

Media contacts:

Marcia McLaughlin
marcia.mclaughlin@dhl.com

SVT Robotics

Trevi Communications
Émilie Gille
emilie@trevicomm.com

SOURCE: Deutsche Post AG