DHL Supply Chain is expanding the automation of its warehouse operations across the globe and is working with long-time partner AutoStore, a robotic technology company specializing in automated storage and retrieval systems.

AutoStore’s automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) technology features a highly modular and scalable design that makes it fit for e-commerce and businesses handling smaller products such as fashion and tech items.

DHL Supply Chain, which is currently involved in nine projects with AutoStore across Singapore, the US and Germany, is poised to become one of the latter’s largest 3PL clients, with four more projects in the pipeline.

The nine existing systems can effectively operate 800,000 bins, with the forthcoming four systems expected to accommodate 400,000 more bins. DHL said it plans to construct five more facilities in addition to those already in operation or planning.

Since 2012, DHL Supply Chain and AutoStore have partnered to implement cutting-edge solutions across sites in Singapore, Poland, Germany, Australia, and the US. The ongoing collaboration has already led to expansions at all operational sites, resulting in a fleet of more than 1,000 similar robots worldwide

The two aim to accelerate the implementation of this ground-breaking technology to meet diverse client needs.