DHL Supply Chain Greater Poland E-commerce Hub

Project Overview

DHL Supply Chain embarked on a pioneering automation project in Poland, implementing its first AutoStore system at a facility in the Greater Poland region. The primary vision was to create a dedicated "e-commerce hub" capable of efficiently and flexibly serving the specific needs of e-commerce clients.

The project was driven by the need to handle the variability and seasonality inherent in the e-commerce market. DHL sought a solution that could adapt to different product types, fluctuating order volumes, and the overall dynamism of the online retail sector. This initiative represents a significant investment in making advanced intralogistics robotics a present-day reality within the Polish market.

Technical Solution

AutoStore Cubic Storage System

The core of the solution is an AutoStore system, a goods-to-person automation technology featuring a grid of storage bins and autonomous robots. The robots retrieve and deliver specific bins to ergonomic picking stations, enabling high-density storage and efficient order fulfillment.

Key Features

This project marks the first deployment of an AutoStore system by DHL Supply Chain within Poland, positioning it as a leader in adopting advanced robotics for 3PL services in the region.

The system is specifically configured as an e-commerce hub, designed with the flexibility to handle a wide variety of products and adapt to the peaks and troughs of online sales cycles.

The implementation was carried out by Element Logic, which provided end-to-end services from design and installation to ongoing support, utilizing their proven methodology for AutoStore deployments.

Results & Benefits

The automation has successfully transformed previously manual and complex supply chain and client fulfillment processes into automated, more productive workflows.

The new system has made efficient e-commerce fulfillment processes accessible to a wider range of DHL's clients, enhancing the service portfolio of the hub.

While acknowledging the high initial investment, DHL confirms the project is expected to yield significant long-term operational savings, validating the strategic decision.

The project was successfully delivered, with the active "Hyper Care" support phase concluding positively, establishing a strong foundation for future collaboration.

Challenges & Solutions

A major logistical challenge was integrating the new AutoStore system into the pre-existing warehouse infrastructure without halting ongoing client operations. This was overcome through meticulous, phased planning and exceptionally close cooperation between DHL's internal team and Element Logic's project team, ensuring a smooth transition.

A significant business challenge was the substantial upfront capital expenditure required for the automation. DHL addressed this by adopting a long-term strategic perspective, viewing the investment as essential for future competitiveness, efficiency, and cost savings, thereby justifying the initial financial outlay.

System Integrator

Element Logic Poland was the full-scope system integrator for this landmark project. Their role spanned the entire lifecycle: initial consultation and sales, local project delivery and installation in Poland, and provision of aftermarket support and maintenance services. DHL praised the communication and support from Element Logic's project team, from the tender phase through to implementation and the post-go-live "Hyper Care" period, cementing a partnership for future projects.