The French logistics giant recently announced an expanded agreement with autonomous mobile robot (AMR) provider Locus Robotics to deploy 1,000 AMR robots across its global warehouse network over the next two years. This strategic move aims to significantly enhance e-commerce order processing efficiency and service quality.
Strategic Upgrade: Robotics Powering Smarter Supply Chains
This deployment represents a key milestone in Geodis' long-term strategy. The company first piloted Locus AMR robots in 2018 at an Indiana warehouse, where they assisted workers with complex picking processes. The successful trial demonstrated measurable improvements in efficiency and operational optimization.
Eric Douglas, Geodis' Executive Vice President of Technology and Engineering for the Americas, stated: "We remain committed to deploying the most innovative and efficient robotic solutions in our warehouses to better serve our clients. This expanded partnership with Locus Robotics powerfully demonstrates that commitment."
Industry Trend: Logistics Giants Bet Big on Robotics
Geodis isn't alone in this automation push. Major players like DHL Supply Chain and Radial have similarly expanded partnerships with Locus Robotics, reflecting the industry's urgent need to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and address labor challenges.
The e-commerce boom has strained traditional logistics models, making robotic automation an increasingly vital solution for warehouse operations. AMRs can dramatically improve picking accuracy while reducing labor costs.
Locus AMRs: Enhancing Efficiency Through Human-Robot Collaboration
Locus Robotics' AMRs specialize in collaborative workflows. Rather than replacing workers, the robots handle repetitive tasks like long-distance transport and shelf positioning, freeing employees to focus on quality control and decision-making.
Geodis reports that since implementing Locus AMRs in 2018, its e-commerce warehouses have seen significant improvements in both order picking and inventory replenishment, leading to faster deliveries. The robots have also reduced repetitive tasks for workers, improving job satisfaction and retention rates.
Geodis' E-Commerce Ambitions: Building End-to-End Capabilities
Beyond robotics, Geodis has aggressively expanded its e-commerce services. Recent acquisitions include New Jersey-based Need It Now Delivers to strengthen last-mile delivery capabilities in the U.S. The company has also launched fulfillment services for direct-to-consumer brands and established four eLogistics Hubs nationwide.
The Future: Toward Intelligent, Sustainable Logistics
As e-commerce grows and consumer expectations rise, intelligent logistics solutions are becoming essential. Geodis' massive AMR deployment not only improves its own operations but sets an industry benchmark for smart logistics development.
Douglas concluded: "Locus's collaborative multi-robot approach has proven effective and reliable at every site, allowing easy performance scaling. This new agreement reinforces our clear, ongoing commitment to cutting-edge technology that meets our clients' explosive global growth."
Currently, Geodis utilizes Locus AMRs across 14 facilities in the U.S. and Europe serving retail and consumer brands. The expanded agreement will significantly widen this footprint.