FedEx has introduced an AI-powered sorting robot at its air network location in Cologne.

This robot is the first of its kind in the European FedEx network and highlights the company’s commitment to digitising operations and developing a smart logistics network.

The Cologne air network location is the largest of seven FedEx air network facilities in Germany, employing over 900 people. The robotic arm, made by Hellebrekers (www.hellebrekers.nl), is mounted inside a protective cage on the small package sort where incoming parcels are inducted. It assists employees in the sorting process, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. It primarily sorts documents and smaller parcels up to 4kg, processing up to 1000 pieces per hour and managing around 90 destinations simultaneously.

“AI-supported technologies like this help us manage shipments more effectively, enhance customer experience and boost our competitive edge as ecommerce continues to drive growth in the market,” said Boris Stoffer, managing director of network operations in Germanyfor FedEx. “These technologies are also supporting our employees by taking over repetitive, high-volume tasks.”

FedEx’s focus on automation in its Cologne air network location echoes broader industry trends. Logistics players are optimising operational efficiencies, from warehouse management to last-kilometre delivery. According to Statista, the global warehouse automation market is projected to exceed $51bn by 2030 (www.statista.com/statistics/1250585/warehouse-robotics-market-revenue-worldwide).

“This robotic in-feeding system is proof of our commitment to innovation, “said Georgiana Constantin from FedEx. “Delivering best-in-class service is our ambition, driven by a passion for innovation that puts our customers first.”

In 2020, FedEx (www.fedex.com) installed four robotic arms at its Memphis Hub in Tennessee to automate its small package sorting. In 2022, it deployed further sorting robots at its South China ecommerce shipment sorting centre in Guangzhou and its Singapore Hub. Furthermore, the company makes use of robotic product sortation and identification systems at 17 US sorting facilities including New York, Las Vegas and Ohio.