DHL Supply Chain Implements Three Strategies to Boost Employee Retention

DHL Supply Chain is making strides in employee retention and operational efficiency through the strategic deployment of technology, as shared by the CIO of North America and Global Digital Transformation Officer, Sally Miller, at the Manifest 2024 conference. The company’s focus on embracing automation and digital innovations has not only enhanced the work environment but also significantly reduced turnover rates at sites where these technologies are implemented. DHL Supply Chain’s efforts are centred on making the workplace more attractive and efficient for its associates, thereby addressing recruitment and retention challenges.

Collaborating with startups and established vendors, DHL Supply Chain is developing tools aimed at easing the workload of its associates, especially during peak operational times. This initiative is crucial in reducing labour dependency and improving overall productivity. With over 2,000 supply chain sites and managing more than 180,000 associates, the majority of whom are hourly labour workers, DHL Supply Chain faces a substantial challenge with annual turnover rates ranging from 40% to 70%.

Key areas where DHL Supply Chain is leveraging technology include:

1. Data Utilization: By harnessing vast amounts of data generated within warehouse operations, DHL Supply Chain is optimizing processes such as backhaul transportation and returns network. Algorithms analyze daily outputs, adjusting operations in real time to enhance efficiency.
2. Warehouse Automation: The company is automating various warehouse tasks to make work more enjoyable for its employees. Collaborations with Locus Robotics for autonomous robots and Fox Robotics for autonomous forklifts exemplify efforts to integrate human-friendly robots into the fulfilment network. Other innovations include mobile sorting solutions, autonomous lift trucks, and reach trucks.
3. Smart Operations: DHL Supply Chain is implementing smart operation solutions across its sites, including vision-picking technology that uses augmented reality to assist with item selection. The aim is to deploy scalable solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of different sites, with a keen interest in expanding case-picking solutions to handle larger volumes efficiently.

These technological initiatives underscore DHL Supply Chain’s commitment to enhancing workplace satisfaction and operational efficiency. By investing in automation and smart technologies, DHL Supply Chain not only aims to retain its workforce but also to set new standards in supply chain management.