Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and warehouse‑automation provider Exotec have signed a global framework agreement covering the use of Exotec's scalable robotics systems in Hellmann’s operations.
The partnership aims to advance automation within Hellmann Contract Logistics and transform key supply chain processes through a consistent goods-to-person fulfillment approach. An initial project in the healthcare sector has already launched, with additional implementations currently in planning across further industries and regions.
Through this partnership, Hellmann and Exotec are addressing the increasing complexities of intralogistics. Rising customer demands, fluidizing customer expectations, volatile order volumes, and ever-shorter cut-off times require scalable and highly responsive fulfillment structurization.
At the same time, the shortage of skilled workers increases the need for automation to relieve employees in the long term and optimize capacity utilization. Advanced warehouse automation systems enable Hellmann to absorb volume fluctuations more effectively and enhance process reliability.
Exotec's modular solution will establish flexible, efficient, end-to-end automation in Hellmann's Contract Logistics sites worldwide. This automation can be quickly and easily adapted to constantly changing market requirements.
Healthcare industry as first joint focus
Hellmann is rolling out its first automation project under the partnership at a German healthcare facility, an operation that requires fast, highly reliable delivery performance.
The system automates warehouse flows from receiving to dispatch using a goods‑to‑person setup, with staff checking inbound items before robots store and retrieve them in a layout designed for healthcare products. The high‑speed retrieval process shortens throughput times and allows later cut‑off and order times for customers.
"In a volatile market environment, flexibility and short-term scalability are playing an increasingly important role in contract logistics. As a company, we need to respond quickly and agilely in order to reliably meet our customers' needs while protecting our employees from excessive workloads," said Volker Sauerborn, COO Contract Logistics, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
"With Exotec's automation solutions, we can complement our services in a meaningful and targeted way with state-of-the-art intralogistics technology."
"The partnership with Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is a significant step for us," said Markus Schlotter, managing director Central Europe at Exotec.
"Together, we are pooling our expertise to offer customers tailor-made and future-proof solutions. We look forward to supporting Hellmann in responding flexibly to changing customer projects and market requirements."
