DHL opens new Europe Innovation Center to shape future of logistics

DHL Group has officially opened its new Europe Innovation Center in Troisdorf, Germany, aiming to drive the future of logistics through customer-focused and sustainable innovation. The expanded facility near DHL’s Bonn headquarters supports the development and real-world application of technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things, and sustainable solutions, reinforcing the Group’s Strategy 2030 roadmap.

Spanning 5,360 square metres, the centre is designed to host up to 400 visitors and features a flexible, modular layout for workshops, events, and collaborative projects with customers, startups, academic institutions, and industry partners. Constructed from cross-laminated timber and powered entirely by renewable energy, the building operates with zero greenhouse gas emissions and has achieved DGNB Platinum certification, one of Europe’s highest sustainability standards.

The Innovation Center reflects DHL’s commitment to identifying and implementing the most important logistics trends. A global survey of over 2,500 supply chain professionals highlighted artificial intelligence, robotics, and environmental, social, and governance practices as the top drivers shaping future supply chains. DHL has already deployed nearly 10,000 automation and digitalisation projects and integrated over 8,000 collaborative robots into operations worldwide.

Katja Busch, Chief Commercial Officer at DHL and Head of Customer Solutions and Innovation, said: “Innovation is the engine driving our transformation. The new DHL Europe Innovation Center enables collaboration, driving growth, and redefining what’s possible in logistics – by turning ideas into impact.”

Rainer Haag, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Europe, added: “Intelligent technologies are embedded across nearly every customer site we operate. Innovation only reaches its full potential when implemented at scale, delivering real impact for customers, employees, and investors.”

The Troisdorf centre is part of DHL’s global network of Innovation Centers, which includes facilities in Chicago, Singapore, and Dubai. Together, these centres create a connected ecosystem that allows DHL to anticipate emerging trends, test new technologies, and scale solutions globally, advancing the logistics and supply chain sector worldwide.