Deutsche Post DHL has launched two innovation competitions that challenge participants to generate new ideas in the areas of robotics and sustainable logistics.
Anyone who is at least 18 years of age may join the competition, providing they submit a written document and video explaining their idea by September 28, 2016. The three finalists of each challenge will be asked to present their idea or prototype in front of 180 senior supply chain professionals at the DHL Innovation Day on November 17, 2016. The winners of each competition will then receive a monetary prize from a pool of 20,000 (US$22,448). Their idea will also be showcased at the DHL Innovation Centers in Germany and Singapore.
The DHL Robotics Challenge asks participants to design a prototype of a self-driving delivery cart that can autonomously accompany staff during last-mile deliveries. The submitted prototypes need to be able to traverse typical urban and rural landscapes at walking-speed, while at the same time carrying parcels.
Bill Meahl, chief commercial officer, DHL, said, “Our colleagues have to deal with an ever-increasing number of parcels that need to be delivered. As our couriers are currently required to manually push this volume through the streets, we encourage concepts that support our employees.”
For DHL’s Fair and Responsible Challenge, entrants are asked to submit a sustainable logistics solution for the world of tomorrow. Ideas will need to be original and must address and solve environmental and social challenges with new and innovative logistics-based business models. The idea can be anything from a new product to a packaging concept, providing it generates value for the environment, society and businesses.
“We are convinced that doing well comes from doing good,” added Meahl. “The challenge is to give fairness and responsibility a business-oriented approach. Our concept is that companies should focus on creating shared value, turning social and environmental challenges into sustainable, fair and potentially profitable business models. The Fair and Responsible Challenge aims to find new and innovative ideas to advance this vision.”
To view further details regarding the two innovation challenges click here.
June 15, 2016