GXO Logistics has launched the GXO Accelerator program aimed at identifying and scaling new technologies across its operations in the UK and Ireland.
The open innovation program will bring together startups, scale-ups and technology providers to develop and test solutions to operational challenges in logistics. It is being delivered in partnership with innovation specialist L Marks.
Participants will take part in a 12-week program, working with GXO teams in live operational environments to trial technologies with potential to improve efficiency, resilience and sustainability in supply chains.
Paul Durkin, chief operating officer for GXO in the UK and Ireland, said, “Supply chains are evolving rapidly, and collaboration with innovative technology partners is essential to staying ahead of that change.”
He added that the program will allow companies to “work directly with our teams to tackle real operational challenges and demonstrate the value their solutions can bring to logistics operations today and tomorrow”.
The accelerator will focus on four areas: defense and infrastructure logistics, digital transportation, future workforce solutions, and an open category for other technologies with potential operational impact.
GXO said the initiative builds on previous innovation activity through the W2 Labs program, which was established by Wincanton prior to its integration into GXO. Around 30 technology companies participated in that program, developing solutions such as AI-based vehicle damage detection, predictive analytics, autonomous mobile robots and workforce optimization tools.
Selected companies in the GXO Accelerator will be able to test their technologies through structured pilot projects, with the potential for wider deployment across GXO’s operations if successful.
Daniel Saunders, CEO of L Marks, said, “GXO’s scale and reach allow technology companies to pilot their solutions in real logistics environments and work directly with the teams responsible for running them.”
He added that the new program builds on earlier collaboration with Wincanton and aims to “turn innovation into operational reality”.
Applications for the first GXO Accelerator cohort are now open.
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