JD.com to deploy 3 million robots for logistics automation

JD.com is accelerating its automation efforts with a plan to deploy 3 million robots to its nationwide logistics network over the next five years. The company’s logistics arm recently unveiled its industrial Wolf Robot series, designed to handle repetitive and labor-intensive tasks such as picking, sorting, transporting, and delivering goods.

In addition to the robots, JD Logistics aims to procure 1 million unstaffed vehicles and 100,000 delivery drones to build a fully automated supply chain. The new robotic systems include specialized units capable of operating in extreme cold, as well as automated pharmacy dispatchers.

To manage the impact on its workforce of approximately 700,000 delivery and logistics personnel, the company is implementing the ‘Nirvana Plan.’ This initiative focuses on retraining couriers and warehouse staff for technical roles, such as robot maintenance and servicing, to mitigate job displacement caused by the shift toward automation.