DHL launches S$10m innovation centre in Singapore

DHL  launched its Asia Pacific Innovation Centre (APIC) in Singapore, its first innovation centre outside of Germany.

Located at DHL’s Supply Chain Advanced Regional Centre building at Tampines LogisPark, the S$10 million facility is also the company’s first dedicated centre for innovation logistics services in the Asia Pacific region.

APIC showcases technologies that will transform logistics operations, such as driverless shuttles for faster and more efficient transportation, and drones for the delivery of time-critical goods such as medicines. It was launched with the support of the Economic Development Board (EDB), the company said.

Additionally, APIC also serves as a regional platform for collaborative innovation between DHL and its partners. The centre will also drive research initiatives that focuses on emerging trends in Asian logistics and economic activity. For instance, DHL’s Chief Commercial Officer Bill Meahl cited growing opportunities in e-commerce as well as growth in markets like India and China.

There are also guided tours, innovation workshops and forums available for visitors to the facility, it added.

Said Mr Lee Eng Keat, Director, Logistics and Natural Resources at EDB: “The launch of the APIC is another important step towards enhancing Singapore’s value-adding role in the realm of global supply chain solutions.

“With DHL as a strategic partner in this journey, Singapore is well positioned to serve the needs and harness the opportunities presented by the dynamic supply chain landscape and emerging technology and trends globally.”