Exotec connects with DSV to equip Venlo logistics centre with Skypod autonomous robots system
DSV, a specialist in transport and logistics, has entered into a partnership with Exotec, a warehouse robotics firm. Exotec has equipped DSV's logistics centre in Venlo, Holland with its end-to-end Skypod system.
This is made up of approximately 100 of Exotec’s autonomous Skypod robots, supporting fulfilment operations for various retail brands and managing approximately 90,000 bins and trays. The project comes as part of DSV’s efforts to modernise its warehouse operations.
Jan Heijblom, Senior Sales Executive at Exotec Benelux, says: “We are proud to support DSV in optimising its Venlo site. Our Skypod system is designed for environments with high demands for speed, accuracy and scalability - essential elements for leading 3PL providers such as DSV. Businesses like DSV must continuously deliver high performance and flexibility for their customers, and the solution we’ve designed for them perfectly matches the dynamics of the retail and e-commerce industry.”
Barbara Klep, Managing Director of the Contract Logistics division at DSV, says: “In our warehouse, we use state-of-the-art storage systems and innovative automation to respond optimally to our customers’ requirements and growth ambitions. The Skypod system gives us the agility to adapt to changing needs while safeguarding our service levels and sustainable performance. In this way, Exotec contributes to more reliable, efficient and sustainable distribution from the Netherlands.”
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
Supply chain automation will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
