Netherlands Logistic Automation Market Overview, 2029

Netherlands Logistic Automation Market Overview, 2029

The logistics automation industry in Netherlands has grown dramatically in recent decades, owing to technological improvements, increased demand for efficient supply chains, and the rise of e-commerce. These technologies include automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), self-driving vehicles, and warehouse management systems. In the early 2000s, the rise of e-commerce, led by companies such as Amazon, resulted in an increase in demand for faster and more efficient fulfilment operations. This era saw the development of automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and the integration of robotics into warehouse operations, such as Amazon's acquisition of Kiva Systems in 2012, which was critical in improving robotics in logistics. Another significant advancement was the use of AI and machine learning in logistics in the 2010s, which improved route planning, demand forecasting, and inventory management. The usage of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and drones has been one of the most groundbreaking developments. AMRs are increasingly routinely utilised to move goods within warehouses, eliminating dependency on physical labour while increasing speed and efficiency. In 2018, firms such as Fetch Robotics and Locus Robotics introduced AMRs capable of navigating difficult warehouse environments. AI and machine learning are enabling predictive analytics in logistics, improving inventory management, and lowering stockouts. Companies such as IBM and SAP are using artificial intelligence to improve supply chain operations, ranging from demand forecasting to route optimisation.

According to the research report, ""Netherlands Logistic Automation Market Outlook, 2029,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Netherlands logistic automation market is anticipated to add to more than USD 400 Million by 2024–29. During the epidemic, e-commerce grew dramatically in Netherlands, with global sales expected to increase in 2020. This produced an urgent need for more automated fulfilment centres, prompting companies such as Ocado, Walmart, and Alibaba to increase their automation initiatives. To deal with the rise in demand and minimise human touch, automation technologies like as AMRs, drone-based contactless delivery, and AI-powered route optimisation were implemented in Netherlands market. Companies in the logistics automation market are increasingly working together to enhance their capabilities. For example, DHL has collaborated with Locus Robotics to install AMRs in its warehouses. Walmart worked with Symbotic to automate its supply chain operations. Promotional efforts frequently highlight automation's promise to boost efficiency, save costs, and improve delivery time. Alibaba and JD.com have actively promoted their automated warehouses and fulfilment centres during key shopping events such as Singles' Day, emphasising the importance of automation in managing large order quantities. Drones are another intriguing innovation for last-mile delivery. In 2016, Amazon accomplished its first drone delivery in the United Kingdom, indicating the possibility for broad usage of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in logistics. Similarly, firms such as DHL and UPS have been experimenting with drone delivery systems in distant and difficult-to-access locations. Additionally, autonomous vehicles (AVs) for freight transportation have gained popularity. Tesla, for example, has been developing self-driving electric vehicles, which might disrupt the long-haul transportation market.


In the Netherlands logistics automation market, several types of logistical activities, such as production logistics, sales logistics, recovery logistics, and procurement logistics, play varied roles, each contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the supply chain. Sales Logistics is currently leading in terms of automation adoption, owing to the growth of e-commerce and the requirement for effective order fulfilment. Automation technologies such as advanced WMS, robotics, and autonomous delivery systems are essential for managing the high volume and speed necessary in sales logistics. Companies like Amazon, Alibaba, and DHL are at the vanguard, incorporating advanced automation technologies to improve productivity and fulfil rising consumer demand. Production logistics refers to the management of materials and goods during the manufacturing process. Its primary goal is to ensure that raw materials are delivered to production lines on schedule and that completed goods are efficiently conveyed to storage or distribution facilities. Recovery logistics, often known as reverse logistics, is the process of returning items from customers to the supplier or manufacturer. Products can be returned, recycled, or disposed of. Although recovery logistics has traditionally received less attention, it is gaining relevance as customer expectations for hassle-free returns and environmental concerns grow. Procurement logistics is the process of sourcing and acquiring resources and goods required for production. It involves supplier management, purchasing operations, and inventory control.

In the Netherlands logistics automation market, organisational size has a considerable impact on the acceptance and implementation of automation technology. The market is often divided into two segments: large enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), each with unique characteristics and requirements for logistics automation. Large enterprises are currently leading in automation adoption. Their substantial financial resources and broad supply chain activities fuel demand for cutting-edge automation technologies. They frequently create industry standards and influence market trends through significant investments in technology and innovation. However, as more cost-effective and flexible automation solutions become available, SMEs are increasingly participating in and benefiting from logistics automation. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) encounter diverse obstacles. Limited financial resources and smaller enterprises frequently limit their ability to invest in large-scale automation technologies. However, SMEs are rapidly implementing modular and scalable automation systems that are adapted to their individual requirements and budgets. Technologies like warehouse management systems (WMS), automated picking solutions, and low-cost robotics are becoming increasingly available to SMEs, allowing them to enhance operational efficiency and eliminate manual labour. Companies such as Kiva Systems (bought by Amazon) provide scalable systems that can be tailored to different sizes of operations, making automation more affordable to smaller businesses.

In Netherlands, inventory and storage management, as well as transportation logistics, are critical services in the logistics automation market, with each playing a unique role in optimising supply chains. Currently, Transportation Logistics leads in terms of automation usage. In Netherlands, the increased desire for speedier delivery times, combined with the increasing complexity of global supply chains, is driving this trend. Advanced route optimisation algorithms, self-driving cars, and telematics systems are all examples of transportation logistics automation technology. Route optimisation use artificial intelligence and machine learning to discover the most effective delivery routes, thereby reducing fuel usage and improving delivery times. Trimble, Project44, and ClearMetal are among the industry's leading providers of comprehensive transportation management and visibility solutions. While Inventory and Storage Management remain vital, particularly for guaranteeing effective warehouse operations, the fast rise of e-commerce and the requirement for speed in delivery procedures have elevated Transportation Logistics to the forefront of automation investment. RFID and barcode scanning improve inventory tracking and control by providing real-time visibility of stock levels and lowering the risk of stockouts or overstocking. Swisslog, Daifuku, and Honeywell Intelligrated are among the leading providers of inventory and storage management solutions. This role is crucial for firms that must manage huge amounts of goods efficiently, ensuring that products are properly kept and available when needed.

In the Netherlands logistics automation market, several key components drive operational efficiency and effectiveness: hardware, software, transportation management systems (TMS), and services such as value-added services (VAS), maintenance, consulting, deployment and integration, and support and maintenance. Among these components, software is today the most important and widely adopted. In Netherlands, the rising complexity of logistics operations, combined with the requirement for real-time data analytics, has necessitated the use of sophisticated software solutions to optimise performance and integrate multiple automation systems. SAP, Oracle, and JDA Software (Blue Yonder) are among the software industry's major players, providing complete solutions to integrate and streamline logistics processes. Software is critical to ensuring that automation systems run smoothly and that data is used efficiently for decision-making. Hardware refers to the physical equipment utilised in logistics automation, such as Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), conveyors, robots, and sensors. This gear is required for automating physical processes such as sorting, picking, and moving goods in warehouses. Transportation Management Systems (TMS) are specialised software systems that improve the planning, execution, and tracking of transportation operations. TMS solutions include route optimisation, freight management, and carrier selection. Logistics automation services include Value-Added Services (VAS), Maintenance, Consulting, Deployment and Integration, and Support and Maintenance. VAS may include customised packaging or labelling services that increase the value of logistics operations.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Logistic Automation market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Activity
• On-farm Sales
• By Logistics Type
• Production Logistics
• Sales Logistics
• Recovery Logistics
• Procurement Logistics

By End User
• Retail and E-Commerce
• Manufacturing
• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
• Food and Beverage
• Automotive
• Logistics and Transportation
• Others (chemicals, aerospace)

By Organization Size
• Large Enterprises
• Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

By Function
• Inventory and Storage Management
• Transportation Logistics

By Component
• Hardware (AMRs, AGVs, AS/RS, Automated Sorting and Conveyor Systems, De-Palletizing/Palletizing Systems, AIDC, Order Picking Systems)
• Software(Warehouse Management System (WMS), Transportation Management System (TMS))
• Services (VAS, Maintenance, Consulting, Deployment and Integration, Support and Maintenance)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Logistic Automation industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.