C.H. Robinson Plans to Invest $1 Billion in Innovation and Tech

C.H. Robinson has committed to investing $1 billion in advanced technology and talent over the next five years to reshape the future of the company’s logistics ecosystem.

This investment doubles its previous 10-year $1 billion investment and the company already boasts more than 1,000 data scientists, engineers and developers. The additional investment will allow it to continue fund more talent in critical areas.

Speaking at an industry event, C.H. Robinson president and chief executive officer Bob Biesterfeld explained how big data and digital technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and predictive analytics are currently impacting the supply chain marketplace. He also said that only companies that leverage both technology and talent will be able to compete and win on supply chain in the future.

“We are a platform-driven solutions company with technology built by and for supply chain experts, powered by our information advantage,” said Biesterfeld. “It’s when these tools are leveraged by the smartest and most relentless experts—who really understand and are committed to our customers’ business—that we create extreme value in the supply chain for our clients’ benefit.”

Biesterfield shared specific feedback and insights from more than 3,000 shippers highlighting their changing priorities and needs.

Among some of the research findings:

• Technology is more important than ever, with 88% of shippers who contract to purchase freight saying that technology is extremely or very important when choosing a logistics provider.
• Visibility and predictive tools are external logistics providers’ most important assets, with 65% of customers saying they either have or are planning on implementing real-time visibility and insight tools in the next two years.
• Local expertise is key, with 83% of shippers saying that having a logistics partner with local and global expertise is essential to their business needs.

“We’re excited about the future and look forward to continuing to innovate,” said Biesterfeld. “We are leading the way forward in logistics, addressing customer needs and laying the foundation for the next generation of tools and processes that will change not only how supply chains function, but ultimately change how our world is connected.”