United States-based contract logistics provider GXO Logistics has launched GXO Accelerator, an open innovation programme designed to identify, test and scale new technologies across the UK and Ireland, according to a Parcel and Postal Technology International report.

The programme, delivered in collaboration with global innovation specialist L Marks, brings together startups, scale-ups and technology specialists through a structured open innovation model to explore practical solutions to operational challenges. Selected companies will participate in a 12-week cohort collaborating with GXO experts in real-world logistics settings to implement solutions driving efficiency, resilience and sustainability across supply chains.

Chief Operating Officer for UK and Ireland Paul Durkin stated: "Supply chains are evolving rapidly, and collaboration with innovative technology partners is essential to staying ahead of that change. GXO Accelerator will give innovative technology companies the opportunity to work directly with our teams to tackle real operational challenges and demonstrate the value their solutions can bring to logistics operations today and tomorrow."

The programme focuses on four innovation themes vital to the logistics industry. Defence and Infrastructure Logistics covers technologies strengthening materials control, sequencing, traceability and asset monitoring across multi-site, regulated defence and critical infrastructure supply chains. Digital Transport addresses technologies improving driver safety, bringing execution-led intelligence to transport operations and enhancing visibility across yards and delivery environments.

Future Workforce encompasses technologies making workforce deployment more dynamic and data-led, streamlining human resources processes with artificial intelligence, and giving managers greater visibility of skills and progression. Wild Card / Open Season includes technologies falling outside defined categories but with clear potential to create operational value for GXO.

Read the full story of GXO Logistics' open innovation accelerator programme for UK and Ireland.