JD.com Founder: Robots Will Replace Couriers
Photo: TechNode
Quick answer
JD.com is advancing logistics automation by replacing couriers with robots. To reskill 700,000 employees, the company launched a retraining program focused on robotics maintenance and automated system management.
Richard Liu, founder of Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com, unveiled the company’s long-term strategy to automate logistics processes. He stated that robots will eventually handle all package deliveries, making traditional couriers unnecessary.
To ease the impact of these technological shifts, JD.com launched the 'Nirvana Plan,' aiming to retrain 700,000 employees—including couriers and frontline workers—for new roles. The program collaborates with 120 educational institutions nationwide.
During training, employees will acquire skills in maintaining and repairing robotic systems, along with other technical competencies required for automated workflows. This ensures their roles remain relevant amid widespread AI and robotics adoption.
Liu emphasized that JD.com is committed to supporting its workforce, not leaving employees without livelihoods. Automation, he believes, will be a critical driver of efficiency and competitiveness for the company moving forward.
Common questions
- Why is JD.com replacing couriers with robots?
- The company aims to fully automate delivery processes to boost efficiency and reduce costs. Couriers will be retrained to work with new technologies.
- What skills will JD.com employees gain?
- The retraining program focuses on robotics maintenance, automated system management, and other in-demand technical skills for an AI-driven future.
- How many employees will the retraining program affect?
- The initiative will cover approximately 700,000 JD.com employees, including couriers and frontline workers.
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