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Amazon to Invest $10B in European Fulfillment Network, Deploy Next-Generation Robots

Amazon will deploy three types of new robots across European fulfillment centers as part of a $10 billion investment program set to add 25,000 jobs by decade's end. The company introduced its next-generation Proteus autonomous robot at a London event Thursday, designed to handle physically demanding logistics tasks including moving heavy carts over long distances to loading docks. Proteus operates as Amazon's first fully autonomous mobile robot, navigating warehouses independently via sensor technology. Workers can assign tasks using plain-language instructions. The expanded Proteus can travel significantly farther than its original version, operating beyond dock areas to transport containers throughout facilities. Amazon also deploys Cardinal, a robotic arm capable of loading packages up to 50 pounds into carts with precision. The company has deployed more than 1 million robots across its global operations network since acquiring Kiva Systems in 2012. The investment aims to enhance worker safety while accelerating package processing speeds.