Innovative Partnership Integrates Quantum Systems and AI to Enhance Supply Chain Sustainability
July 26, 2026
A collaborative effort between the telecommunications giant Telefónica and the assembly materials distributor Würth has successfully integrated quantum computing and artificial intelligence to refine logistics operations. Conducted at the Agoncillo logistics facility belonging to Würth’s Spanish division, the project sought to address inefficiencies in product packaging. By utilizing advanced algorithms, the organizations aimed to minimize the physical footprint of shipments and reduce the ecological impact of their distribution network.
The technical development of this pilot took place at the Javier Echenique Quantum Technologies Talent and Technology Center located in Bilbao. This strategic facility serves as a primary European hub for exploring the industrial applications of quantum mechanics. To achieve these results, the teams worked alongside the research organization TECNALIA and the startup QCentroid, which provided the necessary software infrastructure to bridge traditional computing with quantum capabilities. The pilot focused on analyzing more than 6,000 specific orders to determine the most effective way to arrange items within shipping containers.
The findings from this initiative indicate a measurable improvement in operational efficiency. Specifically, the smarter packaging methods enhanced performance for 14% of the processed orders. This resulted in a 6% decrease in the amount of cardboard required and a 3% reduction in the total number of boxes dispatched. Furthermore, the volume of space occupied by goods during transit was lowered by roughly 7%, meaning that transport vehicles could be utilized more effectively. Such advancements highlight how hybrid technology solutions can offer immediate financial and environmental benefits to the industrial sector.
Telefónica's involvement in this project is part of a broader strategy to lead in the field of applied quantum technologies. Beyond logistics, the company has been active in developing secure communication services using quantum-safe encryption for sectors like healthcare and national security. Representatives from both companies emphasized that this project serves as a template for incorporating emerging digital tools into real-world business environments, ultimately fostering greater competitiveness and sustainability in the global market.
Read original at Telefónica Newsroom.