Loblaw, Gatik expand autonomous trucking partnership in GTA

Gatik is expanding its commercial partnership with Loblaw Companies Ltd., marking what the companies call the largest planned roll-out of autonomous trucks in North America.

Under a new multi-year agreement, 20 autonomous trucks will be deployed across Loblaw’s Greater Toronto Area distribution network by the end of 2025, with another 30 coming by late 2026.

“This is a transformational moment, not just for Gatik and Loblaw, but for the autonomous trucking sector globally,” said Gautam Narang, CEO and co-founder of Gatik. “It’s the first time a major retailer has transitioned from pilot to commercial scale with autonomous trucks, directly addressing Canada’s growing driver shortage, delivering the true benefits of autonomous logistics – reliability, safety and scalability – to millions of Canadians.”

Loblaw has also made a strategic investment in Gatik, a move executives say will accelerate the scaling of autonomous operations.

“This expanded partnership with and investment in Gatik represents a significant step forward in our commitment to innovation and supply chain sustainability,” said Rob Wiebe, chief administrator of Loblaw Companies Ltd.

The expanded fleet will begin operating with safety drivers before moving to driverless runs, serving more than 300 Loblaw stores in the GTA.