Highlights

  • Brambles is expanding digital tracking across its reusable pallet, crate and container network.
  • Connected asset data is intended to improve visibility into pallet movement, dwell time and network leakage.
  • Automation at service centres is supporting inspection, repair and turnaround processes across the pooled network.
  • The strategy links technology Investment with asset productivity, Customer Service and circular supply-chain efficiency.

Brambles Limited (ASX:BXB) specialises in pooling unit-load equipment and associated services, primarily through its CHEP business, which provides reusable pallets, crates and containers across global Supply networks. In 2026, the company is placing greater emphasis on digital visibility and operational automation as it seeks to improve how those Assets move, are recovered and are returned to service. The technology program is therefore closely tied to the Economics and efficiency of its circular operating model.

Connected Assets Add Visibility to the Pooling Model

Brambles is deploying connected asset technologies across parts of its network to provide better information on pallet location and movement. Digital tracking can help identify extended dwell times, unauthorised retention and other points where equipment may leave its expected circulation path. Better visibility can support more timely recovery activity and give the company additional data for managing flows between customers, service centres and transport routes.

This approach also extends the role of pallets beyond physical transport equipment. Data generated from connected assets can contribute to broader supply-chain insight, including how products and equipment move through complex retail and Manufacturing networks. The value of the program depends on how effectively Brambles integrates that information into day-to-day operational decisions.

Automation Targets Faster Inspection and Repair

Service-centre automation forms another part of Brambles' operational agenda. Automated inspection and repair processes are designed to improve consistency and shorten the time required to return pooled assets to circulation. More efficient refurbishment can also reduce unnecessary replacement of serviceable pallets, supporting the reuse principles that underpin the CHEP model.

The operational benefit is not limited to individual service centres. Faster turnaround can influence the wider network by reducing the amount of equipment tied up in repair cycles and improving asset availability in areas of demand. This makes technology deployment relevant to both customer service and Capital efficiency across the pool.

Execution Depends on Network Adoption and Cost Discipline

Brambles still faces practical execution considerations as it expands digital tools across a large international network. Technology needs to operate reliably across different customer environments, transport routes and service-centre systems. The company must also balance the cost of sensors, software, automation and maintenance against measurable improvements in asset recovery, circulation and operating efficiency.

External operating conditions remain relevant as well. Changes in customer inventory levels, retail activity, timber and logistics costs can affect pallet flows and replacement requirements. For that reason, the effectiveness of digital initiatives is best assessed through their contribution to asset productivity and network performance rather than through technology deployment alone.

Key Insights

Brambles' 2026 technology strategy reflects an effort to make its pooled asset network more visible, measurable and responsive. Connected pallets and automated service-centre processes can support tighter control of equipment circulation while reinforcing the share-and-reuse model behind CHEP. The key operational question is how consistently these tools translate into faster turnaround, lower asset loss and more efficient network management across different regions.