Crowley honored with Corporate Diversity Award from Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association USA
Crowley has been honored for its contributions to diversity and inclusion in the workplace with the Corporate Diversity Award by the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) USA. Recognized for its efforts to enhance its corporate culture and empower its people through diversity and inclusion programs, Crowley supports its more than 7,000 employees through resources such as employee-led business resource groups, professional development programs, safety training and community engagement. “At Crowley, we value the unique perspectives, talents and ideas of our employees and believe they are what set our organization apart. We know that promoting an inclusive environment helps our people and our business succeed,” said Parker Harrison, Chief Legal and Risk Officer, Crowley. “We are so honored to be recognized for our diversity and inclusion efforts by an organization whose sole purpose is the advancement of women in our industries. We will continue our efforts to foster a workplace that our employees are proud of and feel empowered to drive change within the organization and our industry.” Crowley has taken several steps to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace: Established the Inclusion, Diversity and Equity in Action (IDEA) Council, led by employees, to create and lead initiatives to drive an inclusive and supportive environment for team members. The employee-led business resource groups support people’s careers and company business success by offering resources, education and a platform to provide Crowley with insights on where to improve. Achieved 37% female representation in the C-Suite leadership through appointments to key positions. Launched the Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention Steering Committee to enhance safety measures for all mariners, leading to improvements in communication and technology aboard vessels. Revamped the cadet shipping program resulting in a significant increase in female cadet participation. Recognized as a Top Company for Women to Work For in Transportation by Redefining the Road, a magazine of the Women in Trucking Association annually since 2021. Crowley has also made diversity and inclusion a fundamental part of its overall sustainability commitment, including publicly disclosing and tracking key performance improvement goals in its annual Sustainability Report.
Hangcha Forklift Canada strengthens national presence with Mississauga warehouse
Material handling equipment supplier shows its commitment to the Canadian market with Mississauga grand opening Hangcha Forklift Canada, a provider of material handling equipment, announces the grand opening of its Mississauga warehouse on October 3, 2023. The spacious 30,000 sq ft facility is poised to make a substantial impact in Ontario and extend the Company’s reach throughout Canada. As a wholly owned subsidiary of the esteemed Hangcha Group, Hangcha Canada is uniquely positioned to offer a comprehensive range of material handling solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of the Canadian market. Strategically located in Mississauga, the warehouse underscores the company’s long-term vision of rapid delivery capabilities to ensure reduced downtime for businesses. The new addition complements the existing warehouses in Vaudreuil-Dorion and Vancouver, allowing the Company to maintain an inventory of 550 units at any given time. “Selling Hangcha Canada material handling equipment allows our staff to offer the Ontario market a full line of high-quality and well-priced Electric and Internal Combustion Forklifts and Reach Trucks,” says Chris DiBerto, Sales Manager at Ri-Go Lift Truck Ltd. “Hangcha Canada offers a broader product range than most Original Equipment Manufacturers (‘OEM’) with stock at three distribution centers in Canada, making it easier than ever for our team to demo and receive quick delivery on equipment.” “With product support, parts support, and technical training that is second to none, the Mississauga warehouse is increasing our ability to support and grow Hangcha Canada’s footprint in Ontario. This is a positive move forward,” says Randy Thistel, Hangcha Canada’s Ontario Sales Representative. The much-anticipated grand opening will be hosted by Hangcha Canada at 3500 Laird Rd #1, Mississauga, ON L5L 5Y4 and welcomes dealers, customers, industry professionals, local businesses, and media representatives. The evening will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4:00 p.m., marking the official inauguration of the Mississauga warehouse. Following the ceremony, a networking session is scheduled from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. where attendees can enjoy appetizers and refreshments. “Hangcha Canada’s expansion plan signifies our dedication to Canada’s material handling industry. In January 2024, we will be expanding our headquarters in Quebec to include a state-of-the-art, on-site Training Centre and a Parts Department, allowing us to keep up with Canada’s ever-growing demand for our electric [lithium-ion] product line,” adds Robert Pitzul, Vice President of Sales at Hangcha Canada. Combining global expertise with an in-depth understanding of the Canadian market, Hangcha Canada’s customers can experience premium performance and reliability without compromising their budgets, making its products an attractive investment for businesses of all sizes.
AIT Worldwide Logistics names Chelsea Lamar Global Sustainability Vice President
AIT Worldwide Logistics has hired Chelsea Lamar as vice president, global sustainability. In this newly created role, she will lead the company’s sustainability initiatives, furthering AIT’s commitment to environmental responsibility and ethical corporate citizenship, including its goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2035. Lamar is based at AIT’s new global headquarters in Itasca, Illinois, and reports to Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Ray Fennelly, who said her appointment underscores AIT’s dedication to the evolution of its environmental, social and governance strategies. “Chelsea has an incredible track record of bettering our environment by building high-quality sustainability programs,” Fennelly added. “Her leadership will empower AIT to make significant strides towards both our own and our customers’ sustainability goals.” Lamar joins the company with more than a dozen years of experience in sustainability strategy development and execution. In her previous roles, she implemented electric vehicle and renewable fuel pilot programs, introduced energy efficiency initiatives to Illinois public schools, and launched sustainability programs across more than 200 facilities, saving $3 million in annual energy costs. “I’m thrilled to join AIT, a company that shares my passion for sustainability,” Lamar said. “It’s an exciting time in the transportation logistics industry because there are so many opportunities to collaborate across the supply chain. From electric vehicles and alternative fuels to technology solutions – optimizing routes and using digital platforms for enhanced resource management – we will continue pursuing a variety of strategies to attain meaningful carbon emissions reductions.” Fennelly said Lamar will “hit the ground running,” by reviewing AIT’s current sustainability initiatives, planning the program’s next phase, ensuring the company is on track to achieve its 2035 net-zero emissions goal, and meeting with stakeholders and customers. A 2022 Women in Smart Energy Award winner, Lamar holds a degree from Iowa State University in civil engineering with an environmental emphasis. In her free time, she enjoys socializing with family and friends and volunteering for Illinois Green Alliance.
Wauseon Machine announces consolidation of aftermarket services through merger
Aftermarket Services by McAlister Design and Automation and Wauseon Machine combine in formal merger Wauseon Machine, Inc. (WM), a provider of robotics automation, tube forming equipment, and built-to-print precision machines parts, announces an increase in the capacity and capability of its Aftermarket Services through the formal consolidation of McAlister Design and Automation (MDA) and WM. This merger will significantly streamline the process for customers to receive goods and services such as preventive maintenance, repair, training, support, and spare parts for automation equipment. In 2022, WM acquired MDA to better meet the needs of its customers by broadening its automation capabilities and geographical footprint. Automation technology is the key to industry transformation across verticals, from aerospace and defense to automotive, consumer products, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, off road equipment, to warehousing. To enhance and accelerate the adoption of automation for its customers, WM’s capabilities span mobile robot platforms, collaborative robots for human-robot teaming, and a range of other cutting-edge technologies. These forms of ‘flexible automation’ allow organizations to accommodate changes and repurpose automation solutions to fit ever-changing needs. The wide-ranging benefits of flexible manufacturing include augment current labor force, maximized capacity utilization, and improved quality and accuracy. Organizations will also find that safety and ergonomics improve with flexible automation, while also allowing them to create jobs and minimize reliance on global outsourcing. Ultimately, the adoption of flexible automation also significantly increases profitability. Customers that are currently reaping massive benefits from WM’s automation offerings will enjoy an enhanced, streamlined, and simplified experience through the formal merging of WM and MDA.
Women In Trucking Association announces its September 2023 Member of the Month
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Laura Duryea as its September 2023 Member of the Month. Duryea is the Director of Driver Recruitment and Professional Growth at Boyle Transportation, a specialized transportation logistics provider. Duryea got her start in the transportation industry as a professional driver which was inspired by driving the shuttle bus while attending Carnegie Mellon University. After graduating with a Viola Performance degree and a change of heart, she ultimately decided to attend Pittsburgh Diesel Institute, resulting in a 25-year driving career. The last two of those driving years were spent as a team driver at Boyle Transportation before transitioning to the Manager of Recruiting, Retention, and Driver Development for 5 years. She has been the Director of Driver Recruitment and Professional Growth since July 2023 and believes her 25-year driving career brings a unique perspective to the position. In 2022, Duryea was named as a member newly established Women of Trucking Advisory Board (WOTAB) of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The mission of this advisory board is to support women pursuing careers in trucking, expand scholarship opportunities for women in the trucking industry, and enhance trucking training, mentorship, education, and outreach programs for women. She was also recently named as a mentor in the Women in Motion Mentor Program with the American Trucking Association (ATA). Outside of her impressive career in the transportation industry, Duryea is also a member of the Savannah Professional Women for Good which supports local non-profit organizations in her community. She was also the secretary of the Dover Volunteer Fire Department for 10 years and ran LaDa Farms, an organic farm that supplied organic produce to local natural food stores for 15 years. Duryea is a passionate member of WIT and its mission saying, “women are collaborative by nature and when we come together for a cause we can change the world and this industry.”
Dematic announces 2023 STEM scholarship winners
Dematic FIRST® Scholarships support students pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) educations Dematic announces the 2023 recipients of its Dematic FIRST® Scholarship program, which honors students pursuing careers in STEM-related industries. Now in its third year, this scholarship program further demonstrates Dematic’s commitment to future leaders and innovators in supply chain and logistics by supporting corporate nonprofit, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Scholarship honorees include students Jace Flansburg from Ramsey, Minnesota, and Lukas Goodworth from Goleta, California, who were each awarded $5,000 to put toward a post-secondary degree or technical certification. Dematic also awarded 10 additional $1,000 scholarships to Matthew Carroll, Miles Frewert, Rajat Gupta, Alydia Jura, Richard Louvar, Jack Meyer, Sebastian Romna, Navya Swali, Tanush Vanarase, and Andrew Yellin. “Each year, I am impressed by the remarkable talent showcased by these scholarship recipients,” says Mike Larsson, executive vice president, Americas, Dematic. “I’ve seen firsthand the impact that FIRST has on future STEM leaders, and this real-world experience is vital as they begin their careers. This was the most competitive group of applicants in the scholarship’s history, and the increased interest in the program underscores the importance of investing in STEM education to empower the next generation.” This year’s scholarship program received a 25% increase in applications from last year. Dematic executives reviewed all applications, selecting honorees based on their academic excellence and commitment to pursuing a future in STEM. The program requires applicants to provide their transcripts, a one-page essay discussing a future where humans and machines interact in the warehouse, and a letter of recommendation. In addition, they must have previously competed in a FIRST Robotics Competition or FIRST Tech Challenge. “My experience learning and competing with FIRST during high school is what cemented my interest in pursuing a STEM degree during college,” says Lukas Goodworth, mechanical engineering student at Westmont College. “I’m extremely honored to be awarded the Dematic FIRST Scholarship, and I’m grateful for the opportunities it provides as I continue my education at Westmont College and start my career.” Dematic employees volunteer their time and talent to local FIRST teams, providing mentorship and guidance to students. Within the last year, Dematic sponsored 17 FIRST teams throughout the country and donated $65,000 to the nonprofit to support students as they prepare for competitions and careers in STEM. Scholarship Winners (Name, Hometown, College/University Attending, Scholarship Amount): Jace Flansburg Ramsey, Minn. University of Minnesota at Twin Cities $5,000 Lukas Goodworth Goleta, Calif. Westmont College $5,000 Matthew Carroll Waukesha, Wis. University of Wisconsin at Platteville $1,000 Miles Frewert Carson City, Nev. University of Nevada at Reno $1,000 Rajat Gupta Cincinnati, Ohio Georgia Institute of Technology $1,000 Alydia Jura Ann Arbor, Mich. University of Michigan $1,000 Richard Louvar Redmond, Ore. Oregon State University $1,000 Jack Meyer Rogers, Ark. Texas A&M University $1,000 Sebastian Roman West Islip, N.Y. Purdue University $1,000 Navya Swali Prosper, Texas University of Texas at Austin $1,000 Tanush Vanarase Norwalk, Conn. University of Connecticut $1,000 Andrew Yellin Zelienople, Pa. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $1,000
H&E opens new branch in Wilmington
Effective August 30, 2023, H&E Equipment Services Inc. (H&E) announced the opening of its Wilmington branch, its 10th rental location in the state of North Carolina. Since the beginning of 2023, H&E has opened nine new branches across the country, with three of those in the Tar Heel State. The facility is located across from the Port of Wilmington at 851 Sunnyvale Drive, Wilmington, NC 28412-1151, phone 910 756-4100. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a repair shop and carries a variety of construction and general industrial equipment. “The location of our newest North Carolina branch gives us greater reach along the Atlantic coastline, both north and into South Carolina, and covers the southeastern portion of the state below our existing Raleigh facility. Adding more fleet in this area allows us to supply customers in Wilmington and up to Elizabethtown, Lumberton, and New Bern, to name just a few cities well within our service area,” says District Manager Justin Gnagy. “Our proximity to I-40 and highways 17, 74, and 421 is ideal and allows us to deliver equipment to job sites across the area quickly and efficiently.” The Wilmington branch specializes in the rental of aerial lifts, earthmoving equipment, telescopic forklifts, compaction equipment, generators, light towers, compressors, and more and represents the following manufacturers: Allmand, Atlas Copco, Bomag, Case, Club Car, Cushman, Doosan, Gehl, Generac Mobile, Genie, Hamm, Hilti, Husqvarna, JCB, JLG, John Deere, Kobelco, Kubota, LayMor, Ledwell, Lincoln Electric, Link-Belt Excavators, MEC, Miller, Multiquip, Polaris, Sany, Skyjack, SkyTrak, Sullair, Sullivan-Palatek, Tag, Towmaster, Unicarriers, Wacker Neuson, Yanmar, and others.
Jungheinrich acquires all shares in robotics company Magazino
Hamburg-based intralogistics pioneer Jungheinrich is fully taking over Magazino, a Munich-based robotics specialist. In addition to its shareholding, which has existed since 2020 and was increased to 21.7 percent in 2022, Jungheinrich is acquiring all shares held by the founders as well as the previous co-shareholders, a.o. Cellcom, Fiege Logistik, and Körber. The transaction took effect immediately upon signing this week. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. Magazino will continue to grow as an independent company within the Jungheinrich Group and also in particular make use of the Group’s global sales and service network. The company will remain under the management of both Co-Founders Frederik Brantner and Lukas Zanger as well as Dr. Moritz Tenorth. For Jungheinrich, the full takeover of Magazino is another strategically important step towards strengthening its automation expertise. Founded in 2014, Magazino employs around 130 people and has one of the largest mobile robotics development teams in Europe. The company offers a powerful technology platform that enables logistics robots to also operate in a mixed human-machine environment. As a result, robots are able to intelligently navigate in the warehouse as well as selectively pick up and transport needed objects. Magazino’s system and robots are already in use in warehouses of various industrial customers, online retailers and logistics service providers. The control software for robots in complex logistics environments is also already integrated in Jungheinrich’s EAEa, a fully automated low-lift truck that was initially presented at this year’s LogiMAT intralogistics trade fair. For Jungheinrich, the merger is an ideal addition as part of the expansion of its business with automated and autonomous vehicles. Going forward, Magazino’s software and development expertise will be even more closely integrated into Jungheinrich’s product development. Magazino gains access to Jungheinrich’s international sales and service network and becomes part of a broad portfolio of intralogistics products and solutions. The Magazino brand will be retained and the company will continue to work with external integration partners and customers. “We’ve been working closely with Magazino for several years now, we are on par with each other and communicate well. The chemistry is simply right. Now we are taking the next logical step in our cooperation and acquire Magazino in full”, said Dr. Lars Brzoska, Chairman of the Board of Management of Jungheinrich. “Magazino is a successful company with a very good management and top experts in the market. It has outstanding software competencies and has developed solutions that have the potential to shape the future of intralogistics in the long term. In the Group, we will leverage these competencies to jointly drive the further development of innovative automation and robotics solutions.” Frederik Brantner, CEO and Co-Founder of Magazino: “The need for warehouse automation is growing constantly. By steering robots in this complex environment, we have developed a unique expertise that we want to further expand. We would like to thank our previous investors for the trust they have placed in us and for the many years of successful cooperation. They have supported us strategically and financially to date and have made a significant contribution to the further development of our business. Together we have laid the foundation for the next chapter in Magazino’s success story. With Jungheinrich, we will continue to extend our intralogistics technology leadership and expand internationally.”
PTDA welcomes three new members
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA), the leading association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel, is welcoming three new distributors to its membership. Distributors Gordon Russell Limited is a Canadian & family-owned business operating since 1930 supplying and servicing certified engineered products to industry in Western Canada and USA’s Pacific Northwest whose core focus is “We Keep Customers Moving Forward.” The company’s tried & tested quality products can be found in essential applications throughout Canada & USA’s Pacific Northwest resource-based economies. Learn more. MROSupply.com is the evolution of Los Angeles Rubber Company, a power transmission supplier that has been servicing the Los Angeles area since 1898. MROSupply provides its customers with 24/7 access to suppliers’ products. Learn more. W. Grainger, Inc.,is a Fortune 500 company founded in 1927 with more than 4.5 million customers worldwide. In its high-touch solutions business model, Grainger offers more than 2 million repair and operating (MRO) products and technical support and inventory management services. In its Endless Assortment segment, Zoro.com, offers customers access to more than 11 million items, and MonotaRO.com provides more than 20 million items. Learn more. The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) is a global association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel. Headquartered in Chicago, PTDA represents power transmission/motion control distribution firms that generate more than $19 billion in sales and span more than 2,500 locations. PTDA members also include manufacturers that supply the PT/MC industry.
NSK presented with Motion’s Supplier of the Year award
Motion Industries, Inc., a distributor of maintenance, repair and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions, named NSK “2022 Supplier of the Year.” The award recognizes companies that have shown exceptional commitment to Motion through quality products and services and earned the highest score in the multi-faceted Supplier Stratification rating system. The presentation took place July 18, 2023, at NSK’s manufacturing facilities in Franklin, TN. “NSK consistently seeks opportunities to increase their alignment with Motion’s strategies,” said Joe Limbaugh, Motion’s Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer. “We appreciate NSK’s forward-thinking and their efforts to ensure Motion’s success in its growth plan.” “It’s an honor to accept this award on behalf of everyone at NSK, from the U.S. team members to our factories around the world who support our local activities,” said Tarek Bugaighis, Senior Vice President – Industrial Business Unit, NSK Americas, Inc. “The collaboration between our companies to serve the industrial market has been tremendous not only last year, but in the years prior as well, culminating with this year’s Supplier of the Year award. Thank you to Motion and to everyone from both companies that work so hard to deliver exceptional value to the industrial market. It has been a pleasure to work with Motion, and I look forward to all we can accomplish together in the years ahead.” Motion’s Supplier Stratification formula is a rating system that evaluates each supplier’s performance in a number of Supply Chain, Marketing and Field Support categories.
Bobcat North Dakota Open merges golf and community outreach
Proceeds benefit community with over $1.2 million raised since 1984 The 59th annual Bobcat North Dakota Open brought exciting pro and amateur golf to the Fargo Country Club August 25-27, while also supporting The Village Family Service Center, a local non-profit agency dedicated to improving the lives of area children and families. Andre Metzger won the tournament, becoming the first player to ever win the Bobcat North Dakota Open tournament four times. Tied for second place, behind Metzger, was Zander Winston and Chris Gilman. Ian Siminoch topped the amateur division of the tournament. Bobcat Company has served as the lead corporate sponsor for the tournament since 1984, donating more than $1.2 million in support of The Village’s community outreach services. “All of us at Bobcat Company are proud to support this annual tournament and the greater Fargo-area community,” said Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America. “The Bobcat North Dakota Open is a great way to host and showcase pro and amateur golf talent while also helping The Village build a brighter future for area kids and families in need of our support.” The three-day pro-am golf tournament concluded Sunday with an awards presentation during which Bobcat representatives presented a check for $1.2 million to Kelly Olson, president and CEO of The Village. The check represents Bobcat Company’s total donations while serving as the annual tournament’s title sponsor. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of Bobcat Company,” said Kelly Olson, President and CEO of The Village Family Service Center. “Their generosity is truly making a difference in the lives of the people we serve, and we look forward to continuing this important partnership in the years to come.” Other major sponsors of the tournament were: Bell Bank, Bremer Bank, D-S Beverages, J & M Printing, Lapham-Hickey Steel Corp, Lenker Consulting, and Swanston Equipment Corporation. A large field of amateur golfers were paired with pros during Friday’s and Saturday’s rounds. The tournament’s events also included a kick-off celebration, barbeque and a Big Brothers Big Sisters program golf clinic for children who each received a set of junior golf clubs courtesy of the North Dakota Golf Association. The 59th annual Bobcat North Dakota Open is a part of the Dakotas Tour, an 18-event, professional golf tour played in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota.
Seun Salami joins Terex Corporation Board of Directors
Terex Corporation has announced that Seun Salami has been appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Salami currently serves as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Nuveen, a global asset management firm. Mr. Salami joined TIAA, Nuveen’s parent company, in May of 2018 as corporate controller, and later served as both TIAA’s chief accounting officer and principal financial officer of TIAA Real Estate Account. “Seun Salami will be an excellent addition to our Board of Directors,” commented John L. Garrison, Jr., Terex Chairman and CEO. “Seun is an executive with a successful track record of leading multifunctional teams from finance and operations to deliver strong results for global organizations.” Prior to joining TIAA/Nuveen, Mr. Salami was Executive Vice President and Global Controller, Corporate Solutions at Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. (JLL), a Fortune 500 global real estate company. Prior to JLL, he spent over eleven years at Deloitte serving Fortune 500 clients. Mr. Salami holds a Bachelor of Science in Management and Accountancy from Obafemi Awolowo University, a Master’s degree in Financial Economics from Ohio University, and an executive management certificate from Columbia Business School. He is a chartered accountant and a certified public accountant, licensed in Illinois.
Cascade Corporation celebrates 80 Years in business
Founded in 1943, Cascade Corporation, the global manufacturer of attachments, forks and related technologies for forklifts and AGVs as well as a leader in quality mast products and manufacturer of construction attachments, celebrates a momentous 80th anniversary this year. First opened as a small, five-person machine shop in Portland, Oregon, Cascade has since grown into a global operation with over 3,000 employees and 33 locations around the world including manufacturing plants, offices and distribution centers. This global reach gives Cascade teams the unique ability to coordinate operations across their facilities worldwide to meet customers’ needs anywhere, anytime. Quality teamwork is the foundation of Cascade’s success, empowering employees to collaborate on an international stage while providing superior local service and support customers depend on. “The Cascade story and product advancement are directly related to our employees around the world who work every day to provide high-quality solutions along with reliable support for our customers,” says Davide Roncari, President & CEO of Cascade Corporation. “Their commitment, passion and innovation make us who we are today – and will continue to serve us well in the future.” Over the past 80 years, as the industry has evolved, Cascade has evolved with it. Cascade’s extensive history has not only fostered global growth, but positioned Cascade as a leader in emerging material handling trends in areas such as automation, electrification and digitalization. From hydraulic attachments and custom fork products to all-electric AGV attachments and complete front-end mast/attachment combinations, Cascade has a solution for nearly every industry and application. Cascade is constantly innovating—working with state-of-the-art technologies and incorporating them into industry-leading solutions. Today, Cascade meets changing needs with products that offer integrated data solutions, sensor technology, advanced damage reduction, smart attachments and accessories, and a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. “We sincerely thank all of our customers around the world who have made it possible for Cascade to achieve this level of success,” says Roncari. “Cascade wouldn’t be in business and growing at the rate we have been without them. We look forward to providing many more decades of unparalleled service and industry-leading solutions.”
Reusable Packaging Association announces the 2023 Excellence in Reusable Packaging Award winners
Award ceremony to take place September 12 at 3 pm PST at PACK EXPO Las Vegas in the RPA Pavilion The Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) has announced the winners of the esteemed 2023 Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards. The awards feature a winner in each of three categories, Reusable System, Design Innovation, and Product Technology. The three winners in 2023 are OK Produce for Reusable System, Schaefer Plastics North America, LLC, for Design Innovation, and the Rehrig Pacific Company for Product Technology. OK Produce, a fresh produce wholesaler based out of Fresno, California, wins the Reusable System award for their implementation of a plastic pallet program in the distribution of perishable foods to their network of customers. OK Produce has introduced the reusable pallet program to 90% of their customer base, achieving cost-reductions, operational efficiencies, and solid waste reductions. Schaefer Plastics North America, a manufacturer of reusable transport packaging products, wins the Design Innovation award for their electrostatic discharge (ESD) bulk bin. The Grounder™ is a 48-inch-wide x 45-inch-long x 45-inch-tall plastic molded bin with metal plungers that protect shipped electronic parts against electrostatic contamination while reducing expendable packaging materials. Rehrig Pacific, a supplier of integrated sustainable solutions for logistics and delivery customers, including environmental waste and recycling, supply chain, and direct store delivery, wins the Product Technology award for their Vision Object Recognition (VOR) system. VOR offers warehouse customers an advanced technology solution featuring integrated components such as smart pallets, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to improve material handling, recordkeeping, inventory tracking, and quality control. Introduced more than a decade ago, the Excellence Award initiative maintains its steadfast momentum recognizing visionaries and commercial successes within the reusable transport packaging industry. The prestigious awards identify primary (end) user companies and suppliers who increasingly find new opportunities to innovate and advance reusable packaging in the supply chain. Award submissions are assessed by an independent panel of judges and are scored based on narration of the reuse opportunity, demonstration of business or economic improvements, and quantification of environmental impacts. RPA would like to recognize and thank our expert judges for the 2023 awards: Rick LeBlanc, editor, Reusable Packaging News Laszlo Horvath, associate professor and director, Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design, Virginia Tech Michelle Fay, program manager, StopWaste Ziynet Boz, assistant professor of Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, University of Florida About the Excellence Awards: The RPA Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards recognize companies and organizations who have developed and implemented innovative and measurable reusable packaging solutions in a business-to-business supply chain. The Reusable System award recognizes primary user companies and associated product suppliers that have developed and implemented measurable reusable packaging solutions in a business-to-business supply chain. The Design Innovation award celebrates the commercial use of a cutting-edge product that has led to a benefit in the market. The Product Technology award salutes the deployment of smart automated systems with reusable packaging. The annual award program is celebrating its 12th year, and will honor the award recipients at an awards ceremony on September 12th at 3:00 pm, at the close of the RPA Learning Center at PACK EXPO Las Vegas.
Yale earns green award for expansive lineup of lift truck motive power solutions
Yale Lift Truck Technologies announces its 12th consecutive annual recognition as a Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics magazine. The recognition honors the company for its rigorous focus on developing and manufacturing a broad range of lift truck motive power solutions engineered to address the sustainability challenges of warehouse operations, most recently through the expansion of its integrated lithium-ion lift truck lineup. The company’s full set of options, the Yale Power Suite, gives operations the freedom to select the power source that best suits them, incorporating lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, internal combustion engines and lead-acid batteries across a comprehensive range of lift trucks. Dealers and sales staff guide customers through a consultative process to help select the right power option that allows them to meet their unique requirements, rather than being restricted to limited choices. “Today’s warehouses are striving towards aggressive goals to reduce their carbon emissions, and those challenges don’t exist in a vacuum – they’re simultaneously under pressure to meet growing productivity demands, while also navigating labor shortages and safety challenges,” says Brad Long, Brand Manager, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “These businesses need lift truck power technologies that not only help them to make progress towards their sustainability goals but also address the full scope of the needs of their operation.” Yale most recently added to its roster by introducing 4,000-pound capacity integrated lithium-ion-powered three-wheel and four-wheel models. The new models allow warehouses in industries like food and beverage, 3PL and retail and e-commerce to reap the benefits of an advanced electric power source, whether transitioning from internal combustion engine-powered trucks or lead-acid batteries. Both the ERP040VTL, the three-wheel model, and the ERP040VFL, the four-wheel model, buck the traditional approach in which a battery box replacement converts counterbalanced lift trucks from lead-acid to lithium-ion battery power. Instead, the trucks are designed from the ground up around a fully integrated, space-saving lithium-ion battery pack. Lithium-ion batteries generate zero harmful emissions, and a lithium-ion battery pack can last over four times longer than a lead-acid battery, helping reduce recycling waste.
Raymond wins bronze for innovation in event marketing at Global Eventex awards 2023
The Raymond Corporation won a bronze Eventex Award for its 100th anniversary immersive exhibit. The Eventex Awards, founded in 2009 to celebrate creativity, innovation and effectiveness, is the ultimate symbol of excellence in the world of events and experience marketing. With 761 entries from 49 countries worldwide, the 2023 awards recognized outstanding achievements in the events industry. Raymond’s 100th anniversary celebration included an interactive exhibit that took visitors on an adventure through time, highlighting game-changing innovations that make today’s supply chain possible and telling the stories of the people behind them. History was brought to life through museum-style artifacts, physical displays, video and an interactive touch-screen interface. “Receiving this award is a moment of immense pride and accomplishment for Raymond,” said Brian Howard, vice president, marketing and product management, The Raymond Corporation. “This recognition highlights our commitment to pushing the boundaries of our industry. We are honored to be acknowledged among our fellow innovators and look forward to the next 100 years and beyond as we continue delivering groundbreaking experiences and solutions for our customers.” The exhibit traveled to various Raymond Solutions and Support Centers across the country, with a final celebration at the trade show ProMat in Chicago in March. View the complete list of Eventex Awards winners here.
Santana Equipment announces new location in Northwest Florida
Santana Equipment Trading Company, a provider in the used material handling equipment market, has announced the opening of a new retail/rental location to better serve the Southeast region of the United States. Santana Equipment started in Illinois in 1999. Over the years the company grew into a leader in the wholesale forklift market and the need to expand became more evident. In 2013, after moving into a larger complex in North Chicago, Santana’s second location opened in Arizona. Santana Equipment West quickly became one of the top sellers of used forklifts in the Phoenix market. With Chicago Headquarters covering the north, and the Arizona location out west, the need was recognized for another location to serve the Southeast region of the US. After years of preparation and market research a warehouse was purchased in Pensacola, FL. The focus for this new location will be to continue the Santana Equipment business model of buying, selling, and renting quality new and used forklifts. When asked about the new Florida office Alex Stuckey, Santana Equipment West’s Operating Manager, said “We are so excited to be opening this new location in Florida! We’ve wanted to expand to this area for some time and I’m so glad we have had this opportunity to do so.” Seth Worthey, the Operating Manager of the new location added, “When I was researching where to move next, I saw that Pensacola is perfectly situated to serve all the surrounding markets. We will be able to provide our equipment to customers in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and every else in this region with ease.”
Women In Trucking Foundation announces Spring 2023 Scholarship Recipients – Now accepting Fall 2023 applications
Empowering Women in Trucking: The Women In Trucking Foundation Scholarship Program During its Spring 2023 scholarship application cycle, the Women In Trucking (WIT) Foundation received over 100 applications and awarded 31 scholarships. This is up from 23 recipients in the previous, Fall 2022 cycle. Learn more about the recipients on the WIT Foundation website. Why it matters The WIT Foundation scholarship program changes lives. It breaks down barriers, facilitating opportunities for women in the male-dominated trucking industry. By offering financial support through its scholarship program, the WIT Foundation allows women to overcome financial barriers to access education and training programs, empowering them to pursue successful careers in trucking. Recipients also receive a one-year membership to the WIT Association, which comes with access to mentorship, networking and education resources. Scholarships are awarded in four categories: Leadership, Driving, Safety and Technician. The Foundation’s scholarship recipients, through their success and achievements, become trailblazers, inspiring future scholarship applicants to pursue their aspirations. Encouraging women to apply WIT Foundation Fall 2023 scholarship application cycle is currently open. The deadline to apply is September 30. Supporting the Women In Trucking Foundation The Women In Trucking Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that raises funds for scholarships, which are distributed in a way that supports women in the trucking industry. In turn, the trucking industry benefits from a diverse and well-trained workforce that has continuous opportunities for development. The WIT Foundation depends on the generosity of individuals, foundations and corporations to fund scholarship awards, whether it’s a gift of $10 or $25,000! The Foundation is grateful for its sponsors and donors, who truly are making its work possible! You, too, can support women in the trucking industry – All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent of current law and a receipt will be provided.
Trew® named 2023 Top Workplaces Award winner by employees
The award recognizes top companies in the Greater Cincinnati region based on employee feedback Trew, LLC has been recognized by Enquirer Media as a 2023 Top Workplaces award winner. Trew’s team includes a wide range of roles including solutions development, project management, software, engineering, manufacturing, installation, sales, marketing, and other general corporate services, and is proud to be recognized by its employees as a top workplace. “I am incredibly proud of our teammates for making this award possible,” said Alfred Rebello, Trew President and COO. “We put a lot of effort into building an environment where people make big things happen and win together by creating value for our customers. The Top Workplaces Award is confirmation that the people who make Trew great share a passion for excellence.” The Top Workplace Award is based entirely on employee feedback gathered by a third-party survey administered by Energage, LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to success of any organization such as alignment, execution, and connection. “Earning a Top Workplace award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard.” Trew was formed in January 2019 by warehouse automation veterans and has quickly become a solutions leader in the industry. The company is anchored in Cincinnati, with a diverse hybrid workforce and additional facilities in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the greater Toronto, Canada area.
Hodge Company CEO announces retirement with successors selected
A Dubuque, IA-based company announced its longtime CEO’s retirement on Thursday, as well as plans for co-CEOs to take over the company. Hodge Company. announced in a press release that Tim Hodge will retire September 11. Hodge has worked at the company for 44 years, serving as CEO for two decades. “Since its establishment in 1958, HODGE has evolved from a public warehousing company with a handful of employees into a thriving enterprise, employing over 1,200 team members across three states,” the release states. “Behind this growth is CEO Tim Hodge. … HODGE extends its deepest gratitude to Tim Hodge for his invaluable contributions to the business and community throughout his tenure as CEO.” Zach Hodge and Jordan Fullan — Tim Hodge’s son and daughter, respectively — will take on co-CEO roles following their father’s retirement. They will be the fourth generation in their family to lead the company. Zach Hodge currently serves as the company’s president, and Fullan currently serves as executive vice president of human resources and safety. “The seamless collaboration between Zach and Jordan, honed over the past seven years as executive leaders within HODGE, sets the stage for a successful transition into fourth-generation ownership,” the release states. “While each co-CEO will have their defined areas of responsibility, their shared commitment to excellence and their aligned vision for the company’s future will ensure unity in propelling HODGE forward.”