Yokohama TWS North America recognized as “Global Above & Beyond” supplier by Hyster-Yale Materials Handling
Yokohama TWS North America awarded for going ‘Above & Beyond’ in customer service for the Americas The top supplier award recognizes on-time performance, cost savings, and commitment to HYMH Yokohama TWS North America received the “Global Above & Beyond” award for its excellent customer service at the Hyster-Yale Global Suppliers Conference. This award recognizes the unparalleled support its team has consistently provided to Hyster-Yale Materials Handling (HYMH). The award goes to the supplier who has most demonstrated a willingness to do whatever it takes to surpass expectations, going above and beyond standard supplier relationships. Yokohama TWS North America was honored for its tireless teamwork from planning to delivery of tires so HYMH could guarantee on-time delivery of their vehicles, accommodating schedule changes, bringing year-on-year cost reductions, and achieving a 99.73% record for on-time deliveries. Antoine Rivallain, Global OE Director at Yokohama TWS, remarked: “This award underscores our companywide commitment to our customers in seamlessly delivering solid solutions. All of us at Yokohama TWS worked to give the best overall performance in quality and on-time delivery to Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, as always supporting our OEM customers in achieving their goals, given the supply chain challenges and tight lead times they often require. We are proud of our 30+ years working with HYMH and look forward to another 30+ years of business success.”
UgoWork raises $51M to further transform material handling with its advanced energy solutions
Led by Fonds de Solidarité FTQ, the investment will accelerate the company’s growth, expand its global reach, and enhance its integrated hardware and software solutions. UgoWork™, a provider of advanced energy storage solutions for material handling equipment, has announced the closing of $51M as part of its Series C financing. This investment round was led by Fonds de solidarité FTQ, with significant participation from returning investors Investissement Québec (IQ), Export Development Canada (EDC), and includes a new credit facility from Desjardins Technology & Innovation Banking. This financing brings UgoWork’s total funding to $77 million, strongly positioning the company for continued growth and innovation in the energy sector. Since 2015, UgoWork has empowered top-tier logistics operators to electrify and modernize their fleets with its integrated hardware and cloud software ecosystem. Its user-friendly power solutions and exceptional support transform fleet management, helping operators meet the unprecedented pressure for efficiency in the logistics market. UgoWork’s clients achieve cost savings by reducing the equipment needed to run their operations, offering a significant advantage in the current environment of high-costs and labor shortages. Moreover, its AI-driven cloud platform unlocks peak shaving features to lower energy costs during high demand periods and enhances safety through the use of digital twin technology. “We are committed to helping our customers make their energy transition by offering the fastest innovation roadmap of our industry. In a $200B material handling market where most equipment is powered by old technologies, we stand at the brink of a new era,” said Philippe Beauchamp, President and CEO of UgoWork. “We believe that data is poised to become a pivotal asset in this business, providing transformative opportunities to redefine our industry. Our ability to seamlessly integrate this data sets our solutions apart and greatly enhances the customer experience.” “UgoWork’s vision and commitment to creating energy-efficient solutions is impressive. The Fonds is proud to invest and support once again this company, which continues to position itself as a game-changer in the technology sector,” explains , Executive Vice President, Private Equity and Impact Investing at the Fonds de solidarité FTQ. “We are thrilled to work alongside strategic and like-minded partners like le Fonds to support UgoWork’s continued growth and provide a second round of financing through EDC’s Investment Matching Program,” said Lissa Bjerkelund, EDC’s Vice-President, Investments and Mid-Market Lending. “Growing businesses like UgoWork are a testament to the success of Canada’s cleantech sector, and we are proud to support their mission to revolutionize the material handling industry with innovative energy solutions.” “Being an active contributor to UgoWork’s story of innovation is exactly the kind of role Investissement Québec wants to play with young companies and their teams. We are delighted to support the development of UgoWork’s solutions, which make manufacturing practices more efficient and sustainable. With this new round of financing, the company has all the tools it needs to meet the demands of its many international customers and suppliers, thereby fueling its growth and ensuring it remains competitive both here in Québec and beyond our borders,” declared Bicha Ngo, President and Chief Executive Officer, Investissement Québec. “UgoWork’s pioneering efforts in electrification and energy management greatly align with Desjardins’ mission to drive sustainable development,” said Mehdi Bakhty, Managing Director at Desjardins’ Tech & Innovation Banking. “By supporting UgoWork, Desjardins’ Tech & Innovation Banking team underscores our commitment to empowering companies with strong fundamentals and technology as well as forward-thinking and adaptable leadership. The company’s rapid, while still sustainable growth, coupled with its great position in a market ripe for disruption further enables our willingness to tailor creative ways to support it. This collaboration between major Québec and Canada institutions and the company goes hand in hand with Desjardins’ cooperative values of solidarity, integrity, and community development, and demonstrates our collective dedication to advancing the electrification of industries for a sustainable future,” he concludes. This new funding will be used to grow the company’s go-to-market efforts, extend its global distribution footprint, accelerate the development of its software and hardware platforms, and expand its headquarters and main production facility.
SupplyOne receives prestigious Pregis Inspyre and Preserve awards
SupplyOne, Inc., the largest independent supplier of corrugated and other value-added packaging products, equipment, and services in North America, just announced it has been honored with the Pregis Inspyre and Preserve awards. These awards highlight SupplyOne’s commitment to sustainability and dedicated efforts to improve lives worldwide. Pregis’s Inspyre Award honors customers who are changing lives through their commitments to a better world. As a member of the ‘1% for the Planet’ initiative, 1% of all Pregis’s Inspyre sales go directly to Uzima, a non-profit that provides life-changing water filters to communities in need. SupplyOne’s Packaging Specialists objectively assess each unique customer’s application and, drawing from the broadest range of packaging products available, provide unbiased guidance on the optimal packaging solution to address their objectives. Through this process and subsequent recommendation of Pregis’ Inspyre packaging, SupplyOne directly contributes to global clean water access. Through the Inspyre initiative, SupplyOne has made a significant difference, impacting over 6,900 lives. It’s a stark reality that one in nine people worldwide experiences water insecurity. This often leads to waterborne illnesses and contributes to a cyclical trap of poverty. Each Uzima filter can provide clean water to a family of 6-10 people, reducing medical expenses, improving school attendance, and empowering better lives. The Pregis Preserve Award recognizes efforts to promote sustainable Easypack paper solutions. Pregis’s Easypack paper is 100% recycled, 100% recyclable, and 100% biodegradable. This chain of custody-certified product has tangible benefits for the world’s forests. Each ton of Easypack paper used equates to 17 trees saved from harvest. Healthy forests are vital in reducing carbon dioxide levels, providing cleaner air and water, and offering sanctuary for vulnerable species. By helping manufacturers and processors implement Easypack paper solutions, SupplyOne has helped save over 13,000 trees from harvest, further demonstrating its commitment to a greener planet. These accolades underscore SupplyOne’s dedication to sustainability and social responsibility. We are grateful to Pregis for the recognition and will continue to work towards positively impacting our shared environment.
Stoecklin Logistics expands North American team
With over seven decades of combined experience in the sales and service industry, new hires Albert Trail, Dejan Ockerl, and James Wright will help expand Stoecklin’s customer support and maintenance capabilities Stoecklin Logistics, Inc., has announced three new experts to its North American team. Strategically located near Stoecklin Logistics’ US office in Georgia, each new hire comes with an extensive background in automated equipment systems and will leverage their combined experience to foster new and existing relationships with key accounts to support Stoecklin Logistics’ growth strategy across the U.S. and Canada. Albert Trail, Sales Manager, Stoecklin Logistics, comes to Stoecklin Logistics with decades of experience in helping companies automate and improve their supply chains. His experience extends to many industries including automotive, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and confectionery. As sales manager, Trail will apply his expertise in automation to help Stoecklin build its network and future-proof customers’ supply chains. Dejan Ockerl, Service Manager, Stoecklin Logistics, has a versatile skill set combining technical, commercial, and managerial expertise. His background includes experience in preventative maintenance, field service, and electrical troubleshooting for large organizations throughout Europe and North America. In his new role as service manager, Ockerl will lead Stoecklin’s service team in analyzing and improving the performance of its solutions. Among Ockerl’s team is new hire James Wright, Service Technician. Wright joins Stoecklin Logistics with an extensive background in field service engineering and maintenance and will be responsible for preventative maintenance, repairs, and on-site support for the company’s North American customers. “Businesses in all sectors are seeking reliable, professional services, support, and solutions. At Stoecklin, we strive to be more than just an automated systems provider—We’re a technology and business partner that helps its customers accelerate operations and improve their supply chains through speed, agility, and safety. The expansion of our sales and service teams in North America only deepens our commitment to providing unparalleled customer service and supporting long-term growth,” said Juerg Frefel, CEO, Stoecklin Logistics. Last month, Stoecklin Logistics was named the overall winner of the 2024 Top 3PL & Cold Storage Providers Award for its dedication in helping distributors improve sustainability efforts and supply chain efficiency with its solutions.
Emerson announced changes in Global Sales Leadership
Worldwide sales management to be consolidated under newly-appointed Vice President of Global Sales Andy Schwege Emerson has announced a key executive change at its Appleton Group division with the promotion of 35-year electrical industry veteran Andy Schwegel to the newly created position of Vice President of Global Sales, effective immediately, overseeing domestic and international sales organizations. He will report directly to Anthony Hartman, President of Appleton Group. Previously Vice President of International Operations & Industrial and Commercial Sales, Mr. Schwegel will be responsible for continuing to drive growth and top-line revenue expansion for Appleton Group brands Appleton™, O-Z/Gedney™, EasyHeat™ and Nelson™ across a global sales network that encompasses over 2,500 distributor partners. “Andy has a long-standing record of bolstering sales and delivering on strategic business opportunities,” said Hartman. “His deep understanding of the harsh and hazardous location electrical markets, combined with a wealth of executive experience, makes him the ideal leader for our entire global sales operation. His ability to continuously accelerate sales growth and navigate complex market landscapes will be pivotal as we expand the Appleton footprint worldwide to meet the demand for safe, reliable and efficient electrical solutions.” In his 22-year tenure with Emerson, Mr. Schwegel has held increasingly responsible positions, primarily in marketing, business development and sales management. Before joining Emerson, Schwegel gained industry experience working for Eaton and Grainger.
Peak Technologies listed as Top Solution Provider in annual industry ranking
Peak Technologies ranked 65th on The Channel Company’s CRN Solution Provider 500 list, the annual ranking of the largest solution providers with operations in North America. Peak Technologies, a provider of digital supply chain and mobile workforce solutions, has been named to The Channel Company’s CRN Solution Provider 500 list, the annual ranking of the largest solution providers by revenue with operations in North America. Peak Technologies is ranked 65th in the 2024 list, the third straight year the company is listed among the top 70 out of 500 companies. Each year, the CRN Solution Provider 500 list is published by The Channel Company to rank the top integrators, service providers and IT consultants in the industry and recognize the critical ways these companies help businesses and organizations adopt and get the most value from leading-edge technologies. This year’s list emphasized the rapidly growing role and impact that artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI technologies is having across multiple industry segments. “We are pleased and honored that we have once again been listed among the top companies in our field on the CRN Solution Provider 500 list,” said Tony Rivers, President and CEO, Peak Technologies. “It recognizes the continuing success we have had in both developing innovative, high-impact, smart technologies solutions for our customers and expanding our ability to help them solve their digital supply chain and mobile workforce challenges.” From manufacturing, warehousing, transportation and logistics operations to retail, healthcare and field service applications, Peak Technologies has become one of the industry’s largest providers of end-to-end automation solutions that modernize the factory, optimize the warehouse, revolutionize the retail experience and reimagine field services and last-mile delivery. “We recognize the need to continuously invest in new smart technologies and AI-driven solutions to help our customers navigate the seismic shifts in the IT industry,” said Alexander Price, Senior Vice President, Smart Technologies at Peak Technologies. “Our recent investments include new offerings in machine vision, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), RFID/RTLS platforms and advanced analytics solutions, all developed to help our customers leverage cutting-edge technology to achieve their critical operational and productivity goals.” Technology solutions recently launched by Peak Technologies include: Peak Analytics, a powerful supply chain AI and image recognition solution that lets logistics operations capture key information about package quality by harnessing the power of image recognition and AI. Using advanced machine vision cameras placed within scan tunnels on conveyor lines, Peak Analytics advanced software delivers real-time data about the condition of every package, allowing companies to identify problem inventory at the source. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) provide mobility solutions to help automate and streamline labor-intensive logistics tasks such as picking, receiving, loading replenishment and put away, saving time and helping increase daily output while allowing skilled workers to focus on high-value tasks. Advanced Machine Vision (MV) solutions automate manufacturing inspection using advanced 2D, 3D and deep learning solutions. Sensors, cameras, frame grabbers and advanced software quickly and accurately detect objects for instant inspection, sorting, traceability or high-speed production. By capturing high-quality digital images of items moving at very high speeds, MV systems can gauge whether the data or objects meet certain parameters and provide AI-driven analytics for real-time visibility and decision making. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and RTLS (Real-Time Location Systems) solutions provide precise location data of high-value assets, assisting in loss-prevention and enhancing supply chain visibility. Track the receipt and movement of goods within a warehouse, facility or yard, or use dynamic, real-time locationing to immediately track and locate items and verify inventory. Both technologies improve asset visibility across warehousing and logistics operations, helping automate and improve asset use and processes. In recent years, Peak Technologies has also made growth investments through 15 strategic mergers and acquisitions. These include the 2023 acquisition of North Coast Technical, a leading provider of machine vision hardware and image processing software for Fortune 500 companies, and the 2022 merger with Supply Chain Services, a leading full life-cycle system integrator and provider of digital supply chain, retail and mobile workforce solutions.
Lowenthal elected Port of Long Beach Harbor Commission President
Colonna was selected as vice president, and both have one-year terms Harbor Commissioner Bonnie Lowenthal was elected president of the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners on Monday, the five-person board that oversees the Port of Long Beach. The board also selected Frank Colonna as Vice President and Steven Neal as Secretary. Commissioners select a President and two board officers each July to serve one-year terms. The Commission’s new officers will begin their terms on Aug. 5, when outgoing Commission President Bobby Olvera Jr. will hand the gavel to Lowenthal at the Board’s meeting that day. Lowenthal was President from 2019-20 and currently serves as Vice President. She has served Long Beach in a public role for decades, first as a Long Beach Unified School District Board member, then as a City Councilwoman and Vice Mayor, and as a state Assembly member. Before her elected service, she worked as a licensed family counselor and mental health consultant. “It is an honor to be elected and serve as president of the Long Beach Harbor Commission,” Lowenthal said. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners as we build a port to better serve the residents of Southern California in the decades to come and continue to pursue our trailblazing environmental programs, innovative capital improvements, and our ongoing investment in workforce development.” Under the City Charter, the Board sets policy for the Port. It directs the Port’s Chief Executive Officer, who leads about 550 employees in developing and promoting the Port of Long Beach. Members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. They may serve up to two six-year terms.
Caldwell hires Sarah Stitt for RUD Products
The Caldwell Group Inc. has named Sarah Stitt product manager of the Rockford, Illinois-based company’s RUD range. The below-the-hook and material-handling equipment manufacturer has a longstanding partnership with RUD to bring lifting points and other products to the U.S. and Canada. Stitt has joined the company’s marketing team and will spearhead the portfolio’s growth in these key regions. She will work closely with Jay Schroeder, regional sales manager of RUD West, and the technical sales, customer service, sales, and engineering teams to identify new product sales opportunities, analyze market trends, and drive revenue for the RUD line. Stitt will also work closely with RUD’s German sales and marketing teams to help identify and grow market segments and user groups. Tyson Philippi, chief operating officer, said: “At Caldwell, we are committed to delivering innovative lifting points that exceed customer expectations, increase safety, and improve the performance of riggers, crane operators, material handlers, and manufacturers. With Sarah’s appointment, we are poised to enhance brand awareness and adoption in the North American market.” Lisa Sympson, marketing manager, said: “Sarah has been part of the Caldwell marketing team for more than a year and is a great fit for the RUD product management role. Her knowledge of the industry, customers, and now the RUD product line will give this growing part of our business the focus and attention it deserves.” Stitt said: “As the newest member of this dynamic team, I look forward to fostering collaboration between RUD and Caldwell to provide our customers with the best solutions available. I am committed to using my knowledge to help bring RUD brand awareness and value to the U.S. and Canada.” The new-look Caldwell RUD team will continue to raise the profile of a range of rigging products already considered best-in-class in Europe and elsewhere in the world. Caldwell has forged a successful collaboration with the RUD Group to unite sales and marketing activities in North America for material handling and lifting devices within a common organization. The RUD portfolio includes slings and lifting points for the most complex tasks for integration into almost any application. Caldwell’s Schroeder added: “RUD is a high-quality, Germany-manufactured product, so it takes a certain type of company to be able to deliver it here in North America, keeping lead times short and stock levels high, close to the point of use. The timing is perfect to add Sarah to the team with continued emphasis on telling everyone we are here — and here to stay.”
Wolter Inc. acquires Cincinnati Crane & Hoist
Wolter Inc.‘s first acquisition of a manufacturing company was Cincinnati Crane & Hoist (CC&H), a crane and hoist manufacturer based in Cincinnati, Ohio. This strategic acquisition significantly enhanced Wolter Inc.’s capabilities and expanded its product offerings in the crane industry. “We’re excited to welcome Cincinnati Crane & Hoist to Wolter Inc.,” said Jerry Weidmann, president of Wolter Inc. “This acquisition allows us to leverage our strengths and expand our offerings of crane and hoist solutions. CC&H’s innovation and expertise in custom crane systems perfectly align with our commitment to accelerating productivity. Together, we aim to set new industry standards, ensuring our customers receive unparalleled support—from initial design and installation to commissioning and ongoing service and maintenance.” With over 16 years of industry trust, CC&H is renowned for innovative designs, custom solutions, and turnkey project capabilities, including overhead cranes, gantry cranes, monorail systems, runway systems, hoists, custom crane systems, and tailored turnkey solutions. Under the Wolter Inc. name, customers will benefit from an expanded product line, custom-engineered capabilities, and enhanced installation, maintenance, and repair support coverage. Wolter Inc. is committed to maintaining the high standards of quality and service that Cincinnati Crane & Hoist customers expect, ensuring a seamless transition with a continued focus on accelerating productivity.
Fairchild Systems named a 2023 Great 8 Dealer
Fairchild Systems, a division of Fairchild Equipment, has been named one of the top 8 dealers, receiving the prestigious 2023 Great 8 Dealer Award for Wholesale Pallet Rack Products (WPRP). This esteemed recognition highlights Fairchild Systems’ unwavering commitment to excellence, outstanding performance, and dedication to providing top-notch services in the Material Handling Industry. The award underscores the company’s hard work, innovative strategies, and exceptional customer service, setting it apart from the competition. “We are absolutely thrilled to receive the 2023 Great 8 Dealer Award. This honor is a testament to our team’s dedication to delivering the highest quality customized pallet racking solutions for our customers’ unique needs,” said Mike Bruno, Systems Engineering Manager of Fairchild Systems. “Our focus has always been on providing innovative and effective solutions, and this award reinforces our commitment to excellence.” In a highly competitive market, being recognized as one of the Great 8 Dealers is a significant accomplishment that reflects Fairchild Systems’ professionalism and ability to consistently deliver high-quality pallet racking solutions. This success showcases the company’s expertise in the field of warehouse storage and reinforces its position as a leader in the industry. “The Fairchild Systems division of Fairchild Equipment exemplifies our company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction,” said Van Clarkson, President of Fairchild Equipment. “The team’s relentless pursuit of excellence in providing customized warehouse design, storage, and product flow solutions has been instrumental in achieving this remarkable recognition,” Clarkson added. With a dedicated team of warehouse engineers, Fairchild Systems is committed to delivering customized warehouse design, storage, and product flow solutions to maximize productivity and return on investment (ROI) in customers’ warehouses. The division’s success not only highlights its expertise but also demonstrates its ability to meet and exceed its clients’ material handling needs. Fairchild Systems specializes in warehouse space planning, design, layout, budgeting, supply, installation, and servicing to meet every customer’s material handling needs.
Robroy Industries® announces the hiring of Geoff Twietmeyer as Robroy Enclosures™ General Manager
Robroy Industries® Enclosures Division has appointed Geoff Twietmeyer as General Manager. Mr. Twietmeyer holds an MS degree in Engineering Management from Western Michigan University and a BS in Aerospace Engineering from Trine University. His diverse professional experience includes service as a partner at LeaderWork, a leadership development firm; senior vice president of Engineering and Operations at Michigan Spring and Stamping, a Tier 1 automotive company; engineering and IT Manager at Fisen Corporation, a manufacturer in the HVAC industry; and Global Director of Engineering at GHSP, a supplier of mechanical and electromechanical systems for Tier 1 Automotive. “Geoff Twietmeyer provides the breadth and depth of leadership that has been a hallmark of Robroy Enclosures for more than 60 years,” says Craig Mitchell, President of Robroy Enclosures. “As a total solutions provider for our customers, Geoff’s wide-ranging expertise is critical to our ability to meet the many and highly specific application demands of the marketplace and to keep our operational facilities performing at peak efficiency.” Mr. Twietmeyer is very active in volunteer and leadership work. He is a founding member of the Manufacturing Engineering Partnership Program for Coopersville Area Public Schools. He has been a Trustee on the Coopersville Area Public Schools Board of Education since 2018. He has been married for 28 years and has three children. He loves the outdoors and traveling with his family. Through its two brands, Stahlin® and AttaBox®, Robroy Industries Enclosures Division offers the most extensive selection of non-metallic enclosures available for meeting the needs of diverse industries, interior and exterior applications, appealing aesthetics, and physical property performance standards, including NEMA 4X and NEMA 6P integrity. Stahlin Enclosures is known for its fiberglass enclosure line, delivering time and labor-saving solutions, non-stop innovation, and superior product performance. AttaBox Enclosures manufactures high-performing polycarbonate electrical and industrial enclosures, leading the way in providing application-specific solutions for installations within continuously demanding environments. Robroy Industries Enclosures Division is a subsidiary of Robroy Industries, which has been serving the electrical products marketplace under one family ownership since 1905.
Toyota Material Handling lifts communities Nationwide
Toyota Material Handling and its nationwide network of dealers showcased its commitment to improving their local communities during the company’s annual ‘Lift the Community Day.’ Since 2021, Toyota associates have participated in an annual day-long philanthropic event near Toyota’s Columbus, Indiana, headquarters. This year, the initiative expanded to include participation from Toyota’s dealers, increasing the impact on communities throughout the U.S. On July 1, 324 Toyota associates completed 2,300 volunteer hours during the event. In addition to impacting the Columbus community, associates from 10 dealerships and Toyota’s Heavy Duty division participated in their volunteer efforts, making this a nationwide philanthropic event. “Participating in ‘Lift the Community Day’ is important to our associates and to upholding Toyota’s core values,” said Tracy Stachniak, Toyota Material Handling Vice President of Human Resources. “Our business has the resources and compassion to be a philanthropic leader and make a significant impact not only in our local community but throughout North America. We were eager to expand this event to dealers and look forward to driving further change throughout our communities.” ‘Lift the Community Day’ exemplifies Toyota’s founding principle of contributing to society and ‘helping people carry the load’ by promoting a compassionate environment. This year, associates and dealers supported more than 30 local non-profit organizations and programs throughout five Indiana counties and 11 states across the country. These efforts resulted in an economic impact exceeding $84,685. Corporate social responsibility is central to Toyota’s culture, reflecting the company’s core values: be faithful to duties and create a home-like atmosphere. Toyota fosters numerous community-focused relationships, including corporate partnerships with the American Red Cross, United Way, and Anchor House, an Indiana nonprofit providing housing initiatives, employment resources, and nutritional assistance. “We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and dedication of the volunteers from Toyota,” said Grace Kestler, Executive Director of The Arc of Bartholomew County. “Their commitment to our cause has been invaluable, and their contributions have made a significant impact on our efforts. With their expertise and hard work, they played a crucial role in our renovation project. We deeply appreciate the partnership with Toyota and thank them for being an essential part of our mission to support individuals with disabilities, helping us create a more inclusive and brighter future for our community.” Toyota provides each associate with paid community service hours to volunteer with various organizations. Throughout the year, Toyota sponsors and organizes volunteer activities on and off campus. In 2023, Toyota associates donated 11,765 hours to support local organizations, contributing to a total economic impact of $745,721. Learn more about Toyota’s commitment to volunteerism and corporate social responsibility here.
Longtime Hyster-Yale technology leader honored as distinguished supply chain professional
Hyster-Yale Materials Handling announces that Steven LaFevers, Vice President of Global Emerging Technology, has been named a 2024 Rainmaker by DC Velocity, a supply chain and logistics trade publication. This recognition honors LaFevers’ for his accomplishments at Hyster-Yale, most notably building the company’s Emerging Technology division from the ground up. “I’ve worn a lot of different hats in my 24-plus years with Hyster-Yale, but the most rewarding has been developing and leading our Emerging Technology team,” said LaFevers. “I’m honored by this recognition, but want to acknowledge that it doesn’t solely belong to me – it belongs to every member of the team. Without their hard work and ingenuity, we wouldn’t be able to develop and launch technologies that bring our company and our industry into the future.” LaFevers’ division embodies the technology innovation capabilities of a startup while leveraging the company’s resources as a mature materials handling manufacturer. The Emerging Technology team has grown significantly, from 25 employees to more than 150 in the last few years alone, and has introduced groundbreaking technology solutions to the market. LaFevers held a pivotal role in developing and launching a first-of-its-kind operator assistance technology suite, marketed through the Yale® and Hyster® brands as Yale Reliant™ and Hyster Reaction™. Since its commercial launch in 2021, Hyster Reaction and Yale Reliant have been deployed on more than 6,000 lift trucks and accumulated more than 14 million hours of real-world run time. In response to customer demand, the company has rapidly expanded the availability of the solution from an original lineup of five lift truck models at launch to a total of 59 models. LaFevers also spearheaded the adoption of the company’s lift truck telematics solution. They oversaw the commercialization of the company’s automated lift trucks, which have grown to a commercially installed base of over 500 units and counting. Through his years of experience, LaFevers has also become a go-to source for media outlets covering the space on materials handling trends and technology. He has participated in interviews and written bylined articles for publications, including Robotics 24/7, Workplace Material Handling & Safety, Food Logistics, and more. Additionally, LaFevers is one of the founding members of the Board of Directors for the East Carolina University (ECU) Innovation Foundation.
H&E opens new branch near Idaho Falls, SD
Effective July 15, 2024, H&E Rentals (H&E) announces the opening of its Idaho Falls branch, the third general rental equipment location in the state of Idaho. H&E has opened 22 new branches across the country and acquired nine others in just over a year, and it has operations in 31 states. The facility is located at 2727 East 14th North, Ammon, ID 83401-6232, phone 208-977-0900. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a repair shop and carries a variety of construction and general industrial equipment. “H&E has extended its coverage in Idaho and across the Wyoming state line to easily service projects that are a farther reach for our branches in Boise, Belgrade, Montana, and Ogden, Utah. Our Idaho Falls branch has filled in those gaps between our other H&E facilities in the region, and we can now work in tandem to take care of our customers across several states,” says Branch Manager Josh Criddle. “We’ve added greater fleet availability to the area, and the location of our new facility has quick access to I-15 and roadways that branch off in all directions, so we can get equipment moving to job sites without delay.” The Idaho Falls 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.
Shoppa’s adds Will Dusek to executive team
Shoppa’s Material Handling has announced the appointment of Will Dusek as Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer. Will joins Shoppa’s with over 20 years of experience in developing data-driven strategies that enhance performance and drive value. Will Dusek is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of leading highly collaborative teams to develop creative and innovative solutions and achieve operational excellence? His extensive background and forward-thinking approach to business ensure that decisions are informed by comprehensive analysis, leading to optimal outcomes. “We are thrilled to welcome Will to the Shoppa’s family,” said Jimmy Shoppa, President of Shoppa’s. “His strategic vision and ability to drive performance improvements will be invaluable as we continue to pursue our growth objectives. Will’s experience and commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver an exceptional customer experience in everything we do.” Throughout his career, Will has demonstrated a unique talent for aligning strategic initiatives with business goals, ensuring sustainable success. His leadership will play a pivotal role in guiding Shoppa’s through its next phase of innovation and expansion. “I am excited to join Shoppa’s and contribute to its dynamic growth trajectory,” said Will Dusek. “I look forward to working with the talented team at Shoppa’s to drive strategic initiatives that will further enhance our performance and deliver exceptional value to our customers.” Will Dusek’s appointment underscores Shoppa’s dedication to attracting top talent to lead its strategic initiatives. With his expertise, Shoppa’s is well-positioned to achieve new heights and continue its legacy of delivering unparalleled value to its customers.
3M announces departure of Chief Financial Officer
3M announced today that Monish Patolawala, President and Chief Financial Officer, will resign effective July 31, 2024, to pursue another opportunity. Mr. Patolawala will stay on through July 31, 2024, to ensure an orderly transition. “On behalf of all 3Mers, I thank Monish for his leadership and contributions to 3M over the past four years,” said William Brown, 3M Chief Executive Officer. “We wish him continued success in his future endeavors.” “It has been a privilege to work as part of 3M’s leadership team, and I am proud of our accomplishments,” said Mr. Patolawala. “3M is well positioned for success, and this is the right time for me to transition to a new opportunity.” 3M has initiated a CFO succession process and will provide updates as appropriate.
Port of Long Beach Harbor Commission names Director of Project Controls
On Monday, the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners approved the selection of Ashley Morteboy to lead the Project Controls Division at Port of Long Beach, the nation’s second-busiest seaport. The Director of Project Controls is responsible for establishing and tracking schedules, budgets, and costs for the timely delivery of the Port’s infrastructure projects to the Engineering Services Bureau. Morteboy comes to the Port of Long Beach after working two years as director of project controls at UC Davis Health, where he similarly oversaw the planning and design of the agency’s capital improvement program. He previously served as a senior manager at Procter & Gamble for two years and brings over 18 years of project controls experience working nationally and internationally throughout his career, spanning a wide range of capital investment ventures for many sectors and industries. Morteboy holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom. Morteboy’s appointment is effective July 29.
Queen City Robotics Alliance announces two new board members
Queen City Robotics Alliance has announced the addition of two new board members – Robert Hillman and Brian Keiger. Robert Hillman is the founder and managing partner of RLH Consulting. Founded in 2008, the company handles business development, structured credit, financial advisor/strategist, strategic advisory, and campaign management for corporations and individuals. He is also on the City of Charlotte’s Business Advisory Committee (BAC). This committee provides recommendations and advice to the City Council on ways Charlotte can improve business development, emphasizing small businesses while providing a forum to raise issues, discuss issues, and have input into City policy responses. Mr. Hillman received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and has an MBA from the Stern School of Business at New York University. Mr. Hillman joined the board earlier this year and looks forward to growing QCRA’s outreach into Charlotte’s underserved communities. Brian Keiger is Vice President for Conveyco Technologies, a leading system integrator in warehouse automation, and has been involved in the supply chain industry for over 34 years. Mr. Keiger is also active in MHI, North America’s leading material handling trade association, holding a seat on several committees, and is the chair of the Mobile Automation Group. He also holds seats on the Industry Advisory Panel for the National Center of Supply Chain Technology Education (NCSCTE) and on the Systems Engineering and Engineering Management (SEEM) Advisory Board at the University of North Carolina Charlotte. He received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from North Carolina State University. Mr. Keiger joined the board last month because “STEM education is important, and these kids are important.” He believes STEM education goes beyond imparting knowledge to nurture critical thinking skills, enhances scientific literacy, and cultivates the next generation of trailblazers and problem solvers. “At QCRA we’re building more than a STEM education program, we’re building kids,” Mr. Keiger says. “We’re preparing the next generation’s workforce. As a businessman in an ever-evolving supply chain industry, this is crucial. The talent is right here, already being developed. All we have to do is invest.”
Farrukh Ghani joins Hyundai Material Handling as Director of Dealer Development & National Accounts
Hyundai Material Handling hired Farrukh Ghani as the new Director of Dealer Development and National Accounts. Mr. Ghani brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the company. His areas of responsibility will include leading the company’s efforts to strengthen its dealer network, add to its growing list of national accounts, and continue its more aggressive approach to sales and marketing. Mr. Ghani has held key leadership positions in the material handling industry. Previously, he served as Director of Channel Development for Doosan Industrial Vehicle America, helping the company achieve record growth and market share year-over-year from 2016 to 2023. Before that, he served as vice president and chief financial officer for Clark Material Handling Company, overseeing and enhancing diverse departments such as finance, sales, IT, order management, and logistics. “I’m very excited to bring my years of experience to Hyundai, its leadership team, and an incredible lineup of dealers,” said Mr. Ghani. “My goal is to help continue the company’s impressive growth and its position of excellence and innovation in the material handling industry.” His wealth of experience also includes creating and implementing successful programs in Sales and Marketing, Strategic Planning, and Global Operations. His proven record of success covers a wide range of business sectors, including manufacturing, supply chains, logistics, engineering, and finance. “We’re extremely proud to bring on someone of Farrukh’s experience and years of success,” said Lewis Byers, Executive Vice President/COO of Hyundai Material Handling. “We believe he’s going to make a tremendous difference in our organization and with our dealers and national accounts. As an organization, we’re committed to growth, building stronger relationships with both our dealer partners and customers, and increasing our North American market share. Farukh will play a key role in all of this.”
Women In Trucking Association announces continued Gold Partnership with Ryder System Inc.
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) just announced that Ryder System, Inc. has renewed its Gold Level partnership to support the non-profit association’s mission of recruiting and retaining more women in the transportation and logistics industry. In addition to providing financial support, the company has actively participated in the association since 2014. Lesley Kerr, vice president of human resources at Ryder, serves on the WIT board of directors. Debra Brunton, vice president of operations at Ryder, serves as vice chair. Korri Adams, global director of vehicle sales operations for North America & sales for the southeast region at Ryder, serves as a Women In Trucking Foundation board member. The company generously supports the scholarship program to make technical training and education more affordable for women striving to make a career in trucking a reality for the WIT Foundation. “Ryder is proud of its continued support of the Women In Trucking Association and fully believes in the mission to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments, and minimize obstacles faced by women working in the trucking industry,” said Kerr. “Organizations like WIT are critical to building a diverse workforce and empowering women to succeed at any level in the industry.” “Our goal is to be a valuable resource and powerful community for our members to tap into,” said WIT president and CEO Jennifer Hedrick. “Influential company leaders like Ryder enable us to continue to make a lasting impact on gender diversity issues in the industry and to advance our mission. We are grateful for their continued support.” Founded in 2007, the Women In Trucking Association is a resource for more than 8,000 corporate and individual members in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Japan, Australia, Sweden, South Africa, and New Zealand. Recent accomplishments include releasing the 2023 WIT Index, the official barometer to benchmark and measure the percentage of women who make up critical roles in transportation each year, which had more than 300 company participants; awarding a deserving member a 2018 Volvo VNL670 in collaboration with Arrow Truck Sales, Inc.; honoring 300-plus leaders in transportation through several programs; and more than 1,900 registered attendees at the 2023 Accelerate! Conference and Exhibition.