Material Handling Wholesaler

Testing Post

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:27:30 +0000

This is a test post to check Authors

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Steady Hands in Shifting Sands: Maintaining Your Dealership’s Edge

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:57 +0000

In the September issue, we typically cover the latest developments in finance, rental, and leasing, providing input that dealers can use to modify their systems and procedures, ultimately leading to higher profits and increased cash flow. To accomplish meaningful results, you dig into industry data sources, talk to bankers, and put together comparative data year-to-year, explanations of why results shifted, and if you are lucky, compile estimates about the future 12 months at a minimum. This year, however, it appears that every avenue regarding equipment, interest rates, unit costs, customer requirements, rental activity, technology, new tax bills, and almost everything you look at is in a state of flux, meaning that any short-term analysis is probably going to be tough to work with because assumptions used could change at any time. Let’s start with a brief review of the industry, and then we’ll move on to the more significant changes you will need to address. If you recall, my previous series of articles focused on performance gaps and potential changes a dealer may encounter, which, if left unaddressed, would reduce the value of their investment. However, as I prepared this article, I realized that the five-year timeframe for AI and technology we have been hearing about will soon be upon us, requiring a decision to be made. Short-term decisions require a conservative approach to business planning. Dealers may also want to consider bringing in outsiders to help contemplate their personal technological literacy and access to expertise. This same method should be applied to risk management and prioritizing technology investments. Obtaining input from peer groups and OEMs is also essential. The most significant change will be in the metrics used to compare your statements with those of the standard industry results. For many of you, current metrics will no longer be comparable against your “new “numbers. This was one of the reasons I covered Free Cash Flow in a recent column: to determine how much free cash you have available for growth and technology. This conservative approach will impact both dealers and customers. Consequently, purchases of equipment will be kept to a minimum, with units in use receiving more attention from customers. Interest rates will lead customers to avoid higher-priced units, instead opting for rental or refurbished units that are available for purchase. Taking a conservative approach to the balance sheet is also essential. Clean up the AR, review the parts inventory, and eliminate slow-moving items. The same applies to used units with low time utilization. New unit purchases should be kept to a minimum until we get a better understanding of the market. You may also need capital for new types of inventory. Continue this review with your rental fleets to keep them available when needed. Also consider what units would be refurbished for sale. Squeeze as much capital out of the balance sheet that you can. The income statement line items should also be reviewed to see what can be eliminated and when. After completing these reviews and adjusting, you will have a much better story to take to the bank in support of additional capital needs Now let’s get to the potential change that will change the way you do business and, as a result, change the metrics from what they were to what they are after making both product and technological changes. What is going to change? AI development Technology ROBOTS Believe it or not, you will be in the ROBOT business because manufacturing and warehouse customers are going to demand it. Because China has built the most automated manufacturing empire in human history. Producing products faster and cheaper than anyone thought possible. China installed 276,000 industrial robots in 2023- more than half of all robots deployed worldwide that year. In 2021, more industrial robots were produced than ever before; China also produces 50% of the industrial robots it installs. And now they are starting to build robots themselves. And once they perfect this cycle of robots building better robots, US companies become permanent customers of Chinese factories. US companies are demanding a national robotics strategy. Every single factory or warehouse being built will be more automated than anything the US has ever built. Let’s face it, labor costs make traditional manufacturing uncompetitive. To beat China at this game, we need to out-automate them. Steal the robot jobs from China and use our robots to produce goods and services in the US. What is great about this is that your services and some products are what these manufacturers and distribution companies need to transition to full automation using robots. You sell, rent, maintain, and assist with the construction or rehabilitation process to modify an existing facility. Material Handling dealers should take steps to access robots, technology, and AI expertise to make it available to their customers. At the same time, they should have an arrangement with service providers to refer new customers they encounter. Now you understand, based on the “state of flux” comment I made earlier, as well as my earlier comment about the performance gap. Most dealers will be entering a new business with fewer personnel, lower prices, and fewer inventory units because of the AI/Technology opportunity. I also want to mention that Steve Pierson, CPA, and dealer tax expert, is available if you have questions about the new tax bill. Jim Margner, CPA, is the state and local tax expert who may be impacted by the new tax bill. If enough people are interested, we can set up a podcast to discuss the tax bill in more detail. Please let Dean know if you are interested. His email is dmillius@MHwmag.com. BDO sent me their summary of the tax bill, which I sent to Dean. Let him know if you need a copy. Last comment. Where do you fit into this new business environment? Where does your product fit in going forward? I suspect that there will be a few M&A deals available for dealers who are not willing to make the switch to this new

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Caldwell launches custom lifting beam with LGH

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:00:02 +0000

A new lifting beam that enables forklifts to more efficiently carry longer loads is now in service. LGH approached Caldwell with a challenge it saw across several customers. Together, the companies created the Caldwell Telescoping Forklift Beam, now exclusively available from LGH. “We noticed a recurring challenge in the field: customers needed a way to lift and transport longer materials like rebar bundles and piping without the overhead clearance or access for cranes,” said Chris Hyatte, product manager at LGH. “Traditional forklift attachments just weren’t cutting it in terms of reach, adaptability, or safety. We saw an opportunity to create something better—an all-in-one solution that would bridge this gap and maximize on-site efficiency.” The Caldwell Telescoping Forklift Beam is designed for lifting applications on construction sites, industrial warehouses, or other environments requiring the lifting and placement of long or bulky materials. It improves the versatility of forklifts and enables lifts without the need for a crane. Designed for durability and adaptability, this innovative attachment provides a safer and more efficient way to lift and transport long, heavy loads. The beam is already in use on several customer job sites, and LGH says that the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Customers love the versatility and how quickly they can adapt it to different lifting needs,” added Chris. “Many have commented on how it’s increased their material handling efficiency while keeping operations safe and streamlined.” Key features include: A spread range of 12 to 20 feet, with nine 1 ft increment settings 10,000 lb load capacity Low headroom profile of just 14.7 inches Dual 5-ton swivel hooks and an optional center hook Easy adjustment using removable hitch pins Balanced adjustments on both sides for enhanced safety “Caldwell has been a fantastic partner throughout this project,” concluded Chris. “From the earliest design discussions to final production, their team was responsive, innovative, and genuinely interested in solving our customers’ challenges. We worked together to prototype, test, and fine-tune the beam until it met our exacting standards—and the result speaks for itself.” Caldwell brings over 70 years of lifting equipment expertise to the table, offering a comprehensive range of solutions including jib and gantry cranes, below-the-hook attachments, slings, and tie-downs. Caldwell also partners with the RUD Group to unify sales and marketing activities in North America for RUD material handling and lifting devices within a common organization. The RUD portfolio includes slings, hoist rings, and lifting points for the most complex tasks for integration into almost any application. LGH maintains the largest rental inventory of lifting and rigging equipment in North America, with over 70,000-line items. With 24 locations across the U.S. and Canada and more than 60 rental representatives, LGH provides expert rigging solutions for industries including construction, energy, marine, transportation, and industrial sectors.

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Fed holds rates steady amid diverging views; Manufacturing outlook remains strong

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 19:50:53 +0000

The Federal Reserve held the federal funds rate steady at a target range of 4.25% to 4.5% for the fifth meeting in a row. For the first time since December 1993, two members of the committee dissented, instead favoring a quarter-point cut to the federal funds rate. In announcing the decision, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said, “The economy is not performing as if overly restrictive monetary policy is holding it back.” “Looking past the oscillations caused by trade, the latest GDP report showed continued spending by consumers on goods and investment in new equipment. Powell acknowledged that the current level of interest rates is not overly restrictive and the outsized demand for manufacturing technology in the first half of 2025 appears to confirm this outlook,” said Christopher Chidzik, principal economist of AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. “Should the economy continue to operate at or near full employment as Powell has asserted in the past two meetings, further investment in manufacturing technology may be required to meet sustained consumer demand.” Although swings in net exports continue to affect the data, recent indicators suggest that the growth of economic activity moderated in the first half of the year. The unemployment rate remains low, and labor market conditions remain solid. Inflation remains somewhat elevated. The Committee seeks to achieve maximum employment and inflation at the rate of 2 percent over the longer run. Uncertainty about the economic outlook remains elevated. The Committee is attentive to the risks to both sides of its dual mandate. In support of its goals, the Committee decided to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 4-1/4 to 4-1/2 percent. In considering the extent and timing of additional adjustments to the target range for the federal funds rate, the Committee will carefully assess incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks. The Committee will continue reducing its holdings of Treasury securities, agency debt, and agency mortgage‑backed securities. The Committee is strongly committed to supporting maximum employment and returning inflation to its 2 percent objective. In assessing the appropriate stance of monetary policy, the Committee will continue to monitor the implications of incoming information for the economic outlook. The Committee would be prepared to adjust the stance of monetary policy as appropriate if risks emerge that could impede the attainment of the Committee’s goals. The Committee’s assessments will take into account a wide range of information, including readings on labor market conditions, inflation pressures and inflation expectations, and financial and international developments. Voting for the monetary policy action were Jerome H. Powell, Chair; John C. Williams, Vice Chair; Michael S. Barr; Susan M. Collins; Lisa D. Cook; Austan D. Goolsbee; Philip N. Jefferson; Alberto G. Musalem; and Jeffrey R. Schmid. Voting against this action were Michelle W. Bowman and Christopher J. Waller, who preferred to lower the target range for the federal funds rate by 1/4 percentage point at this meeting. Absent and not voting was Adriana D. Kugler.

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Seeking Nominations: 25th Salute To Women in Material Handling Cover Story

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:20:20 +0000

Do you know an exceptional woman making an impact in the material handling industry? Material Handling Wholesaler is now accepting nominations for our 25th Annual Salute to Women issue! DEADLINE: Friday, August 8th, 2025 This person must be recognized as a leader in their field by their peers and have made significant contributions to the industry through their efforts. Please submit their name, contact information, and a short paragraph of why you feel this person deserves to be recognized in the October issue of Material Handling Wholesaler. Submit Now

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The PTDA Manufacturer-Distributor Idea Exchange evolves as the largest direct networking event for PT/MC Channel Partners

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:25:14 +0000

In response to demands for more effective tools for accelerating supply chain relationships, the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) will be introducing significant upgrades to its signature program—the Manufacturer-Distributor Idea Exchange (MD-IDEX)—at the PTDA 2025 Industry Summit. Long recognized as the largest, most focused networking opportunity for channel partners in the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry, connecting will be even more focused and effective. Taking place October 24–25 at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country, MD-IDEX gives manufacturers and distributors exclusive opportunities to build relationships, solve problems and pursue new partnerships—all in one space. The event is regularly praised by attendees as one of the most cost- and time-efficient means to conduct business and maximize the Industry Summit experience. “This is the event everyone talks about—and for good reason,” says Industry Summit Planning Task Force Chair Michael Whitesides, Nachi America Inc., Executive Sales Manager—East. “There’s no better way to engage directly with the people who power our industry forward. Participants can condense weeks’ worth of meetings into just a few high-impact hours.” For 2025, MD-IDEX eliminates appointment scheduling through PTDA (including the required acceptance of appointments)—giving attendees greater flexibility and freedom to connect in meaningful, high-impact ways across two days: Friday: Representatives from PTDA manufacturer member companies that purchased a booth will be present in their assigned “remote office” while representatives from PTDA distributor member companies may visit informally and engage in business development conversations up to 20-minutes in length. Saturday: PTDA distributor member companies that register at least one representative for the Industry Summit will be assigned a booth—free of charge—and will be present in it as representatives from PTDA manufacturer member companies walk the floor prepared to meet additional contacts discussions of up to 20 minutes. Only PTDA manufacturer member companies with a reserved booth and all PTDA distributor member companies will have access to the MD-IDEX hall throughout the two days. Booths are filling quickly, and space is limited. Manufacturer companies that reserve by August 15 will save $100 on their booth fee. More information including Industry Summit registration and MD-IDEX booth reservation forms can be found at ptda.org/IndustrySummit. Interested in participating in MD-IDEX but not a PTDA member? Visit ptda.org/join to download a membership application.

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Wauseon Machine launched field services business unit to maximize uptime and lifecycle value

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:55:30 +0000

Providing comprehensive, customer-centered support through high-quality service solutions Wauseon Machine has announced a significant strategic shift with the creation of a dedicated Field Services Business Unit. This initiative delivers more focused, comprehensive support to customers and underscores Wauseon Machine’s commitment to end-to-end lifecycle management for automation and robotics systems. The newly formed Field Services Business Unit is solely focused on providing comprehensive support throughout the automation and robotics lifecycle. Customers will benefit from a robust suite of services, including preventive maintenance, modernization and optimization programs, spare parts support, and rapid-response resources. These offerings are designed to minimize downtime and maximize reliability, reinforcing Wauseon Machine’s role as a trusted partner in operational success. The Field Services Business Unit represents a forward-thinking initiative that enables Wauseon Machine to provide excellence in every customer interaction. The company’s expert team brings the technical skill and responsiveness needed to help customers maintain peak performance and confidently meet future challenges. As technology and production demands continue to evolve, Wauseon Machine remains a proactive partner, committed to helping clients adapt, grow, and sustain operational excellence through its trusted service model.

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HAVER & BOECKER launched the AMICUS® Advanced Robot Family

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:54:39 +0000

HAVER & BOECKER has launched the AMICUS® DEPAL Edition and AMICUS® PAL Edition. The robotic depalletizer and palletizer complement and completely automate packing lines from empty to full bags, enhancing productivity and safety for customers. “Robots improve the efficiency of processes, provide more work capacity, and create a stable, reliable, and safe packing cycle. The AMICUS — which is the Latin word for ‘friend’ — complements existing packing lines,” said Bernhard Pagenkemper, Chief Sales Officer at HAVER & BOECKER Machinery Division. “The advanced technology increases efficiency by precisely handling the bags, drums and other materials, leading to less downtime due to manual processes and required monitoring by employees.” The AMICUS DEPAL utilizes image recognitio,n which allows the DEPAL to detect bag bundles quickly and effectively, then securely grip them using the unique End of Arm Tool (EOAT) developed by HAVER & BOECKER before transferring them from the pallet to the automatic bag placer, seamlessly integrating with an existing packing line. When paired with a packing machine and bag applicator, the DEPAL offers an output of up to 6,000 bags per hour. The end-of-arm tool is both effective and versatile with the ability to grip unstrapped empty bag bundles of 15-20 bags and accommodate different bag sizes without the need for a tool change. The AMICUS DEPAL offers a compact design allowing for easy integration to any packing line, even those with limited space. Setup requires little downtime and therefore can be completed quickly. In addition to providing increased precision, the DEPAL is easy to operate and simple to maintain, resulting in enhanced efficiency and increased uptime. Continuing HAVER & BOECKER’s focus on end-to-end automation, the AMICUS PAL robotic palletizer completes the packing/filling process by taking the filled bags, pails, canisters and drums and stacks them on a pallet. The smart HMI allows for intuitive adaptation to customer containers and pallet sizing, saving time and boosting efficiency. Its capacity, flexibility for palletizing various products and space saving form make it a popular choice for a wide range of operations. The end of arm tool is adapted to your container type and production needs. HAVER & BOECKER offers optional slip sheet, film and pallet magazines for the PAL. The PAL seamlessly integrates with HAVER & BOECKER’s full line of bulk packing equipment to provide customers with a tailored solution and full system integration. Custom-built tools are available for specific customer applications. Like the DEPAL, the PAL can work with two packing machines at the same time. The PAL can also be configured to work seamlessly with a variety of packing machines, making it an automation solution for any plant.

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Episode 612: Boosting warehouse productivity with Vecna Robotics

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:48:16 +0000

In this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, Kevin chats with Karl Iagnemma, CEO of Vecna Robotics. Vecna Robotics enhances warehouse productivity by integrating AI-driven autonomous robots with human workers, optimizing efficiency and safety. With extensive expertise in robotics and autonomous vehicle technology, Karl discusses his transition from developing autonomous vehicles for public roads to optimizing robotic solutions within warehouse environments. A particular focus of the discussion is Vecna’s innovative CaseFlow solution, a robotics-driven approach designed to significantly streamline the case picking process in warehouses, reducing manual labor and operational disruptions. Leveraging Autonomous Technology to Solve Case Picking Challenges Case picking, traditionally a manual and labor-intensive task, involves substantial physical effort and time inefficiency due to excessive walking. Vecna Robotics tackles this issue head-on with their CaseFlow solution, a fleet of automated pallet jacks coordinated seamlessly with human workers. Karl emphasizes, “We’ve seen essentially double productivity per worker—a 2X improvement—and we’ve reduced labor count by about 70%.” This system notably cuts down human travel time within warehouses, allowing workers to concentrate on the high-value task of building stable and secure pallets, thereby reducing employee fatigue and turnover. Effortless Integration into Brownfield Environments Recognizing that most facilities can’t afford massive disruptions or hefty capital investments, Vecna’s solution excels particularly in brownfield settings, existing warehouses without the luxury of redesigning operations from scratch. Karl points out the practicality and ease of adoption: “The world is brownfield. Most customers are not in a position to make multimillion-dollar investments.” Vecna’s solution requires minimal infrastructural adjustments, relying on intelligent software and wearables to guide human workers efficiently, ensuring a smooth, non-disruptive transition into automation. Why Software Drives Robotic Success While hardware is essential, Karl argues convincingly that software is the true differentiator in robotics. “So we’ve got great hardware, but the software is what really differentiates us. It’s what gives the robots the intelligence to perform very complex workflows.” Vecna’s AI-driven software allows robots to autonomously navigate, handle exceptions, and coordinate with each other and human operators efficiently. He states, “Software determines the capabilities and efficiency of the system. It’s 90% of the value.” Continuous software improvements lead to annual productivity increases of approximately 20%, far surpassing what human labor can achieve alone. This software-first approach results in significant long-term cost savings and efficiency gains for warehouse productivity. Key Takeaways on Warehouse Productivity Vecna’s CaseFlow system achieves double productivity per worker and reduces labor requirements by approximately 70%. Brownfield sites benefit significantly from Vecna’s low-disruption, software-integrated automation solutions. Software is crucial, driving 90% of the value by enhancing autonomous robot capabilities and system-wide efficiencies. Vecna’s software improvements yield an impressive annual warehouse productivity growth rate of around 20%. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 612: Boosting warehouse productivity with Vecna Robotics

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The new irreplaceables – six questions only generalists know how to answer in an AI world

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:16:37 +0000

Let's start with the argument every aspiring leader loves to have—even if they don't say it out loud:

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Queen City Robotics Alliance announced two new FRC Teams

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 17:35:28 +0000

More opportunities for high school robotics students Queen City Robotics Alliance has announced the creation of two new FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC) teams in Charlotte. These two new teams will expand the opportunities for Charlotte-Mecklenburg high school students to become part of a team engaging in friendly competition while also making new friends and preparing for their future studies and careers. QCRA CFO Kaiwen Cheng made the announcement on July 20, and now QCRA is working hard to recruit not only new student team members, but adult mentors and volunteers. “As we prepare for the 2025–2026 robotics season,” Cheng explained, “we’re excited about the possibilities ahead, but we need your help to make it all happen.” What is FIRST Robotics Competition? FIRST founder Dean Kaman began what is now a global non-profit in 1989 to “combine the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology.” FRC teams across the country design, program, and build industrial sized robots (weighing between 80-100 pounds!) to participate in action-packed games and challenges at tournaments. Teams compete on a playing field that has a different theme each year. The theme for the 2025-26 competition season is FIRST Age – Rebuilt presented by Haas with an emphasis on archeology. EVENT: To reach more potential volunteers and student team members, QCRA is hosting two Volunteer and Student Recruitment nights in August at our facility The Zone. The events are Wednesdays, August 13 and August 20, from 6-8 pm. It is an open house-style event so families and potential recruits can visit at a time convenient for them. Guests will be able to meet our current FRC teams, ask questions of team members and mentors, tour our classrooms and facilities, and learn how to volunteer and/or register for a FIRST FRC team. Those who cannot make the in-person events can email QCRA at info@queencityrobotics.com for more information. QCRA is also thrilled to announce one of the new FRC teams will be made entirely of girls. This will be an opportunity for girls who are interested in robotics and engineering – but may be reluctant to join a co-ed team – to participate in what can be male-dominated field. The hope is to instill confidence in young women so they can succeed in STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and perhaps even go on into science and technology fields as a career. Last year both of QCRA’s FRC teams qualified for the World Championships in Houston. Team 3506 YETI Robotics has existed for over 10 years and has qualified for worlds three out of the last four years. Team 2724 Avalanche Robotics is a new team in its first year of competition, however, the team’s lead mentor has been involved with FRC and QCRA for many years. Both of our existing teams will be partnered with one of the new teams to guide them through their first year of competition. Please help! We need more adult mentors for all of our teams. By reaching out to you in the Charlotte media, we hope you’ll find room in your publications, newsletters, and programs to feature us so we can find enough adult volunteers to support our teams for years to come. The requests from students and their families for more teams has been increasing since we moved into our new, larger facility in 2023, but without adults leading the teams, we have had difficulty meeting the demand. While we have had success in creating teams for younger kids, this is the first attempt we have made in several years to increase the number of high school teams. We can’t do it without your help. MEDIA OUTLETS: Any media outlet wanting more information, photographs, or interviews with team mentors and students, please contact Carrie Dow at 303-523-3758, carriedow@queencityrobotics.org.

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Bobcat Company honored among Newsweek’s America’s Greatest Workplaces for 2025

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 17:29:58 +0000

Honors include Greatest Workplaces for Manufacturing, Greatest Workplaces in North Dakota and additional award recognitions Bobcat Company was selected as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for 2025 by Newsweek. In the annual rankings, Bobcat was recognized in seven distinct award categories, reflecting its commitment to meaningful work, employee wellbeing and continuous career development for more than 5,000 employees in the U.S. Newsweek also featured Bobcat on its 2025 lists for America’s Greatest Workplaces for Manufacturing, America’s Greatest Workplaces by State – North Dakota, America’s Greatest Workplaces for Parents and Families, America’s Greatest Workplaces for Gen Z, America’s Greatest Workplaces for Mental Well Being and America’s Greatest Workplaces for Inclusion & Diversity. “We are honored to be recognized among Newsweek’s list of America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025,” said Stacey Breuer, vice president of human resources at Doosan Bobcat North America, Inc. “These awards are a reflection of the culture our employees help create every day – one where our employees are empowered to do great work and careers are built with intention.” In facilities throughout the U.S., Bobcat employs more than 5,000 people who are responsible for designing, building and supporting the industry’s most advanced compact equipment and worksite solutions. As a leading manufacturer, Bobcat’s roots began in America’s heartland and this legacy continues with Bobcat’s North American headquarters in West Fargo, North Dakota. Bobcat continues to make investments in innovative workplaces and programs that support and elevate the overall employee experience. This includes new onboarding, learning and mentorship initiatives; leadership and career development programs; resource groups; competitive benefit offerings; and more that support employee engagement, retention and development. “At Bobcat, we are proud of our people and the positive impact they continue to have on our customers, communities and Bobcat’s success,” said Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America, Inc. “We will always strive to provide an innovative work environment for our employees and continue to invest in their future, so they have the opportunity to excel and succeed at Bobcat.” Compiled in partnership with market data research firm Plant-A Insights, Newsweek identified America’s Greatest Workplaces by conducting a large-scale employer study based on more than 1.5 million comprehensive company reviews from approximately 250,000 U.S. employees across 78 different sectors, each of whom were surveyed on key factors in employee satisfaction, including compensation and benefits, training and career progression, work-life balance and company culture.

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Burwell Material Handling expands into Florida with acquisition of W.E. Johnson Equipment Company

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 16:40:24 +0000

Burwell Material Handling has announced the acquisition of W.E. Johnson Equipment Company, a material handling equipment dealer with locations in Miami and Fort Myers, Florida. This acquisition expands Burwell Material Handling’s national footprint to 20 branches, strengthening its ability to serve customers across the Southeast and beyond. Burwell Material Handling will update and rebrand the two locations of W.E. Johnson, founded in 1958. The upgraded facilities, which will include additional parts distribution, service bays, and rental equipment space, will allow the branches to build on their operations with greater access to resources, more brands, and an expanded lineup of services. “We’re thrilled to welcome the W.E. Johnson team and customers into the Burwell Material Handling family,” said Kent Senf, president of Burwell Material Handling “This move gives customers in Florida a smarter, safer way to handle their operations. By combining our team’s strengths, we’re delivering on our promise to help businesses run better and grow with confidence.” The acquisition is part of Burwell Material Handling’s strategic mission to deliver end-to-end solutions across the entire material handling lifecycle, from equipment and rentals to service, custom engineered systems, and fleet technologies. “Whether you’re in Miami, Fort Myers, or any one of our 20 locations across the country, our focus is the same,” Senf said. “We’re here to help customers make better decisions, reduce risk, and stay productive with integrated solutions and responsive local support.” Customers in South Florida can expect a seamless transition, with no anticipated disruptions to their existing service. Over the coming months, they will also gain access to Burwell Material Handling’s capabilities and product lines with equipment from leading OEMs, including Bobcat, CLARK, JLG, Genie, and Haulotte. “For nearly four decades, the Burwell family has grown their business by listening first, acting fast, and doing right by our partners,” Senf said. “We’re proud to carry that legacy forward by investing in teams like W.E. Johnson.”

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Vidir Solutions has announced the pan carousel automated storage system

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 16:35:03 +0000

Optimized vertical carousel for enhanced inventory accessibility and ergonomic performance Vidir Solutions has announced the Pan Carousel, a vertical carousel expertly designed to save up to 75% of floor space in industrial, manufacturing, distribution, and retail environments. Engineered to solve the accessibility, safety, and productivity challenges faced by organizations with limited vertical clearance or constrained facilities, the Pan Carousel delivers unprecedented efficiency through a comprehensive suite of advanced features. The vertical carousel design is a game changer for facilities with a limited footprint, offering robust storage and rapid retrieval tailored to unique architectural footprints. Employees benefit from ergonomic, waist-level access, which significantly improves safety and comfort by eliminating bending, reaching, and climbing for stored goods. The bi-directional rotation capability smartly reduces retrieval times, always selecting the shortest path to the needed item. The Pan Carousel is designed with adaptable storage solutions to meet a variety of organizational needs. Its adjustable pan spacing allows facilities to store a broad spectrum of product sizes, optimizing storage density for items ranging from small tools to moderately heavy components. With customizable pan width and depth options, the system can be configured to fit specific requirements across manufacturing, warehousing, retail, automotive, and even the most demanding aerospace and defense environments. Supporting industrial-grade durability, the heavy-gauge steel vertical carousels are built for long-lasting use. Pan dividers and an array of bin accessories keep items organized and separated, enhancing operational efficiency within each pan. The modular architecture allows the system to expand or reconfigure easily as storage needs evolve over time. The Pan Carousel is designed for quick installation to minimize disruption and accelerate deployment. Its variable speed drive motor ensures smooth acceleration and deceleration while reducing component wear. Optional inventory management software integrates seamlessly with Vidir’s digital platforms, supporting traceability, real-time stock updates, and automated management functions. For operators, an intuitive touchscreen interface simplifies training and ongoing use, with the added ability to adjust the interface location for optimal ergonomic comfort. The Pan Carousel incorporates a range of safety and operational features designed for industrial environments. It includes CSA-approved electrical systems for reliable operation, maintenance access panels to streamline serviceability and reduce downtime, and an optional integrated safety light curtain that automatically halts carousel movement if its safety zone is breached. The system’s compact footprint helps facilities reclaim valuable floor space, making it well-suited for high-density storage applications. Additionally, its smooth and quiet operation creates a more pleasant working atmosphere, benefiting both shared and customer-facing areas. Designed to run in continuous-duty industrial applications, the Pan Carousel is capable of supporting up to 28 feet of linear shelf space per carousel, significantly reducing the footprint dedicated to inventory storage and material handling. Both open and enclosed configurations are available, tailored to the security and accessibility demands of individual environments. Purpose-built for parts and components management in manufacturing, efficient picking and retrieval in distribution centers, backroom inventory organization in retail, and critical, secure storage for automotive and aerospace markets, the Pan Carousel raises the standard for inventory accessibility and operational productivity.

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igus has introduced Iggy Rob: An affordable humanoid Robot for Industrial and Service Applications

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:31:12 +0000

The motion plastics specialist igus has unveiled its first humanoid robot, Iggy Rob, designed to support industrial production, service environments, and transport tasks. The robot, offered at a market-disruptive price of approximately $54,500, presents a cost-effective entry point into humanoid robotics for companies seeking automation solutions. The introduction of Iggy Rob arrives amid forecasts estimating that up to 20 million humanoid robots could be deployed in industrial applications by 2030. While traditional humanoid systems remain prohibitively expensive for many businesses, igus aims to lower the barrier to adoption with an affordable, versatile robot powered by its own motion plastic components. “Because our environment is built by and for humans, the potential for humanoid robots is immense,” stated Jan Hennecke, Business Unit Manager for LCA/RBTX at igus. “Iggy Rob offers a practical, affordable way for companies to begin integrating robotics into their operations.” The introduction of Iggy Rob marks the culmination of years of innovation at igus in the field of Low-Cost Automation. Building on extensive experience with its own motion plastics components, igus has progressively advanced toward the realization of a humanoid robot. Key developments include the launch of the igus ReBeL cobot in 2022, a low-cost robotic arm, the igus ReBeL Hand, a low-cost humanoid hand in 2023, and the igus ReBeL Move, an autonomous mobile platform, a low-cost AMR in 2024. Each of these milestones has contributed to demonstrating what can be achieved in the humanoid robotics space through the use of igus technology, culminating in the creation of an affordable, fully integrated humanoid system. Standing approximately 1.70 meters (67 inches) tall, Iggy Rob can operate autonomously for up to eight hours on a single charge. It is equipped with two ReBeL Cobot arms, bionic hands, a LiDAR sensor, and 3D cameras for advanced object detection and navigation. These features enable smooth mobility and interaction in dynamic environments. The robot is powered by igus Robot Control software (iRC), is CE-certified, and is approved for fleet management under VDE 5050 standards. Integration with the ROS2 interface ensures compatibility with modern robotics infrastructures. Rather than using legs, Iggy Rob is built upon the proven ReBeL Move autonomous mobile robot (AMR) platform. This base features a robust three-point bearing and supports a load capacity of 50 kilograms (110 pounds) with a payload of 100 kilograms (220 pounds). This design choice aligns with the existing infrastructure of many factories and enhances stability and functionality. igus has identified various potential use cases, including service tasks at reception desks, transport roles within facilities, and canteen operations such as clearing cutlery. Internally, igus intends to deploy Iggy Rob for component placement in injection-molding machines. igus offers a “test before you invest” program to accelerate adoption and ensure suitability for diverse environments. This initiative allows companies to trial Iggy Rob on-site with support from igus experts who assess feasibility and performance in real-world applications. Should the trial prove successful, the robot can be purchased at a price significantly lower than comparable humanoid robots, which often cost two to three times more.

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Women In Trucking Association announced continued partnership with Ryder System, Inc.

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:10:55 +0000

The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced that Ryder System, Inc. has renewed its Gold Level Partnership. This partnership emphasizes Ryder’s commitment to WIT’s mission of advancing women’s employment in the trucking industry, celebrating their achievements, and overcoming the barriers they encounter in the field. For more than a decade, Ryder has actively participated in the association and has supported WIT as a Gold Level Partner. Lesley Kerr, vice president of human resources, serves on the board of directors, offering her deep knowledge and foresight to drive the organization’s progress. “At Ryder, we strive to foster a supportive and innovative workplace with engaged employees. We’ve built a culture where women don’t just work, they lead, grow, and thrive,” says Kerr. “I’m honored to continue working alongside Women in Trucking to advance the representation of women not only within Ryder but also throughout our industry.” “I look forward to the unique perspective and leadership Lesley Kerr will continue to bring to our board,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT. “Industry leaders like Ryder play a vital role in advancing the WIT mission and affecting real change within the transportation industry.”

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Episode 611: Instawork is tackling warehouse talent shifts with flexibility and data

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 18:01:24 +0000

Welcome to this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, where Kevin chats with Alex Vinden, General Manager of Light Industrial at Instawork. Instawork is a flexible staffing platform redefining how warehouses meet labor demands. Alex dives into Instawork’s tech-powered approach to temporary staffing, its role in collecting real-time labor data, and key insights from their latest State of Warehouse Labor report. As warehouses grapple with evolving labor needs and the uncertainty of tariffs, Alex breaks down the emerging trends and why flexibility is no longer optional; it’s essential for attracting and retaining top warehouse talent. Leveraging Data to Redefine Staffing Models Instawork stands out by blending traditional staffing needs with a tech-first model. Instead of relying solely on resumes, they analyze real-time job performance to match workers with warehouse needs better. According to Vinden, this shift provides unprecedented visibility for both staffing partners and operators. “When you’re working with a traditional agency, all of the best data that they can get comes off of the worker’s resume… whereas Instawork can go deeper and use their actual on-the-job performance.” Instawork collects data at multiple points, including wage rates, attendance, job type, and performance metrics, down to the zip code level. This data helps them stay ahead of trends. For example, they can spot wage shifts before government labor reports catch up. Their layered data approach provides warehouses with a granular view of worker reliability and performance by role. The Surprising Warehouse Talent Gap: General Warehouse Roles While skilled roles like forklift operators are traditionally harder to fill, Instawork’s recent labor report flips that narrative. “40% of [our partners] reported the biggest challenge was general labor-type warehouse roles… and 22% said pick and pack,” adds Vinden. That’s over 60% of staffing difficulty centered around what many assume to be entry-level work. As Alex explains, many companies now use these roles as top-of-funnel recruitment—training entry-level staff to grow into more technical positions. “Getting reliable people in the door consistently has been a really large challenge.” Why? General laborers now have more options, ranging from gig economy work to lower-effort roles in the hospitality industry. And when given a choice between lifting 75-pound boxes and delivering food, many opt for the less physically demanding route—especially if pay is equal. Tariff Chaos and the Case for Flexibility One of the hottest topics in warehousing right now? Tariffs. According to Alex, the industry is far from settled. “Right now we’ve seen massive decreases in CapEx and investment… People don’t know what to do.” Whether companies are shifting to 3PLs or trying to bring operations in-house, there’s a clear pattern: pause long-term decisions and stay agile. That’s where Instawork’s flexible labor model shines. “The smart approach would be to simply pause hiring, lean on temporary staffing more until you see what your business’s reality is.” This flexibility allows operators to ramp up or down based on short-term needs while maintaining productivity. For facilities investing in automation, Instawork continues to play a vital role. Manual tasks, such as loading, sorting, and final packing, often remain human-dependent and require minimal training, making them ideal for temporary workers. “Each warehouse is so unique that ramping from zero to 100… takes several weeks of getting used to it.” Key Takeaways on Warehouse Talent Wage rates have increased by 30% since 2021, but labor shortages are easing, particularly for skilled roles. The most challenging roles to fill are general warehouse labor and pick-pack jobs, not the skilled ones. Instawork’s platform collects granular data like punctuality, skill fit, and performance by task. Tariff uncertainty is halting long-term hiring, making flexible labor essential. Gen Z now makes up the largest share of the workforce, and they expect flexibility. Temporary staffing can serve as a bridge during volatility and reduce long-term cost risk. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 611: Instawork is tackling warehouse talent shifts with flexibility and data

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SUN Automation Group® Announces Second U.S. Purchase of Kolbus

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 16:15:05 +0000

BX Motion by Corrugated Partners LLC SUN Automation Group® has announced the second U.S. and third overall North American purchase of the Kolbus BX Motion by Corrugated Partners LLC in Arlington, Texas. This milestone marks another significant step forward in the strategic partnership between SUN Automation and Kolbus, as the BX Motion continues to gain traction across the North American market for its efficiency, versatility, and cutting-edge design. The BX Motion is engineered to meet the evolving needs of box plants focused on short-run production. It boasts a modular and multifunctional design that enables customizable tool configurations and rapid changeovers. Supporting single-, double-, and triple-wall corrugated board from E-flute to AAC-flute, the BX Motion delivers setup times under 60 seconds and the capability to produce more than 50 FEFCO box styles. Integrated features such as digital printing, automatic loading and stacking, and inline glue strip application make it a complete, all-in-one solution for high-quality box production. “We’re excited to be one of the first in North America to invest in the BX Motion,” said AJ Slaven, President of Corrugated Partners LLC. “This technology aligns perfectly with our mission to meet evolving customer demands with speed, flexibility, and precision. The fact that it can go from concept to box in minutes while offering extensive style and board options gives us a major edge in today’s competitive market.” The acquisition reflects Corrugated Partners’ commitment to operational excellence and innovation, with strong support from SUN Automation and Kolbus. “SUN is proud to support Corrugated Partners LLC with this installation and the growing demand for short-run, high-performance solutions,” said Ryan Clark, Capital Equipment Sales Manager at SUN Automation Group. “The BX Motion delivers flexibility and capability that box makers need, and we’re thrilled to see it continuing to gain traction across North America.” This latest installation also underscores the success of the recent partnership between SUN and Kolbus, which has significantly expanded SUN’s product offerings. “Our partnership with Kolbus strengthens SUN’s mission to provide the most comprehensive and innovative solutions in the corrugated space,” said Greg Jones, Executive Vice President at SUN Automation Group. “With our deep knowledge of the industry and unmatched service and support network, we’re confident that our customers will benefit greatly from this world-class technology.” As the exclusive representative of Kolbus equipment in the U.S. and Canada, SUN Automation Group provides full sales, service, and parts support for the BX Motion and other Kolbus solutions. This ensures North American customers receive the local expertise and responsiveness they need to maximize uptime and productivity.

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transport logistic Americas and air cargo Americas return to Miami in November 2025

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:11:02 +0000

From Munich to Miami: transport logistic Continues to Build Global Bridges 2,722 exhibitors from 73 countries, over 77,000 visitors from more than 130 countries, and 65% international exhibitor share – these record-breaking figures from the recent transport logistic and air cargo Europe in Munich underline the industry’s need for strong, global platforms for exchange and innovation. Following the successful trade fair in Munich, the international logistics and air cargo industry is looking ahead to the next major event: transport logistic Americas and air cargo Americas, which will take place in Miami from November 11 to 13, 2025. As global trade talks are increasingly characterized by changing customs policies and economic uncertainty, experts emphasize the importance of international platforms where stakeholders can assess and respond to these developments. “Changes in global trade policies directly impact companies’ network design, logistics flows, and total cost of ownership within their supply chains,” said Dr. Monique Murfield, Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Supply Chain Excellence, Farmer School of Business, Miami University. “Global supply chains cannot be upended overnight, so in times of uncertainty, conferences are particularly important to provide opportunities for supply chain executives to exchange ideas and strategies.” This need for dialogue is not only about policy, it also extends to the innovation and resilience that modern supply chains demand. “One of the core challenges in global supply chain design today is balancing efficiency with resilience—especially when operating across diverse regulatory and risk environments,” adds Dr. Adegoke Oke, Professor and Chair of Department of Supply Chain Management, W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. “Bringing decision-makers together at events like this allows the industry to translate complex requirements into actionable strategies.” The Miami Beach Convention Center will once again be the meeting place for key players from across the global supply chain. Organized by Messe München, the event is the largest fair for logistics and intermodal freight transportation in the USA and brings together logistics and air cargo professionals, supply chain executives, and shippers from key industries. The format combines high-level networking on the show floor with a diverse educational program in seminars and sessions, attracting participants from North and South America, Europe, and Asia. “The strong momentum from Munich shows that the industry values structured exchange, especially when many markets are in transition,” says Dr. Robert Schönberger, Global Industry Lead transport logistic & air cargo exhibitions at Messe München. “With transport logistic Americas and air cargo Americas, we aim to offer exactly that kind of orientation and focus—tailored to the realities of the Americas.” Held at the intersection of key trade routes between North and South America, Miami offers the ideal location to foster international dialogue. A comprehensive seminar program will accompany the exhibition, covering topics such as regional infrastructure, nearshoring, sustainability, digitalization, and multimodal logistics. “The topics on the agenda are highly relevant to current industry developments.” Dr. Schönberger adds. “We look forward to welcoming the global logistics community to one of the most dynamic trade regions in the world.”

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Hyster recognized as top Green Supply Chain Partner for advancing materials handling electrification

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 10:00:22 +0000

Inbound Logistics magazine honored Hyster for expanding accessibility to lithium-ion power, high-capacity electric equipment with performance comparable to internal combustion engines Hyster announced its selection as one of 2025’s 75 Green Supply Chain Partners by Inbound Logistics magazine, marking the company’s sixth consecutive year on the list. The publication recognized Hyster for its recently launched onboard charging solution, which enables operations to charge lithium-ion trucks using commonly available electrical outlets, and the J230-400XD forklift series, an expanded line of heavy-duty trucks with integrated lithium-ion power and capacities of up to 40,000 pounds. “As businesses continue to seek cost-effective ways to reduce their emissions and boost productivity, our team has been hard at work to design and manufacture solutions that can handle the demands of any operation, whether they’re a small building materials operation or one of the world’s busiest ports,” says Josh Eby, Global Product Manager, Hyster. “This honor from Inbound Logistics recognizes the need for electric equipment in these applications, and we remain committed to delivering it every day.” The onboard charging option is available on several Hyster lift trucks with factory-integrated lithium-ion battery power and lift capacities ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 pounds. To connect with common, standard electric outlets, the solution includes a charging cable with a 240-volt 50-amp connection, adaptors for both 240-volt 30-amp and 120-volt 12-amp plugs, and an out-of-the-way storage bin is located to the left of the seat for all cables and adaptors. This charging flexibility makes lithium-ion-powered forklifts a stronger fit for applications with intermittent charging availability or lower-hour applications that do not require fast charging. It also enables businesses to rent electric forklifts without altering their electric infrastructure and allows for recharging via generator when power is unreliable or unavailable. The J230-400XD series is available with a range of battery sizes to match duty cycle and charging requirements, configurable up to 280kW. The 350-volt architecture offers long run times and minimizes energy loss without the additional cost and complexity of higher-voltage systems. In 2025, this line of integrated lithium-ion big trucks expanded to include load capacities up to 40,000 pounds. Like all Hyster electric big trucks, the J230-400XD trucks incorporate the Combined Charging System (CCS) as standard. This global electric vehicle charging standard enables operations to cost-effectively scale charging for multiple applications and types of equipment through a single, standardized charging connector that has been adopted across numerous industries and geographies. Equipped with the right battery pack and charger, and working in a typical duty cycle, a truck can add approximately an hour of work time from 11 minutes of charging at 90 kW.

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