Autoquip Corporation acquires German Company J.A. Becker Söhne (JAB)
Autoquip Corporation has announced they have acquired J.A. Becker & Söhne of Erlenbach, Germany. The company specializes in highly engineered and heavy-duty lifting technology for OEM production and MRO platforms for commercial vehicles, military & defense, rail cars, and light transit, as well as medium and high-pressure industrial air compressors specially tailored for nitrogen, helium, and natural gas applications. “We are very pleased and excited to welcome JAB into the Autoquip family. There are growth opportunities for both companies to expand their markets and product offerings, fitting our strategy of acquiring complementary, high-quality, and differentiated businesses. Their lift platform technology provides us with access to another adjacent market that Autoquip has not targeted previously, opening doors to attracting light rail transit (LRT) transitioning cities and customers in the U.S. Both product lines from JAB expedite our progress towards providing solutions that assist in achieving their sustainability targets and goals,” said Chris Kuehni, President of Autoquip. “We are thrilled to be under the guidance of Alexander Kraus, Managing Director of JAB, whose seven years of operational experience on the compressor business has been instrumental in leading the company. In 2020, he also assumed responsibility for the lift business, and with his capable direction and the dedicated support of the entire staff, we feel confident and well-guided on this journey. The company culture and product portfolio ideally complement that of Autoquip, making this a perfect match,” added Mr. Kuehni. “The acquisition is a strategic fit, supported by the significant commonalities between the two companies,” said JAB Managing Director, Alexander Kraus. “Both companies have recently achieved significant milestones with J.A. Becker & Söhne in business for 125 years and Autoquip Corporation for 75 years. Each has built a strong reputation for highly engineered lifting products with superior quality and reliability, along with customer trust attributed to their longevity. We are thrilled to be part of the organization which is poised to significantly enhance our future strength and stability, and one that shares our core company values.”
IBTTA expresses shock and sorrow over collapse of Francis Scott Key Bridge
The International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) is deeply saddened by the tragic collapse early this morning of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland. Our hearts are heavy as we agonize over the devastation caused by this catastrophic event. According to reports, the collapse occurred after the bridge was struck by a container ship, leading to a significant portion of the structure falling into the river below. The impact of this incident has been felt not only by the people of Baltimore and Maryland but also by the entire region, as the Francis Scott Key Bridge serves as a vital link in the transportation network. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those affected by this tragedy. We extend our deepest condolences to the community as they grapple with this unimaginable loss. Additionally, we stand in solidarity with the Maryland Department of Transportation and our member, the Maryland Transportation Authority, which operates the Francis Scott Key Bridge. We offer our full support and assistance as they work tirelessly to assess the situation, conduct rescue operations, and begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. As an organization dedicated to promoting the safety and resilience of transportation infrastructure, IBTTA recognizes the importance of thorough investigations into the causes of such incidents to prevent future tragedies. We remain committed to working with authorities and stakeholders to ensure the safety and integrity of bridges and other critical transportation assets. In this time of sorrow and uncertainty, let us come together as a community to support one another and offer assistance to those in need. The road to recovery will be long, but with resilience, determination, and the support of each other, we will overcome this tragedy.
Staffing employment holds steady in March
Staffing employment held steady during the week of March 11-17, with the ASA Staffing Index holding a rounded value of 90. Staffing jobs were down 8.4% from the same period last year. Staffing companies mentioned no one primary factor that limited further growth. New starts, however, in the 11th week of the year decreased by 8.3% from the prior week. Nearly one-third of all staffing companies (32%) reported gains in new assignments week to week. The ASA Staffing Index four-week moving average edged up from the prior week to hold at a rounded value of 90, and temporary and contract staffing employment for the four weeks ending Mar, 17 was 8.8% lower than the same period in 2023. “Staffing employment did not realize a much-anticipated resurgence in growth at the beginning of 2024. Whether the industry has settled into a new post-pandemic equilibrium remains an open question, but current trends affirm that staffing companies must be more proactive about seeking opportunities amid reduced labor market churn,” said Noah Yosif, chief economist at ASA. “Staffing companies, like businesses in many other segments of the economy, are simply weathering the storm as economic conditions remain tight, while demand among clients and talent wanes.” This week will be used in the March monthly employment situation report scheduled to be issued by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on April 5. The ASA Staffing Index is reported nine days after each workweek, making it a near real-time measure of staffing employment trends. ASA Staffing Starts are the number of temporary and contract employees placed in new assignments during the reporting week. ASA research shows that staffing employment has historically been a coincident economic indicator.
PLASTICS releases new recycling is real video featuring PolyQuest
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has unveiled the tenth video as part of the Recycling is Real advocacy campaign, dedicated to promoting and defending plastic recycling in America. This new video highlights the efforts taking place at PolyQuest’s facility in Farmingdale, New York, where bottles made from polyethylene terephthalate, or PET are recycled. PLASTICS’ Recycling is Real campaign, which began in September of 2023, has featured Ultra-Poly, Placon, Novolex, MAAG, Niagara Bottling, Epsilyte, Amcor, Envision Plastics, and an advanced recycling partnership between TenCate, Cyclyx International and ExxonMobil. “Plastic recycling is very real, and it happens every single day across America, including in Farmingdale, New York,” said PLASTICS’ President and CEO Matt Seaholm. “The Recycling is Real campaign highlights the people of our industry across America who work to recycle valuable materials every single day. We will continue to show the public and lawmakers that recycling is undeniable, and a feasible and economical way to achieve a more circular economy.” “We are thankful to support the Recycling is Real campaign by highlighting one of our facilities and are honored to share more about what our team is doing,” said Monica Filyaw, Director of Quality, Safety, and Regulatory Affairs at PolyQuest. “We remain committed to sustainability and are a proud recycler of plastics in both the post-consumer and post-industrial streams. Together we can do more.” Click here to view Recycling is Real featuring PolyQuest The Recycling is Real campaign will provide content to help elected officials and policymakers understand that recycling is a vital link of the sustainability and circularity chain, enabling them to make more well-informed decisions about recycling resources for their constituents. The campaign has also been created in an effort to put an end to false narratives claiming that recycling doesn’t happen or is a “myth.” Recycling has come under attack from those who wish to reduce or eliminate the production of plastic altogether. Recycling is Real will show how recycling happens, where it happens and introduce the people who make it happen.
Chip Gaines announced as Bobcat Company’s New Brand Ambassador
The partnership between the home renovation expert and entrepreneur and the equipment manufacturer aims to inspire and empower Chip Gaines and Bobcat Company has announced a new partnership aimed at inspiring audiences to tackle their DIY dreams. Host of the hit show “Fixer Upper” and known for his passion for home improvement, Gaines is a long-time Bobcat customer and fan. Through this partnership, Gaines is excited to showcase his love for the Bobcat brand to his audience. “I’ve been using Bobcat equipment for years on my farm in Waco, and I can’t imagine working without it. My Bobcat machines have empowered me to bring some of my biggest ideas to life,” said Gaines. “When I was a kid, I remember seeing people driving Bobcat skid-steers, and I always wanted to be in the driver’s seat. This brand goes way back for me, and when I think of world-class equipment, Bobcat is it—which makes me so proud and excited about this partnership.” Aside from being an entrepreneur and contractor, Gaines and his family live a farm lifestyle on their Texas acreage. From tending gardens to managing goats, pigs and horses, Gaines is already sharing the work he is accomplishing with his Bobcat equipment, including a compact tractor, zero-turn mower, compact track loader and utility vehicle, across his social media channels, such as his Instagram page. While Bobcat continues to manufacture its legacy products, like the skid-steer loader, it has grown its consumer offerings geared toward homeowners with acreage who are seeking professional-grade equipment to maintain their properties. Given this, Gaines is an ideal partner for all that Bobcat offers. “Chip has a history of entrepreneurialism, a commitment to hard work and a spirit of community like none other – and he isn’t afraid to take on the toughest tasks and conquer challenges with determination. These values line up perfectly with the Bobcat brand,” said Laura Ness Owens, Bobcat vice president of brand and marketing. “We’re excited to work together to empower people to accomplish more – and have some fun along the way.” Gaines’ endorsement of Bobcat equipment underscores the brand's commitment to providing innovative solutions for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Stay tuned for future news on this partnership and the work Gaines and Bobcat will accomplish together.
Port of Long Beach awards $895,200 in Sponsorships
Funds support 220 events, projects focused on arts, education, environment The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners on Monday approved 220 sponsorships totaling $895,200, the second-largest award in a single call to date. The Port of Long Beach’s Community Sponsorship Program funds community events and activities that help inform residents about the Port. The awards will support a diverse variety of community nonprofits centered on the environment, education, social justice, the arts and historic preservation. This award is the second of three calls of the fiscal year of 2024; of the applications, 42% were first-time requests. To satisfy demand for community funding, the Board approved a $2 million sponsorship budget for the 2024 fiscal year that began Oct. 1. The next open application period for sponsorships will be May 1-31; find out more at polb.com/sponsorship. “Supporting community nonprofits is an important part of our mission,” said Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero. “We are proud to strengthen our commitment to the community each year as we fund new events and programs.” “These dedicated nonprofit groups host a wide variety and range of projects and events all over Long Beach – how extraordinary our community is,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Bobby Olvera Jr. “They are doing important work and we’re proud to help support their missions.” Among the events and programs sponsored in this week’s awards are the Children’s Theatre of Long Beach’s “Pirates of Penzance,” the Cambodia Town Film Festival, and Willmore City Heritage Association’s Earth Day Festival. A list of the approved sponsorships can be found here. The Port accepts sponsorship applications three times a year, in January, May, and September.
MHS Lift receives UniCarriers Premier Club Award for fifth consecutive year
MHS Lift, Inc., a provider of warehousing and distribution solutions across North America, was recently honored with the 2023 UniCarriers Premier Club Award, marking the fifth consecutive year that MHS Lift has received the award. The UniCarriers Premier Club Award is given annually to the Top 10 UniCarriers dealers throughout the Americas. “It’s an incredible honor to be ranked so highly among hundreds of dealers across North America,” said Andy Levin, co-president, MHS Lift. “We owe this distinction to our hardworking team, who always put our customers first.” Recipients of the 2023 UniCarriers Premier Club Award were evaluated based on six categories – new equipment sales, market penetration, aftermarket parts sales, service expertise, overall performance and professionalism. “UniCarriers is renowned for its product quality and reliability,” said Brett Levin, co-president, MHS Lift. “To receive this prestigious recognition for the fifth consecutive year is a testament to our team’s ability to deliver high-quality service to our customers.”
Women In Trucking Association announces 2024 Drivers of the Year
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced three drivers as the winners of the fifth annual Driver of the Year award sponsored by Walmart. The 2024 Drivers of the Year are: Carmen Anderson, America’s Service Line Deb LaBree, Castle Transport LLC, leased to Landstar Jodi Edwards, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. The announcement was made during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event, hosted by WIT at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, KY. The event honors female commercial drivers for their efforts and successes in the trucking industry. “All of these deserving drivers are members of the WIT Image Team,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president and CEO. “They represent the WIT mission and participate in ride-along events for legislators, regulators, and industry leaders to provide a deeper understanding of the obstacles they face on the road. They also speak to the media and other industry professionals at public events and industry trade shows.” Carmen Anderson, a company driver at America’s Service Line, LLC, has 2.5 million safe-driving miles. In 2015, she won the South Dakota Truck Driving championship and went on to compete in nationals in St Louis. Two years later, she was selected for the Wisconsin Road Team. In August 2019, she was named the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association (WMCA) Driver of the Month. She also won the WMCA 2019 Driver of the Year, the first woman to be named the sole recipient of the award. Anderson is a lifetime member of WIT and a lifetime member of Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA). She also serves on the organizing committee for the South Dakota Special Olympics. She was named one of the WIT Top Women to Watch in Transportation in 2021. She is trained to recognize and prevent human trafficking through her involvement with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) and has appeared on TV news to speak on the topic. Deb LaBree became a professional truck driver in 2006. She is an independent owner-operator of Castle Transport LLC and has been leased to Landstar since June of 2014. She is well known for mentoring other business capacity owners (BCOs) within Landstar and has received the Bronze and Silver Star of Quality awards from Landstar for customer service and mentorship. LaBree has been a team driver with her husband, Del, for all her career. She has received the safety award every year since she began driving and was named the NASTC Driver of the Year in 2020. LaBree has been instrumental in growing and managing the WIT Facebook group which has more than 11,000 active members. She was also the July 2020 WIT Member of the Month and is a past WIT board member. LaBree has shared her experience as a guest on SiriusXM’s Dave Nemo Show and Women In Trucking Show. Other media appearances include NBC, Today with Megyn Kelley, Wall Street Journal and various industry publication interviews. She also volunteers to participate as a research subject for various college projects. Jodi Edwards has been a professional driver with J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. for more than 25 years, during which she has driven more than 2 million miles collision-free. Throughout her career, Edwards has exemplified a passion for safety and professionalism and is an encouraging advocate for women entering the transportation industry. Among her many accomplishments, she has been named Driver of the Year for her region and has received multiple safe driving awards at J.B. Hunt. Edwards has been a Smith System® certified instructor for more than 10 years and has been a driver trainer at J.B. Hunt for more than 20 years, where she continues to share her wisdom and experience while driving with J.B. Hunt’s intermodal division. Edwards has been recognized nationally for her professional achievements, being interviewed for industry publications as well as sharing her thoughts live on the Sirius XM® radio show “Road Dog Trucking.” She is a cherished member of the J.B. Hunt family and an important voice and ally for women throughout the transportation industry. Sponsored by Walmart, the annual Driver of the Year award was established to promote the achievements of female professional drivers who lead the industry in safety standards while actively enhancing the public image of the trucking industry. “Walmart is proud to sponsor the Driver of the Year award because it aligns with our commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and excellence. Carmen Anderson, Deb LaBree and Jodi Edwards, are trailblazing women who are more than drivers – they are leaders, mentors and role models. Their achievements prove that success isn’t defined by gender. We’re extremely proud to recognize each of them as this year’s Driver of the Year,” said Fernando Cortes, Senior Vice President of Transportation, Walmart. Members of the judging panel were Jenny Lovering, General Transportation Manager, Walmart; Sarah Smith, SVP Human Resources, Penske and Vice Chair of the WIT board; and Ellen Voie, founder, WIT.
Episode 472: Nearshoring Insights from NowPorts’ Mauricio de la Cerda
This episode centers on the burgeoning trend of nearshoring. Mauricio de la Cerda, the Head of Growth at NowPorts, joins The New Warehouse Podcast to share insights into the role Latin America and Mexico will play in reshaping the supply chain. NowPorts operates as a digital freight forwarder, likened to the Flexport of Latin America. With a foundation built on innovation and rapid growth, they’ve carved a niche in the logistics and supply chain industry within just five years. Be sure to tune in. Navigating the Nearshoring Wave Mauricio highlights, “We have seen a definite increase in trend not only in the nearshoring part between Mexico and the U.S. but also within Latin America.” A blend of cost savings, improved labor quality, and the strategic geographical positioning of manufacturing hubs drive this shift. “I see this(nearshoring) as a long-term trend. Labor has increased in specialization…we are seeing more opportunities for U.S. companies to have cheaper labor with better quality than what they were used to in the past.” The Impact of Nearshoring on Supply Chain Dynamics Exploring the effects of nearshoring on supply chain logistics, Mauricio points out, “Ocean trade has gone up in terms of pricing… So that would be actually another factor for having nearshoring as an advantage.” When executed effectively, the nearshoring strategy translates to cost reductions in labor and shipping and enhancements in supply chain agility and resilience. Mauricio believes the strategic advantages of setting up manufacturing close to the U.S.-Mexico border include streamlining transport and reducing cross-border transit challenges. This approach promises significant savings and efficiency gains, reshaping the traditional supply chain models. Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for Nearshoring While the benefits of nearshoring are manifold, challenges persist, notably in sustaining the growth momentum. Mauricio admits, “There are some challenges that need to be addressed… especially with the incoming Mexican government.” With factories built so close to the U.S. border, companies look at this shift to nearshoring as a way to reduce the variability and possible disruptions that can occur in supply chains that span greater distances. Mauricio adds, “There’s an opportunity to improve just-in-time supply chains while saving on transportation costs.” Key Takeaways Nearshoring is reshaping supply chains by bringing manufacturing closer to end markets, driven by NowPorts’ pioneering efforts. The trend extends beyond cost savings, enhancing supply chain agility, labor quality, and regional trade integration. Challenges such as infrastructure development and efficient border management must be addressed to sustain nearshoring’s benefits. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 472: Nearshoring Insights from NowPorts’ Mauricio de la Cerda
Manhattan Associates wins Global Partner of the Year – SMG3 scoops the North American Award
StayLinked announces winners of 2023 Partner of the Year Awards StayLinked Corporation, an innovative terminal emulation solutions for the supply chain industry, has announced the winners of its ‘2023 Partner of the Year Awards’. “2023 was a very exciting year for StayLinked as once again we saw a significant increase in our market share across all of our worldwide territories,” said Ron Caines, StayLinked’s President of Sales. “This continued momentum is driven by the outstanding efforts of our partner community. Their hard work and commitment to selling StayLinked’s enterprise grade terminal emulation software, SmartTE, and our no-code new technology adoption platform, Evolve, is vital to our success. “The entire StayLinked team joins me in thanking every one of our partners for their support and in offering our congratulations to the award winners. Together we will work to ensure continued success!” added Caines. StayLinked 2023 Award Winners: Global Partner of Year – Manhattan Associates For the second year running Atlanta, GA based Manhattan Associates, a global technology leader in supply chain and omnichannel commerce, wins this category. North American Partner of the Year – SMG3 Strategic Mobility Group (SMG3), an innovative technology provider that designs and integrates mobile solutions for enterprises, is another winner of the same category in consecutive years. Latin America Partner of the Year – Mobilis Located in the western area of Mexico City, Mobilis, with its SmartTE expertise, takes organizations’ data collection operations to the next level with intelligent telnet connectivity software. Asia Pacific Partner of the Year – Gamma Solutions Pty. Ltd Gamma Solutions, located in Victoria, Australia specializes in data capture hardware and software and designs systems varying in complexity from simple programs for barcode readers in a batch mode to sophisticated implementations involving wireless infrastructure. European Partner of the Year – DatAction Since 1989, DatAction has been a reliable partner for the digitization and automation of business-critical logistics processes. With offices in Belgium and the Netherlands, it serves the Benelux market and brings to life innovative projects across Europe. TekTerm for Android Partner of the Year – PIINK TEKNOLOGY Another winner of the same category two years in a row, PIINK Technology based in Toulouse, France, was founded in 2017. The company develops innovative and mobile solutions, based mainly on artificial intelligence and computer vision technologies. Solution Partner of the Year – The Barcode Warehouse The Barcode Warehouse is the UK’s leading specialist provider of barcode technology, RFID, labeling, and enterprise mobility solutions. It is a UK family business with 35 years of experience and a reputation for exceptional customer service.
Warehouse Robotics Co. surpasses $1B in systems sold
Warehouse robotics provider Exotec® announced that it has sold over $1 billion in systems globally, one of the fastest materials handling companies to reach the milestone. This achievement illustrates the rapid adoption of Exotec technology since its founding in 2015 as it continually expands its headcount, reinvests into new solutions, and reaches new markets across the world. Key highlights of Exotec’s journey to $1 billion in systems sold: Global Expansion: Expanded its presence into Eastern Europe and South Korea, and also opened a production facility in Croix, France. Reaching over 100 customer sites globally. In the US Exotec recently announced Lane Automotive, an automotive parts company, as a customer and Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, is now an integrator of the Exotec technology in the North American market. Increased Headcount: Exotec has grown its global headcount 80% over the past year reaching 850+ employees globally. This is in stark contrast to the rest of the material handling industry. Reinvesting in R&D: Exotec heavily re-invests in the research and development of new solutions (10% of its annual revenue). In 2024, Exotec plans to recruit close to 100 R&D professionals globally. The company also recently appointed Louis Esquerre-Pourtere (former Bombardier) as the Director of Research and Development (R&D).
Pramac partners with BlueBotics to launch line of ANT driven mobile robots
The global energy tech solutions and material handling equipment leader, Pramac, has teamed up with Swiss autonomous navigation leader, BlueBotics, to launch its first range of mobile robot solutions under the X-ACT brand. Pramac and BlueBotics have announced their partnership, which sees BlueBotics providing ANT navigation technology and fleet management software for Pramac’s new line of X-ACT mobile logistics robots. Sold under Pramac’s new business unit, called Lifter Mobile Robotics, three X-ACT mobile robots are available with several more in the pipeline. “When we created Lifter Mobile Robotics, we wanted to build on our expertise in the field of material handling equipment by integrating the best and latest technologies possible, to ensure these products are plug & play ready and reliable. When it came to automating and managing our X-ACT solutions, it soon became obvious that BlueBotics was the best-in-class choice. Their ANT navigation is accurate, and robust, requiring minimal infrastructure changes when installing the robots on-site, and their ANT server fleet manager is as powerful as it gets, meaning our X-ACT robots can move intelligently and safely in dynamic environments, whatever the payload size or shape, and without deadlocks,” said Federico Piersimoni, Business Group Director of Pramac’s Material Handling Division. Dr. Nicola Tomatis, CEO at BlueBotics, added, “We are delighted to partner with Pramac as the company moves strongly into the AGV market. Pramac has the highest credibility in material handling space, excellent technology, and an impressive global network. We are sure its X-ACT solutions represent a valuable addition to the market, and we predict great things for Lifter Mobile Robotics in the coming years.” X-ACT mobile robotics Pramac’s X-ACT solutions are designed to work in dynamic environments such as warehouses and factories. At present three models are available, all driven by ANT navigation and managed by BlueBotics’ ANT server fleet management software: HYBRIX is X-ACT’s collaborative mobile robot pallet truck. It features autonomous movement and unloading, but pallets are loaded onto this robot manually. The Hybrix is easy to deploy, program, and use, thanks to its fully integrated ANT navigation software. Hybrix is the easiest solution with which to upgrade a company’s existing logistic processes and it can be quickly integrated in every existing workflow without the need of additional infrastructure. APTIX, by contrast, is X-ACT‘s fully autonomous pallet truck. This stacker solution is designed to move goods in warehouses automatically, from picking to drop off, with precision and efficiency. AMRIX is X-ACT’s fully autonomous platform robot. This omnidirectional unit load solution is designed to transport boxes, crates, pallets and general goods throughout a warehouse. “Designed in compliance with ISO standards, X-ACT robots are designed to evolve a business’s logistics processes to the next level – there is really a solution for virtually every use case,” said Piersimoni. “X-ACT can evolve your business to the next level with flexible solutions, perfect for upgrading traditional and advanced logistics. Thanks to our collaboration with BlueBotics, X-ACT range is plug & play: it integrates perfectly in your warehouse without the need for additional infrastructure, granting maximum safety. All of its technologies are quick and easy to use and grant a quick return on investment, plus X-ACT systems can be easily configured, updated, and monitored using our cloud solution.” “These X-ACT robots are a worthy addition to Pramac’s portfolio of material handling equipment,” added Tomatis. “With offerings such as the ultra-flexible HYBRIX, these solutions are perfectly designed to help companies kick-start their logistics automation programs, easily and in a way that makes sense for their operation. And thanks to the ANT navigation technology inside they are inherently accurate, reliable, quick to commission, and fleet ready.”
Fortifi welcomes Robert Gibson as General Counsel
Veteran leader provides extensive international legal and management expertise Fortifi Food Processing Solutions (“Fortifi”) has appointed Robert Gibson as General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer and environmental health and safety (EHS) lead. Fortifi provides a unified platform of leading global brands and products within food processing equipment and automation solutions. Reporting to Massimo Bizzi, Chief Executive Officer of Fortifi, Gibson will guide all aspects of legal and environmental affairs, compliance and safety at Fortifi. His involvement will include global transactions, corporate governance and legal-team leadership across all of Fortifi’s 34 worldwide sites in 18 countries. He is based at Fortifi global headquarters in The Woodlands, Texas. “We are privileged to draw upon Bob’s extensive international experience and perspective,” said CEO Massimo Bizzi. “His legal insight, global business perspective and panoramic understanding of ethical governance further strengthen our team as we continue our strategic growth.” Gibson served for more than 13 years as Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel of Koch Engineered Solutions, a multi-billion dollar international manufacturing, services, and intellectual property development company. In this role, he developed and led a team of more than 100 employees, and was responsible for all legal support, international commercial compliance and EHS functions. “I am delighted to join an organization that shares my focus on building strong global businesses,” Gibson said. “I look forward to helping Fortifi optimize its international reach and supporting its continued growth.” Gibson earned his law degree from South Texas College of Law Houston and an MBA degree from Texas A&M University.
Thermal Cutting System for Orbital Wrappers automatically cuts stretchwrap after wrapping
TAB Wrapper Tornado option extends life of cutting system A new Thermal Cutting System from orbital wrapper manufacturer TAB Industries, LLC automatically cuts the end of the stretch wrap after pallet wrapping. Offered as an option on the TAB Wrapper Tornado line of orbital wrapping machines, the new Thermal Cutting System features proprietary technology that draws a heated blade through the stretchwrap, cools it, and then hides it safely away behind protective machine guarding – all within five seconds. The novel device leaves the stretchwrap with a clean edge ready for wrapping the next pallet load while eliminating the potential formation of stray, plastic shards common to standard blades when ready for maintenance. Extending the service life of the automated cutting device versus the standard design, the patent-pending Thermal Cutting System reduces blade wear for reduced machine downtime and longer operation before periodic replacement. The new concept is available pre-installed on new TAB Wrapper Tornado orbital wrappers and may be retrofit on automated wrapping machines in the field. The patented orbital wrappers apply stretch wrap 360 degrees around and under the pallet and load to create a stable, unitized load that eliminates the need for boxes, crates, and banding. The stretch wrapping machines and Thermal Cutting System are designed and manufactured at the company’s Reading, Pa. headquarters and delivered with a full warranty.
Replacing LED lamps with simple ballast bypass offer energy reduction and a longer lifespan
LEDtronics®, Inc., an LED lamp manufacturer for more than 40 years, has announced new additions to its family of CFL-style, right-angle-illumination LED lamps for indoor lighting applications. Offering greater longevity and shock resistance than compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), the latest LEDtronics lamps directly replace CFLs via simple ballast bypass in all directional lighting applications, such as 6-inch ceiling can lights beaming 90-degree down in commercial buildings; downlights in offices, shops and homes; wall sconces and lanterns; artwork lighting, accent and display lighting in showrooms, galleries, labs and utility rooms; museum and theater effects lighting, among many others. The UL-listed lamps feature an adjustable 4-pin, G24Q base of white polycarbonate that pivots 340 degrees for easy change of light direction. Their silver-color, extruded aluminum housing offers excellent heat dissipation as well as a light body of only 100 grams, together with a polycarbonate lens. They boast 40 pieces of Epistar SMD2835 high-quality LEDs. Both high-efficacy lamps consume less than 7 watts and replace 9W~13W CFL or 40W~60W incandescent counterparts, effectively reducing energy consumption by up to 70 percent. They operate in a wide voltage range of 100~277VAC. The LEDG24QBB model comes with a frosted white PC lens and provides 4000K natural-white illumination at a wide viewing angle of 115×125 degrees, offering 823 lumens and 240 maximum candelas, with a power factor of 0.97. The LEDG24QU model has a clear PC lens (no glass), and provides 2700K halogen-white light with a 100×105 degree beam angle, offering 613 lumens and 258 maximum candelas, with a power factor of 0.99. The solid-state design of these CFL-replacing LED lamps renders them impervious to electrical and mechanical shock, vibration, frequent switching and environmental extremes. They boast faster turn-on and reaction time compared to compact fluorescent lamps, yet provide higher luminous intensity and pure wavelength light for a more uniform and steady illumination—with neither halation nor flickering. In typical applications, they provide sharper directional light and better visibility than standard lamps and achieve full brightness more rapidly. Built to ensure a longer operating lifespan and to minimize brightness deterioration due to overdriven LEDs, the lamps enjoy lumen maintenance over 70 percent at more than 50,000 hours. They operate within a wide temperature range of -20°C to +65°C, while their rugged but lightweight aluminum housing helps dissipate heat, keeping them cool. Their long life and reliability in a wide range of operating temperatures lower costs by reducing re-lamp frequency, while their cool operation translates into less load on air conditioning. Unlike CFLs, LED lamps do not emit harmful radiation such as ultraviolet light, nor produce RF interference. The LEDtronics LEDG24QBB and LEDG24QU CFL-replacement, right-angled LED lamps with a pivoting G24Q base come with an Unconditional 3-year U.S. manufacturer’s warranty, and are available through LEDtronics distributors. Quantity discounts are available, and other product options, such as other color temperatures, are available for qualified volume orders.
Cooper Equipment Rentals acquires Action Equipment Rentals
Cooper Equipment Rentals Limited has acquired 100 percent of the shares of Red Deer, Alberta-based Action Equipment Rentals Inc. Action was formed in 1991 by Reginald Bloomfield and his father Ray Bloomfield in Sundre, Alberta, to serve the Central Alberta market. The company opened a second location in Red Deer about a year later. In 2015, Action consolidated operations in Red Deer, and under the leadership of general manager Gabriel Castella-Chin embarked on an ambitious plan to renew the rental fleet and grow the company’s market share. Action’s focus has always been to “put customers first,” which aligns perfectly with Cooper’s core values. “Joining a Canadian-owned company with an excellent reputation was important in our decision to join the Cooper family,” said Castella-Chin. “We are looking forward to continuing to serve Central Alberta with the benefits and resources that allow us to expand our presence and continually improve our already excellent service.” “Action’s prime location and facility in Red Deer intensifies our coverage in the important Alberta market and their strong presence in Alberta enhances our ability to serve customers better in Western Canada,” said Lee Briscoe, regional manager, of Cooper Equipment Rentals. “I was once told that if you build it, they will come,” said Reginald Bloomfield, founder, of Action Rentals. “That was our charge for Action Rentals from the start, and this is the next natural step going forward. Cooper will take what we built and continue to build so they will come. And if we treat them right, they will stay.” Action joins Cooper as the Red Deer branch and will continue to be led by Gabriel Castella-Chin, supported by a team of experienced, loyal, and dedicated Action employees. “Action has built a fine business with a reputation for quality and integrity in the construction equipment industry, and we are proud to welcome them into the Cooper family as we continue to grow our company across Canada,” said Doug Dougherty, CEO, of Cooper Equipment Rentals.
The Manitowoc Company announces upcoming change in its Board of Directors
The Manitowoc Company, Inc. has announced that board member John C. Pfeifer has chosen not to stand for reelection to the Company’s Board of Directors; therefore, his term will end at the May 7, 2024, annual meeting of shareholders. First appointed to the Manitowoc board in 2016, as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Oshkosh Corporation Mr. Pfeifer brought expert and deep operational experience and advice from the machinery industry. He was instrumental in shaping Manitowoc’s strategy for growth in envisioning Manitowoc’s strategy shift from a solely product-focused company to being more service-oriented. “John brought sage and invaluable advice that was instrumental in steering the successful Manitowoc that it is today. Over the last seven years, he contributed his expertise in operations, finance, acquisition strategies, and a deep understanding of the construction equipment business, for which we are grateful,” commented Kenneth W. Krueger, Chairman of The Manitowoc Company, Inc.
Bobcat and NRPA Grant results in increased park access and improved sustainability
Bobcat Company and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) are celebrating the culmination of their 2023 partnership grant to create vibrant and sustainable community park and recreation areas. Through this partnership, Bobcat awarded five grants, each worth $50,000, to support five park improvement projects in communities throughout the country. “Through our partnership with NRPA, we were able to invest time and resources for the betterment of communities nationwide,” said Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America, Inc. “The five awarded grants created opportunities for communities to improve their recreation areas, focus on sustainability and encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors.” The five parks that received grant dollars have completed their projects affording their communities healthier green spaces, more walkable parks and greater climate readiness. The grant recipients and completed projects include: City of Stonecrest in Stonecrest, Ga.: The City of Stonecrest, located east of Atlanta, used the grant dollars to develop a walking trail at Everett Park. The new 1.5-mile trail meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and opens up the dense forest to allow park enthusiasts to access an overlook by the South River. Bobcat of Atlanta supported locally with in-kind use of Bobcat equipment and volunteer aid. Davidson County Parks and Recreation in Lexington, N.C.: Grant dollars supported a pollinator garden and bog garden at a newly created park called Yadkin River Park. The gardens are designed to protect the surrounding community from adverse effects like water pollution and flooding. Local Bobcat dealership R. S. Braswell Co. (which includes Bobcat of Charlotte, Bobcat of Monroe, Bobcat of Rock Hill, R.S. Braswell Co. in Kannapolis, N.C., and coming soon Bobcat of Lexington) supported the project through volunteer aid and Bobcat equipment to transfer material on the project site. City of Buffalo in Buffalo, N.Y.: The City of Buffalo Parks and Buffalo Niagara River Land Trust partnered on a 22-acre conservation easement known as Houghton Park. The grant dollars helped transform what was once a dumping ground of large broken concrete slabs, bricks and stones, into an open nature conservation area in a dense urban neighborhood overlooking the Buffalo River. Bobcat of Buffalo helped support the teams locally by assisting with the removal of heavy debris on site. San Antonio River Authority in San Antonio, Texas: The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) developed new trails, created two bioswales and planted more than 800 native plants and grasses at its 351-acre Trueheart Ranch Park which fronts the San Antonio River. According to the Deputy Director of the Parks and Recreation for the River Authority, Kristen Hansen, the native species not only contribute to the beauty of the grounds but also positively contribute to the health of the park’s ecosystem. Bobcat of San Antonio partnered with the River Authority during its planting initiatives bringing loaders, excavators, and utility vehicles to help with site work. City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation in Auburn, Wash.: Located south of Seattle, the City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation created a more inclusive environment for the community by creating new ADA-compliant gravel pathways at Auburndale Park. The project reinvigorated two existing pathways to remove the outdated asphalt and replace it with crushed gravel. Bobcat of Seattle provided in-kind volunteer aid and Bobcat equipment to demo the asphalt and help install the paths to proper grade. “Parks and green spaces are vital to communities because they are places that allow you to connect with your neighbors, move outside and enjoy nature,” said Ayanna Williams, NRPA director of community and environmental resilience. “Everyone deserves a healthy, more resilient community, and we are thankful for Bobcat’s support to help build more equitable futures for generations to come.” Bobcat Company is committed to building strong relationships, engaging volunteers and providing financial and in-kind support to organizations and programs to make a positive impact. Bobcat and NRPA will continue to partner in 2024, creating new opportunities to positively impact individuals and communities around the nation.
ASSP remembers deadly factory fire that spurred workplace safety
Workplace safety and health became national news 113 years ago next week when the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City led to the deaths of 146 garment workers – most of them women and girls as young as 14 years old – on March 25, 1911. The incident in lower Manhattan is still the deadliest industrial disaster in New York City history. A few months after the tragedy came the creation of the world’s oldest professional safety organization – the United Association of Casualty Inspectors now known as the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). The organization remains dedicated to progressively advancing the safety and health of workers everywhere. ASSP encourages all companies and their workers to join the Society in recognizing this solemn anniversary by observing a moment of silence at 4:45 p.m. ET Monday, March 25 – the exact time the first alarm sounded – to pay tribute to the workers who died in the fire while also refocusing on creating safer work environments. “The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire inspired our country to address workplace safety in an organized way that didn’t previously exist,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “The tragedy led to a series of laws and regulations that better-protected workers. It also caused a concerned group of insurance company safety engineers to start an organization that is now ASSP.” To recognize the nation’s legacy of reform and honor those who died, the Remember the Triangle Fire Coalition dedicated a memorial last year at the original site. It is a lasting reminder of the need for workplace safety and the fundamental right of workers to be treated with dignity and respect. The main body of the stainless-steel memorial is on a corner of the Brown Building, resembling a ribbon that descends from the 9th floor where most deaths occurred. It evokes the appearance of mourning ribbons draped on buildings in times of public grief. Twelve feet above the sidewalk, the memorial splits horizontally to flank the building’s facades, where the names and ages of the victims are stenciled into the ribbon and appear in a reflective panel that runs below it. During the Triangle disaster, fire exit doors were locked and other doors only opened inward, making it impossible for the onrush of workers to get out. The fire escape was poorly constructed and didn’t meet weight requirements. Fire department ladders couldn’t reach the upper floors of the 10-story building. Many workers died by jumping out of windows and into an elevator shaft as they fought to escape the flames. From its inception on Oct. 14, 1911, ASSP has grown into a global membership organization of 35,000 occupational safety and health professionals whose efforts reduce workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities. But the work of safety organizations, employers and federal agencies is never complete. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 5,000 people are fatally injured on the job each year. “Whether you work at a construction site, in a restaurant, at a manufacturing plant or in an office, the lessons of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire should never be forgotten,” Thornton said. “Keeping workers safe takes an unwavering commitment from all involved. There are always new ideas to be shared and advances to be made.”
Andy Recard joins KPI Solutions as VP of Sales
Brings 20+ years’ experience working with clients to assess, design, and deploy world-class automation and robotic solutions that boost operational productivity and enable growth KPI Solutions (KPI) has announced that Andy Recard has joined the company as Vice President of sales. In this role, Andy will provide strategic leadership and work directly with clients to drive successful distribution solutions using innovative engineered designs, intelligent software, and best-of-breed technologies. “I’m happy to join the KPI Solutions sales team at this exciting time in the warehouse automation industry,“ said Andy. “KPI is in a unique position to combine operational expertise with labor-saving technologies to deliver a customized, total solution for our clients that boosts productivity while building resilience and agility.” “Andy’s experience and approach will strengthen our capabilities as we continue to design and deliver solutions that blend high-performing automation technologies and drive value for our clients,” said Roger Counihan, Senior Vice President of Sales. “His proven track record of partnering with clients to drive successful business transformations, coupled with his strategic leadership, is vital as KPI Solutions escalates to the next level.” Andy joins KPI Solutions from The Numina Group where he served as COO/CFO. Prior experience includes executive management at TZA, a provider of labor management systems, as well as direct industry experience at Medline Industries, where he served as Senior Director of operations Excellence. He holds a Bachelor, of Architectural Engineering degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and resides in the Chicago area.