TVH announces changes in Customer Service and Sales Teams in the U.S.
TVH Americas, a provider of quality parts and accessories for the material handling, industrial and light construction equipment industries are making changes to the Customer Service and Sales teams in the USA. Effective July 2023, Ryan Walker was promoted to Director of Sales and Services for the USA. Cathy Diaz will remain in her current role, as Sales Director USA, until December 2023 when she will retire and leave her beloved customers in Ryan Walker and the team’s hands. Cathy Diaz, Director USA Sales, began her career with System Material Handling Inc. (SMH) in 1984. Her wealth of experience and knowledge proved vital during the acquisition of SMH by TVH in 2003. In 2006, Cathy Diaz played an integral role in the IMC Holdings (Intrupa and LPM) acquisition. Ryan Walker, Director of Technical Service, has been in the industry for 34 years. Starting his career at Intrupa he was responsible for several teams including customer service, technical support, quality and sales. Ryan Walker worked with Cathy Diaz to smoothly integrate the two companies and will pair up again to manage our service departments in the USA. With a combined 75 years of industry experience, the duo will work diligently to keep customers at the heart of our organization. TVH wishes Cathy all the best in her next chapter and to Ryan all the success in his future with TVH.
Intella Parts Company searches for the oldest Hyster forklift
Intella Parts Company, LLC recently conducted a contest on finding the oldest Hyster Forklift that included their customers, LinkedIn and Facebook followers. They were encouraged to submit their entry if they felt they had the oldest Hyster. The rules were that they must actually own the forklift. Intella president Marcel VandenTop said they have quite a few Hyster parts inquiries and was curious on the oldest Hyster forklift out there. The winner of the contest would receive $100 gift certificate from Intella, a Carhart sweatshirt and a $100 VISA gift certificate. The winner of the oldest Hyster forklift was Public Steel, Inc. based in Amarillo, TX with a 1945 Hyster KD Krane. Phillip DeLuna from Public Steel in Amarillo TX submitted their 1945 Hyster model KD KarryKrane. Public Steel has been in business since 1948 and believe it or not has three of this model in their possession. Phillip reports that it still runs and the machine is still used once in a while, they also have a few more modern forklifts they use on a regular basis. The KD series from Hyster was likely built in their Peoria, IL factory (Learn more what Hyster was doing in the 1940s here). This model of Hyster will look strange to most modern forklift operators and drivers, mainly because this forklift was built and designed in the era before the modern pallet was invented. Back in the 1940s, pallets weren’t really universally used and the KarryKrane was a sort of pre-cursor to the modern forklift which lifts the omni-present 48×48 inch pallet. “Forklifts” of this time were just used as universal “move stuff around the factory” pieces of equipment. Here are some other images from Public Steel on the other Hyster forklifts from the 1940s they still have. Check out some of our other entrants to our 2023 oldest Hyster forklift competition below: “The only shocking thing to me was entries that were Hysters built in the 1970s. I mean, come on, someone, I mean something born in the 80s isn’t exactly ancient!” said VandenTop.
Alta Equipment Group announces Second Quarter 2023 financial results
Second Quarter Financial Highlights: (comparisons are year over year) Total revenues increased 15.2% year over year to $468.4 million Construction and Material Handling revenues of $281.5 million and $169.1 million, respectively Newly introduced reporting segment, Master Distribution, with revenues of $21.4 million Product Support revenues increased 19.1% year over year with Parts Sales increasing to $71.3 million and Service Revenues increasing to $59.7 million New and Used Equipment sales grew 17.2% to $254.6 million Net income of $1.7 million available to common stockholders compared to $5.4 million in 2022 Basic and diluted net income per share of $0.05 for 2023 compared to $0.17 in 2022 Adjusted basic and diluted net income per share* of $0.19 for 2023 compared to $0.26 for 2022 Adjusted EBITDA* grew 20.5% to $49.9 million, compared to $41.4 million in 2022 Reaffirmed 2023 Adjusted EBITDA guidance of between $180 to $188 million Alta Equipment Group Inc., a provider of premium material handling, construction and environmental processing equipment and related services, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023. CEO Comment: Ryan Greenawalt, Chief Executive Officer of Alta, said, “We delivered record second quarter results and remain positive on our outlook for the balance of this year and into 2024, as demand remains strong in our major end user markets. Our versatile and resilient business model is unique in the industry, as we offer the most expansive product offering and serve a diversified customer base across a vast range of industries. Our focus on driving and sustaining long-term equipment field population continues as we increased our number of factory trained and revenue producing technicians to approximately 1,300 at quarter end.” Mr. Greenawalt continued, “Equipment supply chain issues continued to improve in the quarter and, as a result, we have invested in fleet and our inventory levels are returning to more normalized, pre-Covid levels, as we ensure equipment availability for our customers to meet their needs. Our ability to take delivery of new equipment from OEMs in the first half of 2023 was the primary driver of the $105.3 million increase in new and used equipment sales when compared to the same period for last year. In terms of our business segments, Construction and Material Handling both delivered solid year-over-year revenues growth and we expect those trends to continue. Our focus on electrification of commercial vehicles, while in its infancy, is beginning to take traction as we generated $3.1 million in revenues during the quarter with our first sale of Nikola’s TRE BEV tractors and complimentary charging units. Customer adoption is ongoing and increasing and we expect additional orders throughout the balance of this year.” In conclusion, Mr. Greenawalt commented, “The macro trends in our end user markets remain positive and the newly announced federal spending initiatives will further extend the cycle. An estimated $1 trillion in spending is forecast in the IIJA, CHIPS and IRA legislation, and this funding could span more than seven years. In addition, U.S. governmental total transportation contract awards are at all-time highs. State DOT budgets are also at record levels in the Northeast and Southeast where we operate and we expect our end markets and customers to benefit from this spending. Lastly, our acquisition pipeline remains very active with numerous accretive opportunities that complement our existing business and support further geographic expansion.” Full Year 2023 Financial Guidance: The Company maintained its guidance range and expects to report Adjusted EBITDA between $180 million and $188 million. Recent Business Highlights: The Company’s Board of Directors approved its regular quarterly cash dividend for each of the Company’s issued and outstanding shares of common stock. The common stock dividend was $0.057 per share, or approximately $0.23 per share on an annualized basis. The common stock dividend was paid on May 31, 2023, to shareholders of record as of May 15, 2023. On June 28, 2023, the Company amended its ABL Facility along with its Floor Plan Facility, by and between the Company and other credit parties named therein, and the lender JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent. The amendments (i) exercised $55 million of the Company’s expansion option included in the Company’s asset-based revolving line of credit increasing borrowing capacity from $430 million to $485 million; (ii) provide for a $65 million expansion option allowing the Company to further increase borrowing capacity under the asset-based revolving line of credit to $550 million; (iii) increased the maximum borrowing capacity of its revolving floor plan facility by $10 million from $60 million to $70 million; (iv) provide for a $20 million expansion option allowing the Company to further increase borrowing capacity under the revolving floor plan facility to $90 million; and (v) increased permitted maximum borrowings under third-party floorplan facilities from $350 million to $390 million with additional annual 10% increases beyond 2023.
The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) partners with LinkedIn Learning to boost supply chain skills
The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and LinkedIn have partnered in introducing an innovative Professional Certificate available exclusively on LinkedIn Learning. CSCMP, the premier supply chain association, just announced the partnership with LinkedIn to elevate supply chain professionals with cutting-edge skills and expertise. This collaboration of these two powerhouses brings forth an exciting new offering – the CSCMP Supply Chain Foundations: The Essentials Professional Certificate on LinkedIn Learning. Today, more than ever, supply chain professionals need multidisciplinary expertise to navigate through this disruptive time in the industry. This certificate program aims to help supply chain professionals develop the skills needed through captivating coursework and then offers the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of these skills by taking an assessment. Upon passing, learners can earn a co-branded CSCMP and LinkedIn Learning certificate and showcase it on their LinkedIn profiles. CSCMP Supply Chain Foundations: The Essentials Professional Certificate is just the first certificate to be launched on LinkedIn Learning that aligns with the eight fundamental topics of supply chain covered in CSCMP’s SCPro™ series of professional development and certification. The CSCMP Supply Chain Foundations: The Essentials Professional Certificate is currently available for all learners on LinkedIn Learning. Supply chain professionals seeking to stay ahead of industry trends can start earning this certificate. In the coming months, we will launch an additional 7 Professional Certificates on LinkedIn Learning covering these essential supply chain skills: Customer Service, Transportation, Warehousing Operations, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Manufacturing Operations, and Procurement.
Crowley and the Port of San Diego celebrate groundbreaking for All-Electric Tugboat Charging Station
Crowley and the Port of San Diego broke ground for the shoreside charging station designed to provide clean energy for the company’s forth-coming zero-emissions tugboat, eWolf. Joined by key partners and community stakeholders, the ceremony marked a significant step forward in the industry’s journey to decarbonization and reduce emissions in the San Diego community. The charging station is a microgrid charging facility that will allow vessels to recharge quickly while reducing peak loads on the community energy grid. It is equipped with two containerized energy storage systems provided by Corvus Energy, a supplier of reliable energy solutions in the maritime sector. The station is designed to operate on off-peak hours from the community’s energy grid, and it includes a solar power array to support renewable energy use. The technology is also designed to support other electric equipment and vehicle operations, if needed. Each energy container will house battery modules with storage capacity of almost 1.5 MWh, for a total capacity of 2,990 kW. The station will be equipped with battery monitoring system, HVAC and firefighting and detection technology. “We are proud to share in this moment with the City of San Diego to showcase an industry-first, shoreside charging station at the Port of San Diego,” said Matt Jackson, vice president of advanced energy for Crowley. “Building a sustainable, zero-emission port of the future requires pioneering new and innovative technology, as well as a commitment to partnerships so we can meet the needs of our communities, customers and people.” “We are proud to work with Crowley and are grateful they chose San Diego Bay as home of the first all-electric tugboat in the United States,” said Chairman Rafael Castellanos, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Their commitment to sustainability in the maritime industry directly aligns with our own efforts and goals to reduce emissions and improve public health in our communities while also supporting efficient and modern maritime operations.” The eWolf and its shoreside solar charging station are the result of a partnership among Crowley, the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, the California Air Resources Board, the Port of San Diego, the U.S. EPA and the U.S Maritime Administration. The eWolf, under continuing construction, is a crucial component of the shared commitment between Crowley and its federal and local partners to invest and develop emissions-free technology. It is designed to operate at its full performance capabilities while running entirely on electricity.
Episode 409: Empowering Disaster Recovery efforts with the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN)
In this episode of the New Warehouse podcast, Kevin is joined by Emilee Martichenko, the Communications Coordinator at the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN). ALAN is a registered 501C nonprofit organization specializing in disaster relief using coordinated logistics solutions. Their mission is to save lives and reduce suffering by ensuring the right materials reach the right place at the right time. They engage a broad network of industry partners to supplement nonprofit organizations’ logistics capabilities, acting as a facilitator in connecting critical resources with disaster sites and communities in need. Enhancing Disaster Relief through Logistics Coordination Emilee shares how ALAN came-to-be after Hurricane Katrina when the lack of coordinated logistics hindered disaster relief efforts. “There was such a struggle to get resources to the site, and the logistics surrounding it were not coordinated effectively. That’s when a group of organizations came together to create ALAN, realizing the need for better supply chain solutions during disasters.” The organization emerged to fill this crucial gap, connecting businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and the public to respond to disasters effectively. By matching businesses with nonprofits, ALAN ensures that the right materials and resources are rapidly delivered to impacted areas, helping hope and aid arrive sooner. The Importance of Preparedness and the Supply Chain Intelligence Center Beyond disaster response, ALAN also focuses on preparedness by actively interfacing with government and industry partners to promote collaboration and situational awareness. They review infrastructure, anticipate impacted industries, and gather information to build a solid foundation for immediate response when disasters strike. One of ALAN’s invaluable tools is the Supply Chain Intelligence Center, providing real-time updates on disasters, supply chain impacts, and charted paths of hurricanes and tropical storms. Emilee adds, “We’re a behind-the-scenes organization, and we pride ourselves on taking a step back to ensure everything is in place before disasters hit. The Supply Chain Intelligence Center is an incredible GIS tool providing real updates on the path of hurricanes, supply chain impacts, and infrastructure changes. It serves various industries and helps businesses plan for potential disasters.” Celebrating Humanitarian Logistics Efforts ALAN annually hosts the Humanitarian Logistics Awards to honor businesses and individuals contributing to the humanitarian logistics field. Emilee shares, “The Humanitarian Logistics Awards aim to recognize our partner organizations and others in the logistics space doing incredible work for their communities and humanitarian crises. We want to celebrate their achievements and contributions to making a difference.” The awards recognize outstanding contributions to disaster relief, employee engagement, lifetime achievements, and research and academic contributions. The program aims to spotlight and acknowledge the generous efforts of organizations within the logistics and supply chain industry that go unrecognized. Key Takeaways: ALAN plays a crucial role in disaster relief by coordinating logistics and connecting businesses and nonprofits, ensuring the timely delivery of critical resources to impacted areas. The Supply Chain Intelligence Center provides real-time updates on disasters and supply chain impacts, facilitating businesses’ preparedness for potential disasters. The Humanitarian Logistics Awards honor outstanding contributions to disaster relief and humanitarian efforts within the logistics community, highlighting unsung heroes. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 409: Empowering Disaster Recovery Efforts with the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN)
AAR reports Rail Traffic for the week ending August 5, 2023
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending August 5, 2023. For this week, total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 471,938 carloads and intermodal units, down 3.2 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending August 5 were 222,199 carloads, down 1 percent compared with the same week in 2022, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 249,739 containers and trailers, down 5.2 percent compared to 2022. Five of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2022. They included motor vehicles and parts, up 1,740 carloads, to 14,991; metallic ores and metals, up 1,131 carloads, to 22,050; and miscellaneous carloads, up 817 carloads, to 8,308. Commodity groups that posted decreases compared with the same week in 2022 included grain, down 3,658 carloads, to 15,623; coal, down 1,245 carloads, to 64,574; and chemicals, down 799 carloads, to 30,264. For the first 31 weeks of 2023, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 6,941,594 carloads, up 0.4 percent from the same point last year; and 7,330,887 intermodal units, down 9.5 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 31 weeks of 2023 was 14,272,481 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 5 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending August 5, 2023, on 12 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 328,156 carloads, up 0.7 percent compared with the same week last year, and 331,701 intermodal units, down 6.4 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 659,857 carloads and intermodal units, down 3 percent. North American rail volume for the first 31 weeks of 2023 was 20,030,596 carloads and intermodal units, down 4.1 percent compared with 2022. Canadian railroads reported 89,149 carloads for the week, up 2.9 percent, and 71,762 intermodal units, down 10.9 percent compared with the same week in 2022. For the first 31 weeks of 2023, Canadian railroads reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 4,884,907 carloads, containers and trailers, down 2.9 percent. Mexican railroads reported 16,808 carloads for the week, up 12.2 percent compared with the same week last year, and 10,200 intermodal units, down 1.4 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 31 weeks of 2023 was 873,208 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 4.9 percent from the same point last year. To view the weekly rail traffic charts, click here.
Equipment Depot announces the appointment of Anthony Garcia as President to succeed David O Turner
Equipment Depot announced that Anthony Garcia has been appointed president by the company’s Board of Directors with the transition date of September 11, 2023. Garcia succeeds president and CEO, David O. Turner, who has announced his departure after 12-years at the helm. Garcia joined Equipment Depot in 2022 as the Regional Vice President of the South Region. Prior, Garcia spent 15 years in managerial and executive roles at Mammoet, a Dutch heavy lifting and transportation service company. Most recently, he served as Regional Vice President of Mammoet Americas, overseeing the $250M US and Mexico business. Anthony has a Mechanical Engineering degree from Texas A&M and an MBA from DePaul University. Turner exits after successfully integrating five new companies into the Equipment Depot fold, reaching over 50 nationwide locations, creating numerous new sub-business units — all at a time when the company has reached all-time record-breaking milestones in sales and employee satisfaction. “Over the past 12 years, I have been privileged to be a part of the transformational journey and to have seen the extraordinary passion, commitment, and drive to be The Best Service Organization from our people,” said Turner, “As our recent performance shows, it is clear we are delivering, and after significant investments, Equipment Depot is well positioned to generate consistent, strong returns.” “Since joining Equipment Depot in 2022, Anthony has made a positive contribution to the South Texas and Louisiana Regions with his strong business instincts, leadership skills, and work ethic,” says Ken Barina, president of Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Inc., Equipment Depot’s U.S. parent company. “Anthony has also brought a renewed sense of focus and excitement to these critically important growth Regions. We look forward to his leadership as Equipment Depot charts its course into the future.” Garcia sees technology playing a more significant role in Equipment Depot. “The industry is in a state of unprecedented technological advancement. From how automation, electrification, robotics, and Ai are playing a role, the potential to reshape the landscape is at our fingertips — and I envision Equipment Depot being on the forefront.” Garcia adds, “Investing in our people is critical as well. They are our greatest asset, and advancing their skills is an important part of the equation. We must also preserve the strong culture we have created while living our core values every day.”
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Group sponsors the 2023 FedEx St. Jude Championship to support noble cause
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas group (Logisnext), a North American provider and manufacturer of material handling and innovative automation and fleet solutions, announced its sponsorship of the 2023 FedEx St. Jude Championship. Set to take place Aug. 9 – 13 at the TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, promising an exhilarating showcase of talent, competition and compassion. The tournament will feature the top 70 players on the PGA Tour as they compete in a thrilling battle for the FedExCup. The FedEx St. Jude Championship will be celebrating the 53rd year of supporting the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, generating over $65M to advance St. Jude’s mission. As a partner sponsor this year, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas extends a warm invitation to its valued Dealers and Dealer customers, offering an exclusive opportunity to join this golf experience while supporting the fight to end childhood cancer and other life-threatening illness. “We are honored to support the PGA Tour’s FedExCup Playoffs and be part of this championship event,” said Stu Jacover, General Manager of National Accounts, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas. “This sponsorship reaffirms our commitment to charitable initiatives and making a positive impact in the communities we serve, while also giving our Dealers and Dealer Customers an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and foster strong relationships.” The PGA Tour also provides the opportunity to host and network with B2B customers, all of whom aim to drive positive change in the world and the local communities they serve. As a key player in the material handling industry, Mitsubishi Logisnext of Americas values the opportunity to contribute to such prestigious events that bring communities and businesses together. To learn more about the event please visit https://www.fedexchampionship.com/.
Yellow Corporation reports second quarter 2023 results
Yellow Corporation reported results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023. Operating revenue was $1.127 billion and operating income was $38.9 million which included a $75.9 million gain on property disposals. In comparison, operating revenue in the second quarter of 2022 was $1.424 billion and operating income was $99.2 million which included a $3.2 million net gain on property disposals. Net loss for second quarter 2023 was $14.7 million, or $0.28 per share, compared to net income of $60.0 million, or $1.17 per share in the second quarter 2022. Following a substantial workforce reduction impacting all areas of the organization, on August 6th, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions (the “Chapter 11 Cases”) in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the district of Delaware seeking relief under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Yellow Corporation and Subsidiaries (Amounts in millions except per share data) June 30, 2023 December 31, 2022 (Unaudited) Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 112.8 $ 235.1 Restricted amounts held in escrow 19.6 3.9 Accounts receivable, net 535.1 599.7 Prepaid expenses and other 151.1 75.4 Total current assets 818.6 914.1 Property and Equipment: Cost 3,065.9 3,109.0 Less – accumulated depreciation (1,926.2) (1,940.0) Net property and equipment 1,139.7 1,169.0 Deferred income taxes, net — 0.3 Pension 35.5 34.5 Operating lease right-of-use assets 123.1 139.7 Other assets 30.7 21.7 Total Assets $ 2,147.6 $ 2,279.3 Liabilities and Shareholders’ Deficit Current Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 175.7 $ 188.6 Wages, vacations and employee benefits 235.1 221.4 Current operating lease liabilities 43.0 53.1 Other current and accrued liabilities 188.3 182.1 Current maturities of long-term debt 1,274.5 71.8 Total current liabilities 1,916.6 717.0 Other Liabilities: Long-term debt, less current portion 202.9 1,466.2 Deferred income taxes, net 0.5 — Pension and postretirement 137.4 134.0 Operating lease liabilities 89.2 94.6 Claims and other liabilities 248.8 249.0 Commitments and contingencies Shareholders’ Deficit: Cumulative preferred stock, $1 par value per share — — Common stock, $0.01 par value per share 0.5 0.5 Capital surplus 2,396.6 2,393.4 Accumulated deficit (2,522.5) (2,453.2) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (229.7) (229.5) Treasury stock, at cost (92.7) (92.7) Total shareholders’ deficit (447.8) (381.5) Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Deficit $ 2,147.6 $ 2,279.3 STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Yellow Corporation and Subsidiaries For the Three Months Ended June 30 (Amounts in millions except per share data, shares in thousands) (Unaudited) Three Months Six Months 2023 2022 2023 2022 Operating Revenue $ 1,126.8 $ 1,423.7 $ 2,285.4 $ 2,684.1 Operating Expenses: Salaries, wages and employee benefits 686.3 736.7 1,358.8 1,447.7 Fuel, operating expenses and supplies 227.0 287.3 467.6 530.9 Purchased transportation 150.7 206.1 302.7 391.5 Depreciation and amortization 35.8 35.5 71.1 71.2 Other operating expenses 64.0 62.1 132.0 143.1 Gains on property disposals, net (75.9) (3.2) (76.4) (8.7) Total operating expenses 1,087.9 1,324.5 2,255.8 2,575.7 Operating Income 38.9 99.2 29.6 108.4 Nonoperating Expenses: Interest expense 48.3 38.0 94.8 75.7 Non-union pension and postretirement benefits 1.1 (0.5) 2.3 (0.9) Other, net 0.1 (0.1) (0.1) 0.1 Nonoperating expenses, net 49.5 37.4 97.0 74.9 Income (loss) before income taxes (10.6) 61.8 (67.4) 33.5 Income tax expense 4.1 1.8 1.9 1.0 Net income (loss) (14.7) 60.0 (69.3) 32.5 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 2.4 1.5 (0.2) 3.8 Comprehensive Income (Loss) $ (12.3) $ 61.5 $ (69.5) $ 36.3 Average Common Shares Outstanding – Basic 52,010 51,342 51,871 51,217 Average Common Shares Outstanding – Diluted 52,010 52,135 51,871 52,183 Income (Loss) Per Share – Basic $ (0.28) $ 1.17 $ (1.34) $ 0.64 Income (Loss) Per Share – Diluted $ (0.28) $ 1.15 $ (1.34) $ 0.62 Operating Ratio(a): 96.5 % 93.0 % 98.7 % 96.0 % (a) Operating ratio is calculated as (i) 100 percent (ii) minus the result of dividing operating income by operating revenue or (iii) plus the result of dividing operating loss by operating revenue, and expressed as a percentage.
Southern State DOT projects win Regional America’s Transportation Awards
Eight state department of transportation projects from Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and Virginia recently received regional 2023 America’s Transportation Awards for the positive impact on their respective communities; whether by offering emergency repairs in the aftermath of a hurricane, offering new pedestrian features to encourage active transportation, or developing cutting-edge technology for the future that will save lives. This year’s regional winners were selected from a pool of 19 projects nominated by nine states in the Southern Association of State Transportation Officials or SASHTO region. “These trailblazing projects from the Southern region of the United States play a vital role in bolstering safety, advancing mobility, responding during natural disasters, and creating more multi-modal options for all communities,” said Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. “Now in its 16th year, the America’s Transportation Awards commemorates the best of our industry and highlights the critical work that our state DOTs accomplish from coast to coast.” The America’s Transportation Awards competition – created by AASHTO, AAA, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – honors state DOTs and the positive impacts their projects bring to communities across the country. With 81 nominations submitted by 36 state DOTs throughout the contest, the America’s Transportation Awards projects are categorized into three groups – Quality of Life/Community Development, Operations Excellence, and Best Use of Technology & Innovation – further showcasing the crucial role that transportation plays for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and public transit users. All nominated projects first compete at the regional level against projects of their own size: “Small” (projects costing up to $25 million), “Medium” (projects costing between $25 million and $200 million), and “Large” (projects costing more than $200 million).”This year’s winning southern state regional projects are: Georgia Department of Transportation’s Historic 5th Street Pedestrian Bridge Rehabilitation Project (Quality of Life/Community Development, Small category) Florida Department of Transportation’s Hurricane Ian Sanibel Island Emergency Access (Quality of Life/Community Development, Medium category) North Carolina Department of Transportation’s East End Connector, I-885 (Quality of Life/Community Development, Large category) Virginia Department of Transportation’s Interstate 95 Northbound Variable Speed Limits, Mile Markers 115-130 (Operations Excellence, Small category) North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Rodanthe “Jug Handle” Bridge (Operations Excellence, Medium category) Florida Department of Transportation’s I-4 Ultimate (Operations Excellence, Large category) North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Flood Warning System (Best Use of Technology & Innovation, Small category) Florida Department of Transportation’s SunTrax Transportation Testing Center (Best Use of Technology & Innovation, Medium category) Once all the regional meetings have concluded, the “Top 12” list of finalists will be announced – comprised of the three highest scoring projects from each region. Those top 12 contenders will then compete for the two 2023 America’s Transportation Awards national prizes. The Grand Prize recipient will be selected by an impartial panel of judges, while the People’s Choice Award will be bestowed upon the project that garners the highest number of online votes from the general public. AASHTO will unveil the winners of these prizes at its annual meeting in November 2023 in Indianapolis. Both the Grand Prize and the People’s Choice Award winners will receive $10,000 each towards their preferred scholarship or charity. Visit https://americastransportationawards.org/ to learn more about this year’s SASHTO nominees.
Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) embraces a new look for 65th anniversary
RMI has unveiled a new logo and fresh branding to coincide with its 65th year of promoting rack safety. Founded in 1958, RMI is an MHI Industry Group and the leading racking industry association. It currently boasts 38 members, who are identified as leaders in the rack manufacturing and material handling industry space. RMI selected the advertising firm Birdsong Gregory, LLC of Charlotte, North Carolina to assist in a multi-phase brand articulation. With the introduction of a new logo and website updates, the agency has completed the first steps of rebranding. Although members eagerly anticipated the new logo, they also ensured nostalgia was built into it. RMI opted to keep the classic black and orange color palette for the new logo with a “cross beam” line through the center while adding new lettering that showcases a Serif pattern reminiscent of anchor plates on a racking system. Some of the new elements of the RMI site include the newly minted logo, a refreshed infographic design, and a fresh look for its free informational blog site, www.rmiracksafey.org. The blog newsletter also received an overhaul; readers can subscribe for free updates at www.rmiracksafety.org/newsletter-signup. “RMI has a long-established 65-year history in the industry, and it was important to the group to honor our original logo while giving a nod to the future for our new look and branding. We wanted to provide a fresh take on the widely recognized, black and orange logo, which end-users have trusted with confidence for decades to know that their project adheres to the highest engineering and design standards,” said Paul Neal, RMI President and Unarco President & CEO. An additional refresh on the horizon is the R-Mark® Certification program update and logo. Industry should expect to see the new R-Mark® logo stamp debut on member sites, as well as digital and print platforms, as early as September 2023. “The timing for a style evolution for RMI couldn’t be better as it really coincides with an industry push to integrate a variety of automation and technologies into existing facilities and rack structures as well as new ones, stated Jonathan Hirst, RMI Marketing Chair and both the Vice President and General Manager of North American Storage Equipment Inc. “Rack has evolved to meet the needs of the industry and we wanted our branding to strongly reflect that.”
LiftWise® introduces Trailer Stacker
The new Trailer Stacker from LiftWise® provides three-tier trailer stacking for over-the-road transport. Ideal for trailer manufacturers, distributors and dealers, this easy-to-use stacking system requires just one person to operate without the need for special rigging, slings or climbing onto the trailers. The LiftWise Trailer Stacker consists of two fixed lifting masts and two moving masts on a track system for adjusting to trailers of various lengths. Each mast has the ability to extend, retract and side shift. A self-centering suspension side shift feature automatically adjusts for the natural forward movement of a trailer as its suspension compresses for maximized stability. Rail guides naturally center each trailer without damage to tires or rims. A wireless remote allows the operator to freely walk around the unit to adjust lift points as needed for stacking. Redundant controls are also located at a fixed operator’s station. The Trailer Stacker has a 26,000-pound capacity. It accommodates trailers 26- to 53-feet long and 96- to 102-inches wide.
Nexterus partners with Warehowz to speed contracting for client warehouse space
Partnership improves efficiencies and lowers cost of warehouse search Nexterus, a world-class supply chain management and third-party logistics (3PL) services provider, announces a partnership with Warehowz, an online platform for on-demand warehousing and services. Nexterus’ clients will benefit from the ability to find warehouse space across the country. The Nexterus team will quickly and easily find available warehouse space using Warehowz’s online marketplace of over 2500 properties. ‘We often work with clients who need additional warehouse space, and working with Warehowz’s on-demand warehouse marketplace, we will be able to find the right sized warehouse in the right location quickly and easily,” says Ryan Polakoff, president of Nexterus. “Our team can search for the right location and size of a warehouse on the marketplace, negotiate contract terms, and set up automated invoicing. Having the ability to find available warehouses from the extensive Warehowz database quicker means we improve efficiencies and lower costs by not having to do manual searches for warehouse space, and clients can get the space they need at the right time to improve inventory processes that lead to faster fulfillment and better customer service.” “Success in today’s highly competitive business environment requires companies to scale their logistics processes constantly, which means the business must be as agile as possible with the capability to add capacity almost immediately,” says Rich Oprison, Chief Revenue Officer, Warehowz. “We are an innovative on-demand warehousing solution revolutionizing how businesses identify warehousing solutions. We seamlessly integrate with an existing WMS and process invoices to reduce the strain on a company’s Accounts Payable.” Warehowz has over 2500 warehouses in its network across the US and Canada. With over 23,000,000 square feet of available space, Warehowz can store and ship millions of goods for customers. Each warehouse is fully vetted for professionalism and service offerings so companies have the best match for their specific needs. Nexterus will use the Warehowz proprietary platform for faster search. The Warehowz platform integrates with a client’s existing WMS to simplify payment by allowing automatic payment processing with reduced AP resources. “Warehowz helps with market expansion, an increased distribution footprint, seasonal overflow inventory, reverse logistics, and disaster response,” adds Polakoff. “By partnering with Warehowz, Nexterus can give clients a strong value proposition to transform their logistics operations. We will be able to save companies time by finding them the right warehouse in just a few days.”
ARA’s quarterly economic forecast updates CIE rental revenues
The American Rental Association (ARA) has released an updated forecast for the construction and industrial equipment rental industry. In the quarterly update, the ARA presented significant changes in the economic forecast, particularly for construction and industrial equipment (CIE) rental revenues. In the previous forecast, CIE rental revenue was expected to reach $45.5 billion in 2023 and $46.7 billion in 2024. With new considerations, the CIE rental revenue is expected to total $56 billion this year and $59 billion in 2024. There are two factors underpinning these changes. The first is the data on non-residential construction spending used in the model and the second is the increasing importance of ‘specialty rental’ to overall rental revenues. Recent analysis by economists at the Federal Reserve Board has suggested that data for non-residential construction spending produced by the U.S. Census Bureau has underestimated non-residential construction spending by at least 20 percent since the second quarter of 2021. “The Fed economists’ analysis is both well-reasoned and analytically sound and we believe that this new information needs to be included in our revised forecast,” says John McClelland, Ph.D., ARA vice president for government affairs and chief economist. “The second change in our forecast is the inclusion of information about specialty rentals which has been a growing trend. Recent work by our partners at S&P Global has constructed a ten-year time series of specialty rental from multiple data sources. Incorporating this new information into our model now gives specialty rentals a larger share among the variables that forecast CIE revenues.” With current CIE forecasts including both traditional and specialty rental as the new industry measure, Canadian CIE rental revenues are expected to reach $4.4 billion in 2023 as opposed to previous forecasts totaling $3.7 billion. In 2024, Canadian CIE rental revenue is predicted to total $4.4 billion, an increase from the previous forecast of $3.8 billion. Canadian general tool equipment rental revenue is down slightly from the last forecast at $991 million. However, stronger growth is expected in 2024 and beyond as the forecast indicated 2024 revenue at $1 billion. In the United States general tool market, rental revenue growth will slow through 2023, totaling $14.9 billion this year. This is driven by weakness in residential construction markets. Growth in 2024 is predicted to slow as well, with revenues equaling $15.7 billion in 2024.
Yellow declares bankruptcy and secures loan to sell assets
On Sunday, August 13th, Yellow files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after three years of receiving $700 million from the federal government. “It is with profound disappointment that Yellow announces that it is closing after nearly 100 years in business,” CEO Darren Hawkins said in a news release late Sunday. “For generations, Yellow provided hundreds of thousands of Americans with solid, good-paying jobs and fulfilling careers.” Hawkins said the business intends to fully pay back the federal loan, which was given to the company in 2020 because of what officials at the time said was Yellow’s crucial role in national security as a transportation provider to the Department of Defense. While a Chapter 11 filing is used to restructure debt while operations continue, Yellow, like other trucking companies in recent years, will liquidate and the U.S. will join other creditors unlikely to recover funds extended to the company. The company said it has asked the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware for permission to make payments, including for employee wages and benefits, taxes and certain vendors essential to its businesses. The company said it has lined up a loan to fund its stay in chapter 11, including selling assets. Yellow owns some 12,000 trucks and dozens of freight terminals across the country. Yellow, formerly known as YRC Worldwide Inc., was one of the nation’s largest less-than-truckload carriers. The Nashville, Tennessee-based company had 30,000 employees across the country.
AR Iron’s Powder Coating Division achieves AAMA 2604 and AAMA 2605 Certification
AR Iron has become one of the only companies in the western US to pass the rigorous testing set forth by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) to offer AAMA 2604 and AAMA 2605-compliant powder coatings to architects, constructors and building owners. AR Iron has been named to Tiger Drylac’s, a prestigious manufacturer of AAMA powder coatings, list of approved AAMA 2604 and AAMA 2605 coating applicators, demonstrating its reliability and excellence in the industry. The AAMA 2604 coating offers AR Iron’s clients a five-year warranty, and the AAMA 2605 coating provides a substantial 10-year warranty. “After undergoing stringent quality assurance testing, we are now one of the few companies on the west coast to achieve this certification. This further solidifies our commitment to provide the highest quality of products and services to our clientele,” said Tony Sclafani, General Manager at AR Iron. “Achieving the AAMA certification is another step in the right direction to continue developing our business and becoming a leading applicator in the Southern Nevada industry.” The AAMA certification ensures AR Iron applies the utmost quality coatings, as it requires the powder-coated samples to undergo extensive testing, including salt spray and humidity chamber tests. These evaluations assess adhesion, gloss and overall powder coating performance, guaranteeing resilience, and longevity. Powder coating is a surface finishing process that involves electrostatically charging surfaces, which is suitable for both metallic and non-metallic surfaces. The object is then placed in an oven to melt and harden the powder, resulting in a durable and attractive finish. AR Iron also offers unlimited color options including topcoats, RALs, textures, and veins that are perfect for the Las Vegas environment. Powder coatings are composed of dry mixtures with four primary components: binders, pigments and dyes, fillers and additives, which collectively contribute to the coating’s performance and appearance.
Percentage of female HR professionals in transportation remains high
According to new data from the 2023 WIT Index, which recently was released by the Women In Trucking Association (WIT), an average 74.6% of human resources (HR) and talent management roles in transportation companies are held by women. The WIT Index is an industry barometer to benchmark and measure each year the percentage of women who make up critical roles in commercial freight transportation. In addition, the 2023 WIT Index finds that approximately 48.6% of respondents report 50% to 89% of professionals in their company’s HR/Talent Management positions are women. Traditionally, the HR profession has been long-perceived as a female-oriented profession, primarily because of the skill sets requirement in the field, according to Jennifer Hedrick, WIT’s president and CEO. “Women are commonly considered to have a strong Emotional Intelligence (EI) score,” she said, “and in general tend to possess the critical skills required for this discipline, such as multitasking, leadership, planning, communication, and human relations.” Initiated in 2016, the WIT Index is based upon reported statistics by companies in transportation, including for-hire trucking companies, private fleets, transportation intermediaries, railroads, ocean carriers, equipment manufacturers, and technology companies. Data involving the 2023 WIT Index was confidentially gathered from January through April of 2023 from 350 participating companies of various sizes operating in the trucking industry. Percentages are reported only as aggregate totals of respondents rather than by individual company. Along with its traditional benchmark percentages among HR/talent management, leadership, and professional drivers in commercial freight transportation, WIT again this year has expanded its collection on the percentage of women to include operations, technicians, sales, and marketing. For more information on the WIT Index and to download a full executive summary of the 2023 WIT Index findings, visit https://www.womenintrucking.org/index. Click here for HR/Talent Management – Percentage of Women
TGW presents new generation of shuttles
Entire system performance increased by ten percent Shuttles unite performance with reliability, a rugged design, and energy efficiency Maximum availability: manual intervention is reduced by up to 90 percent Focus on sustainability: use of wood saves 25 tons of plastic per year The Stingray shuttle is the efficient all-rounder for transporting totes, cartons, trays, and hanging goods. More than 20,000 shuttles are in use worldwide and prove their reliability day after day. With this advanced shuttle generation, robustness and sustainability are the focus. Covers are now made of wood, a renewable raw material from local production sites, saving 25 tons of plastic per year. As part of the FlashPick® goods-to-person system, shuttles play a central role in automated warehouses, along with other TGW solutions. They transport totes and cartons, as well as trays weighing up to 110 pounds. The Stingray HG (Hanging Garment) is a special variant designed for transporting goods on hangers, such as dresses, coats, or suits. The main strength of the Stingray is its high performance for order picking or order consolidation in any environment: normal/ambient, refrigerated, or freezer. Capacity-driven applications with lower performance requirements can also be covered efficiently by partial loading. Ten percent higher performance for the overall system With a throughput of more than 1,500 load carriers per hour, the latest generation of shuttles is the most powerful shuttle in the world. Its performance is ten percent higher than its predecessor and it is twenty percent faster, with a top speed of over 16 feet per second. 75 percent less time and effort for maintenance “The latest Stingray generation unites the highest performance and reliability with energy-saving operation and sustainable materials”, explains Thomas Gruber-Blanka, Director of Product Management at TGW. “Users benefit from an extremely short commissioning time thanks to the plug-and-play concept. Full data transparency also enables condition monitoring and predictive maintenance; both help to optimally schedule maintenance and increase availability.“ The shuttles also perform automatic “health checks” on their own, detect twisted totes, and resolve the situation without human intervention. All-in-all, manual interventions can be reduced by 90 percent and the maintenance effort by 75 percent. Energy saving function as standard feature Since shuttles accelerate and decelerate several hundred times per day, the potential for saving energy is especially high. Stingrays store braking energy in power capacitors and then make it available to all vehicles on the same level for acceleration. All shuttle and tote lifts are also equipped with an energy recuperation function as a standard feature, feeding unused energy back into the power network. In addition, the dynamic parameters can be adjusted flexibly, depending on the order situation.
Nucor announces the addition of Nicholas C. Gangestad to the Nucor Board of Directors
Nucor Corporation announced its Board of Directors elected Nicholas C. Gangestad as a director effective September 1, 2023. Mr. Gangestad, 58, currently serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation. Prior to joining Rockwell in 2021, he had a long career with 3M Company, a diversified technology company with a global presence in the fields of manufacturing, worker safety, healthcare and consumer goods. Mr. Gangestad served in various roles with 3M, including Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 2014 to 2020; Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer from 2011 to 2014; Director of Corporate Accounting from 2007 to 2011; and Vice President, Finance and Information Technology of 3M Canada from 2003 to 2007. “Nick is an accomplished executive who brings to the Board over three decades of financial expertise and significant leadership experience with global companies,” said Leon J. Topalian, Nucor’s Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to benefiting from his service and insight.”