AutoScheduler.AI wins NextGen Solution Provider Award in Artificial Intelligence Category
NextGen Supply Chain Conference Awards Recognize Companies Shaping Tomorrow’s Supply Chains AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Orchestration Platform and WMS accelerator, has announced the company is named a winner in the Artificial Intelligence category of the NextGen Solution Provider Awards. The NextGen Solution Provider Awards honor up to four solution providers that have utilized NextGen supply chain technologies in a project implemented for a customer in the following categories: Robotics, Digital Transformation, Artificial Intelligence, and Predictive Analytics. “We are proud to win this prestigious award for our AI-enabled technology that takes disparate data and converges supply chain activities to create plans that orchestrate campus operations for optimized efficiency prescriptively,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “Our clients’ warehouses operate at peak performance.” The NextGen Supply Chain Conference Awards recognize the companies shaping tomorrow’s supply chains with advances that are helping organizations navigate the complexities of the modern supply chain while also preparing them for success in the future. Winners will be presented their award at the conference which takes place in Chicago, October 21-23, 2024, at the Chicago Athletic Association. Moore adds, “Our technology smooths warehouse operations by orchestrating and planning all activities in real-time on top of an existing WMS. It considers space, time, labor, dock doors, and more constraints to ensure that orders are fulfilled on time and in full. Clients gain efficiencies and value in their supply chains through optimized labor, schedules, touches, and inventory.” AutoScheduler’s AutoPilot converges disparate data to orchestrate supply chain activities and optimize campus operations. By integrating data from WMS, yard management systems, ERP, visibility systems, and production schedules, it creates a unified view of operations. Utilizing operational twin technology, AutoPilot predicts future states by analyzing current conditions and planned activities across systems. It employs complex mathematics, AI, and optimization techniques to determine the most efficient use of capacity. This approach optimizes activity systems, prescribes event sequences, and creates a feasible operational schedule, minimizing touches and labor while maximizing service levels.
Dematic has announced 2024 STEM Scholarship Winners
12 Students Awarded Dematic FIRST® Scholarships to Pursue STEM Education Dematic has announced the winners of the 2024 Dematic FIRST® Scholarship program, which recognizes students dedicated to pursuing careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). In partnership with the corporate nonprofit FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), this scholarship program underscores Dematic’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators in the supply chain and logistics industry. This year’s scholarship recipients include students Aman Amjad from Brookfield, Wisconsin, and Lily Hoopes from Bonney Lake, Washington, who were both awarded $5,000 to support their post-secondary education or technical certification. Dematic also awarded $1,000 scholarships to 10 additional students: Blake Bollow, Noelle Bryan, Casey Bushey, Allie Cadenhead, Rafael Calderon, Adriana Cruz, Jason Elisei, Bill Giang, Hendrik Sorensen, and Adam Thai. “This year’s Dematic FIRST scholarship winners are truly exceptional,” says Mike Larsson, President of Dematic and Executive Board Member of KION Group. “The skills and experiences they’ve gained through the FIRST program will propel them not only to successful careers in STEM but also to becoming future leaders. The high caliber of this year’s applicants highlights our need for continued investment in STEM education. By empowering these future leaders, we’re paving the way for the next generation.” Now in its fourth year, the Dematic FIRST scholarship program attracted applications from students across 28 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada. Dematic executives reviewed all applications, selecting honorees based on their academic excellence and commitment to pursuing a future in STEM. The program requires applicants to provide their transcripts, a one-page essay discussing a future where humans and machines interact in the warehouse, and a letter of recommendation. In addition, they must have previously competed in a FIRST Robotics Competition or FIRST Tech Challenge. “Being awarded the Dematic FIRST Scholarship is an incredible honor as I advance my education at Georgia Tech and embark on my career,” says Amjad. “Participating in FIRST during high school ignited my passion for STEM, and I’m grateful to Dematic for supporting my studies. FIRST and Dematic encourage students to explore real-world careers through teamwork, education, and robotics. Thank you for opening doors to opportunities, including early workforce exposure and access to advanced technology.” Dematic is dedicated to supporting FIRST and its mission to engage youth to become skilled professionals, creative thinkers, and well-rounded citizens. Dematic employees actively contribute to FIRST teams by providing mentorship and guidance to students helping to foster their development. Last year, Dematic sponsored 18 FIRST teams and donated $68,000 to support students as they prepared for competitions and careers in STEM. Since 2008, Dematic has sponsored teams participating in FIRST robotics competitions and invested more than $310,000 in local teams, events, and student scholarships, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of STEM professionals. To learn more, visit dematic.com. Scholarship Winners:
Kenco to install AutoStore at Jeffersonville, Indiana Distribution Center
With systems integration partner KPI Solutions, Kenco’s new automated storage and retrieval system will shorten click-to-delivery times for the 3PL’s eCommerce customers starting this summer Kenco has announced the implementation of AutoStore™ at the company’s Jeffersonville, Ind. distribution center. Set to go live in summer 2024, the AutoStore system – designed and implemented by KPI Solutions – will service Kenco’s eCommerce customers and open the door for businesses of all sizes to access a technology typically only available to larger companies. Once complete, the AutoStore system will include 49,000 bins, 130 grid robots, 10 picking ports and four replenishment ports. Kenco estimates 15 million units will travel through the system per year. The announcement reinforces Kenco’s dedication to automation and warehouse transformation, coming on the heels of Kenco’s introduction of Automation Guidance. A part of their comprehensive Material Handling Solutions offering, this consultative offering will help clients upgrade existing facilities with automated material handling equipment assets to meet today’s warehouse needs. “At Kenco, we’re dedicated to continuously improving our operations,” said Jason Minghini, Senior Vice President of Operations at Kenco. “By implementing AutoStore’s proven solution, not only are we optimizing our space and workforce, we’re taking our eCommerce fulfillment solutions to the next level by providing even shorter click-to-delivery times for all customers in this market.” Jeffersonville is Kenco’s second AutoStore installation. While the first serves a single client, the newest installation is larger and will efficiently process orders from multiple customers for an optimized operation. “The system and reserve storage will take up about one-fourth of one of the facilities on our campus,“ said Jeffersonville Senior Director of Site Logistics, Bill Dragoo. “Installation is going smoothly, and we’re excited to see the full benefits of the solution come to life this summer.” As an ASRS, AutoStore harnesses the power of warehouse robots for 24/7 order fulfillment within a cubic layout up to quadruple the storage capacity of traditional warehouse racking. The goods-to-person (G2P) system maximizes existing labor and space, reinforcing supply chain dependability. “We are proud and happy to partner with Kenco to manage their warehouse space innovatively and efficiently, empowering their customers to achieve incredible results,” said Mike Harding, Account Executive at KPI Solutions. “This AutoStore system will boost labor productivity and enable scalability while improving delivery times for consumers across North America.”
Olvi Brewery expands with second automated warehouse from Cimcorp
Cimcorp’s automation boosts storage capacity and enhances operational efficiency, helping the Finnish brewery handle growing production volumes and seasonal demands Cimcorp has announced it has supplied a new high-bay automated warehouse to its longtime customer Olvi , one of the leading beverage producers in Finland and the Baltic region. This is the second automated warehouse Cimcorp has implemented at Olvi’s headquarters in Iisalmi, Finland, cementing a strong partnership spanning nearly two decades. By providing more storage capacity, the new automated warehouse supports Olvi’s growing production volumes and levels out the seasonal demands of the brewing industry. In the beverage industry, demand swings dramatically between seasons, with the potential to cause bottlenecks in production and distribution on peak days. At Olvi, Cimcorp’s automation mitigates these risks and enhances operational capabilities, ensuring the brewery can better manage inventory and ultimately provide superior service to its customers. Benefits of Cimcorp’s high-bay automated warehouse include: Increased efficiency and throughput: Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) quickly and accurately move products in and out of storage, speeding up the picking process. The warehouse can also operate 24/7 without the need for breaks. Improved customer satisfaction: Increased speed and accuracy in order picking lead to faster fulfillment times, complete order accuracy, less product damage, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Space optimization: The high-bay warehouse utilizes vertical space, allowing for greater storage capacity within a smaller footprint. This enables a wider product range. “Our existing high-bay warehouse was implemented with Cimcorp in 2014. This second warehouse enables us to increase storage capacity and secure the reliability of deliveries for our customers, especially during seasonal peaks. We need to be agile and respond to the fast order-delivery rhythm whenever the sun starts shining,” said Ilkka Heikkilä, Logistics Supervisor at Olvi. “We appreciate Cimcorp’s reliability and technical solutions that are tailored to our needs. Having a local partner who understands our ways of working and production needs—without compromising the daily output—is invaluable.” The partnership between Cimcorp and Olvi began in 2005 when Cimcorp installed an automated order-picking system featuring gantry robots for the brewery. Collaboration between the companies has continued over the years, including installing the original high-bay warehouse with a Warehouse Control System (WCS), an innovative keg-picking solution, and a robotic dolly-picking system. To support its automation, Olvi utilizes Cimcorp’s 24/7 helpdesk service, benefiting from support in Finnish and in the same time zone. Cimcorp’s helpdesk team is knowledgeable and familiar with Olvi’s systems and processes, allowing them to provide the exceptional service and proactive maintenance needed to ensure reliability throughout the system’s entire lifecycle. “Our fruitful collaboration with Olvi spans nearly 20 years,” said Riku Puska, Sales Manager, Warehouse & Distribution, Cimcorp Group. “Designing future development and innovating together have been the cornerstones of this partnership. Being available for our customers 24/7 and responding quickly to any requests are very important to us. Delivering peace of mind is part of our DNA.”
UgoWork raises $51M to further transform material handling with its advanced energy solutions
Led by Fonds de Solidarité FTQ, the investment will accelerate the company’s growth, expand its global reach, and enhance its integrated hardware and software solutions. UgoWork™, a provider of advanced energy storage solutions for material handling equipment, has announced the closing of $51M as part of its Series C financing. This investment round was led by Fonds de solidarité FTQ, with significant participation from returning investors Investissement Québec (IQ), Export Development Canada (EDC), and includes a new credit facility from Desjardins Technology & Innovation Banking. This financing brings UgoWork’s total funding to $77 million, strongly positioning the company for continued growth and innovation in the energy sector. Since 2015, UgoWork has empowered top-tier logistics operators to electrify and modernize their fleets with its integrated hardware and cloud software ecosystem. Its user-friendly power solutions and exceptional support transform fleet management, helping operators meet the unprecedented pressure for efficiency in the logistics market. UgoWork’s clients achieve cost savings by reducing the equipment needed to run their operations, offering a significant advantage in the current environment of high-costs and labor shortages. Moreover, its AI-driven cloud platform unlocks peak shaving features to lower energy costs during high demand periods and enhances safety through the use of digital twin technology. “We are committed to helping our customers make their energy transition by offering the fastest innovation roadmap of our industry. In a $200B material handling market where most equipment is powered by old technologies, we stand at the brink of a new era,” said Philippe Beauchamp, President and CEO of UgoWork. “We believe that data is poised to become a pivotal asset in this business, providing transformative opportunities to redefine our industry. Our ability to seamlessly integrate this data sets our solutions apart and greatly enhances the customer experience.” “UgoWork’s vision and commitment to creating energy-efficient solutions is impressive. The Fonds is proud to invest and support once again this company, which continues to position itself as a game-changer in the technology sector,” explains , Executive Vice President, Private Equity and Impact Investing at the Fonds de solidarité FTQ. “We are thrilled to work alongside strategic and like-minded partners like le Fonds to support UgoWork’s continued growth and provide a second round of financing through EDC’s Investment Matching Program,” said Lissa Bjerkelund, EDC’s Vice-President, Investments and Mid-Market Lending. “Growing businesses like UgoWork are a testament to the success of Canada’s cleantech sector, and we are proud to support their mission to revolutionize the material handling industry with innovative energy solutions.” “Being an active contributor to UgoWork’s story of innovation is exactly the kind of role Investissement Québec wants to play with young companies and their teams. We are delighted to support the development of UgoWork’s solutions, which make manufacturing practices more efficient and sustainable. With this new round of financing, the company has all the tools it needs to meet the demands of its many international customers and suppliers, thereby fueling its growth and ensuring it remains competitive both here in Québec and beyond our borders,” declared Bicha Ngo, President and Chief Executive Officer, Investissement Québec. “UgoWork’s pioneering efforts in electrification and energy management greatly align with Desjardins’ mission to drive sustainable development,” said Mehdi Bakhty, Managing Director at Desjardins’ Tech & Innovation Banking. “By supporting UgoWork, Desjardins’ Tech & Innovation Banking team underscores our commitment to empowering companies with strong fundamentals and technology as well as forward-thinking and adaptable leadership. The company’s rapid, while still sustainable growth, coupled with its great position in a market ripe for disruption further enables our willingness to tailor creative ways to support it. This collaboration between major Québec and Canada institutions and the company goes hand in hand with Desjardins’ cooperative values of solidarity, integrity, and community development, and demonstrates our collective dedication to advancing the electrification of industries for a sustainable future,” he concludes. This new funding will be used to grow the company’s go-to-market efforts, extend its global distribution footprint, accelerate the development of its software and hardware platforms, and expand its headquarters and main production facility.
New Rollbag R3200 fulfillment paper or poly auto bagger
PAC Machinery has announced the new Rollbag® R3200 Fulfillment Paper Automatic Bagger. This innovative model, also available in an XL version, offers packagers the ultimate flexibility to bag products using sustainable poly mailers or PAC’s patented Fiberflex® curbside recyclable paper mailers. Designed for quick material changeover, machine operators can easily switch between poly mailers and recyclable paper in just minutes. This groundbreaking technology for “Flexible Sustainability,” allows for packaging with the latest eco-friendly materials – paper and poly – all on the same auto bagger. The Rollbag R3200 Fulfillment Paper bagger not only provides a sustainable packaging solution but also helps customers future-proof their equipment investments in anticipation of stricter regulations on plastic packaging. With the ability to package with up to 100% recycled poly bags or completely eliminate plastic by using Fiberflex paper mailers, customers can stay ahead of the curve. “We are dedicated to providing flexible, sustainable packaging solutions that customers can depend on as plastic regulations evolve,” said Greg Berguig, President of PAC Machinery. “The Rollbag R3200 is a feature-rich option for customers who want to continue using poly packaging while being prepared for a potential shift to paper packaging in the future. With this machine, customers can adapt to changing industry standards without having to replace their equipment,” Berguig said. Earlier this year, PAC Machinery wowed the industry with the FW650SI Flow Wrapper, which also boasts the ability to package with paper and poly. Now, PAC is using this technology on its Rollbag leading line of automatic baggers for the fulfillment industry. Both paper and poly materials are not only sustainable but also easily recyclable, making them the perfect choice for environmentally-conscious businesses. Whether a customer is shipping out apparel or other consumer goods, this system is designed to streamline the packaging process while providing innovation that won’t be outdated should regulations or packaging requirements evolve to a paper only situation. Available in two sizes, the R3200 version can accommodate bags up to 16″ wide, while the R3200XL version can handle bags up to 22″ wide. PAC Machinery has submitted the Rollbag® R3200 Fulfillment Paper Automatic Bagger for a PMMI Technology Award! This innovative bagger will make its debut at the PACK Expo International Show, taking place at McCormick Place in Chicago from November 3-6, 2024. Join us as we showcase this cutting-edge technology and revolutionize the packaging industry at exhibit #S2130!
Moderna Products quadruples its capacity for plastic pet supplies with an automated warehouse from Mecalux
The sustainable accessories manufacturer expects to double its sales amidst the expansion of an industry set to reach $500 billion by 2030. Its facilities in Izegem (Belgium) manage over 1,500 pallets daily, producing, storing, and distributing feeders, water bowls, and beds to more than 79 countries. logo. With the pet industry growing rapidly — projected to reach a value of $500 billion by 2030, according to Bloomberg — Moderna Products aims to double its sales in the next five years. The company will continue providing litter boxes, beds, carriers, feeders, and water dispensers for pets in over 79 countries worldwide. “We manufacture plastic injection molded products in two large centers in Izegem and South Carolina. We’re proud to say we manage the entire supply chain, spanning product development, production, storage, and distribution,” says Bart Bonte, owner and CEO of Moderna Products. The third-generation family business invests in “the most advanced technologies to remain competitive.Our priority is to use highly energy-efficient storage and production systems while maintaining our return on investment,” says Bonte. Moderna Products is committed to eco-friendly practices, signing a Green Pact and equipping its headquarters with solar panels. The manufacturer of sustainable plastic pet products has automated the movements of 1,500 pallets a day with an energy-efficient rack-supported building. Measuring 131′ high by 328′ long, the facility constructed by Mecalux accommodates 12,560 pallets. Additionally, Moderna Products manages all operations with Easy WMS. This software solution monitors every step — from order receipt to shipping — providing complete control over the company’s pet supplies. Moderna Products has also installed the WMS for Manufacturing module to integrate the warehouse with the production lines and gain end-to-end traceability of its raw materials. “Automation was the logical step. Our logistics processes had to align with the robotic advancements already underway in our production operations. We opted for automation to expand our space, enhance safety, and make our processes more environmentally friendly. As a result, we no longer require traditional lighting,” says Bonte. Automation, the backbone of the facility, ensures the uninterrupted flow of goods between the center’s various zones. Five twin-mast stacker cranes handle pallet movements inside the storage aisles. Meanwhile, a conveyor system transports pet products to the manufacturing and picking areas. With these upgrades in place, Moderna Products looks forward to continuing its commitment to caring for dogs and cats, which it has done since 1980.
Pfannenberg announced the ultimate signaling solutions for light duty applications
Customizable Signal Fits a Range of Applications from Control Cabinets to Autonomous Vehicles Pfannenberg, a manufacturer of thermal management and signaling technologies, launches the PA1-R and PA L1-R, the ultimate signaling solutions for light-duty applications. These products deliver high performance in an economical package, ensuring a safe and reliable signaling solution for audible (PA1-R) and combined audible, and visual (PA L1-R) needs. The PA 1-R and the PA L1-R are the go-to choices for automation, material handling, and machine-building applications where status and indication lights and sounds are critical safety measures needed to notify staff about current or imminent events. The PA1-R features just sound while the PA L1-R is highly customizable, providing independent control of light and sound, allowing users to signal with sound only or a combination of light and sound. For the audible alarm in both products, users can choose from 70 tones and reduce the volume to meet application needs, selecting from 85dB, 92dB, 98dB, and 105dB to fit a range of environments. The PA L1-R also allows users to select the perfect color light signal to fit their intended application with the RGB version of the product, including green, yellow, amber, blue, purple, red, white, and magenta. To best suit the environment of the application, users can also choose between continuous, blinking, flashing, and rotating LED lights. Rotating LED lights offer an ideal alternative in contexts where blinking features may have limited visibility. On top of this, the signal’s top-mounted installation ensures excellent 360-degree perceptibility with its radial design. Both versions feature a multi-voltage-power supply of 10-60 V DC and 95-265 V AC, making them one-size-fits-all all options for the needs of your application. They are also available with an optional M12 connection, allowing for quick connection without wiring or the need for an electrician. This versatility and ease of connection allow the signals to be versatile and adapt to any application, saving time and money.
Episode 493: Automation & Mobility at Momentum 2024 with Agility Robotics & Manhattan Associates
In this engaging session from Momentum 2024, I was joined by a panel consisting of Adam Kline and Matt Dermody from Manhattan Associates and Pete Allen from Agility Robotics to discuss the current state of automation and mobility in the warehouse industry. The discussion highlights advancements in robot technology, particularly focused on humanoid robots, their practical applications, user experience considerations in warehousing, and the future landscape of automation. The Current State of Automation There has been a huge uptick in automation solutions coming to market in the warehouse space and the panel agrees that labor challenges and finding ways to augment labor are one of the biggest driving factors for this uptick. Adam even mentions how just 5 or 6 years ago at Momentum you would not see robotic solutions at the show but this year there was a presence and most notably the presence of Digit from Agility Robotics, a humanoid robot. As we look at the many options that are on the market, Matt points out how there is a variation in form factors that are allowing for different processes to now be automated and how AI is allowing for more to be done as well. Humanoids in the Warehouse When it comes to form factors of robotic solutions, humanoids are certainly garnering a lot of attention. The combination of the humanoid form factor and AI allows for rapid training opportunities that can make a humanoid robot more flexible in what processes it can utilize. Agility Robotics is pushing warehouse automation forward with its humanoid option, Digit, and has firmly put its flag in the sand on being the warehouse humanoid robot. This has been further solidified through their partnership with Manhattan which allows them to integrate with the Manhattan Active Warehouse Management platform and help Manhattan’s users easily bring humanoid robots into their workflows. As of right now, these robots are just moving totes in different ways but Pete discusses the evolution of them and their pursuit to make them into collaborative robots that can work right beside you. The Future of Automation Without a doubt, automation is here to stay and will continue to evolve in the coming years. Manhattan is positioning themselves to be able to support these advancements and make utilizing these solutions easier for their end users. The most interesting concept from this conversation came from Matt who describes the future of robotics having a virtual gym where AI based robotics can easily go in to learn a new task. In this virtual gym the robot will be able to replicate the processes at a rapid rate allowing for new tasks to quickly be learned. Through these advancements, robots will be able to become more flexible and adaptable to new environments or tasks. Key Takeaways Undoubtedly, labor challenges are driving the uptick in automation solutions hitting the market and giving reason for these solutions to continue to be present in our industry. Humanoids are a fairly new form factor to the robotics space and Agility Robotics is focusing on the warehouse specifically by positioning themselves with partnerships like the one with Manhattan Associates, Zion Solutions Group and GXO. To help advance the development of robots, AI is playing a large part in how quickly these robots can and will be able to adapt to their environment and have additional flexibility to focus on more than one task. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 493: Automation & Mobility at Momentum 2024 with Agility Robotics & Manhattan Associates
ARI Phoenix, Inc. appoints Christopher Jones as its President/Chief Operating Officer
Seasoned Sales Executive takes the helm to drive next level growth. ARI Phoenix, Inc. (ARI) is pleased to announce that Christopher Jones of Liberty Township Ohio joins the company as President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Jones most recently served as the President of GF Machining Solutions, the US operation of a Swiss leader in machining and automation. His 30-year career has been marked by excellence in sales development and general corporate leadership. Mr. Jones remarked “I’m thrilled to bring my skills to bear at such a great local company.” ARI is an industry leader in shop equipment for the heavy-duty truck maintenance industry across North America. The company’s flagship product is the ARI-HETRA mobile column lift (MCL) which is sold in ARI’s trademarked “safety green.” The MCL is the preferred solution to safely lift trucks weighing as much as 150,000 lbs with any wheelbase or width. As the name implies, mobile column lifts are easily moved between service bays and are purchased at a fraction of comparable fixed solutions. Gary Hudson, Chairman and CEO of ARI-HETRA notes “We are so excited to join forces with Chris and are confident that he will take us to the next level!”
Wauseon Machine to showcase precision machining and fabrication capabilities at Design 2Part Shows (D2P)
Visit Booth #215 to connect with a Wauseon expert and find your next manufacturing solution Wauseon Machine, Inc. (WM) announced its participation in the upcoming Design 2Part Shows (D2P) in Novi, MI from June 19 – 20. D2P is renowned for providing immediate business opportunities. Moreover, as the only trade show in the region exclusively featuring exhibitors specializing in design and contract manufacturing services, D2P offers a unique platform for networking and collaboration. At the event, Wauseon Machine will highlight its robust precision machining and fabrication capabilities. With over 100 CNC machines and a network of preferred partners specializing in metal fabrication, Wauseon Machine delivers unparalleled value to its customers. Services include laser and die cutting, bending, forming, welding, coating, and assembly, catering to both low and high-volume production needs. Located in the central business hub of Irving, the Irving Convention Center offers easy access and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring a conducive environment for fruitful networking among industry experts. “We are thrilled to participate in the D2P conference and showcase our cutting-edge capabilities in precision machining and fabrication,” says William Johnson, VP of Operations at Wauseon Machine. “Our team looks forward to connecting with other attendees and demonstrating how our expertise can drive success for their future projects.”
Episode 491 Embracing Human-Centric Supply Chains with Alcott Global
In the latest episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, Kevin sits down with Radu Palamariu, the Managing Director of Alcott Global for Europe and Asia Pacific. Palamariu is an influential figure in the supply chain industry. He is known for his work in executive recruitment, his role as the host of the Leaders in Supply Chain Podcast, and for co-authoring the book From Source to Sold. During the episode, they discuss the vital role of human elements in supply chains, the impact of technology, and the importance of storytelling and soft skills in leadership. The Human Element in Supply Chains Radu Palamariu emphasizes that technology alone cannot drive success in supply chains; it is the people behind the technology who make a difference. He argues, “Technology doesn’t make or break businesses, people do.”This perspective highlights the essential role of human expertise and judgment in leveraging technology effectively. Palamariu’s insights draw from his extensive experience in executive search, where he has seen firsthand the importance of leadership and human capital in operational success. Palamariu points out that while automation and AI are transforming the industry, they do not replace the need for skilled professionals. “The people that are able to make change happen, that are digital savvy, and that have a good understanding of how to combine all of this are more important than ever,” he states. This underscores the need for continuous learning and adaptation among supply chain professionals. The Power of Storytelling in Leadership One of the key themes discussed is the significance of storytelling and soft skills in effective leadership. Palamariu notes, “The best leaders are the best storytellers, able to tell narratives that inspire people and get stuff done.” He explains that successful leaders can connect their technical achievements to broader business goals, such as increasing profitability or enhancing customer service. This ability to communicate and inspire is crucial for advancing leadership roles within the supply chain sector. Palamariu also reflects on his journey and the value of curiosity and learning. His podcast, initially a tool for his education, has become a platform for sharing industry knowledge. He encourages professionals to develop their storytelling skills better to articulate their value and impact within their organizations. Technology as a Tool, Not a Solution While technology is a significant focus in modern supply chains, Palamariu cautions against adopting new technologies without clear objectives. He explains, “Tech is a tool, not the ultimate solution. Unless you have a problem, get very clear on what’s your problem first.” He shares examples of companies implementing AI and other technologies without fully understanding their needs, leading to ineffective solutions. Palamariu advises starting with the problem and then seeking the most appropriate technological tools to address it. He also mentions the importance of data quality, noting that even the most advanced AI cannot compensate for poor data. This pragmatic approach ensures that technology investments are aligned with business goals and deliver tangible benefits. Key Takeaways on Human-Centric Supply Chains Human expertise and leadership are crucial in leveraging technology effectively. Effective communication and storytelling are critical skills for supply chain leaders. The capability to drive change in both large and small to mid-sized companies within a digital-first environment is invaluable. The New Warehouse Podcast 491: Embracing Human-Centric Supply Chains with Alcott Global
Seeq selected for Enterprise-Wide Analytics
The Seeq platform will be leveraged to maximize production and enhance efficiency across Equinor’s global assets. Seeq and Equinor have announced a multi-year commercial agreement for the Seeq Industrial Analytics and AI platform to be leveraged across Equinor’s global assets to further accelerate digital transformation outcomes. Through the agreement, Equinor will implement Seeq to empower its engineering teams to optimize production and improve energy performance across a variety of assets. Initially, the company plans to leverage Seeq to monitor well and process behavior, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of daily operations to maximize production, enhance workforce collaboration and increase efficiency. “Innovative energy organizations like Equinor want to leverage interoperable systems that utilize collective knowledge to accelerate value,” said Dr. Lisa Graham, CEO at Seeq. “Seeq is honored to provide our open, industrial analytics and AI SaaS platform to Equinor to drive rapid, enterprise-wide digital transformation outcomes.” Seeq delivers a self-service, industrial analytics and AI platform that accesses and leverages vast amounts of historically underused data. By incorporating leading-edge technologies, including AI, machine learning and other capabilities, into its platform and leveraging its global partner network, Seeq powers a range of use cases for employees across the enterprise to accelerate digital transformation outcomes such as operational excellence and profitability, workforce upskilling, and sustainability.
Urbx introduces robotic inventory storage and retrieval system for rapid retail fulfillment
High-density system delivers speed and integration flexibility for e-commerce warehouses, retail and grocery fulfillment Urbx launches its robotic inventory storage and retrieval system capable of fulfilling complex, multi-SKU orders at unprecedented speeds. The system builds on the principles of traditional automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) and uses a combination of robotics, software and storage racking to deliver key advantages in speed, height, density and scalability in goods-to-person order fulfillment workflows. The system uses a fleet of proprietary Urbx TowerBots driven by AI to find the shortest 3D path through a dense storage grid to retrieve totes and bring them out to a pick station. TowerBots move across the top of racking and drop down through strategically located columns to access inventory. This storage grid design requires no navigating aisles or digging to access totes below top storage layers, enabling access to inventory at all levels – stacked up to 75 totes high – in seconds. TowerBots then move totes down through those same columns to built-in conveyor tiles for transport to order fulfillment and consolidation. In practice, the Urbx system enables exceptional fulfillment speeds, capable of fulfilling a 50-line order in less than 2.5 minutes. “We started Urbx to satisfy the demand for speed in retail order fulfillment that just wasn’t being met by existing solutions. We concepted, tested and iterated on a system that really pushes the limits of what automation can do, and in turn, of what fulfillment operations can achieve,” says Lincoln Cavalieri, Founder and CEO, Urbx. “And that goes beyond revolutionizing warehouse environments. Delivering inventory at such high rates also has the near-term potential to address the needs of grocery fulfillment and even consumer-facing retail applications.” The Urbx system offers double-deep storage built up to industry-leading heights for maximum possible density and capacity, while maintaining a small horizontal footprint. This space efficiency is a particularly strong fit for supply chains pushing to locate distribution points closer to consumers in urban centers, where pressure from high real estate costs incentivizes building up, rather than out. The ability to handle up to 100 pounds per tote allows the system to accommodate a broad range of inventory, including heavy, dense items. Urbx is designed with the needs of integrators in mind, without rigid software requirements and specialized hardware components, and is sold and supported by a global network of material handling automation systems integrators. The company uses Beckoff for standard controls and sources totes from Utz.
Trew® named Top workplace by employees for second consecutive year
The award recognizes top companies in the Greater Cincinnati region based on employee feedback. Trew, LLC has been recognized as a 2024 Top Workplaces Regional winner, receiving the award for the second consecutive year. Trew’s team includes a wide range of roles that work together to create client value and deliver on-time projects. Roles within the business include solutions development, project management, software, engineering, manufacturing, installation, sales, marketing, and other general corporate services. “Trew has an environment where team members consistently go the extra mile to deliver exceptional service to our customers,” said Alfred Rebello Trew Chief Executive Officer. We are thankful that our people who form the bedrock of the company and who continually strive for excellence have awarded this honor.” The Top Workplace Award is based entirely on employee feedback gathered by a third-party survey administered by Energage, LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures fifteen culture drivers that are critical to success of any organization such as alignment, execution, and connection. The award highlights organizations that stood out among their peers, demonstrating a commitment to employee satisfaction, organizational excellence, and building a thriving workplace culture. Trew won 2024 Cultural Excellence awards in the following categories: • Innovation • Purpose & Values • Leadership • Work-Life Flexibility • Compensation & Benefits Eric Rubino, Energage CEO, commented, “The Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor and something companies should be very proud to showcase. The people-first cultures they have built and nurtured will set them apart in a highly competitive market. These organizations represent the best of the best.” Trew was formed in January 2019 by warehouse automation veterans and has quickly become a solutions leader in the industry. The company is anchored in Cincinnati, with a diverse hybrid workforce and additional facilities in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the greater Toronto, Canada area.
Motion enters agreement to purchase electrical/automation company
Motion’s automation market to expand in the Mid-Atlantic Motion Industries, Inc. has signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire Allied Circuits, an electrical and automation firm. The transaction is expected to close later this month, subject to customary closing conditions. Located in Buffalo, New York, Allied Circuits designs, manufactures and services industrial control panels, electro-mechanical assemblies, robotic automation and integrated solutions. Founded in 1987, the company serves customers in the Western and Upstate New York markets and into Ontario, Canada, due to its proximity to the border. End markets include aerospace, automotive, filtration, fluid systems & plumbing, food & beverage, oil & gas, pharmaceutical, process industries, semiconductor and water & wastewater treatment facilities. The company will join Motion’s business unit, Motion Automation Intelligence (Motion Ai). The addition of Allied Circuits will provide an exceptional workforce of highly skilled teammates, ATEX certification capabilities and over 20,000 square feet of additional production space to bolster Motion Ai’s existing presence in the area. Motion Ai’s total region size will expand to over 100,000 square feet of production space and 150 people dedicated to serving existing and new customers. Chris Scinta, Partner at Allied Circuits, said, “It’s a great match—including the business culture and core values—and we’re very excited about our customers’ expanded access to even more products and services. Motion is an industry leader, and we are pleased to integrate employee talents and contribute to the company’s growth.” “Our customers are growing, and we’re committed to growing with them,” said James Howe, President of Motion. “By combining our engineering teams, we can leverage highly experienced technical resources needed to design, program, and support increasing automation needs within the region. This strategic acquisition will create new opportunities for our customers, teammates, and supplier partners.”
Diana Mueller joins KPI Solutions as Senior Account Executive
With 15+ years of experience in the logistics and supply chain industry, she specializes in architecting transformational distribution solutions that deliver business results KPI Solutions (KPI) has announced that Diana Mueller has joined the company as Senior Account Executive. In this role, Diana will partner with clients to understand their distribution objectives, and then enable and facilitate value-based strategic initiatives that support growth and build resilience. She brings particularly deep experience in developing omnichannel solutions for the retail, apparel, and footwear industries. “I’m thrilled to join the KPI Solutions sales team to help our clients solve complex supply chain challenges and navigate the many alternatives for warehouse design and automation,“ said Diana. “My background in large-scale, omnichannel distribution projects allows me to offer a fresh perspective to clients as we build a customized, total solution that boosts productivity and enables agility.” “Diana’s experience in business case rationalization and supply chain transformation will bring value to our clients as we continue to couple innovative engineering with leading automation technologies,” said Roger Counihan, Senior Vice President of Sales. “KPI’s clients will benefit from her focus on exceeding their business goals by leveraging creative designs with world-class automation and robotics, powered by intelligent software.” Diana joins KPI Solutions from Fortna, where she was an Account Executive. Prior experience includes working as a Solutions Manager and Transportation Analyst at OHL (now Geodis). She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration, Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degree from Auburn University and resides in Florida.
Orbital Stretch Wrapper manufacturer introduces upgraded safety control package
New package adds automated safety scanners to TAB Wrapper Tornado Orbital wrapper manufacturer TAB Industries, LLC, has introduced an upgraded safety control package. Available as an option on the company’s TAB Wrapper Tornado Smart Controls orbital wrapping machines, the new upgraded safety control package adds the company’s automated Safety Scanners, bumper guards, and accessories at a discounted price versus the individual add-ons. The Safety Scanners create an invisible field emanating in a 180-degree arc from both the front and back of the machine that allows forklifts to pass but automatically stops the wrapping machine if a worker enters the field. The scanners are set within the bumper guards, which protect the stretch wrapper from accidental contact with lift trucks. Available on TAB Wrapper Tornado Smart Controls models with the standard 80-inch, 100-inch, and 115-inch wrapping rings, the Upgraded Safety Control Package accommodates 480V electrical service and may be retrofit onto Smart Controls wrapping machines in the field. The patented smart controls pallet wrapping machines automatically apply stretch wrap 360 degrees around and under a pallet and load to create a stable, secure, unitized load in 30 seconds or less without boxes, crates, or banding. The stretch wrap machines are designed and manufactured at the company’s Reading, Pa. headquarters and delivered with the worker safety upgrade pre-installed, tested, and ready to operate. A full warranty is included.
Cimcorp honored for proactive safety culture
Cimcorp has been awarded the highest occupational safety level classification in the Vision Zero Forum, led by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health. The Vision Zero Forum is a network of workplaces aimed at motivating and encouraging companies to strive towards a high level of occupational safety, occupational health and well-being at work. This accomplishment highlights Cimcorp’s dedication to workplace safety, and also reflects its commitment to fostering a culture where safety is a continuous journey, not merely a goal. With “Caring” one of its core company values, Cimcorp is committed to the well-being of its employees, partners, and customers. Cimcorp strives to provide healthy working conditions with the target of zero work-related injuries in all activities. Taking a preventative approach to safety, Cimcorp focuses on identifying and controlling risks and continuously developing the safety of its operations and products. Cimcorp’s journey towards zero accidents is driven by both collective effort and individual dedication. Every employee is encouraged to consider the safest way to complete each task before starting, fostering a reflective practice that supports a safe workplace. This mindset encourages each individual to care for their own safety, as well as the safety of others. “By developing our employee safety, we’re investing in the future,” said Tero Peltomäki, CEO, Cimcorp. “Each step taken towards safety is a step towards our shared success. When we care for each other’s safety as if it were our own, we embody the essence of our safety philosophy.” Cimcorp’s proactive approach to safety does more than prevent accidents; it builds trust and satisfaction among employees and customers. The company’s core value of reliability is evident in its operations, from fulfilling promises to being a trustworthy partner for both customers and staff. Cimcorp’s efforts to elevate workplace safety standards carry into installation sites and thorough risk assessments. Every reported safety observation is a step towards a safer, more efficient workplace and reflects continuous improvement.
Kardex appeared at Automate 2024 showing manufacturers the fastest order fulfilment per sq ft
Kardex demonstrated to manufacturers at Automate 2024 the huge potential offered by Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) technology to reduce their intralogistics footprint, cut workloads, manage spikes in demand, and enhance productivity. Intralogistics solutions provider Kardex appeared at Automate 2024, North America’s largest robotics and automation event in Chicago (May 6-9), demonstrating the fastest order fulfillment solution per square foot on the market. Kardex FulfillX is a warehouse execution system (WES) purpose-built to allow new AutoStore systems to ramp up faster and is capable of meeting or exceeding business cases in as little as six months. It has been specifically created by experts at Kardex, a global AutoStore partner, to maximize the capabilities of AutoStore robotic cube storage systems for manufacturing customers. Kardex solutions offer manufacturers efficiency, flexibility, and short training times Visitors to stand #4681 at Automate 2024 saw FulfillX in action, with demonstrations of how it can create user-friendly, highly configurable AutoStore systems. FulfillX optimizes picking and packing, while also streamlining putaway and other inventory processes. It provides a real-time overview of the whole operation in a simple window. Enhancements can be rapidly deployed by Kardex’s dedicated AutoStore support team and digital twins enhance planning and commissioning. As well as promoting the benefits of FulfillX, Kardex’s booth used digital tools and augmented reality to bring to life the Kardex Intuitive Picking Assistant and its range of smart intralogistics solutions. Kardex’s Intuitive Picking Assistant solution is suitable for a wide range of industrial manufacturing applications, including spare parts picking, visual direction, and kitting. It uses digital tools and augmented reality to enhance picking processes by responding to movements and projecting relevant picking information directly onto the surface of the access opening. The Intuitive Pick Assistant is compatible with both and AutoStore ports to facilitate accurate, ergonomic picking, and can be tailored to specific customer requirements. In addition, it can be used to direct operators through kitting processes. As US manufacturers increasingly turn to warehouse automation technology, AutoStore empowered by Kardex FulfillX provides them with the opportunity to slash their facility footprint, reduce workload, manage spikes in demand, and address labor and skills shortages. Commenting on Kardex’s appearance at Automate 2024, Mitch Hayes, President of Kardex Solutions AutoStore, said, “Automate offered the ideal opportunity to introduce US manufacturers to AutoStore empowered by Kardex FulfillX. FulfillX represents the next evolution of ASRS technology. At Kardex, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with intralogistics automation. Our advanced software solutions provide manufacturers with the flexible, convenient, and efficient capabilities they need to meet industry challenges now and in the future.” Real-world case studies MAHLE As a leading global parts and solutions provider to the Independent Aftermarket, MAHLE Aftermarket saw a shift in customer order profiles from larger pallet orders to smaller package orders in higher frequency. This resulted in an increasing number of shipping points per customer and shipping smaller quantities to more locations. To accommodate this shift, MAHLE Aftermarket implemented an AutoStore system from Kardex in their Olive Branch, MS location to automate small parts handling. Stay tuned for the official release of the MAHLE case study in mid-May 2024. Anyseals One company benefiting from AutoStore empowered by Kardex is Anyseals, a global wholesale sealing supplier. Anyseals provides their distribution customers with services including just in time delivery, bar coding, kitting and custom labeling. The company was moving from a completely manual to an automated operation and implementing a new WMS at its main US facility in Ohio. They turned to Kardex for a space-efficient, flexible solution to increase efficiency in small parts handling and facilitate growth. The Anyseals AutoStore system went live in October 2023 and Anyseals described working with Kardex as “a great experience”, with employees happy with how the technology assists them with their work, 100% uptime at the facility and average picking time reduced from up to 15 minutes per pick to seconds, with substantial time saved on putaway as well. Rush orders are prioritized to ship on time and Anyseals is still learning what is possible with Kardex and AutoStore to enhance its processes further. “The AutoStore solution will enable us to continue our strong growth trajectory and will enhance our ability to meet and exceed the high level of fulfilment execution for our customers”, says Toby Rose, COO at Anyseals USA.