Fenner™ Precision Polymers relocates corporate offices
Fenner™ Precision Polymers, a Michelin Group Company and world provider in reinforced polymer technology announced the move of its corporate offices. The new location is in Manheim Township, will be at 187 West Airport Road in Lititz, Pa. Approximately 100 of Fenner’s office staff are expected to move into the new offices beginning fall of 2022. Ongoing construction updates will be underway in the space through October. The company anticipates that the remaining corporate staff will have relocated to the new facility by end of 2022. “This is a great location for us and one that is great for the business,” said Jack Krecek, Divisional Managing Director, Fenner Precision Polymers. “The West Airport Road location offers a convenient commute for employees that is just minutes away from the previous site. It also provides enhanced comfort and productivity advantages over the previous corporate headquarters. It’s a workplace in which staff will be more connected and better positioned to support our growth.” The enhanced office space brings to life the kind of environment that will attract and retain top talent in the Lancaster area. It features improved cross-functional collaboration inside the workplace and supports sustainability efforts externally, by reducing time and carbon emissions produced by travel between buildings and outside meetings. “Our relocation to the new facility marks yet another proud milestone along our journey to becoming a world-class manufacturing operation,” added Krecek. “We see it as a launch pad for innovation –increasing engineering jobs for an R&D center and creating new manufacturing jobs to support Fenner’s expanding operations.” Built in 1998, 187 West Airport Road sits on 2.94 acres. It is a 35,021 sq. ft. Industrial/Flex building consisting of office and warehouse space. Fenner and many of its brands have been members of Lancaster and Manheim communities for more than 100 years.
Caster Concepts
Flimsy bags can now be picked and handled more easily with a safe grip
As the bags become thinner and flimsier, the more carefully they need to be treated. With the new BGX suction cup developed for handling flimsy bags, this challenge is outdated. The BGX suction cup is suitable for applications in E-commerce, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Secondary food picking, Fashion, and other industries where bags are handled. Bags made of thin plastic films such as those used for salad leaves and fresh herbs, or the aluminum foil bags used for chips and other snacks are flimsy and often just as fragile as their contents. New biodegradable and recyclable materials are becoming increasingly popular and with it the challenges of bag handling increase. The thinner the bags become, the easier they can be sucked into and damaged by the suction cup’s grip. To avoid any damage to the bag or indeed to its contents, the lip of the suction cup needs to provide outstanding sealing capability even at low vacuum levels. Piab’s new BGX bag handling suction cup has been specially developed to be the perfect bag picker for flimsy and oversized bags addressing the challenges presented by this application. The lip of the bag cup is designed with outstanding sealing capability also at a low vacuum level. Produced as a one-piece suction cup with two bellows, the suction cup will easily pick bags of different heights with a safe and stable hold of the product in the fast/semi-fast robot applications. The BGX suction cups are made of FDA & EU-approved blue silicone for direct contact with food and are suitable for both high and low-temperature applications. The suction cup can be configured by choosing between 3 sizes of lip diameters 34, 41, and 48 mm, and 6 different aluminum push-in fittings designed to attach safely to the robust neck of the cups. The ultimate bag picker benefits: Perfect for picking flimsy bags Thin lip seals outstandingly at a low vacuum level One-piece suction cup provides safe and stable hold of the product in fast/semi-fast robot applications Multi bellow design compensates for height differences and uneven surfaces FDA & EU approved silicone material for direct food contact Suitable for both high and low-temperature applications Configurable for individual applications in E-commerce, FMCG, Secondary food picking, Fashion, and other industries. Piab’s solutions for automated bag handling rely on our long-standing expertise in vacuum and ejector technology as well as the use of our specialized suction cups. With over 20 years of experience in developing bag-handling suction cups, we still constantly challenge ourselves to create new cups for increasingly targeted applications supporting your success.
Emerson introduces environmentally Robust Control Stations and Tumbler Switches for hazardous locations
The Appleton Contender 4/4X Series factory sealed design significantly reduces maintenance and replacement costs lowering the total cost of ownership compared to traditional market solutions Processing hazardous materials require reliable power distribution and controls to operate efficiently and supply the world with the important commodities it needs, yet these electrical control devices are challenged by exposure to harsh weather, corrosion, moisture, and other foreign materials. To solve this problem, Emerson has announced its Appleton™ Contender™ 4/4X Series control stations and tumbler switches featuring a superior gasket design offering Type 4, 4X, 12, and IP66 ingress protection. This introduction brings more cost-efficiency, performance, and reliability to oil and gas, wastewater, grain milling, and other processing industries operating in harsh environments including Class I, Division 2, Zone 2, Class II, and Class III locations. “Explosionproof, Division 1 rated control stations and tumbler switches lack sufficient ingress protection, leading to device failure, high maintenance costs, and more frequent replacements, especially when exposed to corrosive elements,” said Donald LaCombe, Sr. Product Marketing Specialist for Emerson. “Leveraging a gasketed design and a superior material finish, the Appleton Contender 4/4X Series offers a protective barrier from harmful corrosion and prolonged exposure to the elements, adding value and lowering total cost of ownership.” LONG-LASTING ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Unlike Explosionproof, Division 1 rated control stations and tumbler switches, the Appleton Contender 4/4X Series utilizes a gasket cover and devices as well as O-rings supplied on captive stainless steel screws. Additionally, this series comes standard with iron back boxes utilizing the Appleton patented triple-coat finish, in addition to a durable epoxy powder coat finish supplied on device covers and optional aluminum back boxes for Type 4X rating. These design enhancements prevent ingress that leads to device failure and component corrosion over time. Replacing corroded units can be difficult and time-consuming, especially in scenarios when severely corroded cover screws strip during cover replacement or discovering the backbox is compromised resulting in more costly full unit replacement. The Contender 4/4X Series design addresses these issues by reducing future maintenance and replacements so that time can be spent on more vital tasks. The Appleton Contender 4/4X Series also represents a cost-effective alternative to non-metallic control products. Non-metallic enclosures are typically fabricated from fiberglass-reinforced polyester that inhibits corrosion yet costs more than their metallic counterparts. RETROFIT CAPABILITY Device covers are available for facilities looking to upgrade to the Appleton Contender 4/4X Series that have an existing install base of Appleton EDS Series back boxes. Furthermore, Contender 4/4X Series device covers are UL Classified to mount on existing Crouse-HindsTM EDS Series back boxes and don’t require the use of grease or installation of plastic cover accessories for equivalent environmental protection. HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE Depending on the application there are a variety of control station devices and device options for a tailormade solution, including momentary and maintained mushroom head pushbuttons, 2 or 3 position selector switches, Vac or Vdc LED pilot lights, 1 or 2 N.O./N.C. contact blocks, and custom legend plates among others.
KEEN Utility Kansas City+ new this Spring
Building on the success of its predecessor, KEEN Utility’s Kansas City+ is a standout introduction for Spring ‘22. Heavy on tech, light on weight, and loaded with performance features, the Kansas City is an all leather boot that seamlessly transitions between indoor and outdoor work. The Kansas City+ boasts KEEN.BELLOWS Flex technology is an ergonomically engineered system designed to offer multidirectional flexion making bending, squatting, kneeling, and knee-down work up to three times easier. Other highlights include a KEEN.ReGEN performance cushioning midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam, as well as an oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking lugged outsole tread design for optimal traction. Additional safety features of this medium-duty boot include asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel, KONNECTFIT heel-capture system to lock the heel down for sure-footed stability, and a completely non-metallic construction combined with EH rated protection underfoot from live electrical circuits.
Kollmorgen introduces a new generation of Robot-Ready Frameless Servo Motors
Kollmorgen, a global provider in motion control systems, has announced the new TBM2G series of frameless servo motors, introducing features that simplify the design of collaborative, surgical, aerospace and defense, and other robots while delivering optimal performance in a lighter, more compact package. These new motors will complement Kollmorgen’s existing TBM and KBM series of frameless motors. Resulting from several years of research, testing, and customer feedback, the TBM2G series offers high-performance torque in an extremely compact electromagnetics package. These next-generation motors enable robots with lower joint weight, higher load-carrying capacity, improved energy efficiency, lower thermal rise, and faster, smoother movements. Frameless torque motors typically deliver their best performance at low speeds but suffer at higher speeds. TBM2G motors remove this limitation through advanced windings and materials that deliver industry-leading power, torque, and efficiency consistently across a wide speed range. TBM2G motors also remove the sizing limitation that engineers often face when using off-the-shelf strain wave gearing, also known in the robotics market as harmonic gearing. The new TBM2G series motors are sized for a perfect fit with readily available strain wave systems, eliminating the need for extensive customizations that can increase engineering time and cost while potentially leading to supply and quality issues when robots enter full production. The TBM2G series is available in seven frame sizes with three stack lengths each—a total of 21 standard motors that can be integrated directly into robotic joints and similar embedded equipment. Typical applications are collaborative robots in the 3–15 kg range, powered at 48 VDC and below. These motors are designed to perform at high speeds without exceeding the 80°C limit typically needed to safeguard humans working in proximity to cobots and to prevent degradation of grease and electronic components. And they’re available with thermal sensor options to meet the requirements of drives and control systems used in the cobot market. Kollmorgen is highly tooled up to deliver TBM2G motors globally, at any volume, with fast production times, reliable quality, and local co-engineering support. “We’re excited to introduce new servo motors that significantly increase overall performance while reducing size in a wide range of frameless applications,” said Jeff Czarnecki, Vice President, Global Marketing at Kollmorgen. “And we’re particularly excited at the possibilities the TBM2G series opens up for robotics. TBM2G motors are a perfect fit for a new generation of high-performance cobots,” Czarnecki said. “They are truly robot ready.”
Signode launches new BPT Steel Strapping hand tool
Signode, the global manufacturer of a broad spectrum of automated packaging equipment, tools, and consumables, has launched its new BPT Steel Strapping Tool. Featuring a balanced and lightweight design, the battery-operated tool is ideal for a wide range of steel strapping applications, including heavy-duty stationery or mobile applications requiring high tension force. BPT has up to 500 cycles per battery charge, allowing seamless and continuous operation with full mobility throughout the plant, not restricted by the reach of air hoses or air quality. “The BPT is the latest example of Signode’s Innovation in Action approach,” says Ralph Kieffer, Director of Global Market Development at Signode. “We listened to what our global customers were looking for in a mobile steel strapping tool, and that important input really guided our design and development process.” The new tool boasts a high-performance battery and brushless motor technology, providing electronically controlled and reproducible strapping processes. Intelligent features include a real-time indication of the strapping status and visual and acoustic signals. The BPT tools have an intuitive touchscreen user interface and allow a quick and comfortable adjustment of the strapping parameters depending on the package and even offer selectable manual, semi, or fully automatic operation modes, and a favorite setting.
Force Control presents Made in America Industrial Clutches and Brakes
Force Control Industries designs, manufactures, inventories, and services industrial clutches and brakes from their Fairfield, Ohio factory. This family-owned company has been manufacturing domestically for over 50 years, supplying cost-effective Buy American Act compliant industrial products. Among the benefits of building products in the USA are shorter lead times, with easier and faster shipping. Communication is often vital, especially on engineered or modified products; a common language saves time, reduces mistakes, and generally makes the process more cost-effective. Since 1969 the company has innovated with Oil Shear Technology, producing long-lasting clutch and brake products that require virtually no maintenance or adjustment. Many Force Control products from the early years are still in service. Posidyne® clutch brakes are available in many varieties including foot mounted double shaft extension, foot mounted C face, double C face, and the X Class cost-effective OEM clutch brake. The Posistop line of air or hydraulically actuated industrial brakes are manufactured in foot mounted, C face for mounting on the back of a motor, double C face-mounted between the motor and gear reducer, and flange mounted brake configurations. The X Class Posistop is an economical C face brake for packaging and food processing OEMs. Positorq® brakes are designed to provide tension or absorb energy. They are used to tension diverse products such as paper unwind stands to steel processing lines. The same units can be used as load absorbers for such applications as dynamometers for tractors, hydraulic motors, low-speed electric motors, or off-road equipment. MagnaShear™ motor brakes typically mount to the back of a motor and are used as a stopping brake, not just a holding brake. Totally enclosed designs are impervious to dust, dirt, moisture, grease, oil, and other contaminants, making them ideal for harsh environments. MagnaShear™ models fit NEMA frame 56C to 440 motor frames and produce torque from 6 to 1250 lb-ft., so they are suitable for a wide range of industries and applications. How Oil Shear Works All Force Control products feature Oil Shear Technology. Unlike dry brakes, oil shear technology includes a layer of automatic transmission fluid between the disc and the drive plate. As the fluid is compressed, the fluid molecules shear – thus imparting torque to the other side. This torque transmission causes the rotating discs to decelerate against the stationary plates bringing them down to stop. Since most of the work is done by the fluid particles in shear, wear is virtually eliminated. Elimination of wear also eliminates the need for adjustments which are common for dry braking systems. In addition to transmitting torque, a patented fluid recirculation system helps to dissipate heat which is the major problem with traditional dry brakes. Along with heat removal and torque transmission, the fluid serves to continually lubricate all components of the oil shear brake, elongating their service life. MagnaShear™ brakes with oil shear technology provide significantly longer service life, characterized by virtually maintenance-free operations.
JW Winco linear guide rail systems are indispensable
If precise, quiet, and dynamic linear movements are required, linear guide rail systems are indispensable. For special applications, JW Winco has now produced its modular system in stainless steel. Even if they might appear so at first glance, not all linear guide rail systems are the same. The differences reveal themselves upon a closer look and tend to lie in fundamental aspects rather than mere details. This is why Winco offers a number of different models and versions. The most recent addition is the stainless steel version in the two most important guide rail heights of 1.18 in (30 mm) and 1.77 in (45 mm). These guide rails are assembled from precisely matched components: linear guide rails GN 2492, the matching cam roller carriages GN 2494, and the separately available wipers of TPU plus the individual rollers with three different bore types. The exceptionally stable guide rails are produced in a rolling process and can be mounted using the typical bore pattern, even up to a rail length of 97.64 in (2480 mm). The compact cam roller carriages run securely within the C-shaped rail, and the vertical play can be adjusted on the middle roller – a typical Winco feature. The ball bearings of the rollers are sealed, lubricated for life, and FDA-compliant (as indicated by the blue seals). As a result, these linear guide rail systems can be used in corrosive environments as well as areas with strict hygiene requirements. The linear guide rail systems of the GN 2422 series can be assembled just as individually. In this case, the C-shaped guide rails GN 2422 are available in four heights and are made of non-warping zinc-plated, hardened, and ground steel. The matching cam roller carriages GN 2424 come in three versions, each with an adjustable middle roller. All rollers and wipers can also be purchased individually. When mounted to the cam roller carriages, the wipers remove dirt from the guide rails during every movement to ensure smooth travel at all times. Alongside these linear guide rail systems designed for extreme demands, Winco also carries simpler variations in its product range, which are quite sufficient for standard applications. GN 1490 is offered in two heights as a complete set including rail and carriage – in zinc-plated steel or stainless steel. Thanks to slightly over-dimensioned rollers, the carriages run quietly and precisely within the C-profiles with zero backlashes. The lifetime lubrication and dust-proof sealing of the bearing also make valuable contributions here. With these three models, Winco offers ideal solutions for all quality requirements and price points.
KEEN Utility Cincinnati Wellington pull-on style boasts durability
With the introduction of the Cincinnati Wellington, KEEN Utility incorporates modern, lightweight materials into a time-tested pull-on style for heavy-duty performance. Constructed with a Goodyear welt, the Cincinnati Wellington boasts a durable, Barnyard Resistant full-grain leather upper to resist many caustic minerals, oils, and chemicals. Product highlights include an air-infused KEEN Luftcell midsole as well as a removable, dual-density PolyAer footbed with an aerated pillow-top cushioning. Safety features include non-metallic asymmetrical carbon-fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel while offering an unobtrusive fit as well as a slip-resistant, EH-rated rubber outsole to provide dependable traction in wet or oily environments while also giving protection from accidental contact with live electrical circuits. From the farm to the worksite, the Cincinnati Wellington is built to grind through tough job site conditions while still looking great.
Fairbanks Scales to showcase weighing innovations at Waste EXPO 2022
Fairbanks Scales Inc., the oldest scale company in the U.S. and provider of weighing equipment, has announced they will be showcasing a wealth of state-of-the-art industrial scales at Waste Expo 2022, May 9-12 2022. Visit booth #1816 in the Las Vegas Convention Center to view Fairbanks Scales’ latest groundbreaking innovations in weighing equipment, including a large-scale model of the lift-deck truck scale for waste operations equipped with an Intalogix® lightning/power surge protection system. The Fairbanks Heavy Capacity Lift Deck Truck Scale is a scale ideal for transfer station scales. Our easy-to-clean solution is the ideal choice for shallow pit scale replacement or new transfer station scale construction projects. The scale’s decks can be quickly and easily lifted and removed with lightweight equipment to hose out debris or dirt that accumulates, keeping your scale running smooth and accurate even in the harshest environments. The Lift Deck Truck Scale is equipped with the proprietary Intalogix® lightning protection system. Designed and developed exclusively by Fairbanks, this state-of-the-art technology has a true digital signal which protects the scale from any harmful surges or electrical spikes. Also on display will be the FB7100 series instrument specifically designed for vehicle weighing. This is Fairbanks’s most intuitive and easy-to-operate instrument for mid-range, single scale, truck weighing. Its economical price, standard touch screen, optional single set-point filling, and no-hassle set-up make it one of the best instruments in the industry.
Genesee Global celebrates 20 years of ERP loyalty with Global Shop Solutions
Customer loyalty can be hard to find in today’s highly competitive manufacturing industry – unless you happen to be Global Shop Solutions. A provider of ERP software to manufacturers around the globe, the company is proud to announce that Genesee Global, a manufacturing services provider based in Rochester, N.Y., recently passed the 20-year mark as a loyal Global Shop Solutions customer. “As technology began to reshape the manufacturing industry, we recognized the need to jettison our old database business management system and step up to ERP,” says Chris Caschette, CEO of Genesee Global. “We chose Global Shop Solutions for its robust functionality, superb visibility of shop floor data, and ability to track performance data in real-time, but we’ve stayed with them for other reasons as well.” “Like us, Global Shop Solutions is a family-owned business,” says Caschette. “They’ve had the same ownership for more than 45 years, which results in consistency of their people and product. They constantly update the software with new features and capabilities. Their ongoing training and education help maximize our ability to use the software. And the Customer Care Team is very personable and responsive to our needs.” Over the years, Global Shop Solutions has made significant improvements in virtually all areas of Genesee Global. From flexible scheduling to precise inventory control to customizable Dashboards that provide immediate visibility of what’s happening on the shop floor, the software enables Genesee Global to simplify production processes, use their resources more efficiently, and help clients get their products to market faster. On the financial side of the business, Global Shop Solutions makes it easy to track the company’s financial health by integrating financial and operational data into one system. Automated purchasing helps control the cost of materials, job costs are tracked in real-time, and management knows the true cost of each job as soon as it is finished. Based on these and other ERP-generated improvements, Genesee Global doubled sales within 10 years of implementing the software. “Global Shop Solutions allows us to grow by responding more quickly to our customer’s needs,” says Caschette. “Yet, we don’t feel rushed when making decisions because the data driving key decisions is always right there at our fingertips. We’re proud to be a ‘legacy’ customer of this excellent organization.”
Dr. Shrink, Inc. celebrates 30 years as a global provider in Shrink Wrap
Dedication to its customers, world-class customer service, premium product offerings, and willingness to provide experienced advice on the proper way to shrink wrap are just a few of the reasons Dr. Shrink, Inc. has been in business so long. The company celebrates 30 years of success in April 2022. Starting in 1985, before the birth of Dr. Shrink, Inc., Mike Stenberg worked as a shrink wrap installer wrapping boats, machinery, airplanes, buildings, etc. for about seven years, where he perfected the trade and acquired skills to make shrink wrapping easier and more efficient. As shrink wrapping became more prevalent and widespread, Mike saw a more pressing need for the distribution of premium shrink wrap and installation supplies; thus his focus shifted from being a shrink wrap installer to a distributor. In 1992, Mike retreated from the actual shrink wrap installation work to focus on the selling and distributorship of shrink wrap materials—and this is when Dr. Shrink, Inc. was born. Dr. Shrink, Inc. was founded in 1992, by Mike & Jill Stenberg in Manistee, Michigan, as a two-person operation in their home. It has since grown into a 20+ employee international corporation that distributes its products across the world. “Taking a step back and thinking about the last 30 years, it’s humbling,” says Mike Stenberg, President & Founder of Dr. Shrink, Inc. “Jill and I started Dr. Shrink, Inc. in our home and distributed products out of our garage. Our initial vision for the company was to offer expert shrink wrap installation advice, technical support, and provide excellent customer service—all while selling the highest quality, premium shrink wrap and accessories as a “one-stop-shop” for all things shrink wrap. Today we couldn’t be more proud of this company, and the people we have on our team. There is no way Dr. Shrink, Inc. could have reached this milestone without the loyalty of our amazing customers, distributors, and our team of fantastic employees.” Dr. Shrink, Inc. has not only supplied its premium 100% virgin resin shrink wrap, but it has also been a leader and innovator in the shrink wrap industry for the past 30 years. The company is responsible for many of the accessories and practices that are implemented by installers and distributors across the globe. “When we realized the potential of the industry, we had to get more involved on the ground floor,” says Ryan Polcyn, VP of Sales & Marketing of Dr. Shrink, Inc. “The people that we have met, and the businesses and distributorships we have seen grow and expand, not just locally, but internationally have been extremely rewarding. Knowing that our products, training techniques, and resources have contributed towards their success is just incredible.” Throughout the years, Dr. Shrink, Inc. has also found ways to get involved within the communities it serves. From their promotion of breast cancer awareness and their “Think Pink” Shrink Wrap fundraising efforts to their multi-state shrink-wrap recycling drives, it’s about much more than just selling shrink wrap and supplies. “I appreciate each and every one of the people we work with on a daily basis in many countries around the world. The excellent service and products that Dr. Shrink, Inc. offers wouldn’t happen without our tremendous team of customer service representatives, distributors and vendors, warehouse employees, and salespeople who work very hard to make us a world-class business,” says Bart Stenberg, General Manager of Dr. Shrink, Inc. As Dr. Shrink, Inc. looks toward the next 30 years, their commitment to its team, community, and industry has served them well and they are excited about what the future holds. “Every day I get up and look forward to who we can make a connection with,” says Mike Stenberg. “If it’s someone in my hometown of Manistee, or somewhere in Europe or the Far East, it’s the people, connections, and relationships that have and will always keep me motivated. A warm and heartfelt “thank you” to all our distributors and customers for trusting Dr. Shrink, Inc. to be your shrink wrap supplier over the years.”
TVH opens new Belgium headquarters dubbed “The Hub”
TVH has officially opened its new main office in Waregem, Belgium. Dubbed ‘The Hub’, the new facility was opened by CEO Dominiek Valcke in the presence of 200 guests. “With this state-of-the-art office building, we can now employ even more people and easily introduce visitors to our services,” Valcke said. Work on the site began in April 2019, and the new 13 000 sqm building is “a sleek, bright and contemporary solution to the impending lack of space that TVH was experiencing because of its rapid growth”, according to the company. Great attention was paid to comfort, ergonomics, and efficiency. Numerous CO2 sensors, temperature sensors, and controls ensure a pleasant indoor climate, and the many sound-absorbing materials also contribute to comfort. “The growth that TVH has experienced in recent years entailed a strong increase in the number of employees,” says Valcke. “We didn’t just create more office space with The Hub. We can now also support our employees better with extra meeting rooms, an auditorium, a new company restaurant, a showroom, and an extensive meeting center. “This additional space is certainly not an unnecessary luxury, since we are looking for more than 250 new colleagues to strengthen TVH, in Waregem alone,” Valcke adds. TVH is especially proud of its new “Experience Center”. “This unique 1,500 sqm visitor center primarily serves as a location to familiarise local and international visitors, such as customers, suppliers, associations, schools, and applicants, with the offer, services, atmosphere, and working method of TVH,” says the facility manager Luc Rasschaert. “And thanks to its interactive nature, TVH Experience Center is much more than just a showroom. Visitors can play games and test their driving skills with a virtual lift truck in a warehouse, for example.”
Toyota Industries Corporation acquires viastore and opens up long-term international growth prospects for the intralogistics expert
As an internationally recognized system integrator in the field of intralogistics, viastore completes TICO’s range of products and services, enabling the company to offer an integrated range of intralogistics solutions in the future In the partnership with TICO, viastore creates new long-term potential for all three business areas – from automated solutions and software to the service business Both companies will benefit from their individual strengths e.g. in the fields of Warehouse Management Software, Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, forklift trucks and Automated Guided Vehicles and create added value through a combined offering In future, viastore will be an independent unit under the roof of Toyota Advanced Logistics Group (TALG) – brand, business areas, locations and management will be maintained The shareholders of viastore GROUP (“viastore”), an international provider of intralogistics systems, intralogistics software and supporting services, have signed an agreement to sell all shares in the company to Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO). With its three business units, viastore completes TICO`’ range of products and services and will enable an integrated intralogistics offering and customer-specific solutions in the future – from forklifts to fully automatic sorting systems. Together with TICO, viastore will continue to actively pursue its growth strategy. The new partnership provides viastore with access to the customer portfolio of a leading global engineering group and long-term growth prospects for all three business areas. The parties have agreed not to disclose further details of the transaction, which is still subject to antitrust approval and is expected to close in the third quarter. Over the past 50 years, the viastore GROUP has developed into a leading international intralogistics expert. With its three business units Intralogistics Systems, Intralogistics Software and Supporting Services, viastore is a system integrator for the manufacturing industry and other industries and offers integrated, automated intralogistics solutions. In recent years, the company has embarked on a successful growth course and, as one of the few companies in the industry worldwide, has consistently relied on software services as an elementary part of its business model. Today, the material flow specialist is present in 17 countries with around 600 employees. For the 2021 financial year, the Group reported sales of around EUR 140 million. Dynamic growth prospects in automation TICO is a listed Japanese engineering company and a global leader in its field. It operates in three business areas: Automotive (manufacture of vehicles and components), Textile Machinery and Material Handling (Toyota Material Handling Group (TMHG) – forklifts, warehouse technology and lifting platforms and Toyota Advanced Logistics Group (TALG) – automated integration logistics). TICO has set itself the goal of further strengthening its global competitiveness and offering its customers a comprehensive range of products and services in the field of intralogistics. In 2017, TICO acquired Vanderlande (Netherlands), one of the world’s leading general contractors for airports, warehouse and parcel logistics process automation solutions, as well as Bastian Solutions (USA), a leading North-American system integrator. Under the roof of TALG viastore becomes part of an alliance of established, strong intralogistics brands. All three brands, Bastian, Vanderlande and viastore, are among the top 20 intralogistics brands worldwide. They have already successfully established themselves independently on the international market and are now pooling their know-how and innovative strength. Analysts expect significant growth in the global market for material handling solutions in the coming years. By 2026, they forecast a compound annual growth rate of around 8 percent and an increase in industry revenue to USD 354 billion, up from USD 195 billion in 2018. Against the background of a growing demand for integrated solutions in the field of material handling, viastore is tapping into long-term growth potential through the partnership with TICO and its cooperation with Toyota Material Handling Europe. Besides a broader approach to the market – especially in the area of small to mid-sized automation projects – both companies will benefit from their individual strengths e.g. in the fields of Warehouse Management Systems, Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, forklift trucks and Automated Guided Vehicles and create added value through a combined offering. Partnership characterized by continuity The partnership with TICO is characterized by continuity. viastore will continue to actively pursue its strategic development and will operate as an independent unit under the roof of Toyota Advanced Logistics Group (TALG) in the future. Brand, business areas, locations and management will be maintained. The management team consisting of CEO Philipp Hahn-Woernle, CFO Anja Zschernig and the COOs Dr. Harald Goebel and Thomas Hibinger will continue to lead the company. Philipp Hahn-Woernle, CEO of viastore, said: “In the context of a growing demand for integrated solutions in the field of material handling, TICO has recognized the potential of viastore and presented a vision that is strategically compelling for both sides. In TICO, we have found a partner who appreciates the value of our brand and capabilities and will support the company in its long-term global growth trajectory. As an independent unit under the roof of Toyota Advanced Logistics, we will continue our successful course and open up new potential and long-term stability for our customers and employees by belonging to a successful group of companies.” Norio Wakabayashi, Senior Executive Officer of TICO, added: “The viastore GROUP is a successful company with an outstanding market position. Its complementary business areas make viastore a perfect match for TICO to be able to offer customers an integrated intralogistics solution in the future. I am very pleased to welcome the outstanding team of viastore, which strengthens our know-how in the market for intralogistics and expands our family of companies through the addition of another highly recognized intralogistics brand. “ www.viastore.com www.toyota-industries.com
DESTACO completes updates to 800 Series Manual Clamps
Targeted “quality enhancements” are designed to improve service life, lower maintenance requirements, and optimize overall product performance DESTACO has completed quality enhancements for three models within its 800 Series Manual Clamp product family. These updates are in line with DESTACO’s commitment to continuously review and identify ways to improve the capabilities of its products, with an ultimate goal of achieving the highest level of innovative performance for each and every component. “Our customers and their needs drive us to stay on the cutting edge of product enhancement and performance,” said Russell Toney, president of DESTACO. “These updates to the 800 Series Manual Clamp product line illustrate how we are constantly listening to our customers’ needs and always striving to satisfy them.” Receiving the most extensive quality enhancements is the Model 802-U Manual Clamp. The updates include an upgraded air cylinder that ensures the clamp’s exerting force is less than the maximum holding capacity when operated at normal pressure, which extends service life; new composite bearings on the trunnion mount and cylinder pivot point that eliminate metal-to-metal contact while requiring no lubrication; and a redesigned clevis bolt, along with increased rivet and pre-stop diameters that increase longevity. Two other 800 Series Manual Clamps have also been updated: Model 807-U: Now features lubrication- and maintenance-free composite bearings on the trunnion mount, a redesigned clevis bolt, and a reconfigured base, resulting in the elimination of any hesitation that could compromise the unit’s open/close performance. Model 810-U: Features new composite bearings that eliminate metal-to-metal contact, thereby extending service life, while requiring no lubrication or maintenance.
B&B Attachments appoints Parts Manager
B&B Attachments has appointed Marie Ridley as Parts Manager. Marie began her professional career in Forklift Engineering and Mechanical Maintenance. She comes to B&B with more than 20 years of aftermarket experience within the industry and brings with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise. As Parts Manager, Marie is responsible for managing customer parts inquiries and ensuring prices and availability information is provided quickly and accurately. Marie will follow through with every order that is placed and guarantee that it is expedited quickly and efficiently. As manager of the parts department, Marie’s overall aim is to enhance the customer experience. Marie is available to deal with any customer-related issues in this area. “We are delighted to have Marie on board at B&B. Her experience and expertise will help us expand our relationships and develop our parts offering to ensure our customers’ needs are being met. Her extensive knowledge of inventory, attachments, and knowledge of B&B’s products, together with her combined experience and commitment to B&B’s customers makes her the ideal choice for the position.” Comments Craig Lawson, Service Manager at B&B Attachments.
TVH is honored to be one of KC’s Healthiest Employers
TVH Americas, a global provider of quality replacement parts and accessories for the material handling and industrial equipment industries, was honored as one of KC Business Journal’s (KCBJ) Healthiest Employers in 2022. The Healthiest Employers Award honors businesses in the Kansas City area that make health and wellness a priority. KCBJ aims to find companies that work with their employees to improve their health and create a positive and inclusive workforce. To achieve this award, TVH was judged on its company-wide Nudge Program, which emphasizes physical fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being for its employees. The program offers a variety of opportunities for all employees to be physically fit with access to an on-site gym, active work areas, and walking challenges. Employees can even receive reimbursements for participating in activities like a 5k or local recreation league. However, these health and wellness initiatives don’t just focus on physical aspects. TVH’s health and wellness program emphasize the whole-body experience by offering classes on mental health, group activities, financial planning, and more. Just a few of these activities include meditation opportunities, guest speakers, an on-site garden club, and chair massage opportunities. By providing employees tools and resources for dealing with stress from psychological challenges, a host of health biomarkers and challenges such as anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure can be greatly reduced. “TVH’s health and wellness initiative have over 66% employee engagement and participation, reinforcing our commitment not just to being happy and healthy but ensuring a diverse and inclusive program for all,” said Lucy DelSarto, Health & Wellness Coach at TVH. ” We will continue to empower employees to focus on their well-being by providing support through activities, education, resources, and encouragement. I’m so proud of the wellness program as it continues to serve as a shining example of TVH’s commitment to the health and wellness of our most important asset, our employees.”
Know your Strengths
2022 is shaping up to be a year like none other in the recent past, as supply chain disruptions force us to reassess our priorities and reorganize our assets, our staffing, and our way of doing business. If there was ever a moment to re-invent yourself, that moment is now. As you enter the 2nd quarter of the year, demand for your products will no doubt be increasing while inventory dwindles. If you don’t have a battle plan for how you will navigate the inventory shortfall, you need to get busy. Murphy’s law stipulates that “things left to themselves go from bad to worse”. I have mentioned in previous articles the usefulness of gathering all of the middle managers and stakeholders for a yearly SWOT analysis. This year I believe this exercise to be critical. For those of you that may be unaware of this assessment tool, a SWOT analysis is designed to do a deep dive into the following: Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats When market conditions change, it’s important to reassess all four of these important areas. The results may motivate you to shift resources and manpower in order to align your tools and planning to meet the realities of the current marketplace. As a consultant, I have helped mediate many of these gatherings. I always like to start with strengths and opportunities, then follow with weaknesses and threats. Strengths and Opportunities (the value proposition) Contrary to popular opinion, not every dealership is the same. There are things your organization does well. Your organization has a unique blend of experience, personnel, capitalization, and customer base. You will no doubt have advantages and points of value that your competitors don’t have. On the other hand, you also will have challenges that may be difficult to overcome based on your capabilities and resources. This blend of capabilities and deficits are the building blocks of a VALUE PROPOSITION. I define a value proposition as the PRIMARY REASON a customer does business with YOU and not the dealer down the road. It amazes me how many dealers have not codified this into a series of bullet points that every employee should have memorized by the 2nd week of their employment. For the dealership to have sustainable success it must RESONATE with customers. Why you resonate as an organization should be well defined. It’s important to KNOW what your dealership REALLY DOES WELL. Then ask WHY. By the way… the truth can be startling. When going through the process of defining strengths, there is a tendency to lean towards legacy instead of the truth. This can be emotionally challenging. Your dealership may have built its long-term reputation on a key point of value like technical excellence, robust inventory, financial flexibility, or personnel experience. These items may have been foundational attributes years ago, but do they apply to your current state of affairs? The marketplace is evolving. In order to maintain resonance, your dealership must constantly redefine the current value proposition. It has to be relevant. It has to be meaningful and it has to be TRUE. One way of assessing your strengths is to do a forensic analysis of the customers you serve. Is there an industry, or a group of industries that you tend to gravitate to? As you address unique and challenging applications in a particular industry, your reputation for solving problems adds to your value for that particular market segment. One dealer may have a substantial following from manufacturing companies, while another tends to succeed in the food and beverage industry. Many times, these followings are a natural extension of the unique blend of capabilities, policies, and offerings that resonate with a particular industry. Understanding this helps you not only to define your strengths but also allows you to plan to increase your influence inside that industry. One of the problems with a SWOT analysis is that when talking about strengths and opportunities, you will tend to cast your net a little too wide. It’s natural to want to be all things to all people. You can’t. You have limitations that will naturally limit your capabilities. Every dealer has a finite capacity to serve their customers. Keeping the list of key opportunities within the confines of that capacity can be the difference between resonance and disappointment. Weaknesses Nobody likes to talk about their weaknesses. One of the problems however may be semantic. The word “weakness” has become a pejorative because it tends to cast blame. A discussion about weakness however should simply allow you to define market realities. For instance, your competitor may have a larger field service staff than you do. They have 15 vans on the road, and you have six. Those are the numbers. The discussion shouldn’t necessarily be how to increase your staff from six to 15. The discussion should be about OPTIMIZING the operations of the six vans you have so that the customer never even considers the competitor as a viable option (despite their capabilities). A discussion of weaknesses needs to be tied to actions that limit your exposure. Optimizing resources, increasing efficiencies, customizing solutions, and increasing flexibility in your offerings are all ways you can limit your exposure in spite of deficiencies incapacity. Threats Sometimes threats can be known, sometimes they come out of the blue. Some can be external while others lurk right inside the dealership. I like to assess threats based first on their impact on customer service and second based on their impact on the bottom line. It may seem uncomfortable to think that threats can be internal, but many times we put ourselves at the highest risk when we ignore the things that can hurt us the most. These include: Lack of safety enforcement and accountability Compensation programs that negatively affect customer service (see my article on “Silos”) Customer-facing processes that take too long (service estimates, parts pricing, voice mail responses, cross-department response) Insufficient van inventory (requiring return visits) Lack of data visibility (between departments, and employees) External
DESTACO introduces manual Clamp Handle Grips with multiple color options
DESTACO is excited to announce that the following 14 models in its popular Manual Hand Clamp product family are now available with multiple color options for the clamp handles: 202, 207, 213, 227, 237, 602, 604, 624, 2002, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2017 and 2027. The new handles are available in five colors: red (standard), black, blue, yellow, and green. The new handle colors can be used in almost all industries and applications as a way, for example, to designate specific handles for specialized uses, as part of a safety program, or as a way to create standardized color codes for operating modes or maintenance intervals. The handle colors can also be used as a branding instrument that highlights a company’s corporate color scheme, with customized color designs available. “Any standard hand-clamp model is interchangeable with a corresponding model that may have a different handle color,” explained Nina Wolleb, Global Application Engineering Manager for DESTACO. “Upon request, these handle colors can also be made available for other DESTACO product lines, such as UB hand-clamp versions or locking clamps.”