Celebrate Propane’s Versatility and Reliability on National Propane Day, October 7th
The third annual celebration recognizes propane’s impact on powering Forklifts, Vehicles, and more The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has announced the third annual National Propane Day on October 7, 2024 — an opportunity to celebrate propane’s essential role in powering the everyday lives of Americans nationwide. The celebration also honors the hardworking men and women who keep our economy moving with propane-powered forklifts and equipment. “Propane is more than just an energy source; it’s a critical component that helps businesses, homes, and essential services run smoothly, safely, and efficiently,” said Tucker Perkins, president and CEO at PERC. “Whether it’s keeping homes warm, helping farmers during harvest, powering school buses, or providing backup power during emergencies, we are proud to celebrate the many ways propane is a dependable energy solution our country can rely on.” As energy reliability and sustainability remain top priorities for industries and consumers, PERC encourages everyone to explore propane’s benefits — particularly as it complements other renewable energy sources like wind and solar. In addition, the production of renewable propane from sustainable materials like vegetable oils, animal fats, and used cooking oil offers the same reliability as conventional propane but with an even smaller carbon footprint. As more demand is placed on ports, distribution warehouses, and other facilities to remove diesel equipment and/or electrify the entire operation, now is the time to ensure that decision-makers across the U.S. are aware of the benefits and opportunities with propane-powered technology and are selecting that technology for their operation. “Propane generates approximately 52 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to equivalent electricity from the U.S. grid and provides a versatile option for diversifying the nation’s energy mix,” said Jim Bunsey, senior manager of business development at PERC. “By incorporating propane, Americans can reduce the strain on the electric grid while maintaining a cleaner and more resilient energy infrastructure.” On October 7th, communities, businesses, and propane advocates across the country will join the PERC in celebrating National Propane Day. PERC invites everyone to learn more about propane’s contributions to energy equity, environmental responsibility, and economic savings at Propane.com and Propane.com/NationalPropaneDay.
NRF Calls on Administration to use ‘Any and All Authority’ to end Port Strike
The National Retail Federation released the following statement from NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay after a labor strike was initiated at all U.S. East and Gulf Coast container ports. The strike went into effect after the six-year master contract between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) expired on Sept. 30. “NRF urges President Biden to use any and all available authority and tools — including the use of the Taft-Hartley Act — to immediately restore operations at all impacted container ports, get the parties back to the negotiating table, and ensure there are no further disruptions.” “A disruption of this scale during this pivotal moment in our nation’s economic recovery will have devastating consequences for American workers, their families and local communities. After more than two years of runaway inflationary pressures and in the midst of recovery from Hurricane Helene, this strike will result in further hardship for American families. The administration must prioritize our economy — and the millions of Americans who depend on it for their livelihood and well-being — and intervene immediately to prevent further hardship and deeper economic consequences. “It is essential that the ILA and USMX immediately resume negotiations with the intention of finalizing a new master contract without further disruptions and put an end to this stalemate.” Last month, NRF issued a statement urging the parties to immediately resume negotiations. The group also spearheaded a letter signed by nearly 200 organizations to President Biden urging the administration to intervene and avoid a disruption. In June, NRF led a coalition of 158 state and federal trade associations in a letter to President Biden urging the administration to work with the negotiating parties and to reach a new agreement. Earlier this year, NRF also sent a letter to ILA and USMX calling for the resumption of port labor negotiations. As the leading authority and voice for retail, NRF will continue to advocate for policies and solutions that ensure supply chain resiliency.
PTDA welcomes two new members
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA), an association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel, welcomes Eastern Sales as a new distributor member and Proton.ai as an associate member. Distributor Eastern Sales, with over 50 years of combined experience, specializes in finding difficult-to-find items. Additionally, through its industrial belt division, the company can install belts as wide as 72 inches. “As a small independent distributor, the opportunity to join PTDA was a no-brainer. The relationships we will build within this network will give us the opportunity for growth,” says owner Grady Burchfield. Associate Proton.ai is an AI-powered customer relationship management program built specifically for distributors. It helps distributors transition from routine check-ins to proactive, consultative conversations. Using AI, the program identifies which customers need attention, locates lapsed accounts, and finds gaps in customer spending so representatives always know the best step to increase revenue. “We’re on a mission to help distributors adopt AI and modernize their sales process. We’ve seen impressive results with PTDA members using our CRM, and we’re excited to continue sharing best practices and drive meaningful revenue growth within the distribution industry and the PTDA community,” says Dasha Shakov, head of marketing.
ALAN HURRICANE HELENE SITUATIONAL REPORT for Monday September 30
ALAN has been improving logistics response in disasters for 19 years, and the need is greater now than ever. Please donate today to help us continue our work for many more years to come American Logistics Aid Network is mobilized for Hurricane Helene. As part of our response efforts, we are committed to providing you with the latest information and updates on supply chain impacts via our periodic Situation Reports, which can be found below in this email and on our website. A message from ALAN Executive Director Kathy Fulton: Ordinarily, I am a glass-half-full kind of person. But when I look at what’s happened to the residents of Western North Carolina, Florida’s Big Bend, and other parts of the Southeast this past week, I find myself at a loss. The images of Hurricane Helene’s flooding, debris, and devastation are heartbreaking, especially when they are combined with the realization that so many people have lost their lives or remain missing – and that so many still await rescue. Many people have lost their homes, loved ones, pets, or business locations. And there is no sugar-coating how long and difficult the path to recovery will be. There’s so much to do that it’s difficult to know where to start. Thankfully, several great minds can point us in the right direction, including St. Francis of Assisi, who reportedly once advised, “Start by doing what’s necessary, then by doing what’s possible. . . ” Here at ALAN, those words make a lot of sense to us. Looking at our Disaster Micro-Site in the coming weeks, you’ll undoubtedly find numerous tangible examples of “what’s necessary” in the requests we’ll post for donated logistics assistance under our “Active Logistics Needs” tab. I hope that you will consider fulfilling one of them yourself—or that you will pass it along to any of your members, colleagues, or co-workers who might be willing to help. We also have a keen sense of “what’s possible” because, after 19 years of providing disaster relief, we know that when the right people work together to address a challenge efficiently and collaboratively – as so many government and humanitarian relief organizations are doing right now – amazing things can happen. Perhaps most importantly, we understand just how fortunate we are to be part of an industry that can play such a meaningful role in delivering help and hope. In closing, allow me to circle back to the quote I used at the beginning because there’s one part I left out: “Start by doing what’s necessary, then by doing what’s possible; and suddenly, you are doing the impossible.” Things may indeed look like an impossible-to-solve situation right now. But with folks like you in our corner, I know that recovery and resilience will happen. Thank you for being one of the best and brightest parts of my job. My glass wouldn’t be nearly as full without you. CRITICAL MESSAGES North Carolina Business Operations Center: Partners moving people, resources or equipment into western North Carolina, MUST coordinate plans and movements through the NCEM-BEOC. Help us keep critical supply lines open. Please do not self-deploy resources or supply logistics without coordinating with the BEOC. There is a high likelihood that your team(s) will be turned away at various checkpoints. We will prioritize movements and provide safe routes with an escort, as needed. You can email your supply logistics or movement requests to: BEOC@ncdps.gov Begin Subject Line with: Logistics Support Please include the following info: What are you moving? Why you need special access. When do you plan to move and from where? Where are you going? When will they arrive at the “border to Western NC” and where? In summary, until further notice, roads in Western NC (generally anywhere west of Hickory, NC) are closed to all traffic other than emergency services and pre-approved shipments coordinated through the BEOC. ITEMS OF INTEREST PSEMA Tropical Storm Helene Coordination Call via Zoom on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 4pm EDT. Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88943138859?pwd=8IPEcHNNyg0tPrO0R5FdbGY1rh84Hh.1 Meeting ID: 889 4313 8859 Passcode: 046808 OPEN CASES ALAN has begun to receive requests for donated logistics services to support Hurricane Helene response. We are looking to fill the following open cases: Case 9512: Request for Transportation of 120 Pallets – Plywood – from Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 to Ocala, FL 34474 FEDERAL EMERGENCY DECLARATIONS President Biden approved Major Disaster Declaration for South Carolina on September 29, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Virginia on September 29, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. President Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida on September 28, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. President Biden approved Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina on September 28, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Tennessee on September 28, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for South Carolina on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Alabama on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 22, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for North Carolina on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Georgia on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 24, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Florida on September 24, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 23, 2024, and continuing. STATE STATE DECLARATIONS Tennessee Governor Lee issued Executive Order No. 105 on September 27, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. West Virginia Governor Justice issued Proclamation declaring a State of Preparedness on September 26, 2024, in response to Hurricane Helene. Virginia Governor Youngkin issued Executive Order No. 37 on September 25, 2024 declaring a state of emergency due to Hurricane Helene. South Carolina Governor McMaster issued Executive Order 2024-24 on September 25, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene. North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 315 on September 25, 2024, declaring a statewide state of emergency and
ALAN HURRICANE HELENE SITUATIONAL REPORT September 27, 2024
ALAN has been improving logistics response in disasters for 19 years, and the need is greater now than ever before. Please donate today to help us continue our work for many more years to come American Logistics Aid Network is mobilized for Hurricane Helene. As part of our response efforts, we are committed to providing you with the latest information and updates on supply chain impacts via our periodic Situation Reports, which can be found below in this email and on our website. As you know, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region late Thursday night. Since then, ALAN has heard from many people anxious to know, “What can we do?” (Thank you for all of those questions!) We hope to have specific answers soon because we are working closely with the non-profit community to determine what is needed. As their requests for assistance begin to arrive (some of which we’re vetting now), we will share them via our Disaster Micro-Site and other channels. Meanwhile, there are still many ways we can put our shoulders to the wheel and begin to help—which is why we’d like to pass along the following practical Do’s and Don’ts. DO make sure your employees are safe – and supported. Don’t forget that we’re here for you. Do let us know if you are willing to help. Don’t assume you can’t be of help just because your operations are nowhere near the damaged areas. DO check ALAN’s website and Disaster Micro-Site often over the next few weeks. DON’T host a collection drive for products. DO consider helping in other ways instead. For a full elaboration on these points, please read our latest blog at https://www.alanaid.org/alans-helpful-post-hurricane-relief-dos-and-donts-3/ PSEMA Tropical Storm Helene Coordination Call via Zoom on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 1 pm EDT. Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88943138859?pwd=8IPEcHNNyg0tPrO0R5FdbGY1rh84Hh.1 Meeting ID: 889 4313 8859 Passcode: 046808 OPEN CASES ALAN has begun to receive requests for donated logistics services to support the response to Hurricane Helene. We are looking to fill the following open cases: Case 9512: Request for Transportation of 120 Pallets of plywood – from Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 to Ocala, FL 34474 Case 9510: Request for Transportation of 10 Pallets – Tarps – from West Palm Beach, FL 33401 to Winter Haven, FL 33881 FEDERAL EMERGENCY DECLARATIONS President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for South Carolina on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Alabama on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 22, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for North Carolina on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Georgia on September 26, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene beginning on September 24, 2024, and continuing. President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Florida on September 24, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 23, 2024, and continuing. STATE STATE DECLARATIONS Virginia Governor Youngkin issued Executive Order No. 37 on September 25, 2024 declaring a state of emergency due to Hurricane Helene. South Carolina Governor McMaster issued Executive Order 2024-24 on September 25, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Hurricane Helene. North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 315 on September 25, 2024, declaring a statewide state of emergency and temporary waiver and suspension of motor vehicle regulations. Georgia Governor Kemp issued Executive Order on September 24, 2024, declaring a State of Emergency for Tropical Storm Helene. Florida Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-209 on September 24, 2024, amending Executive Order 24-208. Florida Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-208 on September 23, 2024, in preparation for impacts from potential tropical cyclone nine. ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION WAIVERS Title: Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner Issued Executive Order Effective: 09/27/24| Expires on: 10/27/24 Description: The Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner issued an executive order providing temporary suspension of the motor fuel exporter, importer, and transporter licensing requirements associated with the Alabama Terminal Excise Tax for those supporting disaster relief efforts by engaging in the export of motor fuel from Alabama to areas in other states impacted by Hurricane Helene. Title: Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner Issued Executive Order Effective: 09/27/24| Expires on: 10/27/24 Description: The Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner issued an executive order providing temporary suspension of the requirements associated with the International Registration Plan and International Fuel Tax Agreement for any motor vehicle engaged in interstate disaster relief that will be traveling through the State of Alabama as part of the disaster relief. Title: Virginia Department of Transportation Secretary issued Transportation Waiver on September 26, 2024 Effective: 09/26/24| Expires on: 10/02/24 Description: The Virginia Department of Transportation Commissioner issued a transportation waiver granting temporary overweight, over width, registration, license, or hours of service exemptions to all carriers transporting essential emergency relief supplies to, through, and from any area of the Commonwealth. The authorization applies also applies to water, food, heating oil, motor fuels or propane, agricultural products, agricultural supplies, livestock, and poultry, forest products and salvaged wood, waste, and trees cut in preparation for the storm, or providing restoration of utilities. Title: South Carolina Governor McMaster issued Executive Order 2024-24 on September 25, 2024 Effective: 09/25/24| Expires on: 10/25/24 Description: In accordance with section 56-5-79(A) of the South Carolina Code of Laws, as amended, during a declared emergency and in the course of responding to the emergency, requirements related to registration, permitting, length, width, weight, and load are suspended for commercial and utility vehicles traveling on non-interstate routes for up to 120 days; and requirements relating to time of service suspensions for commercial and utility vehicles traveling on interstate and non-interstate routes are suspended for up to 30 days, unless extended for additional periods under the FMCSR. Whereas the FMCSR limits the hours of service for operators of commercial vehicles and pursuant to 49 CFR 390.23, the Governor may suspend federal hours of service regulations if the governor determines an emergency condition exists. Title: North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 311 Effective: 09/25/24| Expires on: 10/05/24 Description: North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 315 on September 25, 2024, declaring a State of Emergency and temporary waiver and
SuperCorrExpo® 2024 comes to a close, exceeding expectations
The event succeeds in welcoming the future of the corrugated industry SuperCorrExpo® 2024, one of the most highly anticipated events in the corrugated industry, wrapped up its successful five-day run. From September 8th-12th at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, the event brought together industry leaders, innovators and professionals from across the globe. The event attracted 3,964 attendees, with hundreds of box plant representatives in attendance, all eager to explore the latest technologies, solutions and trends shaping the future of the corrugated industry. SuperCorrExpo® also hosted 276 exhibitors, showcasing groundbreaking innovations in automation, robotics, digital printing, sustainability and more. Exhibitors and attendees alike left the event feeling inspired and energized, highlighting the invaluable connections they formed and deepened: “At SuperCorrExpo®, we are really able to focus down on the machines without the distractions of the factory environment.” –Danny Lopez, Vice President, New Machinery Sales at Haire “As a smaller, growing company, SuperCorrExpo® has been an amazing opportunity to connect with potential strategic partners.” –Brian Zernia, Account Executive at Dynamic Dies, Inc. “SuperCorrExpo® delivers a showcase of technology and advancements in a friendly environment, where catching up with industry friends and discussing business live in person are paramount.” –Brett Kirkpatrick, Director of Trade Business at The BoxMaker. Throughout the event, attendees had the opportunity to engage in insightful sessions covering key topics like artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability and digital transformation, as well as participate in hands-on demonstrations of the latest machinery and software solutions. The show floor was buzzing with activity as participants explored innovations that aim to drive the future of corrugated packaging. SuperCorrExpo® continues to be a hub for industry professionals to connect, collaborate and discover new opportunities that propel their businesses forward. Plans for SuperCorrExpo® 2028 are already underway, promising an even bigger and better experience for the global corrugated packaging community.
ALAN Hurricane Helene situational report September 24, 2024
ALAN has been improving logistics response in disasters for 19 years, and the need is greater now than ever before. Please donate today to help us continue our work for many more years to come American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) is mobilized for Hurricane Helene. As part of our response efforts, we are committed to providing you with the latest information and updates on supply chain impacts via our periodic Situation Reports, which can be found below in this email and on our website. Ahead of Hurricane Helene’s landfall along the Gulf Coast, the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) is urging residents in the storm’s path across the southeast to heed evacuation notices and safety advisories – and reminding members of the logistics community that their post-storm help could be needed soon. In addition to working closely with the non-profit and emergency response community, ALAN is providing real-time visibility on the storm’s supply chain impacts—including damages to roads, ports, and airports—via its Supply Chain Intelligence Center, which individuals and businesses can access free of charge. ALAN has also updated its Disaster Micro-Site with helpful Hurricane Helene resources. That site is where ALAN will post requests for donated logistics assistance, most of which will arrive within 24 to 72 hours after the storm’s initial landfall. Logistics businesses that wish to make a financial donation to ALAN instead can do so by visiting https://www.alanaid.org/donate/. ITEMS OF INTEREST PSEMA Tropical Storm Helene Coordination Call via Zoom Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88943138859?pwd=8IPEcHNNyg0tPrO0R5FdbGY1rh84Hh.1 Meeting ID: 889 4313 8859 Passcode: 046808 FEDERAL EMERGENCY DECLARATIONS President Biden approved Emergency Declaration for Florida on September 24, 2024, in preparation for impacts from Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 23, 2024, and continuing. STATE STATE DECLARATIONS North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 315 on September 25, 2024, declaring a statewide state of emergency and temporary waiver and suspension of motor vehicle regulations. Georgia Governor Kemp issued Executive Order on September 24, 2024, declaring a State of Emergency for Tropical Storm Helene. Florida Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-209 on September 24, 2024, amending Executive Order 24-208. Florida Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-208 on September 23, 2024, in preparation for impacts from potential tropical cyclone nine. ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION WAIVERS Title: North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 311 Effective: 09/25/24| Expires on: 10/05/24 Description: North Carolina Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 315 on September 25, 2024, declaring a State of Emergency and temporary waiver and suspension of motor vehicle regulations. Shall waive the maximum hours of service for drivers prescribe by DPS pursuant to N.C. Gen Stat. 20-381 and pursuant to 49 CFR 390.23, waive 49 CFR 395.3 for persons transporting essential fuels, food, water, non-alcoholic beverages, medical supplies, feed for livestock and poultry, persons transporting livestock, poultry or crops ready to be harvested, and vehicles used in the restoration of utility or transportation services. Shall waive enforcement of certain size and weight restrictions and penalties arising under N.C. Gen Stat. 20-86.1 and 20-119 for vehicles supporting emergency relief efforts in the emergency area Title: Kentucky Transportation Secretary issued Declaration of Emergency Order 113789 Effective: 09/24/24| Expires on: 10/08/24 Description: Kentucky Transportation Secretary Gray issued a Declaration of Emergency, Exemption of Hours of Service and Stoppage at Weight Stations. Whereas a state of emergency exists in Florida and the surrounding areas and the Governor of Florida declaring an emergency, pursuant to KRS 189.233 and 49 CFR 390.23, declaring a state of emergency exists requiring relief from hours of service imposed on commercial vehicles providing power restoration within the affected area. Under the authority vested in KAR 189.33 and 49 CFR 390.23, hereby declared a state of emergency exists requiring relief from the hours of service imposed on commercial vehicles providing power restoration, debris removal, and transporting agricultural products and requiring waiver of stopping at all weigh stations for these commercial vehicles responding to the affected area. According to 49 CFR Section 390.23, waive 49 CFR 395.3 for vehicles transporting essential fuels, food, water, non-alcoholic beverages, medical supplies, feed for livestock and poultry, transporting livestock, poultry, and crops ready to be harvested, or the restoration of utility and transportation services. Title: Georgia Governor issued Executive Order 09.24.24.01 Effective: 09/24/24| Expires on: 10/02/24 Description: Georgia Governor Kemp issued an Executive Order on September 24, 2024, declaring a State of Emergency; it justifies the suspension of Part 395 (driver’s hours of service) of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Suspension remains in effect for 14 days or until the emergency condition ceases to exist. It is further ordered that commercial vehicles operating outside the normal weight, height, and length restrictions under the authority of this State of Emergency shall be issued permits by the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Title: Florida Department of Agriculture Commissioner Simpson stated on September 24, 2024 Effective: 09/24/24| Expires on: 10/24/24 Description: Florida Agriculture Commissioner Simpson issued a statement temporarily suspending the interstate movement requirements for the transportation of animals that are fleeing the Tropical Storm and the applicable interstate requirements for their return. Title: Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle Executive Director issued Emergency Order 24-05 according to Executive Order 24-208 Effective: 09/23/24| Expires on: 10/07/24 Description: FLHSMV Executive Director issued Emergency Order 24-05 a State of Emergency suspends enforcement of the registration requirements under sections 316.545(4) and 320.0725, Florida Statutes for commercial motor vehicles that enter Florida to provide emergency services or supplies, to transport emergency equipment, supplies, or personnel. Pursuant to 49 CFR 390.23, motor carriers and drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle to provide emergency relief during an emergency are exempt from 49 CFR 393.3 and 395.5. Title: Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Perdue issued Emergency Order 24-08 Effective: 09/23/24 | Expires on: 11/23/24 Description: Pursuant to Executive Order No. 24-208, Secretary Perdue waives and suspends Florida Statutes 316.515(1-3), 316.535(1 and 3), 316.545(2 and 4), and 337.401(1)(a); and Rules 14-28.002(4 and 5), and 14-46.001(2) to allow for alternate size and weight restrictions on any vehicles transporting emergency equipment, services, supplies, or personnel, and agricultural commodities and citrus as recommended by Commissioner of Agriculture. STATE BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY RESOURCES State of Florida Florida Division of Emergency Management Florida ESF 18 Office (Business and Industry) esf18@em.myflorida.com and Private Sector hotline (850) 815-4925 (Daily 7am-7pm EDT). Updates can be found at Florida Disaster Business. Florida 511 Traffic
How a manager can solve conflict between employees: Five steps to use now
“Sort it out on your own” is no longer an option for businesses when employees are in conflict. Management goals commonly include maintaining harmonious work environments that make employees happy and motivated, but how do you achieve this when people don’t get along? As teams grow and turnover happens, a variety of personalities and experiences become part of the landscape. In other words, conflict between people is inevitable. How do you, the manager, approach disputes between employees? The answer lies in realizing how people perceive conflict with others, which is influenced by many factors, including personality and, associatively, what they have experienced throughout their lifetime. When you look at your business, is someone struggling with others? Perhaps you’ve noticed that what they expect from others differs from what they deliver. You will be unprepared until you think about who you are managing and what they have coped with throughout their lives. This is because how people interpret interactions and conflict depends on what they experienced in the past—before they met their coworkers. Is your business manufacturing, professional service, or retail? No industry is exempt. Jennifer managed a large coffee chain store. She was taught to pay attention to dynamics and observed how employees interacted and communicated. When two employees, Ted and Arlene, who often traveled to work together, became embroiled in a dispute over tips, Jennifer quickly intervened, reminding them of their friendship. Jennifer saw the ineffectiveness of this approach, noticing how Ted ignored Arlene while Arlene made jokes about Ted to another barista. Jennifer worried customers would feel the tension. When district manager Lee stopped into the café for a check-in, she immediately noted the friction. Lee met the employees independently and then jointly. Jennifer watched Ted and Arlene return to work, smiling and conversing lightly. What did Lee do differently than Jennifer? Five Steps to Resolve Conflict Between Employees translates into: Identify the anxiety that blocks resolution. Lee put this into action by talking with the employees about who they were before she waded into the issue at hand. She learned that Ted had been exploited as an adolescent by people he trusted. Lee realized that relationships made Ted feel vulnerable, so she reassured him that Arlene and the company cared for him and there was no intent to harm him. Lee also learned that Arlene was a single parent to two children and feared being unable to provide financially. Lee reassured Arlene that the tip situation would be resolved so she would not experience financial distress. She reaffirmed that work is a safe place. Think like your employee. This effort can be proactive, so you already know your employees when conflict arises. Ask questions like: What do weekends look like for you? Are they busy with obligations, or do you have downtime? Ask these questions with curiosity, not as though you are filling out a questionnaire! This genuine interest builds trust so that when you intervene in an employee dispute, they see that you care about their overall well-being. When conflict happens, effective intervention is directed by empathy. How does your employee think about things based on what you know about them and their lives? For example, Lee knew that Arlene worried about income, so her intervention considered how Arlene needed to feel safe and secure that her finances would not be jeopardized. Cool your jets before taking off into problem-solving. Let’s face it: most managers, owners, and leaders find dealing with employee conflict uncomfortable. This prompts a reactive response, whereby we want the conflict resolved quickly! Unfortunately, this approach leaves people feeling unheard, dissatisfied, and vulnerable to further conflict. Instead, slow down. When your reaction is to quell your anxiety with a quick solution, like separating them and solving what they are upset about rather than why it’s placing a tiny Band-Aid on a gaping wound. Like Lee, take time to meet with them individually. Consider whether the experience has made them feel unvalued or unsafe (physically, emotionally, or financially) and what would need to happen to lower this anxiety. Keep the Relational Goal Paramount. When meeting individually with the employee, don’t lose sight of the goal of healing the employee relationship. Unless they can work in complete silos, it is helpful to think of this relationship as a necessary elastic cord that must be flexible and intact for the relationship to work. Even if you can establish distance between the two, remember that unresolved conflict can ripple across teams like smoke from forest fires. Like Lee, shift from individual meetings to sitting together. As the manager, take the lead with a calm, assertive, and compassionate tone. Reiterate that you understand each of their experiences and the purpose now is to find ground for resolution. Start by highlighting the positives you have heard and that you are pleased with their effort to engage professionally. Set a collaborative direction. In your joint meeting, summarize what you heard from both employees and highlight the same things. For example, “Jill, you mentioned that you have always worked well with Mark and Mark, you complimented Jill for her creativity. While this disagreement has been serious, let’s not minimize the many hours and interactions that have been successful.” Even with resolution, reinforce the collaborative direction of the company. If Mark felt angered by having to take calls for Jill when she took lengthy lunches, and Jill felt Mark’s tone was condescending, demonstrate your commitment to maintaining collaboration. For example, “I understand you can be great workmates. To address this problem, we have created a schedule for phone coverage that does not always rely on Mark and will remind the team that lunches are within designated times.” In other words, make sure you close the loop! About the Author: Julie Gowthorpe, PhD, RSW, is a leading authority in the field of relationships. Renowned for her expertise in simplifying complex concepts, she shares this through a thriving private practice and a weekly radio broadcast; Dr. Gowthorpe speaks candidly with intimate and large groups. She transforms the lives of individuals and business
ALAN Tropical Storm Helene Situation report
As Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene approaches landfall on the Florida Gulf Coast, ALAN is busy preparing, and we are encouraging all of our partners to do the same. With that in mind, we’d like to share five pre-storm takeaways that we feel are essential for you and your organizations to be aware of. They’re listed below, and we hope you’ll find them informative. Below these takeaways, you’ll find the current situation report. We’ll update these resources frequently on our Disaster Micro-Site (https://www.alanaid.org/operations/) and will send another situation report as conditions warrant. The Disaster Micro-Site is also where we share key details about ALAN’s storm activation measures and how you can support our relief efforts. Because this storm has the potential to be especially destructive, we encourage you to visit ALAN’s Supply Chain Intelligence Center (https://www.alanaid.org/map/). There, you’ll find resources to keep you in the loop about everything from Helene’s latest path to how local and regional transportation infrastructure is being affected. “As always, all of us at ALAN hope that this storm will be much less severe than predicted and that any damage to life, health, and property will be minimal. At the same time, we are grateful for the many good people like you who continue to invest in our work, said Kathy Fulton, Executive Director of ALAN. ” We ask that you help us prepare to respond by making a financial donation today. Even a seemingly small contribution can go a long way in ensuring we can deliver critical aid to those who need it most. ALAN’s five key takeaways for your organization 1) Make personal safety a priority. If you or your locations are anywhere near Helene’s path, monitor the National Hurricane Center and your local National Weather Service forecast for real-time details. And please, don’t ignore any safety warnings that pertain to you or your personnel. This is expected to be a major hurricane with estimated winds of up to 115 miles per hour, so its potential impact is not to be taken lightly. 2) For the latest detailed information about storm-related road closures, facility closures, and other supply chain impacts, visit ALAN’s Supply Chain Intelligence Center at https://www.alanaid.org/map/. It should tell you most of what you need to know. But should you need additional information, don’t hesitate to contact us at https://www.alanaid.org/contact/. Time permitting, we will do our best to work with our emergency partners to get you an answer. 3) View the latest requests for logistics support by going to the “Active Logistics Needs” section of our Disaster Micro-Site at https://www.alanaid.org/operations/ Over the past few weeks, ALAN has communicated with various emergency management and non-profit partners regarding hurricane needs for Beryl, Debby, and Francine. Although there are no “open” requests for Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene, this situation could quickly change as the storm makes landfall. In previous years, most of our requests have come several days or weeks after hurricanes. So stay tuned and ready – as requests for transportation, warehousing, volunteers, and material handling equipment come in, we will post them promptly. 4) Request or offer support. If you are a non-profit, please tell us what you anticipate needing by requesting alanaid.org/request-support. If you are a business, tell us how you can help by making a “pre-offer” for transportation, warehouse space, equipment, expertise, or services at https://www.alanaid.org/how-to-help/. Such information is hugely helpful because it helps us better plan our response. Knowing what is needed and who can help allows us to move quickly to support the most urgent needs. We’ll confirm the information with you and match offers with fit needs. 5) Be mindful and demure in your support of disaster relief activities. Don’t self-deploy to disaster-affected sites; please don’t participate in product collection drives. Although the intention behind both of these activities is good, they often create more challenges than they solve because they tend to get in the way of responders who are working to save lives – and add confusion to an emergency supply chain that is already under tremendous strain. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to help, consider making a financial contribution to ALAN or a humanitarian organization. Such donations will be much more helpful and efficient – and far more likely to reach storm survivors.
Container trading and leasing rates decline in China ahead of the Golden Week
China to US container leasing rates drop by 35% Average container trading prices in China decreased for the second consecutive month in September; remained 25% higher than last year’s average. This month’s China market update is packed with developments that could potentially disrupt supply chains both within China and from China to key markets like the U.S. and Europe. Typhoons slow down berthing times and container operations in key Chinese ports Last week, China experienced its worst typhoon in 75 years, making landfall on the east coast. Hapag-Lloyd reports that ships are now facing delays of 36-60 hours to berth in Shanghai, while Ningbo faces waiting times of 24-48 hours. This bottleneck is expected to worsen as Typhoon Pulasan approaches, potentially exacerbating the already strained situation. Several ports in Ningbo and Shanghai have announced the suspension of container operations. (As on 20 September 2024) East Coast labor strikes affecting U.S.-bound shipments On the U.S. front, the ongoing threat of labor strikes at East Coast ports has created uncertainty. These strikes are expected to affect operations at the ports in the east coast. This has led to an acceleration in orders over the past two to three months, with businesses pulling forward shipments to mitigate potential delays. “In light of the recent robust U.S. economic growth, particularly in consumer spending (expected to rise 2.4% in 2024), businesses have been pulling forward shipments to mitigate potential delays. This consumer demand, coupled with a projected 3.8% increase in imports in 2024, represents the significance of timely shipping from China.” shared Christian Roeloffs, cofounder and CEO of Container xChange, an online global container trading and leasing marketplace based in Hamburg, Germany. Golden week approaching; another factor for slowdown Our regular surveys indicate that demand for U.S.-bound shipments from China remains strong, especially with Golden Week looming. Golden Week, starting October 1, traditionally causes a temporary slowdown in logistics activities across China, with a noticeable dip lasting between seven and ten days. With these events in combination—the U.S. labor strikes, upcoming Golden Week, and port suspensions—the China-to-U.S. shipping route is set to be volatile and uncertain over the next 20 days. Container market conditions in China: Softening demand and container prices Despite these uncertainties, no significant congestion or market is tightening within China itself. Several customers have reported a drop in container prices and lower COC (Carrier-Owned Container) rates, suggesting a softening demand for exports from China. Average container prices on a downward trend As of September 2024, average container prices in China have maintained their downward trajectory, with declines accelerating ahead of the Golden Week holidays. This drop reflects a broader reduction in demand for container shipments. Prices have fallen by 25% year over year, from $3,012 in September 2023 to $2,525 in September 2024. This year, container prices peaked at $2,603 in July 2024 and have been decreasing for two consecutive months. Chart 1: Average container price chart in China Leasing rates decline for the second month Overall, China to US average one-way container leasing rates dropped by 35% from $1221 in the first week of August 2024, to $787 as on 23 September 2024. Chart 2: Average one-way container leasing rates drop by 35% from Aug -Sep’24 Average one-way leasing rates for containers from Shanghai to Los Angeles have fallen for the second consecutive month. Rates dropped from $1,149 in July to $786 in August, and to $732 as of mid-September. Despite this decline, current rates remain elevated compared to the same period in 2023, when rates were $479. We anticipate these prices to stay relatively high through the rest of the year due to uncertainties surrounding U.S. East Coast strikes and the broader economic climate. Chart 3: Average one-way container leasing rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles: July–September 2024 Industry insights and market outlook The current challenge in the China market is the low Carrier-Owned Container (COC) rates, making it harder to send units to the U.S. This is compounded by high Pickup Charges (PUC), which have resulted in fewer Shipper-Owned Containers (SOC) reaching the U.S. Consequently, we might see rising prices for U.S.-bound shipments. Container leasing demand is expected to slow as Golden Week approaches. Much of the Christmas and Black Friday inventory has already been shipped, with deliveries typically taking 30 to 60 days. Despite the ongoing challenges, there are no major reports of port congestion in China, though general trade volumes are declining, indicating a tougher economic environment. At present, securing containers is not an issue, though this may change as market conditions evolve.
What the Fed Interest Rate Cut may mean for Manufacturers
In a highly anticipated move, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced the target rate would be cut 50 basis points, bringing the federal funds rate to a 4.75% to 5% target range. This move comes less than a week after the close of IMTS 2024, the largest manufacturing trade show in the Western Hemisphere. At this show, the technology needed to meet the consumer and business demands of tomorrow was on display and met with overwhelming enthusiasm by manufacturers. “Economic convention says this decrease will help spur additional consumer purchasing and business investment. Fulfilling this additional demand will require the parts and products that are made with the metalworking machinery AMT members provide,” said Christopher Chidzik, principal economist of AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. “A gradual normalization of interest rates would have been a welcome signal the Fed has squeezed inflationary pressures from the economy without tipping it into recession. With this larger cut, Chair Powell has also recognized some growing risks of rising unemployment. While that may cause some to entrench their hesitation into future planning, the forward guidance shows unemployment deviating little from the longer-term trend. If consumers and businesses take those signals from the Fed and translate them into additional spending and investment in the remainder of 2024, demand for manufacturing technology will surely begin to increase for the rest of the year and remain elevated through 2025.”
NRF Foundation launches Customer Conflict De-escalation training for front-line workers
Today, the NRF Foundation launched a new Customer Conflict De-escalation training program for front-line retail employees. The latest offering is part of the RISE Up educational training program. It focuses on fostering a safe and positive environment for retail employees and the millions of customers they serve. “As the nation’s largest private-sector employer, retailers help millions of customers find the items they want and need on a daily basis,” NRF Foundation Executive Director Adam Lukoskie said. “The Customer Conflict De-escalation program provides customer-facing employees with the knowledge and training to identify situations of potential conflict, and, most importantly, abate them successfully and ensure an enjoyable shopping experience for all.” The NRF Foundation partnered with the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) to create a 30-minute online de-escalation training program. Explicitly developed for front-line, customer-facing, and distribution center employees, the course teaches associates how to identify and manage customer conflict within a retail environment. “At CPI, we understand that retail employees face unique challenges on the front lines every day. Our partnership with the NRF Foundation to develop the Customer Conflict De-escalation training ensures that these vital skills are accessible to those who need them most, fostering safer and more positive environments for both employees and customers,” said Susan Driscoll, president of Crisis Prevention Institute. In 2023, the NRF Foundation earned more than 58,000 RISE Up training credentials. For more information, visit here.
ASSP unveils new membership model and management system
Occupational safety and health professionals can now find even more value in being a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). The Society’s membership model has been restructured to add key benefits while a new association management system simplifies member engagements. “More than ever, an ASSP membership is a smart investment in the continued growth of safety and health professionals,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “It’s also an important investment in helping to keep workplaces safer in all industries worldwide.” ASSP members can now join common interest group and practice specialty communities at no additional cost. This free enhancement is geared to enrich member experiences through a greater sharing of resources and best practices with colleagues on a global scale. ASSP offers four common interest groups and 18 practice specialties, such as construction, manufacturing, ergonomics and transportation. “Our vibrant communities advocate for our profession and help individuals grow personally and professionally through education and networking,” Walaski said. “There is tremendous value in being part of a community at any career stage. Our communities also reflect our commitment to a diverse, equitable and inclusive Society.” In 2023-24, ASSP communities delivered more than 80 online workplace safety webinars, and nearly half offered free continuing education units (CEUs) to help safety professionals maintain certifications. As ASSP expands the value of membership, a modest dues increase will be phased in over the next three years to ensure the Society’s sustainability in providing top-tier services and resources. ASSP membership dues have not kept pace with inflation and have not changed in more than five years. The current rollout of the new membership model is aligned with the launch of ASSP’s new association management system, which streamlines how members engage with the Society when renewing memberships, registering for events and courses, and making purchases. “All of these changes are research-based and designed to support member needs while helping ASSP remain strong in advancing the safety and health profession,” Walaski said. “We are thoughtful in everything we do.” ASSP members have convenient access to a global network of more than 35,000 safety professionals and receive monthly issues of the Society’s award-winning flagship journal, Professional Safety. Discounted member-only pricing is available on industry-leading conferences, continuing education, voluntary national consensus standards and technical publications.
I’m satisfied with my current source. Well, maybe
The prospect is not waiting by the phone for your call. Most people have what you’re selling and are doing business with someone else. They have a source for what you do, and they think they are happy. Satisfied. Good News: Satisfied people are willing to do business with others. Your challenge is to get them to do business with you. For you statistic buffs, “I’m satisfied with my present source” ranks second on the all-time prospect objection list. “Price too high” is number one (and always will be). When the prospect says, “I’m satisfied,” they’re really saying: This is all I know now. I don’t want to bother with you. I’m doing business with someone I like (not necessarily the best). I’m not telling you the real reason. I’m satisfied it is a brush-off. It’s not all that bad. Your prospect is saying that their existing supplier is the best they’ve been able to find. You may have a better product, price, delivery availability, service, training, or warranty. The prospect is only telling you he’s satisfied from his perspective. He doesn’t really know about you or your company yet but don’t give him any reason to switch until you know why he’s satisfied. Knowing the reason(s) why the existing relationship is satisfactory will help you understand how to proceed. Knowing those reasons gives you a chance. Here are a few “interest-gainers” or challenges that may get you in the door: Good Response: Satisfied? Great! You’re going to love doing business with us! Our customers are ecstatic, so if you’re only satisfied, today is your lucky day. Better Response: Mr. Johnson, Many of our customers said that when they were prospects like you. I wish I had ten dollars for every prospect that said, “I’m satisfied with my present supplier,” who is now a customer. Let me share a few of their comments (show your testimonials that say, “I used to buy from (name the competitor you hate the most), now I’m a loyal (your company) customer. And I invite you to call me personally if you need further explanation.” WOW! Best Response: When you started with (their present supplier), you took some risk, didn’t you? I’m not asking for all your business, but I’d be interested in what caused you to take the risk back then, and I may ask you to take that small risk with me and let me earn the rest.” Here are a few dialog starters: “Most people initially feel that way, but our experience has shown…” “What do you like most about your supplier (his product/service)?” (agree with them) “That’s what lots of their former customers said.” “If your friend left the business but stayed in the industry, would you still do business with that company or go with your friend?” “What would you change about your present relationship?” “How did the relationship begin?” “When people say, “I’m satisfied” they usually mean…” Find a personal link (common ground) that can trigger a friendly conversation. If they like you, they will listen to you. (a bit more assertive) “Satisfied or complacent? When was the last time you really looked at the situation and did a comparison?” Sales Caution: If the prospect says, “I’m satisfied,” it’s open season on the competition. If the prospect says, “I’m loyal,” watch out. Loyal is 100 times more powerful than satisfied. Sales Reality: You will not convince everyone. But the more you practice, the more “luck” you will have. “I’m satisfied” is not an objection; it’s a stall. If you believe in the value of your product, you can get past it. Sales Tip of the Year: Record five customers who were satisfied with your competitors, switched, and are now ecstatic with your company. Get your customers to tell your story. It’s far more compelling (and believable). About the Author: Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of twelve best-selling books, including The Sales Bible, The Little Red Book of Selling, and The Little Gold Book of Yes! Attitude. His real-world ideas and content are also available as online courses at www.GitomerLearningAcademy.com. For information about training and seminars, visit www.Gitomer.com, email Jeffrey at salesman@gitomer.com, or call him at 704 333-1112.
Saluting Women in Material Handling: Champions of Industry Innovation and Excellence
As the material handling industry evolves and grows, so do the ranks of professionals within the business. This month, Material Handling Wholesaler spotlights some women’s work in the material handling industry. Those who participated in the article talked about their history in the business, shared thoughts on where the industry is today, and discussed changes they envision in the near future. Jeannette Walker Walker, currently the CEO of MHEDA got her start in material handling in 2001 thanks to a conveniently located business. Intrupa manufactured parts for forklifts and was just a mile from her home in suburban Chicago. After passing the operation on a longer commute, Walker decided to apply. When she was offered a job as an assistant to the CEO, Walker decided to go for it. “I took it and worked my way up,” she said. TVH acquired the business in 2006, and Walker stepped in to implement marketing during the acquisition and grew into other roles from there. Following her experience in leadership at TVH, Walker took on the role with MHEDA. She worked with former CEO Liz Richards for six months before taking the reins in July. “She did anything and everything she could,” said Walker of Richards’ help with the leadership transition. According to its website, MHEDA is the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association, a non-profit trade association dedicated to serving all segments of the material handling business community. As to the current economy, Walker said the feeling for 2025 is “cautiously optimistic.” At a recent meeting of MHEDA’s board of directors, Walker identified several impactful trends. “The economy is number one,” she said, adding that the market is normalizing, although situations vary by region. “We talked a lot about consolidation in the market and what that means,” said Walker of the leadership discussion. Automation and AI continue to be among top-of-mind for MHEDA members, particularly with a universal talent gap in the industry, according to Walker, who said technology is helping fill the need in some spaces. She reflected that career paths for women in material handling vary. Still, the industry seems to be filled with professionals who are open to sharing information and through that, helping others succeed. According to Walker, there continues to be a growing number of women taking up leadership roles in the material handling industry. “I think it’s evolving very rapidly,” she said. MHEDA will also host a “Women in Industry” conference this fall. The event will be held November 6 and 7 in Rosemont, Ill., and registration is still open, according to Walker. Walker says the session will include topics important to women in the business. “There is also a leadership focus,” she said. Registration information can be found online at www.mheda.org. Candi N. Powers As a teenager, Candi Powers aspired to become a doctor. In pursuit of that dream, she traveled to Nashville, TN, enrolled in medical courses, and became an intern. In the meantime, her father, Henry M. Powers, and wife, Darlene Powers, were busy building a business. That business, focusing on developing and manufacturing new products for the materials handling industry, led him to develop a vertical lift that would propel his company’s success in the industry. To grow his new business into the innovative powerhouse now known as Custom Industrial Products (CIP), Henry Powers surrounded himself with the people he trusted most…his family. Candi Powers began her career with CIP advancing the materials handling cart division where she managed clients in hospitality, a critical industry that was the first to apply vertical lifts for improving operational efficiency and safety. She worked long and hard, eventually earning the crucial position of Material Control Manager. As Ms. Power’s responsibilities grew, so did her passion for solving unmet needs in materials handling. Besides the hospitality industry, CIP vertical lift systems began to make a difference in warehousing and distribution, government, automotive, retail, education, aerospace, and more. There were so many applications that CIP’s line of vertical lifts expanded to accommodate and adapt to a variety of space requirements, load and weight needs, height restrictions, safety concerns, workflow integrations, and environmental considerations. “I am one of the lucky ones who found a place where I could thrive and help others,” states Ms. Powers. “So instead of helping patients with their health, I’m helping people with the health of their business and with their workers’ safety.” Candi Powers became President of CIP in 2021 after helping the company weather the pandemic. In 2023, Henry Powers passed away, leaving a legacy of innovation and excellence in industrial duty manufacturing as well as a corporate headquarters in Melbourne, FL, with 50 employees and 126,000 square feet of space for fabrication, welding, powder coating, engineering, administrative, and storage. Candi Powers took the reins as CEO to continue and expand her father’s legacy. Henry Powers was a masterful mentor. In addition to the deep work values and ethics he instilled in Candi Powers as a child, he worked side by side with her at CIP, teaching Ms. Powers manufacturing insights, design and engineering, sales and marketing, and managing people. As Ms. Powers sees it, people are the most important part. “Dad really cared for all those around him,” recalls Candi Powers. “He was accessible and everyone’s go-to person for help. His example inspired me to listen and lead.” Today, Candi Powers works side-by-side with CIP President (and brother) Chris Powers to usher in the next generation of CIP products and solutions. In 2024, they launched CIP Lifts as Custom Industrial Products’ flagship product line with new vertical lifts that are expanding the envelope and applications of what a VRC or materials handling lift can do. “We are continuously improving every aspect of our operation from customer service and design to production turnaround and quality superiority,” states Ms. Powers. “The minute a call comes in, our multi-interdisciplinary team is assessing and addressing customer needs before customizing a solution that only CIP can provide…faster…smarter…better.” Megan Brune Brune got her start in material handling
August 2024 bounces back with a 22% increase in new planned Capital Projects from the previous month
Industrial SalesLeads released the August 2024 results for the new planned capital project spending report for the Industrial Manufacturing industry. The Firm tracks North American planned industrial capital project activity, including facility expansions, new plant construction, and significant equipment modernization projects. Research confirms 168 new projects, compared to 138 projects the previous month. The following are selected highlights of the new Industrial Manufacturing industry construction news. Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Type Manufacturing/Production Facilities – 153 New Projects Distribution and Industrial Warehouse – 99 New Projects Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Scope/Activity New Construction – 43 New Projects Expansion – 56 New Projects Renovations/Equipment Upgrades – 68 New Projects Plant Closings – 18 New Projects Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Location (Top 10 States) New York – 15 Indiana – 14 Ohio – 13 Michigan – 12 Ontario – 11 Wisconsin – 11 North Carolina – 10 Pennsylvania – 6 Tennessee – 6 Arizona – 5 Largest Planned Project During August, our research team identified 11 new Industrial Manufacturing facility construction projects with an estimated value of $100 million or more. The largest project is owned by Natron Energy, which plans to invest $1.4 billion to construct a 1.2 million sf manufacturing facility in ROCKY MOUNT, NC. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Top 10 Tracked Industrial Manufacturing Projects QUEBEC: An aerospace company plans to invest $1.2 billion in the expansion of its manufacturing facility in MIRABEL, QC. They recently received approval for the project. NEW MEXICO: Solar Cell Manufacturing Company plans to invest $942 million in constructing an 834,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Albuquerque, NM. They are currently seeking approval for the project, which is expected to start in late 2024. INDIANA: A steel company plans to invest $300 million in renovations and equipment upgrades at its manufacturing facility in Gary, IN. It is currently seeking approval for the project. MINNESOTA: A tissue paper manufacturer plans to invest $250 million in a 500,000 SF expansion, renovation, and equipment upgrades at a recently acquired manufacturing and warehouse facility in DULUTH, MN. They are currently seeking approval for the project. WEST VIRGINIA: A steel Mfr. plans to invest $150 million in constructing a manufacturing facility in WEIRTON, WV. They are seeking approval for the project, slated for completion in 2026. NORTH CAROLINA: A veterinary medical device manufacturer is planning to invest $147 million in the construction of a manufacturing facility in Wilson, NC, and is currently seeking approval for the project. KENTUCKY: Electric component MFR. is planning to invest $144 million to repurpose its manufacturing facility in MAYSVILLE, KY, and is seeking approval for the project. KANSAS: A pharmaceutical company plans to invest $130 million in the renovation, expansion, and equipment upgrades of its processing facility in ELWOOD, KS. It is currently seeking approval for the project. OHIO: A steel company plans to invest $100 million in expanding its manufacturing facility in Cantons, Ohio. It is currently seeking approval for the project. FLORIDA: A building materials manufacturing company plans to invest $78 million in constructing a 480,000-square-foot manufacturing and warehouse facility in ZEPHYRHILLS, FL. Construction is expected to start in late 2024. The company will consolidate its regional operations upon completion, which is slated for late 2025. About IMI SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, IMI SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL, is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline. Our Industrial Market Intelligence, IMI identifies timely insights on companies planning significant capital investments such as new construction, expansion, relocation, equipment modernization, and plant closings in industrial facilities. The Outsourced Prospecting Services, an extension to your sales team, is designed to drive growth with qualified meetings and appointments for your internal sales team. Visit us at salesleadsinc.com.
Must read: Dealers, we have an opportunity for you
Another year-end is approaching. But I’m not sure what to expect for next year. Before we do anything further, I wanted to review the AI program we have made available to you. Some of you must be thinking, WHAT IS BARTECKI UP TO NOW? Well, let me tell you. The goal is to produce a dealer standard for investigating AI, to determine if your system and data can provide meaningful data to assist customers and improve internal processes and knowledge to do more with less, to determine how long it will take to implement a workable program, and finally, how much investment is required over what period, along with an estimated ROI to expect from this investment. Can you see the benefit here? What you do with Connor Corp will become an industry-specific dealer program where you will find industry-specific answers and suggestions about using AI in a dealership. Since this is a no-cost program until you decide to move forward, you can contact Connor, and they will compile a file based on what they hear from dealers and address it in their monthly column in MHW. And don’t worry; no specific dealer will be identified in the column or during conversations with dealers. I suppose dealers representing a particular brand could assemble an AI group to discuss how their group could benefit from AI and, if so, have the OEM participate in the AI planning. All participants in the process are on the same page. So please take advantage of this benefit for two reasons: 1. It will benefit your operation internally and externally when dealing with customers. 2. Going through this process will provide you with a path to assist customers who are going through the same process. In short, this would be a value-added benefit on your part. So please give this a shot if you are investigating AI or have decided to move ahead based on your work to date. In either case, industry-specific findings will help reduce the cost of implementing AI and the time it takes to install it. I hope readers will provide input into the process so that other readers can benefit from their conclusions and findings. To me, having a process to help me through this type of expenditure geared to my kind of business would be at the top of my list. I want nothing better than to be able to compare notes with other dealers to avoid costly mistakes. So please use Connor Corp, and let’s get the program going because it will make your life a lot easier regarding AI decisions. On to another subject. How about we review where we stand regarding inflation and deflation? Inflation is moving downward for certain products and services but is still above the 2% rate the Fed is looking for. In terms of inflation, James Altucher states we are suffering from a case of EconCovid because 40% of all money printed in the history of the US was printed in the six months after COVID-19 started in March 2020. Now you know where the inflation originated from. To contain and lower inflation, the Fed increased interest rates to reduce the funds and move them into banks to earn interest while slowing down borrowing to keep borrowed funds out of the money supply. Let me say that again: BORROWED MONEY CAN CAUSE INFLATION. I HOPE OUR RESIDENTS IN DC UNDERSTAND THAT. Deflation is also something to consider because if we have a slowdown that causes increases in inventory levels, prices will fall, and margins will take a hit. These deflation hits will have to be offset with payroll reductions and general cost-cutting to try and make ends meet. However, another cause of deflation could pop up even if we avoid a recession. This deflation will result from new forms of technology that will produce INNOVATION, BETTER PRODUCTION, AND AUTOMATION that will lower costs and thus pricing while maintaining margins. How about that…. a good deflation. With all that is happening, you can expect to deal with many variables in 2025 when planning for CAP-X, which contains technology, AI, and general production spending, no matter what industry you are in. My brother was in the machine tool manufacturing business until they opened the gates to China. You can guess the rest. In any event, he always told me that YOUR COMPETITOR IS YOUR BEST ENGINEER. FIND OUT WHAT THEY ARE DOING AND DO IT BETTER. In other words, who is considered to have a better operation than yours? Then, do your homework to find out why customers feel that way, and “poof,” you have a list of issues to work with to catch up and overtake them in your market. One last thing. I just finished reading Masters of the Air by Donald L.Miller. It covers the air war in WW2. This is an outstanding piece of writing, about 500 pages, that will personally impact you. It will make you cry, lose sleep, and maybe even come up with a nightmare or two. What we put those kids through is unbelievable. And they were kids…. flying B-17s. Give it a try….you will not forget it. About the Columnist: Garry Bartecki is a CPA MBA with GB Financial Services LLC and a Wholesaler columnist since August 1993. E-mail editorial@mhwmag.com to contact Garry.
ProMach has announced its Wine & Spirits Solutions Group
ProMach has announced the launch of their Wine & Spirits Solutions group that will provide a complete portfolio of process, equipment, and systems integration solutions for the wine and spirits industry. ProMach has been a strategic partner for many of the world’s best-known spirits companies for years. The creation of this solutions-based team will allow ProMach to gain even greater insight, offer a broader solutions portfolio, and continue to be a trusted advisor that helps optimize operations. Supported by industry experts from more than a dozen ProMach product brands worldwide, the Wine & Spirits solutions team is strategically positioned to solve the unique challenges of processing and packaging traditional bottled products, small format bottles, and ready-to-drink (RTD) products in both cans and single-serve bottles. From standalone systems to fully integrated packaging lines, ProMach’s Wine & Spirits Solutions group provides process, filling, capping, corking, canning, cooking, sterilizing, coding, tamper-evident applicators, labeling, case packing, cartoning, conveyance, and palletizing for virtually any type of wine or spirits packaging formats. This direction also bolsters ProMach’s position as a worldwide leader in filling, closing, labeling, and coding systems, with a portfolio of solutions that includes Fogg, Zalkin, P.E. Labellers, WLS, and ID Technology. With the recent acquisition of Italy-based MBF, ProMach is now one of the world’s premiere providers of wine filling solutions. “ProMach’s strategic investments in specific markets is an ongoing effort to deliver our customers with more complete and comprehensive solutions,” says Scott Smith, SVP – Strategic Marketing & Business Development. “Our support of these markets are a mix of new and innovative solutions, as well as acquisitions that fill gaps in our product portfolio. The wine and spirits industry is a key targeted market segment, and the formation of a dedicated team that is focused on this industry will allow us to better understand this ever-changing market and better serve our current and future customers.” Complimenting these solutions, the ProMach Systems Group provides integrated packaging lines, conveyors, and engineering services to many of the world’s largest wine and spirits companies. Featuring product brands Zarpac, ProMach Integrated Solutions, ZPI, Statera, and Sentry, these global teams of technical and application experts provide integrated solutions from line design to end-of-line systems. ProMach launched the Wine & Spirits Solutions team in conjunction with its annual Global Sales Leader meeting last week in Louisville, KY. “Given our strong position in the US bourbon market, Louisville was a great place to announce this team, and we were able to do it with customers in attendance to reinforce our position and dedication to them,” added Smith. “And with our upcoming presence at Pack Expo International in Chicago this November, attendees will be able to see the full range of our processing and packaging solutions in action.”
The NASA 2024 Space App Challenges have been released
Join Queen City Robotics Alliance and NASA as We Discover “The Sun Touches Everything” As we announced last month, Queen City Robotics Alliance is the Charlotte host for the 2024 NASA Space Apps Challenge. NASA recently released the 20 challenges for this year’s theme “The Sun Touches Everything.” Which challenge will you tackle? The NASA International Space Apps Challenge is the world’s largest global hackathon. This two-day event on October 5-6 allows participants of all ages to use NASA’s free and open data sources and its Space Agency Partners’ space-based data to address real-world issues on Earth and in space. During the event, participating teams gather at designated sites all over the world in person and virtually to address challenges submitted by NASA experts. The 2024 challenges were announced on August 22. Here are a few of this year’s challenges* and each one can be adapted to fit different education levels from beginner, intermediate, advanced, and professional. (*Information from the NASA 2024 Space Apps website.) Beyond Sunlight: An Aquatic Chemosynthetic World – Earth’s ecosystems heavily rely on sunlight, but imagine an ocean world where chemosynthesis, not photosynthesis, sustains life. Your challenge is to design such a world and its diverse ecosystem, pushing the boundaries of astrobiology beyond traditional Earth-like conditions. PACE in the Classroom – The Plankton Aerosol Cloud ocean Ecosystem (PACE) satellite launched and has begun returning data about Earth’s oceans and atmosphere. NASA’s open science policy allows for all the PACE data to be accessed by the public, but it can be difficult to understand if you are not already familiar with these types of data. Your challenge is to create a digestible set of materials that can be used in classrooms across the world to help students understand the data and information that PACE is gathering and improve ocean literacy worldwide. Tell Us a Climate Story – Over the last several decades, a huge amount of climate data from numerous sources has been collected. This data is freely available to the public, but making sense of this vast amount of data is not easy! Your challenge is to use the open-source data on the U.S. Greenhouse Gas Center website to tell a compelling story about climate change. These challenges are designed to incorporate a variety of skills, not just math and science, but art, research, software design, graphic design, creative writing, photography, and even music. This allows participants from diverse backgrounds and skill sets to contribute to NASA’s understanding of both our world and beyond. TWO (2) SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS: 1) QCRA sponsor Sullenberger Aviation Museum will provide one (1) family four-pack day pass to every participant who completes a NASA Space Apps Challenge at The Zone. 2) Thanks to our sponsors Infosys and Bosch Rexroth, QCRA will offer local awards to Charlotte teams participating at The Zone. QCRA CEO Kaiwen Cheng is excited the organization has this unique opportunity to host this singular event because it will bring more recognition, interest, and outreach for QCRA’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs in the Charlotte community. “This is an opportunity for students to use NASA to explore ideas,” said Cheng. “Space technology is a leading technology. It’s using space to inspire and impact our daily lives. Things like GPS and memory foam mattresses. We wouldn’t have those things today without NASA technology.” “This is also an exciting opportunity for our students,” he continued, “because it is an interesting and tangible way for them to explore STEM education and find out what their talents are through NASA and the wonders of space.”
KION Group supports Endowed Professorship for AI Solutions at TU Dortmund University
KION Group establishes a research hub for AI-assisted intralogistics solutions Sebastian Peitz was appointed professor at the Department of Computer Science at TU Dortmund University Ching Pong Quek, CTO of KION Group: “Planned collaboration underlines our pioneering role in the promising technological field of Artificial Intelligence (AI)” The KION Group is funding an Endowed Professorship for Safe Autonomous Systems at TU Dortmund University. Sebastian Peitz will be responsible for this field. He has been appointed professor at the Department of Computer Science and will begin his research and teaching activities at the university in the winter semester 2024/2025. His work will focus on developing autonomous systems that operate intelligently and safely for all parties involved. This applies, in particular, to autonomous mobile robots, forklift trucks, and AI-based systems used in logistics and production environments. The objective of the endowed professorship is to advance the field of research at the highest international level. The professorship will form a hub for digital and intelligent logistics in close collaboration with research networks and cooperation partners within and outside TU Dortmund University, such as the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML and the KION Group. “The planned collaboration with TU Dortmund University and Professor Peitz will lead to relevant milestones in the field of artificial intelligence,” says Ching Pong Quek, Chief Technology Officer of the KION Group. He adds that the endowed professorship will complement the KION Group’s internal research and development activities in the fields of AI and machine learning and underline its pioneering role in one of the most promising technological fields for the future. “The KION endowed professorship will help autonomous industrial trucks and other machines in the storage and logistics industry to work more safely and efficiently,” emphasizes Quek. After completing his PhD in 2017, Sebastian Peitz worked at the University of Paderborn as a postdoc at the Institute for Industrial Mathematics before moving to the Institute for Computer Science as a junior professor in 2021. He has extensive experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics. Since 2022, he has led an AI junior research group to develop multi-criteria training algorithms for deep learning. At the beginning of September, the European Research Council granted him a Starting Grant for secure and data-efficient reinforcement learning for complex technical systems. TU Dortmund University offers a unique environment that enables a combination of fundamental and application-oriented research and also combines logistics and computer science. The Department of Computer Science is one of the leading faculties in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The KION Group will finance the endowed professorship with one million euros over five years.