Episode 487: Inside Nucor Warehouse Systems and the Journey from Steel to Racks
Episode 487 takes The New Warehouse Podcast on the road to the heart of industrial innovation at the Nucor Warehouse Systems (NWS) facility in Houston, Texas. Joining us are Daniel Aguirre, a seasoned guest, and Carmen Sanchez, the production supervisor on site. Nucor, renowned as the largest steel producer and recycler in the United States, showcases its end-to-end manufacturing process, transforming raw steel into the racking systems integral to modern warehouses. This episode delves into Nucor’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainability in their production processes. The Core Value of Safety at Nucor Warehouse Systems Daniel emphasizes, “Safety to Nucor and to NWS is our core value. Without us being safe, none of this is possible.” The emphasis on safety is evident from the moment one enters the facility and every interaction with the Nucor team. Carmen explains, “We have 150 teammates that make everything possible. Our main priority is to work safely every day. Our main goal is for them to return to their families.” They integrate safety into the culture through daily safety meetings and empowering team members to speak up about potential hazards, fostering a community that isn’t just physically well and psychologically safe. Teamwork Makes The Dreamwork for End-to-End Pallet Racking Manufacturing Nucor’s Houston facility epitomizes a seamless end-to-end manufacturing process, turning raw steel into finished pallet-racking products. Daniel explains: “We’re taking steel coil, slitting it, and roll-forming it into beams or columns as standard roll-form racking.” The process continues with welding, painting, and preparing the racking for installation. Carmen highlights the teamwork involved: “Our talented team makes anything possible. We always find ways to be safer daily, make quality material, and be productive.” This integrated approach ensures high-quality products and the flexibility to meet diverse customer needs efficiently. Sustainability and Supply Chain Security Nucor’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its recycling efforts and secure supply chain. Daniel notes, “Nucor is the largest recycler in the United States. We can take old racking, melt it down, and produce new raw material.” This recycling process underscores Nucor’s dedication to environmental responsibility. Moreover, by controlling the entire supply chain, Nucor ensures on-time delivery and flexibility in production. Daniel explains, “Having a secure supply chain ensures on-time delivery and allows us to operate flexibly, adapting to customer needs without compromising quality.” This capability is crucial in today’s dynamic market, providing a reliable foundation for business operations. Key Takeaways from Nucor Warehouse Systems Nucor’s commitment to safety fosters a culture of mutual care and responsibility. The end-to-end manufacturing process at Nucor ensures high-quality, efficient, and flexible production of racking systems. Sustainability is integral to Nucor’s operations. Extensive recycling efforts and a secure supply chain enhance environmental responsibility and operational reliability. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 487: Inside Nucor Warehouse Systems and the Journey from Steel to Racks
Peak Technologies Australia becomes Certified Zebra Industrial Machine Vision Systems Integrator
Peak Technologies has announced a significant milestone, becoming a certified Zebra Technologies partner in Australia, delivering fixed industrial scanning solutions and machine vision integration. As industries evolve towards automation and efficiency, the demand for advanced scanning solutions and machine vision technology intensifies. With this partnership, Peak Technologies demonstrates its commitment to meeting the ever-changing needs of Australian businesses by offering cutting-edge solutions tailored to improve productivity, accuracy, and operational efficiency. Through this strategic partnership, Peak Technologies aims to leverage Zebra Technologies’ extensive portfolio of industrial-grade scanning solutions and machine vision technologies to deliver comprehensive, tailored solutions to businesses across various sectors in Australia. Zebra’s suite of fixed industrial scanners and machine vision smart cameras offers a wide range of capabilities, beginning with simple track-and-trace scanning solutions to immediately identify products, packages, pallets and verify barcodes moving down conveyor lines. More complex machine vision imaging applications include 3D sensors and inspection applications, deep learning image acquisition, training and deployment, high-speed process video recording, and more. Peter Brogle, Peak Technologies’ APAC sales director, commented: “We are very proud to be recognized as a Certified Zebra Fixed Industrial Scanning and Machine Vision System Integrator. It is another excellent stride forward in our global partnership with Zebra. We now look forward to replicating the success we have had in Europe and North America here in Australia.” “We’re excited to have Peak Technologies on board in Australia, knowing they have been one of our most successful global partners,” added George Lianos, Zebra channel account manager. “We look forward to working together with the team at Peak locally.” Peak Technologies is the go-to source for Zebra machine vision integration, with highly-trained and certified systems engineers that boast a wealth of expertise. With proof-of-concept engineering, testing, custom configurations, preconfigured cameras, AI-driven analytics and more, Peak provides custom end-to-end solutions that meet the unique business needs of each customer it serves.
Episode 486: Integrating Robots within the warehouse with Dexterity
Welcome to The New Warehouse Podcast, where we delve into the evolving world of logistics and automation. We’re joined by Cary Vandenavond, the Chief Revenue Officer at Dexterity, a company at the forefront of integrating robotics within warehouse environments to enhance operational efficiency. Dexterity leverages innovative robotic arms and AI-driven software to tackle complex logistical tasks, from truck loading to mixed SKU pallet handling. Tune in to learn how their technologies, particularly their novel truck-loading solutions, address some of the toughest challenges in the industry. Empowering Warehouses Through Intelligent Robotics Cary introduces the foundational philosophy of Dexterity, stating, “A lot of our focus is around how we make it(the robot) intelligent. So using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to allow us to increase and improve upon that capability of those tasks in a warehouse.” This approach harnesses AI to automate and smartly adapt to diverse logistical challenges. He explains how Dexterity’s technology integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, enhancing precision and efficiency through intelligent automation and going to where the work is. “We’re solving the problem more in trying to solve it in software versus proprietary unique hardware,” Cary explains, emphasizing the strategic shift towards flexible, software-centric solutions that retrofit standard hardware for complex applications. Overcoming Logistical Complexities with Advanced Automation Discussing the intricacies of warehouse operations, Cary illustrates a typical scenario: “Filled or loaded a trailer full of product… it’s like getting a workout while also building a Tetris model in your head.” This vivid analogy underscores the physical and cognitive demands of manual loading processes, which Dexterity’s solutions aim to mitigate. The company’s AI-driven systems optimize the loading of non-uniform items, ensuring stability and density to prevent shipping air, a common inefficiency in traditional setups. “So the vision, the motion planning, machine learning, the data analytics… customers they don’t have access to that data and we give them a lot more business insights on their performance on how well their operations are performing,” he adds. Integrating data analytics into robotic operations exemplifies Dexterity’s commitment to automating and intelligently enhancing warehouse functionalities. Shaping the Future of Warehouse Automation Looking ahead, Cary discusses the potential trajectory of robotic automation in logistics: “Our software platform’s orientated towards ensuring that all these key elements are available to support every use case.” He highlights the adaptability of DexR, which is designed to handle various tasks, from loading trucks one day to unloading them the next. Therefore, this flexibility ensures itnegrating robots within the warehouse will yield long-term benefits, adapting to changing business needs without requiring constant reconfiguration or upgrades. “We’re focused on that software platform to ensure that we deliver a business outcome that the customer’s looking for at human parity that’s safe and does quality work,” Cary elaborates. By focusing on scalable and adaptable solutions, Dexterity not only aims to meet current logistical demands but also to anticipate future challenges and opportunities in warehouse automation. Key Takeaways on Integrating Robots Within the Warehouse Dexterity’s integration of AI with robotics transforms warehouse operations by increasing efficiency and reducing labor intensity. Using standard hardware enhanced with intelligent software allows for greater flexibility and scalability in automation solutions. Future enhancements will continue to leverage AI to adapt to evolving logistical challenges, ensuring long-term sustainability and efficiency. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 486: Integrating Robots within the warehouse with Dexterity
Synergy Logistics has promoted Brian Kirst to Chief Commercial Officer as business continues to ramp up
Brian previously looked after all customer-facing elements of the business in North America, but now oversees all aspects of Sales, Marketing, Support and After Sales globally. He brings 30 years of experience in the supply chain, logistics and digital technology. Before joining Synergy in early 2022, Brian co-founded and launched two high-growth 3PL order fulfillment companies, Total Reliance in 2014 and Resurge in 2019. Both scaled successfully with Synergy’s highly flexible SnapFulfil warehouse management system (WMS) as the differentiator. The restructure also sees Chief Product & Delivery Officer, Smitha Raphael, take on a more global role with the development services and implementation teams. Both report directly into Synergy Logistics Chairman, Hugh Stevens. Stevens said: “Brian is the ideal fit for this crucial role. As a fellow owner, operator, and entrepreneur; our strategic views align. I also like his leadership and decision-making approach. He recognizes opportunities quickly and looks to make an immediate impact.” Kirst has been using his applied knowledge, gained across multiple industries and sectors, to help customers identify their value drivers and further tap into the potential of Synergy’s technologically advanced software to drive revenue and profitability. He added: “My focus will be growing and evolving with our existing customers, but also developing further enterprise-level business, as our highly configurable WMS and multi-agent orchestration solutions become increasingly relevant in today’s automation-driven supply chains. “This includes executing on our ambitions of having a fully global and consistent product offering, with recent implementations in Asia and South America, complementing our long-standing and proven track record in the North America and EMEA regions.”
Nucor Executive VP Douglas J. Jellison to Retire and Randy J. Spicer to be promoted
Nucor Corporation has announced that Executive Vice President Douglas J. Jellison plans to retire on June 8, 2024 after more than 33 years of service with Nucor. Jellison began his Nucor career in 1990 as Materials Manager at Nucor Bearing Products and has worked in various positions and businesses, including several controller and business development roles. Mr. Jellison served as General Manager of Nucor Bearing Products; Vice President and General Manager of Nucor Steel Seattle, Inc.; Vice President and General Manager of Nucor-Yamato Steel Company; President of Nucor Tubular Products; and President of Skyline Steel LLC. He was promoted to Executive Vice President in 2021. Leon Topalian, Nucor’s Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer commented, “I am incredibly grateful for Doug’s contributions over the last three decades. Throughout his career, he influenced a broad spectrum of Nucor’s businesses. He successfully led significant facilities, oversaw international operations, integrated and shaped acquisitions and spearheaded key enterprise strategies. His unyielding ability to drive change, overcome challenges and seek out the best outcomes is unparalleled. Most importantly, he lives Nucor’s culture in developing teammates and making everyone around him better. He is one of a kind. On behalf of all teammates, I want to thank Doug for his leadership and wish him a long and happy retirement.” Effective May 12, 2024, Randy J. Spicer will be promoted to Executive Vice President. Mr. Spicer began his Nucor career in 2004 as Accounting Supervisor at Nucor Steel Indiana. In 2006, he joined the start-up team at Nucor Steel Memphis, Inc. as Controller and subsequently served as Controller and Hot Mill Manager at Nucor Steel Gallatin LLC. He was promoted to General Manager of Nucor Tubular Products North in 2020 and elected to Vice President in 2022. He currently serves as President of Nucor Tubular Products. “Randy is a talented leader whose 20 years of Nucor experience help make him well-positioned to take on this challenging role. We look forward to his contributions to the executive leadership team,” said Mr. Topalian. “Doug’s retirement and Randy’s promotion are the product of the robust and thoughtful succession planning process that has been a top strategic initiative throughout Nucor.”
PLASTICS Industry Association releases 2024 Bioplastics Market Watch Report
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) released its 2024 Bioplastics Market Watch Report today during an education session at NPE2024: The Plastics Show that ran from May 6-10th in Orlando, Florida, and attracted thousands of attendees from around the globe. “Bioplastics manufacturing is growing and consumers’ familiarity with bioplastics has increased, based on PLASTICS consumer survey,” said PLASTICS’ Chief Economist Dr. Perc Pineda. “Overall, the outlook for this industry is positive.” Among the highlights found in the 2024 Bioplastics Market Watch Report: Bioplastics manufacturing revenue is now projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 1.9% to reach $1.2 billion by 2028. The size of the U.S. bioplastics market will continue to vary depending on the different metrics used to quantify it. Nevertheless, the production capacity of bioplastics in North America, predominantly concentrated in the U.S., is estimated to account for 18.7% of the global production capacity. Although consumer perceptions of bioplastics continue to evolve, familiarity with bioplastics has increased significantly over a five-year period. In last year’s survey, 68% of consumers expressed a net familiar response, with just 14% indicating unfamiliarity. This marks a notable shift from the 2018 survey, where the net familiarity was 63%, with 31% indicating unfamiliarity. Competition within bioplastics manufacturing is expected to increase within and outside U.S. borders, driven by new materials development and new applications.
Episode 484: Diving into the e-commerce transaction at Jay Group
For The New Warehouse podcast, we had the pleasure of being on site and recording on location at Jay Group in Lancaster, PA. Kevin sat down with their President and COO, Blake Dudek as well as Ryan Millman of UnDigital and Akhilesh Srivastava of Fenix Commerce to discuss the end to end e-commerce order and how all of their solutions play a part to improve the customer experience and drive further value for brands. Giving the Consumer the Information They Need Consumers are constantly buying products online creating tons of data points but consumers desire to have as much information as possible to make their buying decisions easier. Fenix Commerce aims to capture this data and allow brands to leverage to help give these consumers the information they need. In the episode, Akhilesh discusses one example where the consumer is able to know exactly when to expect their package to arrive and they can get that information as early as on the Google search results page. Now, they have created value for the consumer at one of the earliest points. The data is being captured but then also flowing through the entire transaction feeding off of Jay Group’s shipping capabilities. This becomes your digital retail clerk and gives extra touch points for the consumer during the e-commerce transaction. Getting the Order to the Consumer When it comes to the physical process of getting the product to the customer, Jay Group steps in and handles the fulfillment process. With a long-standing history of servicing customers for multiple generations, they have built an outstanding fulfillment business that has its roots in promotional items. Fun fact, Blake’s Grandfather Jay started the company and was the one who came up with the idea for the Crown Royal bag. Focused on the customer experience, it is apparent that they are constantly looking to improve and provide additional value to their clients and their client’s customers. Part of that is partnering with smart technologies like Fenix Commerce and UnDigital to make that transaction a better experience for everyone involved. Creating a Personalized Unboxing Experience With more consumers focusing on online transactions and not going into physical stores, brands need to find a way to still give their customers a personalized shopping experience. They have the experience on their website but what happens when they get their product? In some cases, it may just be a product thrown into a plain brown box but some brands are upping that experience by making sure it is an actual experience and not something forgettable. UnDigital is providing a very personal and customized solution to help with this experience. Based on data known about these consumers and their buying habits they are able to provide customized labels, offers, and inserts into each individual package. From an operations perspective, the customized marketing material automatically comes out with the order so there is no manual intervention needed on the fulfillment provider side. Key Takeaways E-commerce shopping is going nowhere but consumers are still desiring a great experience. They want to know when they will get their order and they want to still have a great experience like they were going to the store to make a purchase. Tools can help you to drive value for all parties involved. In this discussion, all three solution providers are strong on their own but when they come together they can really elevate the overall consumer experience smartly and cost-effectively. A small cost per order can be an investment in immense long-term value. As you look at different tools and solutions to help provide more value to your customers, the cost may come into play but for small additional costs per order you can be creating a ton of long-term value. Retaining a customer for the long term is much better then losing them from a bad experience. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 484: Diving into the E-commerce Transaction at Jay Group
Lucas Systems announced 100 Billion warehouse picks
Credits continuous innovation of technologies centered around workers Warehouse workers made 100 billion warehouse picks using Lucas Systems software, according to an announcement today from Lucas Systems, a distribution center technology company. Lucas Systems, which provides software to workers in more than 400 warehouses across four continents, says the 100-billion milestone is a culmination of industry longevity combined with tens of thousands of workers using its sophisticated speech-recognition and optimization software, powered by Jennifer™. Jennifer™ provides in-the-moment voice and visual guidance for warehouse tasks such as picking, replenishment, putaway, loading, and cycle count. “Workers make nearly 17 million picks each day with Lucas technologies,” says Lucas Systems Founder and CEO Rick Brown. “For 26 years, we’ve been helping to improve the quality of work-life for warehouse workers while dramatically boosting productivity, accuracy, and safety.” Warehouse workers value technology so much that they are willing to make important trade-offs to access it. According to a recent market study commissioned by Lucas Systems, which polled 500 U.S. on-floor warehouse workers, nearly three out of four on-floor workers would consider a pay cut at another company for an opportunity to use technology if it helps them in their job. Lucas Systems says its technologies gain favor for key reasons: No voice training required with industrial grade dual engine speech recognition Flexibility for workers to work in their own language with more than 30 languages available Multimodal worker interaction using voice, visual and scanning options Built-in optimization that can reduce worker travel by up to 50% while improving picking accuracy Software that runs on a wide variety of Android devices including tablets, wearable devices and mobile computers Reaching 100 billion picks required adaptability, says Lucas executives. “Innovation has been key to our longevity and growth,” Brown says. “We have been at the forefront of leading change in the distribution industry, which is now occurring at an accelerated rate.” Notable market shifts have significantly raised the bar for technology companies. These changes include growth in direct-to-consumer volume and high expectations for near perfect accuracy and shorter order-to-delivery times. Henry Schein has benefitted from Lucas’ commitment to continuous innovation. “In pursuit of consistently fulfilling our customer commitment, we forged a partnership with Lucas Systems in 2006,” said Ed Igrisan, Vice President, U.S. Distribution West, South, and Canada, Henry Schein. “Since implementing Lucas Systems’ voice and AI optimization technologies, Henry Schein has achieved significant growth, exceeding $12 billion in revenue. This strategic partnership has helped to transform our distribution centers, driving substantial improvements in worker productivity, operational agility, and overall satisfaction for both our Team Schein Members and customers.”
WERC 2024: Register now to advance warehousing knowledge
Gain warehousing insights from experienced industry leaders WERC 2024 speakers are trail blazers who bring their real-world experiences with the latest technology and trends from the frontlines of logistics. Join WERC 2024 to learn from their expertise and take home the tools you need to improve your warehouse and distribution center operations. Annual Conference June 2-5 2024, Dallas, TX Register and join today
AutoScheduler introduces centralized warehouse orchestration
AutoPilot Central provides aggregated, bird’s eye view across multiple sites AutoScheduler.AI has introduced Centralized Warehouse Orchestration, which gives companies a centralized view of multi-site data. Called AutoPilot Central, the solution enables supply chain executives to get an aggregated bird’s eye view across multiple sites and, more importantly, rank them and take corrective action for areas out of service to mitigate risk across the network. “With the pace at which warehouses introduce new technology and dynamically change, managing an operation has become overwhelming, especially since leading shippers with multiple sites often have different Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) at each location,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “AutoPilot Central provides a birds-eye view of multi-site data for centralized command and control of an entire distributed warehouse network. At the network level, the history and result of these plans can then be bubbled up to Directors and VPs of distribution to identify the potential flow issues that are going to occur inside of a network, which customers/shipments are at risk, and where action can be taken to avoid service failures.” AutoPilot Central aggregates multi-site AutoScheduler data. Using predictive analytics, it enables top supply chain officers to rank the sites, quickly see which areas across the network are out-of-tolerance or at risk and take corrective action to mitigate risk before chaos happens. With AutoPilot and AutoPilot Central, leaders can: Reduce planning time by 97% Increase productivity per headcount by 16% Reduce inventory waste by 13% Reduce intra-campus transportation costs by 31% Double cross-docking utilization Optimize labor planning Aggregate multi-site data for centralized warehouse optimization and risk mitigation
Episode 483: Customer-Centric delivery experiences with Veho
Welcome to The New Warehouse Podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to host Itamar Zur, co-founder and CEO of Veho, a company at the forefront of revolutionizing e-commerce delivery services. We will explore Veho’s innovative approach to logistics, focusing on enhancing customer experience and solving prevalent delivery challenges. Veho’s story is particularly compelling, given their unique model that integrates advanced technology with flexible gig economy logistics, aiming to redefine the speed and quality of delivery. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of modern e-commerce logistics, customer expectations, and the visionary leadership driving Veho. Empowering E-Commerce Through Enhanced Delivery Experiences Itamar explains his “moment of truth” was a failed meal delivery experience that left him hungry for the night. Hunger is a powerful motivator, and so is a glaring problem like a lack of a quality delivery experience. “We designed our company completely around customer experience… It means that when the customer receives the box, it’s not only about visibility but having full control.” This customer-centric approach to delivery experiences contrasts sharply with traditional models, which prioritize efficiency over user engagement. Veho leverages technology to create what Zur describes as “delivery on remote control,” enabling consumers to tailor the delivery experiences to their specific needs, thus enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. Overcoming Logistics Barriers with Innovative Technology Addressing the economic challenges in traditional logistics, Itamar Zur points out, “The package usually needs to be on the road for 8 hours a day. With the gig economy, most of our routes are 4-6 hours. You can reroute within the route, allowing us to start routes at various times and adjust on the fly.” This flexibility is crucial for handling the dynamic nature of e-commerce demands. Veho’s approach not only improves delivery efficiency but also addresses significant pain points like missed deliveries and package theft, which Zur himself experienced. “We can reroute, reschedule, or even facilitate returns with ease, unlike traditional fixed-route models,” Zur adds, highlighting the transformative impact of Veho’s solutions. Shaping Delivery Experiences with Customer-Centric Strategies Looking ahead, Itamar Zur is optimistic about Veho’s role in the evolving e-commerce landscape. “Consumer expectations are always climbing. They want faster, more reliable services,” he states. Veho’s platform is well-positioned to meet these demands by delivering most packages within one day and exceptional service reliability north of 99%, which are becoming the new benchmarks in the industry. “Our technology and flexible model prepare us to scale and adapt quickly, not just to meet but exceed these expectations,” Zur predicts. This forward-thinking approach indicates Veho’s potential to significantly influence future e-commerce logistics practices. Key Takeaways Veho’s model emphasizes customer control and experience, enhancing satisfaction and brand loyalty. Utilizing gig economy strategies allows Veho to offer adaptable and efficient delivery options. Leveraging ratings and reviews motivate drivers to want to keep their scores high. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 483: Customer-Centric Delivery Experiences with Veho
Softeon named a visionary in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™
Softeon’s recognition as a Visionary in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems for the 13th consecutive time is based on our ability to execute and completeness of vision Softeon has announced that it has been named a Visionary in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems for the 13th time in a row. A Gartner Magic Quadrant is a culmination of research in a specific market, giving you a wide-angle view of the relative positions of the market’s competitors. According to Gartner, “Depth and breadth of WMS functionality remain very important factors in choosing a new WMS, especially for companies replacing aging legacy systems. Increasingly, the technical architecture of the WMS is an important consideration for new WMS customers where adaptability, extensibility, user experience and cloud are priorities.” Softeon’s robust WMS solution empowers supply chain executives to oversee extensive and intricate integrations within a unified platform, encompassing material handling equipment, robotics, and additional enterprise software. It streamlines warehouse operations by facilitating the rapid integration of robots from multiple vendors, thus fostering efficient decision-making and task coordination. Designed to meet unique operational and workflow demands, the system boasts adaptability to evolving operational needs and the seamless incorporation of new technologies. This positions Softeon at the forefront of managing some of the world’s most complex, highly automated warehouses effectively. “We are honored to once again be named a Magic Quadrant Visionary in Warehouse Management Systems by Gartner,” said Jim Hoefflin, CEO of Softeon. “We believe this recognition is a nod at our commitment to serve and prepare our customers to grow through the ebbs and flows of the ever-changing warehousing market. Furthermore, it is a validation of our innovative capabilities and solutions road map.” Supported by a committed tech support team and the industry’s top experts, Softeon’s WMS revolutionizes operations for businesses in complex, high-demand, and unpredictable sectors aiming to enhance growth and efficiency. The proof of Softeon’s capacity to assist clients in scaling their operations is clearly reflected in its own significant growth, demonstrating the system’s effectiveness and the value it brings to every customer. For Softeon, recognition of its forward-looking and innovative WMS by Gartner for a second year in a row is the latest in callouts pertaining to the company’s significant growth. In addition to being named a leader by G2, Softeon recently announced office expansions in India and Atlanta, a rebrand, and updated WMS and WES solutions. The WMS provider also introduced a new executive leadership team, and hosted a customer-focused leadership forum – all in commitment to delivering limitless customer-centric solutions for propelling businesses through the ever-changing warehousing challenges.
Episode 482: Warehouse fire suppression systems with Telgian
Welcome to another fiery episode of The New Warehouse Podcast! Today, we’re joined by Ralph Bless, Executive Vice President at Telgian, a company with a 39-year legacy in engineering fire protection systems. In this episode, Ralph unpacks the complexities of fire safety in warehousing, emphasizing the challenges introduced by modern automated systems such as ASRS and the struggle to keep fire codes current and warehouse fire suppression systems effective. Fundamentals of Warehouse Fire Suppression Systems Ralph clarifies the basic types of fire suppression systems found in warehouses: “There are two basic types that are most common in these warehousing environments. One is a wet pipe fire sprinkler system, and another one is a dry pipe fire sprinkler system.” He debunks a common myth, explaining, “A lot of people have the perception that sprinklers are like what you see in the movies, where one activates; they all activate. That’s just not the case.” Keeping Pace with Automation Discussing the intersection of automation and fire safety, Ralph notes, “The real challenges with these new automation systems, particularly the ASRS, is they’re evolving so fast.” He details the rigorous testing needed as “traditional sprinkler setups may not suffice” for these dense configurations. Ralph highlights regulatory hurdles: “when a jurisdiction is using an older set of the codes…they’re really looking and working off technology that is 10, 15 years old…we are not keeping up with that necessarily.” Anticipating Changes in Fire Safety Norms As warehousing technologies evolve, Ralph anticipates ongoing adjustments in fire safety approaches, “What we are seeing…is this focus on testing because that way we know we’ve got the proper protection.” Ralph expects a continued emphasis on testing. Pointing out, “most people thing that sprinklers put fires out, but they really don’t. In most cases, they either control the fire so the firefighters can show up and extinguish them.” It’s imperative to consider how small changes, such as narrowing distances between aisles, can impact how the sprinklers operate and their performance capabilities. Key Takeaways on Warehouse Fire Suppression Systems Automated warehousing systems like ASRS introduce complex fire safety challenges that require innovative testing and adaptation. Future fire safety standards will increasingly rely on dynamic testing to align with rapid technological advances in warehousing. Sprinklers don’t put fires out in most cases but control the fire until firefighters arrive to put it out. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 482: Warehouse Fire Suppression Systems with Telgian
Mazzella wins award contributing with #GLAD2024
Mazzella Companies has been presented with an award for its contribution to last year’s Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD), by the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA). Mazzella was unanimously voted by a judging panel to have provided the best contribution from a company or individual to #GLAD2023. Fittingly, the award was presented by Ross Moloney, CEO, LEEA, to Mazzella representatives attending this week’s Associated Wire Rope Fabricators (AWRF) Spring General Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. Mazzella, like AWRF, has been a loyal campaigner since GLAD’s conception in 2020. Kindred Spirits, AWRF runs an accreditation program, powered by LEEA’s third-party audits. Mike Close, corporate marketing and communications manager, Mazzella, said: “Winning this award was both surprising and affirming. Last year marked our most significant involvement in GLAD to date. We dedicated our efforts to a comprehensive campaign that spanned multiple media, including articles, videos, and a podcast. These initiatives were aimed at supporting the vision of LEEA and GLAD, to raise overall awareness of the lifting and rigging industry. “This award is recognition for the whole marketing team. We were motivated by the increasing participation we observed in the industry and inspired by partners, like Kito Crosby, who received a similar award for their efforts in 2022. This appreciation of our peers spurred us to enhance our involvement and create an engaging and impactful awareness campaign.” Central to Mazzella’s contribution was welcoming Moloney on an episode of the company’s Safety Factor podcast, launched on the cusp of #GLAD2023. Each podcast episode is available in two formats: audio-only, available on traditional podcast platforms; and a video version on YouTube, allowing viewers to watch the conversation between the host and guests. The episode above, titled, “How Global Lifting Awareness Day Addresses the Labor Shortage in the Lifting Industry,” received 370 plays across both formats. Moloney has already been invited back to appear on a pre-#GLAD2024 episode. Mazzella also published two key articles: “How is Technology Changing the Lifting and Rigging Industry?” and, “How Does Global Lifting Awareness Day Promote the Lifting Industry?” and populated social media channels with engaging content. Moloney said: “GLAD messaging has always been underpinned by raising awareness — and Mazzella sets an outstanding example of what can be achieved. I was honored to feature on the Safety Factor podcast, but that was just one component of a wider commitment to #GLAD2023 that was humbling and empowering. While we are growing a legion of supporters, none were more deserving of recognition than Mazzella — and what a place to celebrate with them here with the AWRF community.” #GLAD2024 to be biggest ever The fifth Global Lifting Awareness Day — #GLAD2024 — will take place on Thursday 18 July, represented by a new logo. Once more, Mazzella will be among the leading stakeholders delivering the message emphatically to the point of use. This year’s campaign trail is already advanced, with the two pillars of earlier announcements being that LEEA will focus its strategy on skills and employment. It encourages everyone to contribute by using graphics and the hashtags to celebrate their involvement with the industry, at all levels of the supply chain. Cranes, hoists, rigging gear, and height safety hardware is central to safe operations in a myriad of end-user sectors, including civil engineering, construction, material handling, metals, military, offshore, subsea, and renewables, to select just a handful. Close added: “The new logo is very cool — the design elements of the crane and the use of safety yellow [color version], convey its relevance to the lifting and rigging industry. I think if you see it and don’t know what GLAD is, or the movement behind it, it effectively communicates its purpose of supporting and enhancing the industry. For #GLAD2024, we plan to continue our multi-medium approach, using articles, videos, and podcasts to spread awareness and share key messages. “Our goal is to leverage our partnerships, particularly with a leading training company in the industrial sector, to focus on professional development and highlight its significance. There’s always so much more that can be done to promote best practices and safety within our industry, so I sense that will be a big theme for us this year as well. On the day, we’ll have a schedule built out to post links on social media to relevant and supporting content and information each hour of the day.” Close called skills and employment “foundational in our industry.” He added: “As AI [artificial intelligence] and automation reshape our work environment, we have to be proactive in developing new skills in our teammates. It’s not just about adapting for tomorrow but planning for the next decades. This will be critical to remain competitive in attracting and retaining top talent. Additionally, the need for skilled craftsmen — welders, fabricators, riggers, operators, and technicians — remains as vital as ever. They transform ideas into tangible solutions, something that’s irreplaceable in our industry.”
Episode 481: Achieving a fully autonomous supply chain with Nimble Robotics
In this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, Jonathan Briggs, VP of Sales and Solutions at Nimble Robotics, delves into Nimble’s transformative approach to logistics. Positioned at the vanguard of the industry, Nimble Robotics is redefining third-party logistics (3PL) with its fully automated solutions, merging cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to reshape how logistics operations are conducted today. Overcoming Legacy Hurdles with Advanced Automation The logistics sector’s persistent challenges of increasing throughput and optimizing labor efficiency necessitate innovative solutions. Briggs reflects on the initial hurdles: “Finding the first customer willing to take the plunge into large-scale automation was not easy.” In response, Nimble innovatively became its own first client, pioneering a fulfillment network that fundamentally transforms warehouse configurations. Nimble significantly bolsters building efficiency by discarding traditional racks and aisles and adopting a vertical operational model. This strategic overhaul addresses the spatial and workforce limitations that typically constrain conventional warehouses. Overcoming Labor Obstacles Through Robotics Jonathan Briggs shares Nimble’s technology’s transformative impact on logistics workforce dynamics: “In my warehouse, I don’t have any pickers as a function of our building. We’ve eliminated the pick side of the business which is usually a good third if not two-thirds of the headcount in a building.” This strategic reduction in labor dependency is at the core of Nimble’s innovation. By implementing six-axis robots that excel in tasks requiring human-like vision, touch, and force control, Nimble not only enhances logistical precision, speed, and scalability but also significantly reduces the need for manual labor. Towards a Fully Autonomous Supply Chain Briggs casts a forward-looking perspective: “The future is going to be autonomous.” He elaborates on the company’s forward march towards comprehensive supply chain autonomy. Nimble not only aims to refine warehouse operations but also to integrate autonomous delivery systems, which are poised to revolutionize logistics efficiency at an unprecedented scale. “We’ve got a lot of stuff in development right now in terms of robotic sortation where we can do strategic sorts for our carriers,” Briggs reveals, indicating that Nimble’s innovations could streamline complex logistical tasks. “We want to be end-to-end autonomous when it’s all said and done.” Key Takeaways Nimble Robotics is leading the charge in transforming logistics with its fully automated 3PL solutions. Nimble enhances fulfillment operations’ speed, accuracy, and scalability through advanced robotics and AI. The company’s vision extends to achieving end-to-end autonomy in the supply chain, indicating a transformative future for logistics. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 481: Achieving a Fully Autonomous Supply Chain with Nimble Robotics
Conveyco Technologies welcomes Brian Keiger as VP of Sales
Conveyco Technologies has announced the appointment of Brian Keiger as Vice President of Sales. In this role, Keiger will lead Conveyco’s sales organization and drive revenue growth through strategic sales initiatives. Keiger brings over 30 years of sales and industry experience in the supply chain and warehousing automation industry to Conveyco. He most recently served as Sales & Marketing Director at Movu Robotics, where he was instrumental in expanding the company’s customer base across multiple sectors, including food & beverage, retail, automotive, and healthcare. “We are thrilled to welcome Brian to the Conveyco team,” said Raymond Cocozza, CEO of Conveyco Technologies. “His proven track record of success, deep industry expertise, and passion for fostering client relationships make him an ideal fit to spearhead our sales efforts.” At Conveyco, Keiger aims to implement agile and responsive sales processes to drive efficiency and productivity. His strong leadership skills and commitment to customer satisfaction will be invaluable assets as the company continues its growth trajectory. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Keiger is deeply involved in STEM education initiatives. He serves on the Industry Advisory Council for the National Center for Supply Chain Technology Education and as a Board Advisor for the Queen City Robotics Alliance. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of innovators aligns well with Conveyco’s corporate vision and forward-thinking approach. “I am excited to join the talented team at Conveyco Technologies,” said Keiger. “The company’s dedication to bringing our clients cutting-edge solutions and its commitment to excellence resonate strongly with me. I look forward to working closely with our customers and partners to deliver exceptional value with our RightFIT approach.” Keiger holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and has received recognition for his achievements, including the 2013 Edison Award for Supply Chain Innovation.
Episode 480: The future of safety in warehousing with Powerfleet
The latest episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, featuring Scott Walker, Vice President of Supply Chain Product Management at Powerfleet. Powerfleet, a leader in the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) space and a finalist in the Artificial Intelligence Excellence Awards program, focuses on bringing people-powered safety technologies and solutions to the material handling industry. In today’s episode, we explore Powerfleet’s innovative pedestrian proximity detection solution, designed to enhance safety in warehousing environments by integrating advanced AI capabilities. Join us as we delve into how this technology is set to revolutionize industry practices and ensure safer operational environments. Innovating Safety in Warehousing Through AIoT Scott describes the essence of Powerfleet’s approach as “people-powered AIoT,” emphasizing the integration of human insights with automated systems to enhance decision-making processes. He states, “It’s about moving beyond data collection to making proactive safety decisions.” This concept transforms warehouse safety using AI to predict and prevent potential incidents, thus significantly reducing workplace hazards and improving efficiency. Overcoming Safety Challenges with Smart Technology According to Scott, “The goal is not just to track incidents but to prevent them from happening in the first place.” Powerfleet addresses this by deploying AI-driven pedestrian proximity detection systems that analyze environmental data to foresee and alert on potential safety threats. This proactive approach not only mitigates risk but also enhances the overall safety culture within logistics operations, showcasing significant improvements in incident prevention and response times. Predictive and Preventive Innovations in Warehouse Safety Looking ahead, Scott is optimistic about the role of AI in safety technology, particularly in how predictive analytics can integrate with operational systems to forecast potential issues before they arise. He mentions, “The integration of AI allows us to be predictive, not just reactive.” This shift is expected to transform safety measures in warehousing by enabling more informed and timely decision-making, ultimately leading to more robust safety protocols and reduced risk of accidents. Key Takeaways Powerfleet is leveraging AIoT to enhance safety and operational efficiency in warehouses. The new pedestrian proximity detection solution predicts potential safety threats, improving response strategies. Future innovations focus on predictive analytics to preemptively address safety concerns, integrating data with practical operations. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 480: Enhancing Efficiency and Safety in Warehousing
Carolina Handling wins Kautex Safety Award for AGV implementation
Carolina Handling has received the 2023 Health & Safety Award for Excellence from Kautex, A Textron Company, a Tier One automotive supplier with more than 30 manufacturing facilities in 13 countries. The award was received for an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) project at the company’s facility in Lavonia, Georgia, and recognizes Carolina Handling as a top-performing supplier. The courier implementation was one of the smoothest among any of Kautex Textron’s equipment distributors worldwide, according to the company, which operates AGVs at most of its facilities around the globe. Carolina Handling is one of the Southeast’s leading integrated material handling solutions providers and the exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Florida’s Central time zone. The company provides a full range of lift trucks and automation solutions for manufacturers, warehouses, and distribution centers, along with parts, warehouse equipment and supplies. A Tier One global automotive supplier, Kautex Textron designs, develops, and manufactures traditional and hybrid fuel systems, advanced cleaning solutions for assisted and autonomous driving, engine camshafts, and plastic industrial packaging solutions.
DIEFFENBACHER mourns the death of Alfred H. Schenkmann
Schenkmann & Piel co-founder passed away at the age of 87 Alfred H. Schenkmann, founding partner and co-eponym of Schenkmann & Piel Verfahrenstechnik GmbH & Co. KG, passed away on April 12, 2024, at the age of 87. From its foundation in 1977 until his retirement on November 1, 2001, Schenkmann was Managing Director of Schenkmann & Piel Verfahrenstechnik in Leverkusen for 24 years. Even after the takeover by DIEFFENBACHER in 2003, he remained closely associated with the company and was always available to provide wise counsel. Schenkmann traveled to more than 80 countries during his career, making connections in the global wood-based panels industry and becoming an expert respected worldwide. In 1997, he was inducted into the Wood Composites Hall of Fame at Washington State University, an honor he shared with industry giants and wood-based panel pioneers such as Wilhelm Klauditz and Fred Fahrni. “In addition to his entrepreneurial and inventive spirit, Alfred Schenkmann was particularly valued by his employees for his knowledge and helpfulness as well as his tireless commitment to the company,” recalled Wolfgang Allerödder, Head of the Environmental Technology and Gluing Product Group at DIEFFENBACHER in Leverkusen, who worked under Alfred Schenkmann as a student. “To this day, I still benefit from the contacts I made through him,” Allerödder said. “Alfred Schenkmann was a cheerful Rhineland character and instantly popular with everyone. Wherever he went, he was always held in the highest esteem,” reminisced his long-time companion and former DIEFFENBACHER CEO Wolf-Gerd Dieffenbacher. “In Alfred H. Schenkmann, DIEFFENBACHER has lost a universally respected advisor, and the global wood-based panels industry has lost one of its pioneers. Our thoughts are with his family and friends, to whom I would like to express our deepest sympathy on behalf of the entire company.”
Millwood’s growth leads to expansion
Includes 17,000 Square Foot Addition at Its Corporate Campus The past year has been another year of growth, achievement and fellowship for the Millwood family at our locations across the country. That growth trajectory includes expansions in Alabama, Texas and New Jersey and is being extended to the heart of our business at the corporate headquarters in Vienna, OH. Ground was recently broken on a 17,000-square-foot addition to the corporate office. “We are very grateful, and this is a fantastic opportunity for the company,” Millwood Chief Financial Officer Bruce Krarup said. “We appreciate the support provided by the Vienna township and the Trumbull county commissioners office as we developed the plans for this expansion.” Millwood has been headquartered in Trumbull County, OH for over 30 years. The announcement for this expansion came weeks after Millwood opened its newest location in nearby Lordstown, OH, also in Trumbull County, which added nearly 20 people to the Millwood family. Millwood leaders will continue to lean on God’s wisdom and guidance to explore other opportunities to grow in 2024 through our customers, suppliers, vendors and people. “God has His hand on this company, and it’s been very exciting to witness how He is working in and through us and our entire Millwood family across the United States,” Co-Presidents & Partners Chip Trebilcock and Steve Miller said in a joint statement. Growth & Expansion Barrington, NJ facility added in January 2023. Ellenboro, NC co-packer location added in May 2023. Huntsville, AL facility added in May 2023. Bridgeville, DE co-packer location added in September 2023. Lordstown, OH facility added in September 2023. New Kent, VA co-packer location added in February 2024. Millwood’s corporate office began a construction project in December for an additional building.