Episode 479: Insights into the 3PL Industry with Aaron Hodes
In this episode of the New Warehouse podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome back Aaron Hodes, who is now your Supply Chain Sidekick. With a rich history in the 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) industry, most notably at ShipBob, Aaron brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in partnering with e-commerce brands to optimize their logistics and fulfillment strategies. This episode dives deep into the complexities and challenges of the 3PL industry, offering invaluable insights and recommendations for brands looking to navigate this critical aspect of their operations. Finding the Right 3PL Fit Aaron believes, “There’s not a one-size-fits-all 3PL for any e-commerce brand.” This straightforward insight stresses the importance of matching a brand’s specific needs with a 3PL’s strengths. He advises brands to “really understand and get their own house in order” before picking a 3PL. Drawing from his time at ShipBob, Aaron has seen that every brand’s challenges are unique, making the right fit crucial. He suggests looking beyond cost to find a 3PL that aligns with your brand’s goals and can grow with you. This approach ensures not just efficiency but also customer satisfaction down the line. Overcoming Operational Misalignments As Aaron points out, one of the significant hurdles in the 3PL-brand partnership is operational alignment. He sheds light on common challenges brands face, such as miscommunication with 3PLs and inadequate preparation for fulfillment demands. Aaron emphasizes that the solution lies in thorough vetting, transparent communication, and strategic planning between brands and their 3PL partners. He advocates for a collaborative approach to ensure that both parties’ expectations and capabilities are aligned, thereby fostering a more productive and harmonious relationship. Looking Ahead at the 3PL Industry Looking ahead, Aaron shares his vision for the future of 3PL partnerships, focusing on integrating AI and machine learning technologies to enhance logistics operations. This vision for the future indicates a shift towards more agile, efficient, and data-driven 3PL services capable of adapting to the fast-paced changes in the e-commerce landscape. Key Takeaways on the 3PL Industry The importance of personalized 3PL solutions tailored to each brand’s unique needs. The need for operational alignment and strategic communication between brands and the 3PL industry. The future of 3PL partnerships lies in leveraging AI and machine learning for enhanced operational efficiency and intelligence. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 479: Insights into the 3PL Industry with Aaron Hodes
Nowicki Food Machinery is Now NOMA
As the global food processing industry turns to automated solutions to answer the world’s growing demand, BAK Food Equipment has announced a related change from one of our most valued partners. Effective immediately, Poland-based Nowicki Food Machinery has become NOMA. NOMA reflects the Nowicki family’s 50-year commitment to the food processing industry by combining the two core pillars of their business: the Nowicki family name and modern “machinery” for the food processing industry. The Nowicki family has been committed to providing high-quality solutions for food processing for more than half a century, and BAK Food Equipment has been proud to be their North American partner for a significant portion of that time. “We are a longtime representative of NOMA equipment and are excited for this next phase of our partnership,” said John Bobak, president and founder of BAK Food Equipment. “NOMA’s passion for innovation and commitment to quality have made it easy to be a committed partner in North America. We’re proud to represent this brand and provide value to our customers.” As the exclusive North American distributor of NOMA, BAK Food Equipment provides a range of NOMA equipment, including tumblers, meat injectors, meat grinders, and more. With a dedicated team of knowledgeable sales staff, talented engineers, and expert service technicians, BAK Food Equipment provides installation, design, engineering, and service for NOMA equipment nationwide.
Nucor announces appointment of Nicole B. Theophilus as Executive Vice President of Talent and Human Resources
Nucor Corporation has announced the appointment of Nicole B. Theophilus to the newly created position of Executive Vice President of Talent and Human Resources, effective April 29, 2024. In this role, Ms. Theophilus will focus on Nucor’s enterprise talent development and human resources strategy. Ms. Theophilus, 54, most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of Wabtec Corporation, a global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions and services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Her previous leadership roles include serving as Chief Human Resources Officer of West Corporation and ConAgra Foods, Inc. Prior to joining ConAgra, she was a partner with the law firm of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin, LLP (now known as Husch Blackwell). “Niki is an accomplished leader who will be a strong addition to our executive team,” said Leon Topalian, Nucor’s Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer. “In keeping with our culture of taking care of our team, we created this executive-level position to better serve our teammates. We look forward to welcoming Niki to Nucor and working alongside her in advancing the important work already underway on the growth, retention and development of all Nucor teammates.”
Episode 478: Exploring cold chain logistics with the team from Cold Chain 3PL
The New Warehouse Podcast shines a spotlight on a crucial sector of cold chain logistics. Jamie Moriarty and Judd Rosenberg, the dynamic duo behind Cold Chain 3PL, share their journey into the world of frozen and refrigerated logistics. With backgrounds spanning from entrepreneurship in the fresh food industry to Olympic athletics, their venture into cold chain logistics was spurred by a relentless spirit to succeed and the willingness to support shippers of all sizes in this space. Capitalizing on Cold Chain Growth Jamie and Judd leveraged each other’s strengths to embark on the tremendous opportunity to capitalize on the explosive growth of cold chain logistics. The journey wasn’t easy, according to Jamie. They couldn’t get anyone to return their phone calls or emails or they required large minimums. This is when their entrepreneurial spirit kicked in, “Judd just turned to me, and he was like, we can do this ourselves.” And so they did, “We started in a small little warehouse… now we have facilities across Chicago, California, and Maryland,” shares Judd, highlighting their exponential growth. Reflecting on their own challenges they remain grounded and committed to a hands on and flexible approach with their brands. “Our customers have my number, they have Jamie’s number, we’re not the day-to-day contact, however, I don’t ever want to lose that touch,” adds Judd. Overcoming Cold Chain Logistics Challenges Space is a premium in cold chain storage and a significant hurdle to overcome in cold chain logistics. Judd credits his entrepreneurial spirit and “we’re going to figure this out” attitude for their ability to determine where the space is. Jamie points out, “You can’t just convert a typical warehouse into a frozen one.” He believes the surge in demand will overcome the capacity limitation as the construction industry looks to capitalize on this growth. Shipping perishable products adds another layer of complexity to cold chain shipping. Judd compares solving this challenge to a puzzle or a mind-bending SAT question. “By figuring out that puzzle, we can go up the biggest companies in the space and usually win the business because of all the other things we offer.” Mastering Cold Chain Logistics for Brands Shippers in the cold chain space are at varying levels of experience. Jamie explains this is how they determine whether to recreate what seasoned cold chain brands have leveraged in the past or engage in a discovery call for a greater understanding of the shipping needs. Cold Chain 3PL relies on industry experience, customer requirements, and what they refer to as a “recipe card” to handle all the complexities of shipping perishables. Jamie adds, “Our main production team who builds the recipe card are trained chefs. That knowledge comes into play as they’re very familiar with food, how it can be stored, and how it can slack out.” The little details can make all the difference in the quality and integrity of cold chain products. Key Takeaways Rapid expansion and adaptation are crucial in the high-demand cold chain sector. Constructing cold storage facilities poses unique challenges, requiring innovative solutions. If you want to be successful, don’t forget about the little guys. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 478: Exploring Cold Chain Logistics with the Team from Cold Chain 3PL
Episode 477: 3PL insights with Bulu CEO, Paul Jarrett
In this episode, we dive into a conversation that reshapes how we think about logistics and 3PL selection. We’re talking with Paul Jarrett, CEO of Bulu. They’re not just a logistics company; they’re revolutionizers of the “tricky ship” model. From a unique start to leading logistics innovation, Bulu’s story is nothing short of inspiring. Paul’s passion for helping brands succeed and improving logistics is evident as he offers honest advice for 3PL selection. The Origin Story of Bulu Bulu started with a problem. A big one. “What we do now is actually the very first problem that we encountered about 12 years ago,” says Paul. This journey from a fledgling subscription box to a logistics titan is a masterclass in evolution. He adds, “Not having external third parties… impacting decision-making was the thing, where after ten years, we really saw a path to have a great long-term business that solves hard problems for people just like us”. Training with big brands taught them “the hardest sort of logistics” and funded their Ph.D. in logistics. Their story? It’s about growth. It’s about learning. Enter the “Tricky Ship” “Imagine if we worked with brands of any size and could offer them unlimited sales channels,” Paul muses. This idea birthed the tricky ship model. It’s not just about sending packages. It’s about breaking free from old chains. It’s about setting brands up for unimaginable growth. As Paul shares, this strategy is paying off: “We’ve landed like 30 additional clients in the past 60 to 90 days.” With a passion for leveling the playing field for small brands, Paul finds there’s nothing better than “Truly helping people with a good product compete in the market.” Removing the Complexity Paul insists on simplicity: “There’s a lot of things out there where software people neer experience a warehouse floor, and it just doesn’t work that way. You can’t give somebody something complicated.” Their tech? It’s as easy as your favorite app. “It’s gotta be no more complicated than whatever the most popular social media app is.” This approach makes their system approachable. It’s for everyone, from warehouse staff to top executives. Gazing Into the Future with Bulu Paul sees a future rich with AI and automation. “I think a lot of the traditional issues that have happened in logistics are going to be solved through AI.” Yet, he believes in the power of the human touch. “At the end of the day, somebody or something has to pick something up and get it where it’s gotta go.” He envisions a workspace where technology elevates human effort. “People walk into a warehouse, they put on glasses, and they can just follow what the screen says.” It’s about making the future accessible today. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 477: 3PL Insights with Bulu CEO, Paul Jarrett
Creform workstation provides better space utilization on production floor space
Creform Corporation has developed a mobile sub-assembly workstation that helps an auto parts supplier enhance the space utilization on its production floor. The workstation is flexible and adaptable to different production needs. The mobile assembly station features Creform skate wheel conveyors on three supply levels and one return level for product presentation and flow. Lane dividers are located on the second and third levels to organize the boxes to a specific lane. Each of the flow levels can be repositioned with only simple tools and with the stair-stepped design, each level can be raised or lowered without changing the length of the conveyor. At the front of the workstation is a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) work surface, designed for assembling components in process. This setup allows workers to concentrate on details, ensuring better quality control. Additionally, the sub-assembly station offers valuable training opportunities for new employees, allowing them to learn essential skills in a controlled environment by focusing on specific tasks or components. Due to the flexibility of the Creform system of pipe and joints, the custom configurable workstation, with dimensions of 30″ W x 63″ L x 63″ H, allows the manufacturer to optimize its floor space. The workstation is designed to hold up to 1500 lb. and features four swivel lock casters and two fixed casters in the center both for structure stability and mobility. It is built with black plastic-coated steel pipe and black-plated metal joints. The structure is built with the 28mm system of pipe and joints. However, higher capacity and and configurations are possible with Creform’s 42mm product line. The 42mm product line integrates seamlessly with the 28mm system if needed or can be a stand-alone system. Creform skate wheel conveyors are sturdy and made with durable materials to ensure a robust and long-lasting flow rack. Designed to withstand the demands of the toughest industrial environments. Assembled structures are a great starting point for any user. After delivery and introduction, a user can take advantage of Creform’s flexibility by changing the station’s configuration and features to best match the needs of its production process and associates. Useful accessories for such a station include overhead light, computer screen, shelves, additional flow lanes, drawers, information sheet holders, label holders, tool storage, and hooks to hang tools and supplies. All Creform workstations can be configured for ESD components when sensitive electronics need to be protected. Available as a kit or an assembled structure or in the component form for a complete DIY solution.
AutoScheduler named winner of the SAP Innovation Awards 2024
AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative warehouse orchestration platform, announces that the company has been selected as a winner of the SAP Innovation Awards 2024. AutoScheduler won in the Partner Paragon category. AutoScheduler submitted the winning entry, “Game-changing warehouse planning and orchestration,” which stood out among nearly 160 submissions as one of the most captivating and inspiring examples of innovation. “We are truly honored to be selected for this prestigious award for our work for clients, which unlocks higher labor and equipment utilization, reduces labor costs, and increases order fulfillment,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler. “The SAP technology platform and solutions have simplified the development and rollout of AutoScheduler, easing integration and deployment in customer environments.” “Congratulations to the 2024 SAP Innovation Awards participants! Your incredible achievements in sustainability, adoption, AI, and all the other areas that help improve people’s lives embody the spirit of our cofounders’ vision and demonstrate the positive impact we can create together. Thank you for helping us continue to help the world run better,” says Juergen Mueller, Member of the Executive Board and Chief Technology Officer of SAP SE. The SAP Innovation Awards serve as a platform to showcase how SAP solutions enable SAP partners to differentiate themselves, achieve remarkable results, and adapt to customers’ ever-changing needs. Through the SAP Innovation Awards program, SAP aims to recognize forward-thinking customers and partners who have leveraged cutting-edge SAP products and cloud technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) or generative AI. AutoScheduler.AI is here to make the warehouse sexy. It launched a warehouse orchestration platform, AutoScheduler, in August 2020 to help perform advanced warehouse planning with predictive decisioning and prescriptive analytics. Supply chain teams are often tasked with finding or creating novel solutions because so many sites struggle to manage and plan labor while increasing on-time and in-full (OTIF) delivery. With its deep background in machine learning, AutoScheduler provides value by ensuring every site has a perfect plan to deliver.
Episode 476: Fabric’s bold approach to micro fulfillment solutions
This episode of The New Warehouse Podcast transports us into the heart of Brooklyn, New York, to a site that’s reshaping the optics of fulfillment. Here, in an unassuming building, lies Fabric’s fully automated micro-fulfillment center. Our guest this week is Jonathan Morav, the VP of Sales at Fabric. This episode covers a topic near and dear to our hearts, micro-fulfillment, and the role of technology that continues to advance the fulfillment industry. Tune in to learn how these small, non-traditional spaces leverage unique robotic fulfillment solutions to pack a mighty punch. What Exactly is Micro Fulfillment? There are varying definitions and misunderstandings about exactly what Micro-fulfillment is. According to Jonathan, “For us, the story of micro fulfillment was always how do you deploy a system in a very dense urban area in order to unlock on-demand same-day deliveries.” His definition is rooted in the company’s Fabric’s origin of “pulling the operating point closer to the end customer,” ensuring swift, efficient, and economically viable deliveries. This approach is revolutionary, especially in dense urban settings where traditional fulfillment methods falter. Jonathan explains, “You typically would not support such an operating point, so we built a solution from the ground up that allowed for the maximum flexibility,” emphasizing their unique capability to harness irregular spaces for high throughput. A Closer Look at Micro Fulfillment Solutions Fabric’s technological marvel doesn’t just stop with flexibility; it’s about maximizing every square inch of real estate. Their system, designed for high throughput per footprint, enables operations to “do a meaningful amount of volume out of these types of facilities.” This efficiency is vital, especially when real estate is premium in urban areas. Jonathan offers three key considerations for the successful deployment of fulfillment in dense areas: Topology “You can’t be very fixed in how you think about your topology. You can’t have a rigid structure with no modularity to it because there’s no way you can scale across many facilities because there are only so many facilities that can match the profile of something that a fixed architecture, would allow.” Expensive Real Estate “You need to utilize every square foot and maximize the amount of output you can gain from that facility.” For instance, cube-based solutions take advantage of vertical height, which allows for a maximum amount of density, throughput, and output. Flexibility “If you don’t have the flexibility in the architecture to be able to design a viable operation around the automation, the automation is going to yield very little, and you’re going to be disappointed.” Applying the right automation tool for the job requires a deep understanding of what that solution can delivery for the problem you are trying to solve. Reducing Bottlenecks in the Fulfillment Process Jonathan introduces the concept of “graceful degradation,” which enables the continuity of the operation should something fail. “The idea is to deliver a solution with extremely high uptime, but even when there is an event, you can continue your operations in a relatively efficient and productive manner.” Fabric is able to pull this off by decoupling the lift robot and the ground robot so that if one stops, the others can simply work around it and avoid a complete stoppage of work. “It’s all about continuity of operations. It’s paramount to any business remaining viable.” According to Jonathan, an unintended byproduct of decoupling the two machines was the ability to drive down the cost of manufacturing. The ground robot is simple, cheap, and reliable, while the lift is a more complex machine. This drives down the overall cost of both units, “whereas, if you just combine the two, it becomes a much more complex machine with significantly more incremental costs associated with it.” Key Takeaways on Micro Fulfillment Solutions Fabric’s fulfillment technology is a game-changer for dense urban logistics. “If robots don’t unlock an efficient flow and a holistic end-to-end view of the operations, they will not do what they need to do. You must ensure you have the tools, software, and logic outside of the automation that unlocks an efficient end-to-end flow.” Labor continues challenging the material handling industry and solutions like Fabric fill jobs that would otherwise go unfilled. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 476: Fabric’s Bold Approach to Micro Fulfillment Solutions
Episode 475: The Pivotal Role of Barcodes in Supply Chain Management with GS1
Barcodes are often underrated and underappreciated, but they play a pivotal role in product safety, efficiency, and movement within the global supply chain. In this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, Reid Jackson, Vice President of Business Development at GS1 US, gives us the rundown on UPC barcodes and their role as passports for products in the supply chain. GS1 is renowned for setting the global standard in the supply chain, famously known for introducing the UPC barcode, an innovation that revolutionized retail and beyond. This episode delves into the foundational role of GS1 in standardization, its evolution alongside technology, and the future of supply chains. GS1 and the UPC Barcode The inception of GS1 is a story of necessity and innovation. Reid Jackson recounts, “We need the brands to have some type of identifier on them to speed up the checkout and to increase the accuracy.” This need led to creating the UPC barcode, marking a pivotal moment in retail and manufacturing. The initiative stemmed from the grocery industry’s demand for efficiency and accuracy at the checkout. GS1’s role extended beyond the barcode, emphasizing its technology-agnostic approach to solving industry-wide challenges. Leveraging Barcodes in Supply Chain Management The application of UPC codes and GS1 standards illustrates the vast impact on industries, exemplified by Reid’s Subway story. “Subway… would take product lettuce, tomato, meat, spreads, everything… take it into their inventory from tons of different suppliers, but they would inventory it all the same. When it came in, it was lettuce.” If there were ever a recall, they would have to return everything. “Now they’ve moved to GS1 standards,” Reid adds, allowing them to only send back impacted products in the case of a recall. This anecdote underscores the efficiency and safety GS1’s standards introduce to supply chain management, highlighting how specific product tracking can mitigate extensive product recall, ensure consumer safety, and reduce waste. Advancing Technology with GS1 Standards GS1’s engagement with emerging technologies signifies its continuous evolution. “We’re heavily involved with MIT and the Auburn RFID lab and constantly looking at these technologies and how they’re being implemented and used,” Reid shares. This forward-looking approach ensures GS1 standards remain relevant amidst advancements in warehousing, material handling, robotics, and beyond. GS1’s collaboration with technology institutions and industries fosters innovation while maintaining the utility and integrity of supply chain standards. Key Takeaways on Barcodes in Supply Chain Management GS1 pioneered the UPC barcode, significantly enhancing retail and supply chain efficiency. Applying GS1 standards exemplifies the profound impact on product safety and recall management. GS1’s proactive involvement with technology and research institutions ensures its standards evolve with emerging supply chain innovations. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 475: The Pivotal Role of Barcodes in Supply Chain Management with GS1
Synergy Logistics listed in the Top 100 IT Providers by Inbound Logistics for the ninth consecutive year
The committee selected the Top 100 Logistics IT Providers based on those offering the innovations their customers need to streamline supply chain operations. Synergy’s Tier 1 warehouse management system (WMS), SnapFulfil, and multi-agent orchestration software, SnapControl, were considered essential solutions in an era of fast-paced warehouse automation and robotics functionality. The recognition for SnapFulfil and SnapControl has been well received by the innovative company as it underpins how its leading-edge warehouse technology continues to evolve and remain relevant to the Inbound Logistics audience of top manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Synergy’s Chief Commercial Officer, Brian Kirst, said: “It’s no coincidence that Synergy has been recognized for nine consecutive years as a top 100 logistics IT provider. In a fast-paced world, we continue to invest in R&D and adapt our software to meet the ever-changing demands of our global customer base as well as introduce new products. “SnapControl is our latest solution, which is taking off as it tackles the need for seamless control of robotics and automation in the warehouse. It acts as a conductor of warehouse orchestration, otherwise known as multi-agent orchestration (MAO). Being vendor agnostic, it prioritizes work, allocates tasks and workflows, and ultimately enables companies to automate their operations on a much shorter timeline. But the real added value is the complete data picture it brings, which can facilitate tangible labor savings, accurate asset management decisions, and rapid time to value.”
Why a strong brand isn’t a luxury but a necessity
Who invented the light bulb? Of course, you’d say Thomas Edison. But what you may not realize is that Edison did not invent the light bulb. It was actually invented by Joseph Wilson Swan and Henry Woodward. What Edison did really well was commercialize the invention. But why do we always think of Thomas Edison first? Of course, he was a prolific inventor, but more importantly, he built a recognizable and resonating brand. Edison branded everything he did with his name, face, and signature. He built a massive publicity machine behind him. He forged close personal relationships with journalists who could be trusted to write adoring (but not always strictly accurate) copy. He was a relentless self-promoter. He used multiple public demonstrations to highlight and promote his technologies. Edison didn’t just do a lot of marketing but rather build a brand he could leverage. For example, his main laboratory, Menlo Park, was famous for generating more than 400 patents in just six years. But Edison worked with a team of 14 or so engineers, machinists, and physicists who were rarely if not at all mentioned, building and amplifying the narrative of Edison as a “sole inventor”. Only those inventors who left the lab and branched out on their own (i.e., Nikola Tesla) had a chance to gain broader recognition. Edison, while positioning himself this way, spent over half his time dealing with clients and investors, and speaking to the press. Edison also knew what stories and sound bites would resonate with the public. He’s well known for saying, “I have not failed 10,000 times—I’ve successfully found 10,000 ways that will not work.” But actually, he failed 2,774 times according to his records. We all know the 10,000 times quote, and there’s no question it wouldn’t be the same if he had said 2,774. The bottom line here is that while we want to believe that an amazing invention or innovative solution will sell itself, it’s far from the case. Building a brand and identity intentionally, and shaping a narrative provides you the best opportunity to succeed. This doesn’t mean simply promoting your product or your company but creating a brand around it that’s engaging, unique, interesting, and different. How crucial, after all, is the brand of Steve Jobs to the image of Apple? Or of Larry Page and Sergey Brin to our perception of Google? Even though many companies today are cutting back on branding and marketing investments, it’s funny how the companies we admire, were not built simply by new products but achieved their level of success through investing and architecting a great brand. Edison knew this – even 100 years ago. Andrea Belk Olson is a keynote speaker, author, differentiation strategist, behavioral scientist, and customer-centricity expert. As the CEO of Pragmadik, she helps organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500, and has served as an outside consultant for EY and McKinsey. Andrea is the author of three books, including her most recent, What To Ask: How To Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You. She is a 4-time ADDY® award winner and host of the popular Customer Mission podcast. Her thoughts have been continually featured in news sources such as Chief Executive Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, Harvard Business Review, Rotman Magazine, World Economic Forum, and more. Andrea is a sought-after speaker at conferences and corporate events throughout the world. She is a visiting lecturer and startup coach at the University of Iowa, a TEDx presenter, and TEDx speaker coach. She is also an instructor at the University of Iowa Venture School. More information is also available on www.pragmadik.com and www.andreabelkolson.com.
Synergy North America Inc. has partnered with supply chain BEST to expand their WMS implementation
Working together as preferred channel partners, rapidly expanding Synergy will leverage access to Florida-based Supply Chain BEST’s end-to-end system implementation and project management expertise. This partnership is the latest in a fast-growing ecosystem of partners, vendors, and integrations for SnapFulfil, and builds upon Supply Chain BEST resources in the US, Canada, UK, and Hong Kong. Supply Chain BEST President, Joe Huss, said: “I am delighted to be partnering with Synergy and am excited by the prospect of working together as we share a mission to deliver the very best in customer supply chain solutions. Having worked with various WMS solutions over the years, SnapFulfil stands out in terms of its technologically advanced rules engine, flexibility, and configurability. The build process is configured as part of the solution, so there is minimal additional development and coding for each deployment, which historically adds to complexity and cost. “SnapFulfil is so customizable we can also instruct our customers to self-configure the WMS and help them understand how the system can get them to the next operational level, which is a real point of difference for those needing to flex and adapt to ever-changing market demands.” At 40+ companies strong, Synergy’s partnership network covers a broad spectrum of integration categories, such as ERP, iPaaS, Marketplace, Robotics, Shipping, and other channel partners. Synergy Logistics Chief Commercial Officer, Brian Kirst, added: “It’s a mutually beneficial partnership, with the Supply Chain BEST team a great fit to match our domain expertise. They share the same comprehensive yet flexible approach to implementation, as well as an ethos that integrated software solutions should be about rapid time-to-value and strong return on investment. As business opportunities increase for both companies, we can scale and grow together and secure and develop more of the right kind of business.”
March 2024 Logistics Manager’s Index Report® LMI® at 58.3
Growth is INCREASING AT AN INCREASING RATE for inventory levels, inventory costs, warehousing prices, and transportation utilization. Growth is INCREASING AT A DECREASING RATE for warehousing utilization, transportation capacity, and transportation prices. Warehousing capacity is CONTRACTING The Logistics Manager’s Index reads in at 58.3 in March 2024. This is up (+1.8) from February’s reading of 56.5. This is the fastest rate of expansion in the overall index since the reading of 61.2 from 18 months ago in September of 2022. The logistics industry is at a healthier place than it was then however. That reading from 18 months ago was largely inflated by unwanted inventories and high Warehousing Costs along with an anemic freight market. March of 2024 is a different story as we are seeing long-planned inventory expansions, along with more efficient levels of utilization in both warehousing and transportation as the drivers of growth. The level of 58.3 is within half a standard deviation from the all-time average of 62.2, suggesting that the overall logistics industry is now at the low end of what we would consider healthy and normal growth. Other signs of this health are that the growth has been consistent for Upstream (57.9) and Downstream (60.8), and also smaller (59.1) and larger (58.1) firms. The change this month was primarily driven by a continued rebuilding of Inventory Levels (+5.3) which at 63.8 are at their highest level since October 2022. This growth has had cascading effects on tightening Warehousing Capacity (-8.2) which is back into contraction territory for the first time since January 2023. These changes suggest that firms are building up inventories in anticipation of continued consumer spending and suggests that the economy will continue to grow in the near-term. Transportation Capacity is down (-1.3), but at 59.6 is still higher than Transportation Prices (53.0), meaning that we are not yet ready to call an end to the freight recession. Although it is much less severe than it was six months or a year ago. Researchers at Arizona State University, Colorado State University, Florida Atlantic University, Rutgers University, and the University of Nevada, Reno, and in conjunction with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) issued this report today. Results Overview The LMI score is a combination of eight unique components that make up the logistics industry, including: inventory levels and costs, warehousing capacity, utilization, and prices, and transportation capacity, utilization, and prices. The LMI is calculated using a diffusion index, in which any reading above 50.0 indicates that logistics is expanding; a reading below 50.0 is indicative of a shrinking logistics industry. The latest results of the LMI summarize the responses of supply chain professionals collected in March 2024. The LMI read in at 58.3 in March, up (+1.8) February’s reading of 56.5. This is the seventh time in the last eight months that the LMI has shown expansion. This growth is driven by the buildup of inventories, the subsequent tightening of warehousing, and the ongoing slow yet steady recovery in transportation. The overall index is now at the low end of healthy levels of growth, closing in on the all-time average of 62.2 and is pointing towards steady economic growth in the near term. The broader optimism of our respondents is reflected in the University of Michigan’s Index of Consumer Sentiment which is up (+3.3%) to 79.4 in March and is 28.1% higher than a year ago. Consumers are confident about both the current state of the economy, and that inflation will continue to slow down[1]. Wall Street seems to be confident as well as the S&P 500 ended the first quarter up 10%. With growth coming from all 11 sectors of the index, this is the best opening to a year for the index since 2019. Historically, first quarters this strong have portended strong growth through the rest of the year[2]. It will be interesting to see if this momentum holds through the rest of 2024. Underlying this is continued job growth and slowing inflation. The U.S. added 275,000 jobs in February on the back of 229,000 jobs added in January. On the flip side, with more people entering the labor force the unemployment rate is up to 3.9%, which is higher bust still historically low as the U.S. has now seen unemployment under 4% for 25 consecutive months[3]. Evidence that the uptick in the unemployment rate is due more to a growing labor force than to job losses can be seen in jobless claims dipping down to only 210,000 new claims in the last week of March[4]. This is a continuation of the end of 2024 as U.S. economic growth in Q4 2023 was revised up from 3.2 to 2.4%. The Atlanta Federal Reserve estimates that it is growing at a rate of 2.1% in Q1 2024, but at this point that is still a speculative number[5]. As for inflation, many analysts are predicting that interest rates will need to come down by June or July for the Fed to meet its forecast of three rate cuts in 2024. Citi expects hiring to slow in Q2, which would leave an opening for the Fed to begin cooling rates [6]. As is often the case, inventories are the straw that stirs the drink in the logistics industry. Inventory Levels were up (+5.3) to 63.8 in March, which is their highest level since October of 2022 when firms were desperate to slash inventories. Since this time, Inventory Levels have largely registered in the 50’s and 40’s, including contracting in seven of eight months from May to December of 2023. They have been increasing steadily since then and moving back into the mid-60’s in March suggests that many firms are now back to business as normal. This normalcy has returned in part due to continued consumer activity. Consumer spending was up 0.6% in February as U.S. consumers continue to spend past analyst expectations of post-covid “revenge spending”. While a significant chunk of this spending is on services such as flights and meals,
Versatile and easy to use in-house sign and label print system
DuraLabel has announced the immediate availability of its new Kodiak Max, industrial sign and label print systems. Kodiak Max allows companies to bring multi-color, industrial-strength sign and label production in-house. Users can instantly create messaging to their exact specifications; alter or append messages at a moment’s notice; create permanent safety signs or temporary/seasonal signage; and save time and money versus outsourcing. All Kodiak Max Print Systems come with LabelForge PRO design software pre-installed. This easy-to-use tool has thousands of pre-made sign templates and symbols that can be printed as-is or customized as needed. Users can even design their own signs from scratch. LabelForge PRO supports 14 languages and multiple keyboard layouts. The uses for Kodiak Max are limitless. Typical uses include Arc Flash/Electrical Warnings, OSHA Notices, Chemical Labels, Equipment Labels, Pipe Marking, NFPA Labels, Wayfinding, Rack/Bay Identification and more. Regulatory compliance labels are also preloaded and automatically updated if regulations change. A stand-alone system, the Kodiak Max is ready to use out of the box. It features Wi-Fi connectivity, a responsive touchscreen display, and a wireless keyboard. Setup is fast and easy. An intuitive user interface guides users through the sign/label printing process. The Kodiak Max Print System uses thermal transfer technology to ensure durability, vibrant colors, and sharp, 300 DPI text, graphics, barcodes, and QR codes. Signs and labels can be printed in two colors in sizes up to 10” wide x 100” long. Quick-load ribbon cartridges make color changes fast and easy. Seven ribbon colors and 17 vinyl tape colors allow for a wide range of color schemes. Exactly what companies need for ANSI/OSHA compliance. DuraLabel Premium Vinyl is water, petroleum, UV light, and chemical resistant. It has ultra-aggressive adhesive and provides exceptional performance in outdoor environments and even in extreme conditions like cold storage warehouses and non-climate-controlled facilities. To ensure performance, reliability, and durability Kodiak Max Print Systems are designed, built, and tested in the United States. They carry a five-year warranty on the printer and premium vinyl supplies. DuraLabel also provides lifetime customer support, service, setup, and design guidance.
Signode adapts to evolving dairy industry trends
Adding flexibility and load stability to end-of-line packaging process with the Endra™ horizontal strapping system As the dairy industry evolves into a thriving market brimming with diverse options and alternatives, manufacturers are encountering new challenges in the transit packaging process – from upholding stringent food safety standards to adjusting workflows to accommodate expanding product lines, all while keeping costs in line. With over a century of experience developing innovative end-of-line transit packaging solutions, the Signode portfolio includes automation solutions, strapping and stretch wrapping systems, case packaging equipment, and protective packaging products. While these solutions cater to a wide array of industries, it’s the Endra Horizontal Strapping System that has specifically emerged as an effective solution for the common challenges facing today’s dairy manufacturers. “Strapping systems can be a great solution for packaging temperature-sensitive products,” says Andy Thibodeau, Container Equipment Manager for Signode. “In addition to load breathability, which is essential for maintaining cold temperatures in transit, the Endra Horizontal Strapping System provides the load stability needed to protect product value upstream.” Easily integrated into most production lines and boasting a compact footprint, this versatile solution offers customizable strap tension options to accommodate mixed product lines, from softer boxed items to crates and large barrels. Requiring just two or three straps to sufficiently stabilize pallets of dairy products, this horizontal strapping system can significantly reduce consumable costs and material waste. Shorter strapping cycle times and fewer strap coil changes enable high-speed processing while still handling products gently, meeting most dairy manufacturers’ needs for reliable transport and retail-ready products. Signode specialists deeply understand how the intricacies of the dairy industry impact end-of-line manufacturing processes, offering tailored solutions based on in-depth needs analyses. From application testing and design in the Packaging Lab to installation and proactive maintenance via Packaging Plus Reliability Services, Signode facilitates seamless integration that enhances overall operational efficiency.
AutoScheduler to present at Gartner Supply Chain Symposium
AutoScheduler exhibiting award-winning technology at the Conference AutoScheduler.AI, a Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, has announced that its CEO Keith Moore and Jake Barr, former P&G executive, will be at the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo™ speaking on Warehouse Orchestration with AI: Control the Chaos with Predictive Analytics. AutoScheduler.AI executives will also be at the conference to answer any questions attendees may have about warehouse optimization. “Decision-makers at distribution sites are challenged with making sense of all the information gleaned from new technology and automation implemented. AutoScheduler acts as the brain of the warehouse to tackle supply chain complexities and orchestrate workflows that address fluctuating consumer demand and labor shortages, among other things, so that orders will be filled on time and in full.” – Keith Moore, Chief Executive Officer, AutoScheduler.AI Warehouse Orchestration with AI: Control the Chaos with Predictive Analytics takes place on Monday, May 6 at 1:10 pm in the Logistics Village Theater. With the pace warehouses are introducing new technology and dynamically changing, managing an operation has become overwhelming. Let us share how you can pivot this situation to one that calms the chaos and delivers the operational agility you require. In this session, we’ll showcase how leaders like P&G and PepsiCo have rolled out technologies to create more productive sites and increase visibility into future service levels. Keith Moore is the CEO of AutoScheduler.AI and is focused on bringing the future of technology into warehousing. He works with the top 10 Consumer Goods, Beverage, and Distribution companies to drive efficiency in distribution centers. The AutoScheduler AI and Machine Learning platform was jointly developed with P&G and implemented at P&G, Unilever, General Mills, and others. Having completed a 33-year career with P&G, Jake Barr is now a principal and CEO with BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting, where he provides consulting support to a cross-section of top Fortune 500 companies. During his tenure with P&G, he directed the company’s global supply network design efforts and was the discipline director of supply network operations. One of the architects of P&G’s demand-driven supply strategy, this work has become the key enabler to P&G’s efforts to make the consumer and shopper the primary focus of the supply network. The Gartner Supply Chain Symposium offers attendees a one-stop-shop to access research-backed sessions, expert advice, and problem-solving with industry peers and colleagues. Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo™ addresses the strategic needs of CSCOs and supply chain executives. The conference will be held at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL, on May 6 – 8, 2024. Visit us at the conference in Booth 218.
Episode 474: AI for warehousing with Powerhouse AI
In today’s episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, we are talking AI for Warehousing with Henrik Bergsager, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Powerhouse AI. Powerhouse AI is a vision AI technology company focusing on the warehouse and supply chain industries. This discussion delves into the problems Powerhouse AI addresses, its practical applications, and the significant benefits it offers to the industry. This episode is packed with insights into the transformative power of vision AI technology in the warehousing and supply chain sectors. Revolutionizing Inventory Management with AI The use cases and benefits of AI for warehousing continue to grow. Powerhouse AI’s approach to AI technology makes it more accessible to warehouses of all sizes. As Henrik explains, “Our goal is to make vision AI technology more accessible to all the players in the space, both big and small.” By transforming visual data into actionable insights, Powerhouse AI significantly reduces the manual effort required for tasks like cycle counting. Bergsager shares a vivid example: “You simply scan the location and you take a picture of the pallet and it tells you, okay, this many boxes on this pallet,” illustrating the simplicity and efficiency of their solution. How AI for Warehousing Enhances Accuracy and Efficiency Powerhouse AI’s technology streamlines processes and achieves remarkable accuracy levels that surpass traditional manual counts. Henrik notes, “Once it’s up and running, it’s highly accurate… we are hitting those benchmarks, which is exciting because it kind of goes beyond what would be normal human error.” This accuracy is pivotal in warehouses where precision is crucial and manual cycle counts are prone to error and other inefficiencies. Smart Label Scanning and WMS Integration Expanding beyond inventory counts, Powerhouse AI’s smart label scanning feature revolutionizes how inbound and outbound operations handle data. Bergsager explains, “Instead of you kind of reading and figuring out what’s written on a label, your system does that for you.” This capability streamlines data capture and facilitates seamless integration with existing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), enhancing data quality and operational efficiency. Warehouses do not need the cleanest data for implementation, as Powerhouse AI fills in the gaps. Powerhouse AI provides a way to clean up your data on several criteria, including SKU number, pallet, supplier, and vendor. Henrik adds, “Over time, you will get a pretty good data set. You don’t need a baseline in order to do that, you will just contribute to what’s already in your WMS, and gradually by using the application, you will get better and better data.” Key Takeaways on AI for Warehousing Powerhouse AI democratizes access to vision AI technology, enabling companies of all sizes to enhance their operational efficiency. The platform significantly reduces manual effort in inventory management through innovative use of visual data, boasting higher accuracy rates than traditional methods. Smart label scanning and seamless WMS integration further extend the platform’s capabilities, making it a versatile tool for improving supply chain operations. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 474: Building the Case for AI for Warehousing With Powerhouse AI
LexxPluss demonstrates safe, interoperable and scalable mobile robot conveyancing technology in the US
Japanese automation solutions company LexxPluss has established itself in the US, announcing its new demo space as a practical showcase for its intralogistics technology. LexxPluss is investing heavily in the US to provide its autonomous mobile robots (AMR) technology. The Japanese automation solutions provider has announced a new US demo space to showcase the capabilities of its flexible robotic fleet solutions and the flagship 30×30 ft facility is located in the Indiana IoT Lab, in Fishers, Indiana. In addition to the demo space, LexxPluss has established a US subsidiary, opened a new US sales office in Indiana, and is expanding its team. Recent US hires include Business Development Manager Morgan Chang and Project Manager Sandeep Chilukuri. With its Lexx500 autonomous mobile robot and LexxFleet, the fleet management system, LexxPluss aims to solve problems by creating sustainability through the use of automation and other technologies. This includes adding value to intralogistics operations by reducing workload and improving the safety of workers at manufacturing, automotive, and logistics sites. With a range of sensors, a multi-sensor guidance system, easy-to-use interfaces, and open architecture, the Lexx500 AMRs are designed to be highly scalable and interoperable; from a single robot to a fleet of units working together safely and flexibly alongside existing automated systems and human workers. The low upfront cost and ability to transport irregular cargo and large payloads of up to 500 kg is ideally suited to manufacturing and logistics businesses. Combining dynamism with experience to create sustainable materials handling LexxPluss was created in 2020 by Founder and CEO Masaya Aso and a team of autonomous technology experts with decades of experience in the robotics and autonomous driving industry in companies such as Bosch, Amazon, and Honda. Its technology has been successfully deployed in Japan and the company was recently chosen by both EY for its Innovative Startup 2024 Award in Japan and by Forbes as one of 100 Japanese startups to watch in 2024. Having secured Series A funding worth $10.7 million in 2023 for expansion in the US, LexxPluss is now leveraging its expertise and relationships in Japan. The company sees significant potential in the US, with market intelligence agency Interact Analysis forecasting the US mobile robots market will grow at a CAGR of 37% between 2023 and 2027, expanding from $1.1bn to $3.8bn. Seamless integration, larger payloads and multi-sensor safety with LexxPluss AMRs A trio of products will be officially launched by LexxPluss at Automate 2024 in Chicago this May: the Lexx500 AMR, LexxFleet fleet management solution, and LexxTug towing interface. Each of the products being launched in the US has been renamed as part of LexxPluss’ commitment to achieving success in international markets (with the products previously called Hybrid-AMR, Konnectt and WaniGripper). LexxPluss has equipped its mobile conveyancing robots with superior multi-sensor safety that combines LiDAR sensors, ultrasonic sensors and depth cameras to ensure they can operate safely and collaboratively with a human workforce. The company is also committed to open architecture, making its mobile robots easy to integrate with other systems and simple to maintain on-site. Announcing the opening of the US demo space, LexxPluss COO, Rizo Itakura,says, “There is huge potential for greater automation in the US. Our products remove barriers to scaling up and integrating automation with existing systems. Customers can start with a single unit, using existing carts and production machinery to generate greater efficiencies and improve the working environment. Interested companies and potential partners are welcome to visit our demo space in Indiana, to learn first-hand how our solutions can help to create sustainable intralogistics operations.” Morgan Chang, LexxPluss US Business Development Manager, adds, “We are excited to launch our new demo space and see this as part of our commitment to open mechanical design and transparent technical information sharing. This is something that sets LexxPluss apart, offering the highest levels of interoperability with existing systems and operations, alongside our determination to offer high levels of safety, reliability and scalability. I look forward to meeting potential new partners and customers at the LexxPluss stand at Automate 2024 (Booth #3076), where we will be showcasing our technology and officially launching a range of exciting products.”
Episode 473: Warehouse Staffing: A deep dive with Traba’s Read Egger
In this episode of The New Warehouse, Kevin is joined by Read Egger, the Head of Growth Operations and Go-To-Market at Traba. This innovative company is tackling the persistent challenges of staffing in the warehousing sector by merging technological solutions with thorough vetting processes, ensuring the delivery of not just any staff, but the right staff. Traba’s approach addresses critical staffing issues, leveraging technology to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of warehouse operations. The conversation with Read provides valuable insights into how Traba is setting new standards in staffing solutions. Transforming Warehouse Staffing Through Technology Read explains, Traba is not your typical staffing agency. It’s a tech-enabled labor marketplace focusing on the light industrial sector, aiming to match the right workers with the right jobs. “We are a tech-enabled labor marketplace that specifically focuses on serving light industrial clients and light industrial workers,” Read explains. This approach not only streamlines the staffing process but ensures a higher quality of temporary labor by closely matching worker skills with client needs. “Our foundation is rooted in building products that help workers and businesses achieve their highest level of productivity when using temporary labor with a level of operational support not seen in staffing in general.” The Vetting Process: Ensuring Quality and Fit One of the cornerstones of Traba’s success is its rigorous vetting process. “You have to go through a background check…federal, county, global watch list, sex offender check all those things just to enter our labor supply,” Beyond background checks, Traba conducts interviews and on-job evaluations to verify worker skills and fit, setting a high bar for staffing quality in the industry. In cases where specialized skills or experience are necessary, like driving a stand-up forklift, the vetting process is critical. “It’s all those factors of vetting and clearly communicated expectations that flow into having a good end result for the worker and the business.” Future Directions: Data-Driven Workforce Solutions Looking ahead, Traba is set on becoming a vital component in the broader supply chain by leveraging data for labor management systems and demand planning. “And then from there, becoming more of an integral component of the greater supply chain,” Read shares, highlighting the ambition to integrate Traba’s solutions into larger operational frameworks, thus optimizing labor efficiency and productivity at a grander scale. Key Takeaways Traba is leveraging technology to solve traditional staffing issues in the warehousing sector. Their rigorous vetting process ensures that only qualified and suitable workers match client needs. Traba is looking towards the future by using data-driven solutions to enhance labor efficiency and supply chain operations further. The New Warehouse Podcast Episdoe 473: Warehouse Staffing: A Deep Dive with Traba’s Read Egger
Dematic FIRST® Scholarship program applications open
Applications for the Supply Chain and Logistics Scholarship Due Saturday, May 18 THE SITUATION: The Dematic FIRST® Scholarship program supports high school and college students in their journey to become future supply chain and logistics leaders and innovators. This scholarship will award: Two $5,000 scholarships 10 $1,000 scholarships THE APPLICATION: Applications will be submitted online. Students will be asked to upload: High school transcripts for graduation verification or expected graduation date. A one-page essay (1,000-word limit) responding to this prompt: You have been awarded a grant to design and develop a robot of your choice. Describe the purpose of your robot and the problem it solves, highlighting its positive and negative impacts on the world. Explain your design process, including how you prioritize features and navigate trade-offs between different components. Identify the key team members you will need and justify their roles in the project. A letter of recommendation (recommended, not required) from an adult mentor/coach on your FIRST team, teacher, or guidance counselor. WHO: To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, students must: Have participated in a FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC®) or a FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC®) Team during high school. Apply and be admitted to a post-secondary institution (including trade schools) as a full- or part-time student. You do not need to have already been admitted at the time of application for this scholarship. Must be pursuing a post-secondary degree or certification at a North American academic institution. STEM degrees and certifications are preferred. Available for any undergraduate students for the fall of 2024. Previous Dematic FIRST Scholarship program winners are ineligible to win again. WHEN: Applications are due Saturday, May 18. APPLY HERE