Tele Radio handhelds for lifting applications
Tele Radio has reminded the industry of the benefits of two handheld radio remote controls specifically for the demands of lifting and hoisting applications. The T19-2 and T29-12 joined the company’s Panther line of products, which all meet Performance Level d (PLd), Category 3, equivalent to Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 2. This makes them suitable for use in high-risk areas such as those with moving and heavy loads. Tele Radio, part of Sweden’s Allgon Group, offers a wide variety of handheld transmitters and larger-size waist belt transmitters for all kinds of industrial applications. However, the T19-2 and T29-12 present a variety of benefits to end users operating cranes and hoists, largely because of their conformity to relevant standards and certifications, and the fact that they are lightweight, easy to handle, and cost-effective. KeesJan van der Elst, Market Manager at Tele Radio, said: “Both transmitters are popular in the marketplace due to their high safety and quality at a competitive price. They are easy to set up for specific applications, and are widely used to control jib cranes, overhead cranes, loader cranes, and other overhead lifting equipment.” The T19-2 has eight buttons, while the T29-12 is a 12-button version; the latter can control up to 24 different functions, but this can become 4 x 24, through the ‘layer selection’ option. The additional buttons mean the T29-12 can even be used for the safe control of more advanced machinery, like recovery vehicles and excavators. These buttons have three steps: off, half, and full. A broad offering of accessories and a 500m wireless range, depending on the surrounding environment, means the applications for each transmitter are limitless. Both transmitters work on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and are equipped with robust housing with a protective bumper and are water resistant according to IP65. They work on the worldwide accepted 2.4 GHz frequency and, thanks to advanced technology, interference is minimal. It is also possible to create a group code, through which multiple transmitters can control a single receiver. Van der Elst said: “The Panther systems include several three relay crane controls and can be fitted with standard harnesses and connectors for various types of cranes and lifting equipment. In addition to the standard settings, advanced setups are possible through a USB connection with a personal computer. A separate programming kit is available [from Tele Radio] to set up the Panther PLd to a user’s specific needs.” Another standout feature of the Panther is the ability to pair the transmitter and receiver high in a crane from the ground. In other words, a transmitter, connected to a receiver that is mounted high in a crane, can be replaced and paired easily without climbing to the receiver and without opening it. It can be completed from the ground floor. This configuration is another example of the flexibility and user-friendliness of the products. While the transmitters are water resistant according to IP65, the receivers are protected by IP66, providing resistance to dust and water. Van der Elst added: “The Panther PLd systems are the clear choice for certified hoisting and lifting, where high performance is a requirement. Consider the accessories — holders, chargeable batteries, charging cables, straps, and covers — and it’s evident that both the T19-2 and T29-12 are perfect for the demands of lifting and hoisting applications in a multitude of end-user applications.”
Essential measures for minimizing disruption amid Ningbo Port closure
Container xChange is alerting the global container trading and leasing community to the serious repercussions of the recent explosion aboard the Yang Ming vessel YM Mobility at Ningbo Port, China. This incident, which has led to the closure of one of the world’s busiest container terminals, is expected to have significant ripple effects across global supply chains, especially on the main trade lanes out of Asia. On August 9, 2024, a container loaded with hazardous materials exploded aboard the YM Mobility while it was berthed at Ningbo Beilun’s Phase III Terminal. The explosion, which involved organic peroxide materials, has led to the terminal’s closure until further notice. “With this closure, Ningbo Port is no longer operational, compounding existing supply chain disruptions exacerbated by Typhoon Gaemi in July.” shared Christian Roeloffs, cofounder and CEO of Container xChange. “For container trading companies and those involved in container leasing, this incident presents some straightforward challenges worth accounting for. The disruption at the Ningbo Port, combined with pre-existing congestion at major Asian ports, will lead to a deterioration of ocean schedules and further delays in container availability. Companies must brace for increased dwell times, potential rerouting of shipments, and a tightening of available container supplies, especially for hazardous and dangerous goods.” shared Roeloffs. Recommended Actions: Rerouting Shipping Routes: Companies are exploring and evaluating alternative shipping routes through less congested ports to avoid delays. The closure of Ningbo will likely increase congestion at neighboring ports, so proactive planning is crucial. Increase Safety Protocols: Rigorous inspections and adherence to safety protocols, particularly for hazardous goods, must be prioritized to prevent similar incidents. Stay Informed: Regular updates from shipping partners and port authorities will be crucial in adjusting operations in real-time. Companies should maintain open lines of communication to adjust operations in real-time. Plan for Extended Dwell Times: With delays expected to increase, companies should anticipate longer dwell times at major ports and adjust their inventory and delivery schedules accordingly. Companies should plan for extended delays and consider increasing inventory levels to avoid disruptions.
SUN Automation Group highlights latest Innovations and Key Partnerships
SUN Automation Group (SUN) will attend SuperCorrExpo at Booth 1731 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida from September 8-12. Visitors can learn more about the SUN625® HD Rotary Die Cutter, SUN’s next-level solution for corrugated manufacturing. With comprehensive feeding, printing, and converting capabilities, the SUN fixed-frame RDC offers more production volume than two traditional RDC machines while producing superior container quality. “We’re incredibly excited to share the SUN625® HD at SuperCorrExpo,” said Eric Aulton, Product Manager – RDC. “This new technology, specifically, a new engineered approach to Rotary Die Cutting, embodies our commitment to innovation and productivity and offers our customers unprecedented machine reliability, product throughput, and product accuracy. It’s setting new standards in efficiency and versatility, and we look forward to discussing its transformative capabilities in September.” SUN will also highlight Helios, the company’s machine learning and IIoT platform. The SaaS solution quantifies and analyzes key elements of the corrugated manufacturing process. With this data, box plant leaders are empowered to make more efficient and informed decisions about when to schedule downtime and order parts to prevent machine failure. “Helios saves box plants time and money by enabling their equipment to work smarter, not harder,” said Gokul Gopakumar, Vice President of Technology and Business Development. “Its machine learning capabilities enable predictive maintenance, and its real-time remote monitoring allows for quick identification and resolution of issues. Helios is the 21st-century solution for optimizing the manufacturing process.” In addition, SUN will feature its breadth of strategic global partnerships at SuperCorrExpo. By combining industry leaders’ experience, equipment, service, and technology worldwide, SUN can provide the right solution for any operation and accommodate even the most unique needs. “Our strategic partnerships allow us to expand as a total solutions provider for the corrugated industry,” said Greg Jones, Executive Vice President. “We can capitalize on our all-encompassing resources to provide individualized solutions for our customers. We look forward to demonstrating how our current knowledge, experience, and global presence can serve the corrugated community.” SUN is proud to maintain key partnerships to provide solutions for increasing production, efficiency, and profitability. When SuperCorrExpo attendees visit SUN’s booth this year, they will also have the opportunity to meet and learn more about these strategic partners. Al-Gar Al-Gar is a global leader in corrugated engineering solutions. Based in Barcelona, Spain, the company provides expertise and resources to optimize manufacturing processes with customizable solutions for design, control systems, retrofits, and maintenance. Al-Gar bolsters its comprehensive services with top-of-line product offerings that enhance corrugated, paper, and converting operations. SUN will display the Al-Gar Load Tag Inserter, showcasing the latest innovative corrugated solutions. New Partner: Versor Versor, a leading innovator in Specialty Folder Gluers, joins SUN’s lineup of strategic partners. Their advanced technology enhances the capabilities of corrugated manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient and high-quality output. Versor has proudly installed over 300 machines in Europe alone. Other Key Partners: Latitude Machinery Group (LMC) Since August 2019, SUN Automation Group has been the exclusive representative for Latitude Machinery Corp. (LMC) in North and Central America. As a world-class Rotary Die Cutters and Flexo Folder Gluers manufacturer with over 100 machine installations in North America, LMC has an outstanding reputation for reliability and throughput. PARA Srl Machinery and Material Handling for Corrugated Board As a globally integrated Italian material handling company and partner to SUN since 2021, PARA boasts a wide variety of material handling solutions for the corrugated industry, with 30 plant installations in the U.S. and over 15,000 products installed worldwide. PARA’s extensive product range includes pre-feeders, palletizers, RDC stackers, bundle breakers, pallet inserters, vertical storage solutions, paper mill roll transports, and unit conveyor systems. Highcon SUN and Highcon have been cultivating a growing relationship since 2021. Highcon represents the digital arm of corrugated converting solutions, bringing patented digital cutting and creasing for post-print processes in the folding carton and corrugated carton industries. ePS ePS leverages its extensive product range and global reach to deliver expertise across all aspects of plant operations, from scheduling and MES to ERP solutions. Much like Helios, ePS’ solutions are specifically tailored for corrugated box plants to address both current and future software needs. SUN is committed to delivering excellence to the corrugated industry.
Gordon Report: Will the U.S. Labor economy avoid brain death?
The Gordon Reports are based on over 30 years of research on the causes, effects, and solutions for continuing worldwide skills-jobs disconnects. For your convenience, here are the major publications that have reported on a burgeoning talent-deficit question: Closing the Literacy Gap in American Business, 1991 (adult reading) FutureWork, 1994, and Enhancing Learning in Training and Adult Education, 1998 (higher performing employer training and development programs) Skill Wars: Winning the Battle for Productivity and Profit, 2000 (training return-on-investment) The 2010 Meltdown: Solving the Impending Jobs Crisis, 2005 (impact of baby-boomer retirements on workforce skill levels 2010-2030) Winning the Global Talent Showdown, 2009 (skilled worker challenges in 25 nations and their solutions) The Talent Hunters, 2012, (China, India, and the United States vie to attract skilled workers) Future Jobs: Solving the Employment and Skills Crisis, 2013, 2018 (preparing solutions for skilled talent deficits) Job Shock, 2022 (Building a new skilled workforce in the wake of COVID-19) These publications feature case studies of businesses and communities rising to the challenge of fixing skill deficits. Many have established Regional Talent Innovation Networks (RETAINs), not one-off partnerships but collaborative hubs focusing on systemic change. Coast to coast, under local brand names, RETAINs connects schools and businesses to educate and train students and incumbent workers for today’s jobs and careers. The Fourth Industrial Revolution continues to raise the education and skills required to develop and use advanced technologies, with AI now the focus of attention. Yet the skill levels of too many Americans stalled out during the last decades of the 20th century. High levels of vacant jobs persist across all business sectors. Wages continue to rise as businesses seek to mine the inadequate supply of knowledge workers. We are nearing a state of collapse in such people’s current and future availability. The critical mass of educated Americans is inadequate to support and grow the U.S. economy. Why has this happened? It begins with education National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) test scores show a steep post-COVID decline in American elementary school students’ reading and mathematics performance. In 2022, only about one-third of 4th- and 8th-grade public and private school students scored in reading at grade level or above. In mathematics, 37 percent of 4th-graders scored at grade level or above, but only 27 percent of 8th-grade students did. All the testing results showed a significant growth in students scoring well below their grade level in both mathematics and reading. International testing also showed sharp drops in reading and mathematics results. The 2022 PISA exam of 15-year-old students in 81 OECD member countries saw mean performance fall 10 points in reading and 15 points in mathematics compared to 2018 results. The results of the 2024 ACT exams confirm another confirmation of educational declines. American high-school seniors take this achievement test to assess readiness for college-level studies. The 2024 average ACT score was the lowest in thirty years. This year, the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce issued a report on post-secondary job requirements. It indicates that 75 percent of all jobs by 2031 will require post-secondary education: two—or four-year degrees, technical certificates, or apprenticeships. These post-secondary options will need students to have achieved 12th-grade reading comprehension. In 2024, only 33 to 37 percent of public and private high school graduates read at this comprehension level. This is a major factor behind the sad statistic that only half of students who start a post-secondary degree complete it. Looking to the future Demand for more advanced IT skills will continue to grow across the job market. Higher cognitive skills, critical thinking, and creativity are essential for innovation. They all involve achieving higher reading comprehension. Business executives report skill shortages and expect them to continue. A 2024 Experis survey of IT employers in over 40 countries found that 76 percent reported difficulty finding the skilled talent they need. The World Economic Forum predicts up to 90 million skilled job vacancies worldwide by 2030, with up to 30 million in the United States. U.S. high schools are now graduating a significant number of functionally illiterate young adults. The 21st-century reality is that the world has moved into a new era of occupational transitions and employment qualifications. What actions need to be taken to stave off the brain death of the U.S. labor force? A 2024 McKinsey Global Institute Report, “A New Future of Work,” found that the surveyed executives expect greater skill demands by 2030. Companies are considering retraining their current workers, hiring contractors, and using them to fill these growing skills deficits. Success with these strategies depends on widening talent pools. Due to inadequate elementary and high school preparation, too many young Americans do not have the educational foundation needed to succeed in today’s high-tech jobs and careers. Reform needs to begin at these early educational levels. Businesses need to develop career information programs in elementary schools that highlight the new jobs created by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and how to prepare for them. They also need to expand partnership programs with secondary and post-secondary educational institutions. Career academy high schools can allow local businesses to help students explore how well their interests and skills fit employment opportunities. Apprenticeship, internship, and work-study programs must be implemented in more industry sectors. Business leaders must deploy these and other strategies prioritizing human capital development. To make this succeed, Regional Talent Innovation Networks can help business leaders collaborate with other community sectors to reinvent local and regional education-to-employment systems. RETAINs provide the framework for long-term systemic transformation that sustains talent growth that benefits individuals, businesses, and U.S. economic competitiveness. About the Author: Edward E. Gordon is the founder and president of Imperial Consulting Corporation in Chicago. His firm’s clients have included companies of all sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500 corporations, U.S. government agencies, state governments, and professional/trade associations. He taught in higher education for 20 years and is the Author of numerous books and articles. More information on his background can be found at www.imperialcorp.com. As a professional speaker, he is available to
H&E opens New Branch in Amarillo, TX
H&E Rentals has announced the opening of its Amarillo branch, the company’s 30th location in the state of Texas. H&E has opened 25 new branches across the country and acquired nine others since the second quarter of last year, and it has operations in 32 states. The facility is located at 12828 I-27, Amarillo, TX 79119-2507, phone 806-718-7900. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a repair shop and carries a variety of construction and general industrial equipment. “The positioning of a new branch in Amarillo gives H&E complete coverage of the Texas Panhandle that stretches across the New Mexico state line. We now have greater reach above our existing Lubbock branch, which allows H&E to better serve the West Texas market, and we’ve reduced the distance between our Albuquerque and Oklahoma City locations,” says Branch Manager Nick Ohman. “Our facility is directly on the I-27 frontage road and just a short drive from I-40. That strategic location allows us to efficiently move equipment from an expanded local fleet to job sites stretching from the Oklahoma state lines and down across State Highway 86. We’re in a great place to help customers across the entire panhandle.” The Amarillo branch specializes in the rental of aerial lifts, earthmoving equipment, telescopic forklifts, compaction equipment, generators, light towers, compressors, and more and represents the following manufacturers: Allmand, Atlas Copco, Bomag, Case, Club Car, Cushman, Doosan, Gehl, Generac Mobile, Genie, Hamm, Hilti, Husqvarna, JCB, JLG, John Deere, Kobelco, Kubota, LayMor, Ledwell, Lincoln Electric, Link-Belt Excavators, MEC, Miller, Multiquip, Polaris, Sany, Skyjack, SkyTrak, Sullair, Sullivan-Palatek, Tag, Towmaster, Unicarriers, Wacker Neuson, Yanmar, and others. Founded in 1961, H&E is one of the largest equipment rental companies in the nation, providing the higher standard in equipment rentals. Branches are located throughout the Pacific Northwest, West Coast, Intermountain, Southwest, Gulf Coast, Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Bobcat celebrates $3.26M renovation at Buford facility
Bobcat Company recently brought material handling into the Bobcat brand, transitioning from Doosan Industrial Vehicle to Bobcat in early 2024. The investment in the Buford facility modernized conference rooms, break rooms and office spaces, improved the interior design, finishing and furnishing to align with other Bobcat locations, and updated exterior signage. Featuring open seating and no cubicles, the enhanced spaces support cross-functional teamwork and engagement. “Investing in our facilities and operations to create collaborative, inspiring workplaces is one of many ways that Bobcat supports our employees,” said Mike Ballweber, president, Doosan Bobcat North America. “Fostering our company’s success alongside the dedicated team in Buford is a priority for us. We are thrilled to provide them with a work environment that encourages collaboration and drives innovation.” The 200,000-square-foot Buford facility houses a state-of-the-art parts operation which supplies over 30,000 line items to support its affiliate groups. Additionally, the material handling product line includes 179 separate models with a full range of diesel, gas, liquid propane gas and electric forklifts, with capacities ranging from 3,000 to 55,000 pounds. “The growth of the Bobcat brand into the material handling industry allows us to provide even more solutions to help our customers accomplish more,” said Jarrod Steck, Bobcat vice president of material handling products. “Our Buford team has grown by 40 percent in the last year and is still growing. Bobcat’s investment in both people and facility illustrate our level of commitment to growing Bobcat’s presence in this important market.” More than 180 employees work at the Buford location – a significant increase since 2022. Employment opportunities are available in product support, sales administration and product and parts areas. Shultz + Associates Architects supported the architecture plans, while Omega Construction served as the general contractor of the facility renovations. In addition to its operations in Buford, Bobcat has an extensive presence throughout the U.S., as well as globally.
Manufacturing Technology Orders Grow 4.3% in June 2024 as Year-Over-Year Order Gap Narrows
Orders of manufacturing technology, measured by the U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders Report published by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, totaled $386.7 million in May 2024. Orders of manufacturing technology, measured by the U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders (USMTO) report published by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, totaled $402.3 million in June 2024. New orders of metalworking machinery were up 4.3% from May 2024 but down 1.6% from June 2023. Year-to-date orders reached $2.2 billion, down 10.7% compared to the first half of 2023. While the value of orders maintained momentum in June 2024, with the average value increasing significantly, the number of units ordered for the month dropped to 1,471 units, the lowest since July 2023. This divergence indicates manufacturers are generally investing in more automated, task-specific solutions. This trend is further confirmed, as inflation among machine tools, measured by the producer price index, has stayed relatively flat for the last several months. June 2024 orders from contract machine shops dropped over 10% from May 2024 in both the number of units ordered and the total order value. Through the first half of the year, the value of these orders was the lowest since the first half of 2020, but the number of units ordered fell further, reaching its lowest level since the first half of 2010. Primary metal manufacturers have also pulled back machinery orders in 2024, dropping to the lowest levels in both unit count and value since the first half of 2010. Demand for machinery in this sector has been waning, as the World Steel Association reports that global steel production in the first half of 2024 was flat compared to the first half of 2023. One notable exception to this recent trend is the aerospace sector, which has increased orders in the first half of 2024 to the highest number of units since the first half of 2018, yet the value of orders remains about 2% below orders placed in the first half of 2022. With capacity utilization in the aerospace sector reaching post-COVID peaks, this confirms that these manufacturers are in need of additional machinery to meet growing demand. Orders of manufacturing technology are down nearly 11% in the first half of 2024 compared to 2023, but that difference has narrowed in the past several months after the beginning of the year failed to meet the optimistic expectations formed from anticipated interest rate cuts and strengthened consumer and business sentiment. Despite the lingering uncertainty around the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy, the pending election, and escalating geopolitical tensions, the remainder of 2024 seems ready for a rebound in demand for manufacturing technology – perhaps even more so with the opening of IMTS 2024 – The International Manufacturing Technology Show in September at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
Episode 510: Addressing lost and stolen packages with Deliverlitics
Today’s episode of The New Warehouse Podcast features Bobby McKinnon, Co-Founder and CEO of Deliverlitics. Deliverlitics is dedicated to solving a significant issue in the delivery and e-commerce industry: lost and stolen packages. With increased e-commerce activities, this problem has become more prevalent, impacting consumers and businesses. Bobby shares insights on how Deliverlitics leverages AI to tackle this challenge effectively. Bobby McKinnon’s Journey to Deliverlitics Bobby McKinnon’s background is diverse and impressive. After spending half a decade as an Army logistics and supply chain officer, he transitioned to the corporate world, gaining experience at Nike and a blockchain data analytics startup. His military experience, particularly in high-pressure logistics environments, equipped him with the skills to lead and innovate in the supply chain sector. “The military gave me a set of tools and passions for leading organizations that have pushed me to where I am today,” Bobby explains. His journey culminated in co-founding Deliverlitics, driven by a desire to address the pervasive issue of lost and stolen packages. The Problem of Lost and Stolen Packages The rise in e-commerce has exacerbated the issue of lost and stolen packages, creating significant challenges for retailers and consumers alike. Bobby categorizes the problem into three main areas: misplaced items, package theft, and first-party fraud. “Somewhere in the neighborhood of $15 to $20 billion is what it’ll end up being lost or stolen this year across all of e-commerce,” he notes. Examples like the man dressed as a trash bag stealing packages highlight the creativity of thieves. Moreover, first-party fraud, where customers falsely claim packages are missing, adds to the financial burden on businesses. Deliverlitics’ AI-Driven Solution Deliverlitics addresses these challenges through innovative AI solutions. By analyzing vast amounts of data, they predict and mitigate the risk of package loss and theft. This analysis allows them to provide specific recommendations to mitigate the identified risks. Bobby elaborates, “AI allows us to sift through these things, find the points of correlation, find the things that are causing these events to occur or contributing to their propensity to happen. And then we can predict them.” Their Shopify plugin, for example, assesses the risk of each order in real-time, providing recommendations like adding signature verification or redirecting to a secure location. This proactive approach protects businesses and enhances the consumer experience by reducing friction and maintaining trust. Key Takeaways Innovative AI Solutions: Deliverlitics uses AI to analyze data and predict risks associated with package delivery. Significant Financial Impact: The e-commerce industry loses billions annually due to lost and stolen packages. Proactive Recommendations: Their system provides real-time recommendations to mitigate risks, improving both business operations and customer satisfaction. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 510: Addressing Lost and Stolen Packages with Deliverlitics
Register For SuperCorrExpo® Today!
SuperCorrExpo®, taking place September 8-12 in sunny Orlando, Florida, will feature North America’s largest display of working equipment for the corrugated and folding carton industries. With the rare opportunity to see, touch and demo working equipment right on the show floor, attendees can gain firsthand experience and insights into the latest technological advancements and innovations driving the industry forward. Over 300 companies will be exhibiting at SuperCorrExpo®. Industry leaders from across the globe will be showcasing working machinery, including: A.G. Stacker, Baysek Machines, EAM-Mosca, Eco Paper Machinery, Engineered Recycling Systems, Fosber America, Geo. M. Martin, Global Boxmachine, Haire Group, Innoveyance, Kolbus America, Mainline Conveyor Systems, Samuel Packaging Systems Group, Shenzhen HanGlory Digital Printing Group, Signode, Solema USA, Stitching and Gluing Solutions, SUN Automation Group, TCY, TISCO/ HARPER/ ALLTEK, and WSA USA. Thousands will be attending to take advantage of the unparalleled educational and networking opportunities available as SuperCorrExpo®. The world’s leading box plants are looking to gain the tools and expertise to equip their businesses for the future. The list of attendees is available here. Don’t get boxed out! Register today to join the world’s professionals in paving the way for the future of the corrugated industry.
AutoScheduler.AI wins NextGen Solution Provider Award in Artificial Intelligence Category
NextGen Supply Chain Conference Awards Recognize Companies Shaping Tomorrow’s Supply Chains AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Orchestration Platform and WMS accelerator, has announced the company is named a winner in the Artificial Intelligence category of the NextGen Solution Provider Awards. The NextGen Solution Provider Awards honor up to four solution providers that have utilized NextGen supply chain technologies in a project implemented for a customer in the following categories: Robotics, Digital Transformation, Artificial Intelligence, and Predictive Analytics. “We are proud to win this prestigious award for our AI-enabled technology that takes disparate data and converges supply chain activities to create plans that orchestrate campus operations for optimized efficiency prescriptively,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “Our clients’ warehouses operate at peak performance.” The NextGen Supply Chain Conference Awards recognize the companies shaping tomorrow’s supply chains with advances that are helping organizations navigate the complexities of the modern supply chain while also preparing them for success in the future. Winners will be presented their award at the conference which takes place in Chicago, October 21-23, 2024, at the Chicago Athletic Association. Moore adds, “Our technology smooths warehouse operations by orchestrating and planning all activities in real-time on top of an existing WMS. It considers space, time, labor, dock doors, and more constraints to ensure that orders are fulfilled on time and in full. Clients gain efficiencies and value in their supply chains through optimized labor, schedules, touches, and inventory.” AutoScheduler’s AutoPilot converges disparate data to orchestrate supply chain activities and optimize campus operations. By integrating data from WMS, yard management systems, ERP, visibility systems, and production schedules, it creates a unified view of operations. Utilizing operational twin technology, AutoPilot predicts future states by analyzing current conditions and planned activities across systems. It employs complex mathematics, AI, and optimization techniques to determine the most efficient use of capacity. This approach optimizes activity systems, prescribes event sequences, and creates a feasible operational schedule, minimizing touches and labor while maximizing service levels.
Dematic has announced 2024 STEM Scholarship Winners
12 Students Awarded Dematic FIRST® Scholarships to Pursue STEM Education Dematic has announced the winners of the 2024 Dematic FIRST® Scholarship program, which recognizes students dedicated to pursuing careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). In partnership with the corporate nonprofit FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), this scholarship program underscores Dematic’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators in the supply chain and logistics industry. This year’s scholarship recipients include students Aman Amjad from Brookfield, Wisconsin, and Lily Hoopes from Bonney Lake, Washington, who were both awarded $5,000 to support their post-secondary education or technical certification. Dematic also awarded $1,000 scholarships to 10 additional students: Blake Bollow, Noelle Bryan, Casey Bushey, Allie Cadenhead, Rafael Calderon, Adriana Cruz, Jason Elisei, Bill Giang, Hendrik Sorensen, and Adam Thai. “This year’s Dematic FIRST scholarship winners are truly exceptional,” says Mike Larsson, President of Dematic and Executive Board Member of KION Group. “The skills and experiences they’ve gained through the FIRST program will propel them not only to successful careers in STEM but also to becoming future leaders. The high caliber of this year’s applicants highlights our need for continued investment in STEM education. By empowering these future leaders, we’re paving the way for the next generation.” Now in its fourth year, the Dematic FIRST scholarship program attracted applications from students across 28 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada. Dematic executives reviewed all applications, selecting honorees based on their academic excellence and commitment to pursuing a future in STEM. The program requires applicants to provide their transcripts, a one-page essay discussing a future where humans and machines interact in the warehouse, and a letter of recommendation. In addition, they must have previously competed in a FIRST Robotics Competition or FIRST Tech Challenge. “Being awarded the Dematic FIRST Scholarship is an incredible honor as I advance my education at Georgia Tech and embark on my career,” says Amjad. “Participating in FIRST during high school ignited my passion for STEM, and I’m grateful to Dematic for supporting my studies. FIRST and Dematic encourage students to explore real-world careers through teamwork, education, and robotics. Thank you for opening doors to opportunities, including early workforce exposure and access to advanced technology.” Dematic is dedicated to supporting FIRST and its mission to engage youth to become skilled professionals, creative thinkers, and well-rounded citizens. Dematic employees actively contribute to FIRST teams by providing mentorship and guidance to students helping to foster their development. Last year, Dematic sponsored 18 FIRST teams and donated $68,000 to support students as they prepared for competitions and careers in STEM. Since 2008, Dematic has sponsored teams participating in FIRST robotics competitions and invested more than $310,000 in local teams, events, and student scholarships, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of STEM professionals. To learn more, visit dematic.com. Scholarship Winners:
IDEC ez-Wheel Assist Wheel Drive Boosts material handling operations
The modular all-in-one wheel, gearbox, drive, battery, and control solution is easily integrated into new or existing equipment to help workers safely transport heavy payloads. IDEC Corporation announced the new ez-Wheel Assist Wheel Drive (AWD) EW1A Series, providing electrical motion assistance for industrial manual material handling equipment. With the help of an EW1A, workers can easily and safely move heavy loads, increasing productivity and efficiency. Even in highly automated facilities, there remain many operations requiring personnel to exert manual force to move trolleys, carts, and other mobile equipment. Besides the physical challenge, workers could also be susceptible to injuries or other musculoskeletal issues while performing these tasks. The EW1A addresses this and other issues with an integrated electric motorized wheel solution that is easily retrofitted onto existing trollies or designed into new equipment. Power and control options The EW1A system consists of a few modular components, with many options to satisfy new equipment designs, or aftermarket retrofits by maintenance personnel. The main drive unit is available with 150mm or 160mm resilient polyurethane wheels, and the ability to support a vertical working load up to 400kg, and to transfer loads up to 1000kg. A suspension bracket provides an adaptable way to add the main drive unit to upgrade any equipment. All models can accept internal batteries, which are recharged with a specific cable and charger. However, for greater capacity designers can alternately choose to use an external battery pack using an adapter cable. Batteries operate at a nominal 24V DC, with capacities ranging from 3Ah to 15Ah, depending on the model. The wheels operate at about 0 to 5km/hr (0 to 3mph) in both directions and are available with adjustable braking modes and an option parking brake. The wheels are rated for indoor use, in non-freezing temperatures and up to 40°C. Two controller options are available. The standard controller is a compact panel, much like a pendant control but fixed-mounted, with an on/off button, forward/reverse speed control thumbwheel, and a lighted or unlighted emergency stop button. A two-handle-type controller is also available with the same functionality implemented into a pair of handles, which can be oriented vertically or horizontally as needed for the best user experience. The handle-type controller is available with or without a battery charge status LED indicator. Convenient ez-Config software running on a PC and connected using a standard USB cable lets users easily configure operating parameters, such as forward/reverse speed, acceleration time, deceleration mode, assist time limit, time to sleep mode, and more. Progressive safety and efficiency Companies everywhere need solutions for improving the safety and efficiency of their workers, helping them comply with standards like ISO 11228-2 for ergonomics, and potentially reducing insurance costs. The IDEC ez-Wheel Assist Wheel Drive EW1A Series meets these needs as the world’s first 100% integrated industrial autonomous wheel, combining the wheel, gearbox, drive, battery, and control solution in a compact and modular form factor. It is easily retrofitted on any existing moving equipment as an aftermarket solution, to upgrade and update working capabilities. Applications abound anywhere equipment or payloads are manually moved, in warehouse and material handling facilities, automotive plants, logistics/retail, manufacturing, construction, food and beverage, and more. With an attractive price/performance ratio, end users of all types can deploy the EW1A to improve worker health while increasing productivity and efficiency, often realizing a return on investment of less than one year.
Kenco to install AutoStore at Jeffersonville, Indiana Distribution Center
With systems integration partner KPI Solutions, Kenco’s new automated storage and retrieval system will shorten click-to-delivery times for the 3PL’s eCommerce customers starting this summer Kenco has announced the implementation of AutoStore™ at the company’s Jeffersonville, Ind. distribution center. Set to go live in summer 2024, the AutoStore system – designed and implemented by KPI Solutions – will service Kenco’s eCommerce customers and open the door for businesses of all sizes to access a technology typically only available to larger companies. Once complete, the AutoStore system will include 49,000 bins, 130 grid robots, 10 picking ports and four replenishment ports. Kenco estimates 15 million units will travel through the system per year. The announcement reinforces Kenco’s dedication to automation and warehouse transformation, coming on the heels of Kenco’s introduction of Automation Guidance. A part of their comprehensive Material Handling Solutions offering, this consultative offering will help clients upgrade existing facilities with automated material handling equipment assets to meet today’s warehouse needs. “At Kenco, we’re dedicated to continuously improving our operations,” said Jason Minghini, Senior Vice President of Operations at Kenco. “By implementing AutoStore’s proven solution, not only are we optimizing our space and workforce, we’re taking our eCommerce fulfillment solutions to the next level by providing even shorter click-to-delivery times for all customers in this market.” Jeffersonville is Kenco’s second AutoStore installation. While the first serves a single client, the newest installation is larger and will efficiently process orders from multiple customers for an optimized operation. “The system and reserve storage will take up about one-fourth of one of the facilities on our campus,“ said Jeffersonville Senior Director of Site Logistics, Bill Dragoo. “Installation is going smoothly, and we’re excited to see the full benefits of the solution come to life this summer.” As an ASRS, AutoStore harnesses the power of warehouse robots for 24/7 order fulfillment within a cubic layout up to quadruple the storage capacity of traditional warehouse racking. The goods-to-person (G2P) system maximizes existing labor and space, reinforcing supply chain dependability. “We are proud and happy to partner with Kenco to manage their warehouse space innovatively and efficiently, empowering their customers to achieve incredible results,” said Mike Harding, Account Executive at KPI Solutions. “This AutoStore system will boost labor productivity and enable scalability while improving delivery times for consumers across North America.”
Olvi Brewery expands with second automated warehouse from Cimcorp
Cimcorp’s automation boosts storage capacity and enhances operational efficiency, helping the Finnish brewery handle growing production volumes and seasonal demands Cimcorp has announced it has supplied a new high-bay automated warehouse to its longtime customer Olvi , one of the leading beverage producers in Finland and the Baltic region. This is the second automated warehouse Cimcorp has implemented at Olvi’s headquarters in Iisalmi, Finland, cementing a strong partnership spanning nearly two decades. By providing more storage capacity, the new automated warehouse supports Olvi’s growing production volumes and levels out the seasonal demands of the brewing industry. In the beverage industry, demand swings dramatically between seasons, with the potential to cause bottlenecks in production and distribution on peak days. At Olvi, Cimcorp’s automation mitigates these risks and enhances operational capabilities, ensuring the brewery can better manage inventory and ultimately provide superior service to its customers. Benefits of Cimcorp’s high-bay automated warehouse include: Increased efficiency and throughput: Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) quickly and accurately move products in and out of storage, speeding up the picking process. The warehouse can also operate 24/7 without the need for breaks. Improved customer satisfaction: Increased speed and accuracy in order picking lead to faster fulfillment times, complete order accuracy, less product damage, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Space optimization: The high-bay warehouse utilizes vertical space, allowing for greater storage capacity within a smaller footprint. This enables a wider product range. “Our existing high-bay warehouse was implemented with Cimcorp in 2014. This second warehouse enables us to increase storage capacity and secure the reliability of deliveries for our customers, especially during seasonal peaks. We need to be agile and respond to the fast order-delivery rhythm whenever the sun starts shining,” said Ilkka Heikkilä, Logistics Supervisor at Olvi. “We appreciate Cimcorp’s reliability and technical solutions that are tailored to our needs. Having a local partner who understands our ways of working and production needs—without compromising the daily output—is invaluable.” The partnership between Cimcorp and Olvi began in 2005 when Cimcorp installed an automated order-picking system featuring gantry robots for the brewery. Collaboration between the companies has continued over the years, including installing the original high-bay warehouse with a Warehouse Control System (WCS), an innovative keg-picking solution, and a robotic dolly-picking system. To support its automation, Olvi utilizes Cimcorp’s 24/7 helpdesk service, benefiting from support in Finnish and in the same time zone. Cimcorp’s helpdesk team is knowledgeable and familiar with Olvi’s systems and processes, allowing them to provide the exceptional service and proactive maintenance needed to ensure reliability throughout the system’s entire lifecycle. “Our fruitful collaboration with Olvi spans nearly 20 years,” said Riku Puska, Sales Manager, Warehouse & Distribution, Cimcorp Group. “Designing future development and innovating together have been the cornerstones of this partnership. Being available for our customers 24/7 and responding quickly to any requests are very important to us. Delivering peace of mind is part of our DNA.”
Cyngn reports Second Quarter 2024 financial results
Recent Operating Highlights: Joined John Deere supply base Rolled out a partnership with RobotLAB, adding the autonomous DriveMod Tugger vehicles to its portfolio of 200+ robots Received a notice of allowance for a 20th U.S. patent and 21st U.S. patent for its AI-powered autonomous vehicle solutions Highlighted its proprietary computer vision advancements with NVIDIA accelerated computing Expanded the Cyngn Dealer Network to include Alta Equipment Group, with more than $1 billion in annual sales Cyngn, developer of industrial autonomous vehicles, today announced financial results for its second quarter, which ended Jun 30, 2024. “During the second quarter, we continued the momentum we made in Q1, marked by rapid strides toward broad commercialization,” said Cyngn CEO Lior Tal. “In addition to the progress we made with John Deere, another key priority has been to expand our sales channels to access more opportunities via established dealers and partners. We are well on our way toward bringing Cyngn’s autonomous industrial vehicle products to even more facilities by partnering with experienced material handling and automation leaders like Motrec, Alta, and RobotLAB. “Our expanding dealer network yields channels that consistently deliver commercial opportunities. On the advertising side, we doubled the number of marketing-sourced leads and decreased the acquisition cost of these opportunities by 67%. “Overall, our pipeline is very healthy. We continue to make progress with automotive manufacturers and their tier-1 suppliers, defense contractors, and heavy equipment manufacturers. We are largely engaging with known brands in the Fortune 500, and we will continue to work closely with our customers to share these exciting logos with the public when we can.” “Autonomous vehicle deployments have a long sales cycle,” said Ben Landen, VP of Business Development. Vehicles need to be put through their paces at customer facilities to ensure they will operate as reliably and safely as a well-trained human driver. Cyngn passes this test easily, but it takes time. These big organizations with well-established workflows need to see for themselves that Cyngn vehicles are the best employees they’ve ever had. “By all accounts, this process is working. Our pipeline is growing, we keep adding industry veterans with extensive experience to our sales team, and we have the resolve and partners to stay the course in our pursuit of the significant industrial automation market in front of us. “We look forward to providing additional updates and continuing to increase momentum.” “Regaining compliance with Nasdaq’s minimum bid price was a significant priority,” added Don Alvarez, Cyngn’s CFO. “Our balance sheet remains clean with no debt, and these factors underscore our financial health and position us favorably as we move forward. Our solid foundation and strategic direction are positioning us for a successful future.” When reviewing the financial information below, note that all share and per share information, Common stock, and Additional paid-in capital have been restated to reflect the 1-for-100 reverse stock split effected on July 3, 2024. Q2 2024 Three-Month Financial Review: The second quarter’s revenue was $8.7 thousand compared to $550.9 thousand in the second quarter of 2023. In the second quarter of 2024, revenue consisted of EAS software subscriptions from DriveMod Stockchaser vehicle deployments, whereas prior year revenue resulted from NRE contracts. Total costs and expenses in the second quarter were $5.8 million, down from $7.0 million in the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was primarily due to a $447.7 thousand decrease in cost of revenue, a $239.1 thousand reduction in G&A expenses, and a decrease in R&D expenses of $538.7 thousand. The decrease in the cost of revenue is driven by the lower costs associated with EAS revenue compared to the NRE contracts in 2023. The decrease in G&A expenses is due to a decrease in personnel costs, reduced premiums for Director and Office Liability Insurance, and spending improvements on general office expenses. The decrease in R&D expense was primarily driven by capitalizing costs for specific customers and capitalizing costs related to the development of software. The headcount at the end of the second quarter of 2024 was 85 versus 75 at the end of the second quarter of 2023. Net loss for the second quarter was $(5.8) million, compared to $(6.4) million in the corresponding quarter of 2023. The second quarter of 2024 net loss per share was $(4.11), based on basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding of approximately 1,416.8 thousand. This compares to a net loss per share of $(12.97) in the second quarter of 2023, based on approximately 489.9 thousand basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding. Q2 2024 Six-Month Financial Review: Year-to-date second-quarter revenue was $14.2 thousand, compared to $1.4 million in the second quarter of 2023. Second-quarter 2024 revenue consisted of EAS software subscriptions from DriveMod Stock chaser vehicle deployments, whereas prior-year revenue was the result of NRE contracts. Total costs and expenses in the second quarter were $11.8 million, down from $13.8 million in the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was primarily due to a $950.6 thousand decrease in cost of revenue, a $606.6 thousand reduction in G&A expenses, and a decrease in R&D expenses of $414.1 thousand. The decrease in the cost of revenue is driven by the lower costs associated with EAS revenue compared to the NRE contracts in 2023. The decrease in G&A expenses is due to a decrease in personnel costs, reduced premiums for Director and Office Liability Insurance, and spending improvements on general office expenses. The decrease in R&D expense was primarily driven by capitalizing costs for specific customers and capitalizing costs related to the development of software. Net loss for the second quarter was $(11.8) million, compared to $(12.0) million in the corresponding quarter of 2023. The second quarter of 2024 net loss per share was $(12.15), based on basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding of approximately 970.3 thousand. This compares to a net loss per share of $(24.48) for the first six months of 2023, based on approximately 489.4 thousand basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding during the period. Balance Sheet Highlights*: Cyngn’s cash and short-term investments at June 30, 2024, total
The Manitowoc Company reports Second-Quarter 2024 financial results with net sales down 6.8% year-over-year
Today, the Manitowoc Company, Inc. reported a second-quarter net income of $1.6 million, or $0.04 per diluted share. Second-quarter adjusted net income (1) was $8.8 million, or $0.25 per diluted share. Net sales in the second quarter decreased 6.8% year-over-year to $562.1 million and were unfavorably impacted by $2.7 million from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. In the second quarter, adjusted EBITDA (1) was $36.0 million, a decrease of $24.4 million or 40.4% from the prior year. Orders in the second quarter were $428.4 million, a 22.2% decrease from the prior year. This resulted in a backlog of $836.3 million at the end of the second quarter. Orders were unfavorably impacted by $2.0 million from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. “During the second quarter, we faced a variety of operational issues which led to lower-than-anticipated results. In addition, the Tower Crane business in Europe remained a headwind to our results. Order intake was sluggish for mobile cranes in Europe and North America. Mobile customers have been slow to commit to new cranes in the face of the uncertainties associated with the upcoming U.S. election and the continued higher interest rate environment. Looking at the balance of the year, we expect weaker demand to continue. As a result, and with a focus on inventory reductions to generate free cash flow, we took actions to adjust our build schedules in the second half. We have updated our full year guidance accordingly,” commented Aaron H. Ravenscroft, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Manitowoc Company, Inc. “CRANES+50 is the driving force in our transformation as a stand-alone crane company. Since its launch, our non-new machine sales have grown 34%, expanding our higher margin, recurring revenue streams. We remain focused on continuous improvement through The Manitowoc Way and growing our aftermarket through CRANES+50 to drive long-term shareholder value,” added Ravenscroft. Updated Full-Year 2024 Guidance Manitowoc is updating its full-year 2024 guidance as follows: Net sales – $2.175 billion to $2.225 billion (previously $2.275 billion to $2.375 billion) Adjusted EBITDA – $125 million to $140 million (previously $150 million to $180 million) Depreciation and amortization – $60 million to $63 million (previously $63 million to $67 million) Interest expense – $36 million to $38 million (previously $32 million to $34 million) Provision for income taxes – $9 million to $13 million (previously $18 million to $22 million) Adjusted diluted earnings per share – $0.45 to $0.90 (previously $0.95 to $1.55) Capital expenditures – $60 million, of which approximately $25 million is for the rental fleet Free cash flows – $30 million to $50 million (previously $30 million to $60 million) (1) Other non-recurring items – net for the three months ended June 30, 2024, relate to $5.3 million of costs associated with a legal matter with the U.S. EPA and $0.1 million of one-time costs. Other non-recurring items – net for the six months ended June 30, 2024, relate to $5.3 million of costs associated with a legal matter with the U.S. EPA and $0.2 million of one-time costs. Other non-recurring items – net for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, relate to $10.8 million of costs associated with a legal matter with the U.S. EPA. Other non-recurring items – net for the trailing twelve months relate to $15.7 million of costs associated with a legal matter with the U.S. EPA and $0.8 million of one-time costs. (2) Other (income) expense – net includes net foreign currency gains (losses), other components of net periodic pension costs, and other items in the three and trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2024, and the three months ended June 30, 2023. Other expenses – net for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, include a $9.3 million write-off of non-cash foreign currency translation adjustments from the curtailment of operations in Russia.
Alta Equipment Group announces Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results
Total revenues increased $19.7 million year over year to $488.1 million Construction Equipment and Material Handling revenues of $294.9 million and $175.6 million, respectively Product support revenues increased 10.1% year over year, with Parts sales increasing to $78.0 million and Service revenues increasing to $66.2 million New and used equipment sales decreased 1.2% year over year to $251.5 million Net loss available to common stockholders of $(12.6) million Basic and diluted net loss per share of $(0.38) Adjusted basic and diluted net income per share* of $0.01 Adjusted EBITDA* of $50.3 million Alta Equipment Group Inc., a provider of premium material handling, construction, and environmental processing equipment and related services, today announced financial results for the second quarter that ended June 30, 2024. Ryan Greenawalt, Chief Executive Officer of Alta, said, “Our business rebounded well this quarter from the seasonally-challenged first quarter and in the face of a moderating market environment for new equipment sales. Notably, our product support business performed well in this moderating environment as we continued to achieve organic growth on an increased field population, with revenues increasing to a record of $144.2 million, an increase of $13.2 million from a year ago. Additionally, our Material Handling segment continued its steady path of profitable growth as we progressively executed a solid sales backlog and gained market share in strategic regions and product categories throughout our footprint. We also saw a rebound in our Master Distribution segment, as revenue in the quarter was $16.7 million versus $12.8 million in the first quarter. While we benefited from a return to normal seasonality and a strong quarter from our Material Handling segment and our product support business lines, market unit volumes in our Construction Equipment segment remain under pressure due to uncertainty regarding interest rates and the election outcome, especially affecting small to mid-size contractors. Additionally, our construction equipment sales margins continued to be impacted by the oversupply of competitive new equipment on the market in the quarter.” Mr. Greenawalt continued, “In the second quarter, we gained further traction in our eMobility segment, which expands the Alta dealership model into the over-the-road commercial vehicle industry with a focus on commercial electric vehicles and fueling and charging infrastructure. To that end, we are excited about our new partnership with Harbinger Motors, a new manufacturer of best-in-class commercial electric vehicles in the medium-duty truck space. With the inclusion of Harbinger to our portfolio and the traction gained with new customers in the quarter, we now have approximately $25 million of sales backlog in the eMobility business that we expect the majority to convert to revenues in the second half of 2024.” In conclusion, Mr. Greenawalt commented, “As we head into the second half of 2024 and into 2025, cost and fleet optimization and other initiatives to streamline our business will be high priorities as we calibrate to the transitioning environment. Despite what we believe to be potentially transitory headwinds for new equipment sales, our long-term outlook for our Construction Equipment segment remains positive. Infrastructure-related project pipelines are significant. We expect state DOT budgets to remain elevated in 2025 and spending on federal infrastructure programs is still in the early innings. In the Material Handling segment, we’re proud to be a world-class partner of Hyster-Yale Materials Handling and believe that their product portfolio and commitment to advanced technologies combined with our diversified end-markets will allow us to gain market share in key regions in the years to come, regardless of the volatility in the macro environment. I sincerely want to thank all of our 3,000 dedicated employees for their hard work and commitment to our business and to one another through the first half of the year.” Full Year 2024 Financial Guidance and Other Financial Notes: The Company updates our guidance range and now expects to report Adjusted EBITDA between $190.0 million and $200.0 million for the 2024 fiscal year. On June 5, 2024, the Company sold $500.0 million of Senior Secured Second Lien Notes at the rate of 9.000% per annum, which are due on June 1, 2029 (“2029 Notes”). With the proceeds, the Company extinguished our $315.0 million of Senior Secured Second Lien Notes due April 2026. The Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $6.7 million. Concurrently with the 2029 Notes, the Company amended our ABL First Lien Credit Agreement to extend the maturity date to 2029 and increase the facility size to $520.0 million. Concurrently with the 2029 Notes, the Company amended our ABL First Lien Credit Agreement to increase the floor plan facility to $90.0 million. During the second quarter, the Company repurchased 231,334 shares for $2.0 million. We have a remaining repurchase authorization of $10.5 million.
Raymond West and Toyota Lift Northwest join forces
Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions and Toyota Lift Northwest announced that effective immediately, they have joined forces, marking the formal integration of the Pacific Northwest’s two material handling equipment companies into a unified entity. This strategic alliance aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations to deliver comprehensive, cutting-edge solutions for their existing and future clients. James Wilcox, CEO of Raymond West, will spearhead this initiative, while Dr. Ashwini Wankhede will remain President and Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Lift Northwest. “The joining of Raymond West and Toyota Lift Northwest brings together the expertise, resources, and market presence of two iconic material handling brands,” said James Wilcox. “Our combined efforts will enhance our capacity to deliver an unparalleled value proposition and set the standard for our clients in that whatever they need, the problem or challenge they have in their facility with material handling, we have the solution to Store, Move, and Optimize their operations.” “Our core values are completely aligned with those of Raymond West, and providing customers with integrated material handling solutions remains at the forefront,” said Dr. Ashwini Wankhede. “By leveraging strengths from both organizations, we are confident to dominate the market and provide customers with consistent services along the entire Northwest corridor.” Raymond West, with 75 years of history, and Toyota Lift, with 57 years, are poised to create a formidable market presence, projected to exceed $1 billion in revenue. With a combined workforce of more than 1,600 employees and an extensive network of 29 service locations across the West Coast, the newly unified entity is primed to exceed client needs and expectations.
Mallard Mfg unveils new Slim-Fit Full-Length Carton Flow Divider
The patent-pending solution enhances order-picking speed and accuracy by easily segregating SKU lanes across multiple carton flow types Mallard Manufacturing, a gravity flow storage solutions provider, introduces new Slim-Fit (patent-pending) full-length dividers for wheeled carton flow systems. This custom-engineered product redefines efficiency and flexibility in carton and tote storage and picking applications. The full-length dividers click into specially designed holders, creating SKU slots of any width and maximizing shelf space for edge-to-edge storage. “We are thrilled to introduce the new Slim-Fit divider for our wheeled carton flow products,” said Kevin Risch, President of Mallard Manufacturing. “This innovation reflects our commitment to addressing customer needs with advanced gravity flow solutions that enhance efficiency and help control operational costs.” Product Features: A thin profile allows more SKU lanes Adjustable in 0.17” increments, eliminating wasted space Mirrored image divider brackets speed accurate slotting & reslotting Five color choices – mix and match Secure fit double-action locking – won’t dislodge The Slim-Fit full-length carton flow divider offers several key advantages over other lane segmenting accessories: Enhanced SKU Capacity: The narrow divider profile and adjustability within 0.17-inch increments ensure optimized shelf use to accommodate more SKU lanes. Innovative Bracket Design: Mirrored image divider brackets on the load and pick ends of the flow tracks facilitate faster, accurate slotting and reslotting, streamlining warehouse processes. Secure and Durable: The divider’s double-action locking mechanism ensures a secure fit, preventing accidental dislodging. Color-Coding Options: Available in five colors—blue, yellow, red, orange, and grey—the dividers enable easy color-coding of picking applications, further improving accuracy and speed. Worker Safety: The rounded-edge design and protective powder-coated finish prioritize worker safety by minimizing the risk of cuts and injuries. Despite their durability, the dividers remain lightweight, facilitating easy lifting and repositioning for swift and effortless reprofiling. Compatibility: The dividers are compatible with Mallard’s entire range of wheeled carton flow rack products, Dyna-Flo, Dyna-Flo HD (heavy-duty), and Dyna-Deck replacement tracks. Positive ROI: Depending on the application, pick rates typically range from 50 to 150 pick lines per hour, with an average of approximately 70. Saving 2 seconds per pick may not initially seem significant. Still, when extrapolated across each worker, hour, day, week, and year, it results in not only a highly efficient picking operation but also a favorable ROI. Industries that benefit from the efficiencies of carton flow rack include Retail, Grocery, Medical, Pharmaceutical, Health & Beauty, Auto, Electronics, and E-commerceFull-length lane dividers enhance carton flow function for popular applications such as: Order Picking Parts Storage Assembly/Kitting
Sexton joins OTR as Global VP of Engineering and Innovation
Patrick Sexton has joined OTR Engineered Solutions (OTR) as the company’s new Global Vice President of Engineering and Innovation. In this role he will oversee OTR’s engineering team worldwide, ensuring all activities align with strategic goals. “It’s an exciting time at OTR, as we’re not only investing heavily in product development but also advancing technology and building global infrastructure,” said Tom Rizzi, President and CEO. “Patrick will be a great addition to OTR’s executive team, and he’ll help us continue to innovate and grow.” Sexton offers vast experience in energy, electrification, automotive, and similar industries. He has led the development of various products and solutions for leading technology companies, serving in both engineering and executive-level positions. He also has a background in providing technical and strategic consulting. Throughout his career, he has been awarded 10 patents, with others currently in process. “OTR has a proud history of innovation in off-the-road tire, wheel, and track technologies, dating back to 1987,” said Rizzi. “With 32 facilities and more than 1,400 employees worldwide, we’re only getting started. Sexton will be instrumental in further developing our premium solutions for OEM and aftermarket customers in numerous industries, leading to future growth globally.” A native of Ireland, Sexton earned a degree in mechanical and manufacturing engineering from Munster Technical University in Cork, Ireland. After spending some of his career in the United Kingdom, he moved to the United States, where he recently became a citizen. OTR Engineered Solutions is a market-leading global enterprise specializing in off-the-road tire, wheel, and track solutions for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and aftermarkets. Known for being an innovator in multiple off-the-road applications, OTR differentiates itself by providing value-added services such as warehousing, tire mounting, and sequencing, among other things. The firm has long established strategic partnerships with OEMs covering Construction, Lawn & Garden, Powersports, Agriculture, Forestry, Mining, Material Handling, and Specialty Vehicle markets. OTR’s infrastructure comprises 32 facilities and warehouse locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia, serving customers globally.