Hyster introduces Power Cellect™, providing forklift operations freedom and flexibility
The new Hyster Power Cellect option enables users to easily change among major battery sources with no external accessories, software downloads, or integrations required Hyster Company has announced the launch of Power Cellect, an optional package available on 27 Hyster® electric forklift models. Power Cellect empowers users to easily switch power sources in electric trucks between traditional lead acid and low-maintenance battery solutions like thin plate pure lead (TPPL) and lithium-ion. The solution provides a straightforward path for customers to change the truck’s battery type, and it is particularly effective for fleets transitioning to low-maintenance battery solutions over time as well as for equipment that will be used for different applications with varied battery availability throughout its life. Hyster previously offered a lithium-ion-ready option on electric trucks, which enabled a smooth switch between lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. Power Cellect expands on the compatibility of lithium-ion ready by adding TPPL batteries to the mix and uses an electronic Controller Area Network (CANbus) for communication between a qualified battery and the truck. Once the battery is changed out, truck settings can be easily changed to switch power sources. “Whether sustainability goals, regulations compliance or other forces are driving electrification decisions, the common thread is that operations need flexibility. Power Cellect avoids locking operations into a single power option for the life of their equipment, and eliminates the complications and compromises of third-party setups,” says James Nielson, Hyster Senior Business Product Manager for Motive Power and Electrification. “Facilitating this fluidity across battery types is the latest example of Hyster powering possibilities for forklift fleets working in all our customers’ applications, even the toughest, most demanding jobs.” In addition to providing a convenient shift in motive power sources, Power Cellect offers major functional benefits. The truck-side battery early warning system includes lift interrupt and traction performance cutback capabilities, and the truck’s battery discharge indicator (BDI) accurately portrays a state of charge across approved battery types, thereby eliminating the need for secondary displays and indicators. An internal battery protection function triggers a controlled shutdown when the battery reaches complete discharge, and operations can view additional battery data, such as battery state of health and lifetime discharge when the Hyster Tracker telemetry system is added.
Cattron introduces Remtron PatriotPro industrial remote control system
Cattron’s Remtron PatriotPro comes with a distinctive yellow control unit Cattron, a radio remote control, engine and generator control panels, and cloud-based monitoring and control solutions, has announced that its next generation of Remtron has arrived with the release of the PatriotPro industrial remote control system. The PatriotPro retains the rugged design and distinctive feel of the time-tested and proven legacy Patriot product and now boasts a new look and an advanced, future-ready technology platform. The company also announced that a limited edition patriotic, flag-inspired version of the controller will also be offered from March through July 4th, 2024. The operator control unit is available in standard configurations and can be engineered to meet specific application requirements. The transmitter can support up to 18 commands with an engineered system. New systems work with the CBMCU, 10R/17R, or 11R receivers. PatriotPro transmitters are also backward compatible with Remtron’s existing Patriot and CommandPro systems, providing a path for upgrading existing systems. Premium features of the PatriotPro radio remote control system include: Distinctive click-click indication between steps Illuminated PL-d stop switch Wireless closed-box Bluetooth configuration for the deployment of spares Logging of essential data and diagnostics Signals are secured with black channel communication protocol Private label options for OEMs and select distributors CattronLink wireless programming tool for system updates Up to a 600-foot operating range “PatriotPro combines our premium radio remote control features into a single, flexible solution that supports operators with advanced technology and security features,” said Brian Fette, vice president of Product Management for Cattron. “With all it has to offer, PatriotPro will quickly become the hero of our Remtron portfolio of industrial remote control solutions.” The PatriotPro Industrial Remote Control System is positioned to cater to the specific needs of industries reliant on precise and efficient remote-control systems applications such as those in industrial automation, material handling, and mobile equipment. With its rugged design and advanced technology platform, the PatriotPro is a remote control system built for tomorrow’s demanding industrial environment. One of the standout benefits of the PatriotPro is its flexibility and versatility. The operator control unit can be customized to meet specific application requirements, making it adaptable to a wide range of tasks. Whatever it’s controlling, the PatriotPro’s tailored, user-defined configurations ensure seamless integration into diverse industrial settings. Control units can even be privately labeled with a customer’s branding and trade dress. Safety and security are paramount in industrial settings, and the PatriotPro addresses these concerns with its innovative features. The distinctive click-click indication between steps ensures that operators have clear feedback, enhancing their ability to make accurate decisions. The illuminated PL-d stop switch adds an extra layer of safety, making it easy to halt operations in emergencies. Additionally, the use of black channel communication protocol ensures signal security and integrity during remote control operations. The PatriotPro boasts an impressive 600-foot operating range, providing operators with the freedom to control machinery from a considerable distance. This extended range not only increases operational efficiency but also enhances safety by allowing operators to maintain a safe distance from potentially hazardous equipment.
ProVeyance Group debuts new conveyor pulley solutions at MODEX 2024
ProVeyance Group will be exhibiting at MODEX 2024 from March 11th through March 14th at Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia BOOTH #13818. ProVeyance is a North American manufacturer of advanced conveyance components and subsystems for package and material handling applications that go to market through its Woodsage and Ashland brands. The company will be introducing its new Conveyor Pulley product line at the event. ProVeyance’s Woodsage is a supplier of high-quality, precision-manufactured rollers for conveyor and sortation systems. The brand manufactures specialty steel rollers and roller assemblies, including tapered, grooved, motor-driven, sleeved, and precision-fabricated tube products for niche applications. The Ashland brand manufactures and assembles conveyor systems, sub-systems, and related parts and accessories. Ashland offers a standard line of gravity rollers, skatewheel, telescoping gravity, flexible gravity and powered belt conveyors, ball transfers, and tables, along with a complete selection of accessories. “Along with our well-established product lines, I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce Conveyor Pullies as the newest addition to our component products offering stated Tim Carpenter, President & CEO. “Our focus is to deliver the highest quality, conveyor pullies, at industry-best lead times, while ensuring maximum customer satisfaction through our streamlined customer service process.” Visit ProVeyance at Modex Show 2024, where we have more conveyor solutions than ever before. You’ll get a sneak peek at our new Conveyor Pulley offering and the ability to speak with an experienced representative.
Dialight unveils award-winning battery backup model LED High Bay
Dialight, a hazardous and industrial LED lighting innovation, has announced an all-new battery back-up model for its iconic LED High Bay. These state-of-the-art fixtures now offer even greater peace of mind for enhanced safety in harsh industrial environments, such as Oil and Gas Refineries, Metal and Steel, Petrochemical Plants, Pulp and Paper Mills, Water/Wastewater Treatment Plants, General Manufacturing facilities, and more. Proper lighting is one of the most important ways to ensure safety for workers in harsh and hazardous industrial work sites. These applications are often hampered by extreme conditions, including dust, debris, high temperatures, vibration, and power outages. In particular, power outages pose a significant safety risk by instantly plunging areas into darkness. Workers must remain safe and have adequate egress lighting to safely exit a potentially dangerous area. Dialight’s solution ensures that the fixture will stay illuminated throughout the emergency loss of power. “Since 2009 the Dialight High Bay has been the flagship of our Solid State Lighting division,” said Dialight CEO Fariyal Khanbabi. “Over the years, this fixture has received numerous awards for advancements in energy efficiency, longevity, and specialized protections for harsh industrial environments. Integrating our all-new battery backup system into the High Bay gives our customers operating in challenging conditions even greater peace of mind and demonstrates our continued dedication to innovation in the field of Industrial Lighting and safety.” Dialight’s new auxiliary battery backup solution comes factory-installed with premium NiMH battery technology making installation quick and easy. It boasts the widest operating temperature range for any industrial battery backup LED lighting fixture from -20°C to +55°C (-4°F to +131°F) and can provide illumination for a field-selectable duration from 60 minutes to 180 minutes to meet Life Safety Codes by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101® guidance on emergency lighting. Available with either permanent maintained or switch-maintained operation and 10W and 20W battery options, the Dialight Battery Backup LED High Bay covers a wide range of lighting needs in industrial and hazardous locations and has been certified to UL1598/A, UL924, UL844, CID2, CIID1, and CIIID1&2. The fixture’s self-testing and diagnostics functionality removes the need for push-button tests or costly installation of a separate wire run from the High Bays to a switch or button on the ground for testing. Red and Green indicator lights on the fixture make visual inspection easy, and automatic weekly and yearly testing offers peace of mind, ensuring the battery is charging and operating properly on an ongoing basis. The new Dialight Battery Backup LED High Bays are compatible with advanced sensors and controls, including microwave occupancy sensors and Dialight IntelliLED™ wireless controls. Best of all, Dialight’s LED High Bay products are backed by an industry-leading 10-year warranty (excluding batteries) and are recognized by the National Lighting Bureau’s Trusted Warranty Program. The all-new Battery Backup LED High Bay is currently available for sale in North America.
Raymond Headquarters in New York celebrates 100,000 kaizens submitted
Cross-functional kaizen approach empowers the organization and demonstrates that voices are valued Taking continuous improvement and employee empowerment to heart, The Raymond Corporation facility in Greene, New York, is celebrating 100,000 employee-submitted kaizens in operations since introducing the program in 2006. Kaizen is based on the idea that small ongoing changes over time will result in significant improvements. “Demonstrating pure initiative and a collaborative nature, the Greene, New York, operational team deserves great recognition for 100,000 kaizens submitted,” said Tony Topencik, vice president of operations, quality and EHS at The Raymond Corporation. “Raymond encourages its employees at all levels and tenure to submit kaizens they believe will help improve their departmental processes. With each kaizen that is selected and acted upon, it further demonstrates to team members that their voices are valued.” Submitting kaizens is not mandatory at Raymond, but they continue to see employee engagement with this process. Kaizen submissions even withstood the challenging times of COVID-19 and continue to foster connectivity and culture within the organization. The Greene, New York, operation consists of 28 departments and over 2,900 employees who submitted at least one kaizen. More than 80% of kaizens submitted have so far been implemented. In total, 5,427 days were saved by eliminating waste and improving processes through kaizens. In total, across Raymond, which consists of 110 departments spanning three locations, the company has secured 19,883 days saved, with 4,384 employees having submitted at least one kaizen since 2006. The Raymond Corporation is tracking toward hitting 150,000 kaizens enterprise-wide within the year and sees, on average, 843 kaizens submitted monthly. “Kaizen is a foundational part of Raymond Lean Management (RLM), which is built on the proven foundation and principles of the world-renowned Toyota Production System. The program teams up with associates across the organization — from the manufacturing floor to office departments, dealerships and more — to coach them on continuous improvement concepts,” says Topencik. “All associates are given the opportunity for hands-on learning and mentorship. The process empowers employees to find opportunities for improvement and instills a culture of continuous improvement.” Employees receive well-deserved recognition during a monthly review, where four implemented kaizens are selected. Implemented kaizens shine a light on the employees who submitted their work, with a presentation by Raymond’s president & CEO, VP of operations, director and senior manager for the area, and direct supervisor. The kaizen winner talks about their work and receives both a monetary award and a certificate of recognition. “At Raymond, we believe in celebrating excellence at every level. Our monthly kaizen reviews recognize our employees’ hard work and innovation and exemplify our commitment to continuous improvement. Implemented kaizens are a testament to our collective dedication to excellence, and through these moments of recognition, we illuminate the path to continuous success,” said Topencik. “Of all the data measured by organizations, moral metrics are of great importance to us. This is a critical part of our culture and encourages peer-to-peer positivity. It confirms that together, we are going in the right direction.”
Bobcat Company donation supports University of Mary
Sustaining STEM education ensures students are ready for innovative careers Bobcat Company is donating $250,000 to the University of Mary in Bismarck, N.D., in support of the Hamm School of Engineering. “Supporting STEM-based education is a key component of Bobcat’s foundation of innovation – a longstanding belief that has generated community progress and fueled the curiosity needed to build the technology of tomorrow,” said Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America. “We are proud to support University of Mary as they advance educational opportunities for the next generation of groundbreaking engineers.” Headquartered in West Fargo, N.D., Bobcat is the state’s largest manufacturer and a major employer with more than 3,800 North Dakota-based employees at facilities in Bismarck, Gwinner, Fargo, West Fargo and Wahpeton. Bobcat’s donation will support the engineering school through the University of Mary’s Vision 2030 Capital Campaign, a comprehensive strategic planning initiative to enhance and transform the university campus and offerings. The Hamm School of Engineering facility opened in 2020 and is state-of-the-art designed to encourage collaboration and hands-on learning. The school offers ABET accredited degrees in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. The Hamm School of Engineering also offers computer science, environmental engineering, construction engineering and construction management. “We are extremely humbled and grateful for this gift from Bobcat Company, an innovative and industry leader throughout the world,” said Jerome Richter, executive vice president at the University of Mary, and the person leading the Vision 2030 Capital Campaign. “We appreciate Bobcat’s continued commitment to our Hamm School of Engineering students. Our students are highly sought after, recruited by firms well before they graduate, and not only are they trained in technical skills, but also well-formed servant leaders who are culturally prepared for the workplace.” As the largest employer of engineers in North Dakota, Bobcat understands firsthand the tremendous need right now for engineers locally, regionally, and globally. Data shows, 70% of the students in the Hamm School of Engineering are from out of state, and last year, 67% of its graduates stayed in North Dakota to work for engineering firms. Therefore, this donation exemplifies the strong partnership between the University of Mary and Bobcat, and just as important, the collaboration for continued growth and prosperity in the state. Over the years, several Bobcat team members have served as advisor committee members for University of Mary engineering students. Bobcat also supports classroom presentations and senior design projects and recruits University of Mary students every year for full-time employment, co-op, and intern experiences throughout various departments. “As a company based in North Dakota, we are committed to nurturing the state and region’s future innovators, engineers, and technology leaders,” said Scott Schuh, Doosan Bobcat chief technology officer, and senior vice president. “That requires investment in the initiatives that will create the next generation of STEM professionals, whose technology and engineering expertise will ensure our state’s businesses continue to grow and thrive.”
Statement from Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen First Vice President Mark Wallace on Breakthrough Agreement reached today with Norfolk Southern to improve Rail Safety through the adoption of a close call confidential reporting program
The following statement from Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) First Vice President Mark Wallace references a breakthrough agreement signed in Washington today between Norfolk Southern, the BLET and another union for joint participation in a Federal Railroad Administration Confidential Close Call Reporting System (C3RS) pilot program. C3RS is designed to enhance railroad safety by enabling covered BLET members employed at the railroad to report safety issues without fear of retaliation or punishment. In addition to the statement below, more details can be found at: https://blet.link/42gye78 BLET members who work in the cabs of Norfolk Southern’s locomotives welcome this agreement. Our union has had years of experience with close call reporting programs at Amtrak and other passenger railroads, along with a handful of smaller freight carriers, but only 23 out of the nation’s 800 railroads have adopted C3RS. For far too long the large railroads and their trade association, The Association of American Railroads, have paid lip service to safety. The AAR prefers to spend millions of dollars on television commercials bragging about safety while backtracking on safety agreements. Rather than adopt programs like C3RS, that enable an organization to continually improve and take corrective actions, the Class I railroads engaged and continue to engage in finger pointing. This close-call reporting system, which is like safety programs successfully used in commercial aviation, will help put an end to the blame game and place Norfolk Southern’s trains on safer journeys. We fervently hope that it will be a model for other Class I freight carriers. Norfolk Southern and its CEO, Alan Shaw, should be commended for showing leadership on this issue. Our union’s National President, Eddie Hall, and our General Chairmen who represent BLET members at NS, Scott Bunten, Dewayne Dehart, and Jerry Sturdivant, have joined me in telling Norfolk Southern’s managers that if they’re serious about improving this railroad they must both prioritize safety and value railroad employees. This agreement on C3RS does both. Mark Wallace is First Vice President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, the union’s second-highest office. He began his career in railroading at Norfolk Southern where he worked as a carman and as a conductor before becoming a locomotive engineer. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen represents 51,500 professional locomotive engineers and trainmen throughout the United States. It is the nation’s oldest labor union. The BLET is the founding member of the Rail Conference, International Brotherhood of Teamsters. More information can be found on the BLET website: https://ble-t.org/
Episode 456: A deep dive into Technology, Flexibility, and Warehouse resilience
In this week’s episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, Justin Griffith, CTO at StayLinked, and David Krebs, EVP of Enterprise Mobility and AIDC at VDC Research Group, reveal groundbreaking insights from their latest research, “Making Supply Chain Resilience Work: Keeping Up with Ever-Demanding Warehouse Operations.” Discover the complexities and future trends of supply chain operations, warehouse resilience, and technology adoption; an essential listen for those navigating the dynamic warehousing and supply chain management landscape. Redefining Warehouse Resilience with a Shift Towards Agile Infrastructure and Technological Adaptability As David highlights, the notion of supply chain resilience has gained prominence, particularly in the wake of logistical challenges. Companies realize that while they couldn’t have entirely prevented these issues, better preparedness through modernized infrastructure could have mitigated their impact. This realization spurred an accelerated investment in updating underlying infrastructures. There’s a clear correlation between the modernity of a company’s infrastructure and its ability to adopt new technologies effectively. Comparing firms with quasi-modern systems to those lagging in technology versions shows a stark difference in their capacity to integrate new technologies and realize their value faster. The logistics sector, which traditionally held the mindset that if it’s not broke, don’t fix it, is now confronting the reality of outdated legacy Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), highlighting the need for modernization. Justin echoes these sentiments, underscoring the importance of investment in technologies not just for the sake of advancement but for building warehouse resilience and a responsive supply chain. Moreover, the focus has shifted from selecting the perfect technology to creating a system that allows flexibility and choice. It’s about preparing for any necessary technology, whether Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs) or others, as and when needed. The key lies not in committing to one specific technology but in establishing a foundation that supports a mix of different technologies, ensuring adaptability and resilience in ever-changing market conditions. Warehouse Workforce Dynamics: The Synergy of Human Labor and Advanced Technology Labor optimization in warehousing is no longer a one-dimensional pursuit of speed. It has evolved into a multifaceted approach that values the human workforce, emphasizes ergonomic and intuitive technological solutions, and seeks to harmonize both benefits for a more efficient, effective, and resilient supply chain operation. Justin details how the pandemic highlighted the criticality of the human workforce in warehouse operations. Despite advancements in technology like beacons, sensors, Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs), and drones, the absence of human labor could halt operations entirely. This period prompted a reevaluation of existing workflows and a shift from considering full automation to integrating technology that complements the human workforce. David believes frontline workers have been somewhat underserved in technological advancements, often dealing with outdated mobile solutions. He advocates for technology that is as unobtrusive as possible, emphasizing the need for ergonomics, safety, and simplicity in design. These considerations are vital in a labor-intensive environment where worker well-being is paramount. Griffith notes that the focus has shifted from replacing labor with technology to integrating both in a synergistic manner. This integration allows for more inclusive labor practices, such as remote piloting and collaborative robotics, expanding the potential workforce and enhancing operational efficiency. The narrative has evolved from technology as a replacement to technology as a facilitator, working in concert with human labor to achieve better results. Key Takeaways Labor Optimization and Worker Experience: There is a growing emphasis on improving labor optimization and the worker experience. This includes adopting technologies that streamline workflows and reduce warehouse workers’ physical and cognitive load. Adoption of Locationing Systems: There is a growing adoption of locationing systems in warehouse operations to enhance operational visibility. Importance of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): The study emphasizes the correlation between the age and investment in WMS and a company’s ability to adopt new technologies successfully. Up-to-date systems facilitate better integration and utilization of new technologies. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 456: A Deep Dive into Technology, Flexibility, and Warehouse Resilience (Part 1) https://youtu.be/JZoqC53Nakc?feature=shared
LGH & Rotrex Group announces new LGH Sales Director and Board appointments
LGH & Rotrex Group has appointed Russell Boswell-Munday as LGH’s new Sales Director for Europe and the UK. Russell has over 25 years of experience in the hiring industry and has managed various sales teams during his career. As well as Russell’s appointment, the group has also announced other changes to the Board. In his new role, Russell will be managing all aspects of LGH’s sales division across the whole of Europe, including continuing its growth in additional territories. He will be leading on strategy and structure as well as budgets and turnover development. Before joining LGH, Russell worked at Andrew Sykes Group as a Major Account Director. Russell commented: “I have long admired LGH, so I am excited to be joining at what is a time of real growth for the business. After my first meeting with Andy Mault – CEO – I quickly realized that our thoughts and ambitions were aligned. I am now looking forward to building on the Group’s strong reputation and adding commercial value by driving sales and our market share right across Europe.” Also joining the LGH & Rotrex Group’s Board of Directors are: Don Wilkinson, who has been promoted to Rotrex’s Sales Director; and Phil Smith, who has been promoted to Group Operations Director. All three now sit on the board alongside Andy Mault, CEO, and Rob Halliwell who was recently been named as Support Services Director. They are responsible for the Group’s entire operations across Europe and the UK. Andy Mault, CEO said: “Russell brings with him a wealth of experience, so we are delighted that he has joined us. I am confident that he will make a real difference and will play a crucial part in driving our sales strategy and its implementation to the next level. Andy added: It has also been fantastic to welcome Don and Phil to the Board alongside Russell and, of course, Rob. Over the past few years, they have both proved themselves to be an asset, and their promotions are richly deserved. I know that this motivated and talented senior leadership team will help me lead the Group to even greater success.” LGH & Rotrex Group is still privately owned by the Parkinson family. LGH is a leading lifting equipment hire company; whilst Rotrex delivers winch hire, sales, and services.
Orion announces Darrin Snarr as new Regional Sales Manager
Darrin Snarr has been appointed Regional Sales Manager for Orion, a role in which he will serve as an advisor to end-user customers across 11 states and four Canadian provinces on the West Coast. Orion is a stretch wrapping and pallet unitizing machinery manufacturer of automatic and semi-automatic stretch wrapping equipment, including rotary turntables, rotary towers, and horizontal wrapping systems. Snarr’s resume boasts 15 years in packaging sales, including his most recent position as a packaging consultant for Flexpak where he worked with customers to recommend equipment and training plans. “My new role at Orion offers me so many opportunities to support customers in a variety of ways,” Snarr said. “This company has proven to be an industry leader in stretch wrapping, and I’m excited to join a team that has helped so many users elevate their end-of-line.”
Overcoming Fear and Resistance to create positive change
In the dynamic landscape of today’s business world, change is inevitable. However, fear is one of the biggest obstacles to creating positive change. With fear comes resistance and when both of them are at play, your organization becomes stuck in place and unable to overcome new challenges and market shifts. To enable your organization to be agile enough to adapt to and adopt change, it’s essential to understand the necessary steps to overcome and move beyond the inevitable constraints that resistance and fear cause. What’s causing fear? A big problem with having unresolved fear present in your organization is that it’s hard to know where it’s coming from. Most of the time, you won’t even realize you or the people around you are in a state of fear. You can’t fix a problem you don’t even know about. Change management can only be effective when you navigate your fears. Some common fears can include a fear of failure, fear of not being able to manage change, fear of exposing one’s vulnerabilities, and fear of the unknown. These just scratch the surface. Every person and every organization is unique and has different fears that may cause challenges in the workplace. To overcome fear, you must understand what is bringing that fear to the surface. Be conscious of your fears and acknowledge them. Be curious and ask others in the organization what concerns them about impending changes and what makes them uneasy about moving forward. Ask why people are afraid. Getting past fear is much easier when you know what you’re up against. Open your mind Resistance to change is how your organization falls behind. When people fear the uncertainties associated with change, they tend to resist even beneficial transformations, keeping the organization stuck in a frustrated state. One of the most common causes of resistance is close-mindedness, which is often born out of fear. Once you understand what is causing that fear, it’s important to open your mind to the new possibilities and ideas that you may have been resistant to. Just because you’ve gotten by doing things a particular way doesn’t mean there isn’t a better alternative. Being open to diverse perspectives and ideas leads to innovation and market leadership. It’s much easier to gain buy-in and engagement from people when you get curious and include their opinions and perspectives. Hiring people from a variety of backgrounds and areas of expertise can support this. Anyone you hire and engage with about moving the organization forward needs to be committed to your vision or the vision of the company. People who don’t care often resist change because they don’t see how it benefits their personal agenda. Manage your ego Allowing your ego to take charge of your behaviors only leads to a struggle to innovate and grow as an organization. That goes for everyone else in your organization as well. You must take a good look in the mirror and see where you resist doing things differently or moving into unknown territory. If you always must be right, struggle with feedback, blame others for your failures, and/or don’t hire people smarter than you, these may be signs that your ego has too much control over you and is inhibiting your ability to change and keep your organization in a position that makes a positive impact. You may not even realize it. A few ways to remedy this personal and professional challenge include: Encouraging feedback from within the organization – It allows you to better understand what’s working within your company and what can still be improved upon. Practicing Self-Awareness – If you don’t realize your ego is controlling your actions, it’s crucial to look inward to understand why it’s causing you to act in ways that thwart your personal effectiveness so that you can be better at self-managing. Being grounded in who you are – Living true to yourself and understanding your values and goals is key. The ego often overreacts to failure and self-limiting thoughts. Grounding yourself in authenticity fosters consistency and clarity of direction. When your actions align with your true self, you project clarity and certainty because you are being genuine and transparent. Getting out of Frustration and into Courage – It takes courage to be wrong and admit to it. Cultivating your ability to admit missteps and embrace vulnerability is key to effectively managing how much your ego controls your behavior. This transparency also models vulnerability and authenticity for others to follow. Have a direction Being stuck in place can often indicate a lack of specific direction. If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll never know when you’re there. Your organization, the people within it, and you all need direction. People need to see the vision, and they need to understand why they must feel compelled to act on that vision. Ask questions about yourself and those around you. What is your purpose? What is the vision of your organization? Why is that important? How will it benefit the organization, the people in it, and you? What is the contribution you most want to give? When do you know you’ve given it? Establishing a purpose and defining the contribution your organization aims to make are fundamental aspects of overcoming fear and resistance. Clearly articulated goals and a shared vision provide the necessary guidance for navigating through challenges and driving positive change. When people see and feel the vision, they understand why and how they can contribute. This gives them the positive energy to create and move forward, rather than react and stay complacent. If you don’t have a direction, it’s easy to just stick with whatever you and your organization are doing right now and not change anything. While this approach may keep you afloat for a little while, it won’t enable long-term growth and success for you or your company. Wake up and meet your higher self When you embody the contribution, you aspire to be and make and adjust your behaviors to be
NORD DRIVESYSTEMS delivers efficient, reliable drive solutions to keep the post and parcel industry moving
NORD’s drive solutions focus on efficient technology to reduce system variants, lower total cost of ownership (TCO), and reduce energy consumption. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS supports post and parcel distribution centers with modular products adaptable to individual application specifications. Their high-efficiency products increase the energy efficiency of conveyor systems, effectively lowering CO2 emissions and the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). NORD’s IE5+ product portfolio delivers a complete drive solution with one of the highest operational efficiencies on the market. The line is comprised of the DuoDrive integrated gear motor, IE5+ Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors, and NORDAC ON/ON+ Variable Frequency Drives. DuoDrive is an innovative solution that combines a single-stage helical gear unit with an IE5+ synchronous motor in one compact housing. Thanks to its optimized system efficiency, high power density, and quiet operation, it is especially suitable for intralogistics applications. The drive also features Plug-and-Play capabilities, allowing for fast commissioning and easy maintenance. IE5+ Permanent magnet synchronous motors are part of NORD’s new generation of high-efficiency motors. The motors are manufactured in-house for quick delivery times and feature a non-ventilated version (TENV) for wash-down applications as well as a ventilated version (TEFC) for intralogistics. These motors have been designed to reduce variants and minimize operating costs due to their consistent efficiency over a wide speed range, even at partial load and low-speed ranges. With two case sizes to choose from, a power range from 0.5 – 5.0 hp, and continuous torque from 14 – 130 lb-in, these motors combine the benefits of NORD’s modular system with highly configurable solutions fitted to customer specifications. NORDAC ON/ON+ variable frequency drives were developed for the special requirements of horizontal conveyor technology with the NORDAC ON made for IE3 motors and the NORDAC ON+ built for combination with IE5+ motors. These VFDs are characterized by an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface configurable for each drive parameter, enabling dynamic control and synchronization of conveyor systems. The drives also offer a full Plug-and-Play solution for IIoT environments and thanks to their compact design, can easily be motor or wall-mounted where space is limited. NORDBLOC.1® two-stage helical bevel gear units provide optimized performance for post and parcel conveyor systems. Their high efficiency, low maintenance, and high power density ensure systems operate reliably as well as efficiently. High-strength aluminum alloy housings help maintain a low weight while an open housing design improves heat dissipation for applications with high axial and radial loads. Flexible installation options including various input and output options, solid and hollow shafts, and versatile mounting make the drives highly adaptable to a wide range of applications and environments. NORDAC FLEX variable frequency drives are NORD’s most flexible VFDs with fully scalable functionality and optional modules adaptable to specific application requirements. Their efficient operation and versatility result in a greater Return on Investment (ROI) and lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Full PLC functionality and POSICON integrated positioning mode ensure conveyors move at the correct speeds with precise control. Multiple functional safety options are additionally available to protect users in distribution centers, parcels, and the systems themselves. The LogiDrive® solution from NORD is a competitive drive solution that reduces planning and commissioning efforts through a cost-effective, standardized design. Advanced and basic versions are available to choose from with advanced options including IE5+ synchronous motors, a decentralized frequency drive, and either a two-stage helical bevel gear unit or DuoDrive. Basic versions include an IE3 motor with a motor-mounted VFD and flexible gear unit selection from the modular product line. While LogiDrive advanced solutions focus on energy efficiency, variant reduction, and lower TCO, the basic LogiDrive solutions focus on cost efficiency. Condition monitoring for predictive maintenance replaces time-based maintenance with a status-based maintenance approach to proactively maintain machines and avoid unplanned downtimes. With this system solution, drive and status data are recorded continuously or periodically to use for analysis and optimize the operational safety and efficiency of systems. This status-based approach prolongs the service life of components and machines, increases system availability, and reduces service and material costs. Condition Monitoring can even determine the optimal time to change oil, ensuring drives are always operating at their highest capacity.
United Rentals announces Record Fourth Quarter and full-year 2023 results
United Rentals, Inc. has announced the financial results for the fourth quarter of 2023 and reported its full-year results on Form 10-K. The company also announced its full-year 2024 guidance and an enhanced capital allocation strategy focused on balancing growth and returns to drive shareholder value that includes a lower targeted full-cycle leverage range, its intention to repurchase $1.5 billion of common stock in 2024 and a 10% increase in its dividend per share. Fourth Quarter 2023Highlights Total revenue of $3.728 billion, including rental revenue2 of $3.119 billion. Net income of $679 million, at a margin3 of 18.2%. GAAP diluted earnings per share of $10.01, and adjusted EPS4 of $11.26. Adjusted EBITDA4 of $1.809 billion, at a margin3 of 48.5%. Year-over-year, fleet productivity5 increased 0.3% as reported and 2.4% on a pro forma5 basis. Full-year net cash provided by operating activities of $4.704 billion; free cash flow4 of $2.306 billion, including gross payments for purchases of rental equipment of $3.714 billion. Full-year gross rental capital expenditures of $3.508 billion. Returned $1.406 billion to shareholders for the full-year, comprised of $1.000 billion via share repurchases and $406 million via dividends paid. Year-end net leverage ratio6 of 1.6x, with total liquidity6 of $3.330 billion. CEO Comment Matthew Flannery, chief executive officer of United Rentals, said, “We entered 2023 with the goal of raising the bar and I’m incredibly pleased with the team’s performance. Our fourth quarter results capped a year of new records across revenue, profits, and returns driven by a relentless commitment to serving our customers while staying laser-focused on safety and operational excellence.” Flannery continued, “We are now excited to deliver on the growth we expect in 2024, supported by our strength on large projects. Our guidance reflects the opportunities we see across our business as we leverage our competitive advantages to support our customers and outpace the market. We continue to execute on our long-held strategy to deliver profitable growth, strong free cash flow and exceptional returns. Our new leverage targets and 2024 capital allocation plans are further evidence of our commitment to driving shareholder value.” _______________ 1. A discussion of the company’s full-year 2023 results of operations is included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. 2. Rental revenue includes owned equipment rental revenue, re-rent revenue and ancillary revenue. 3. Net income margin and adjusted EBITDA margin represent net income or adjusted EBITDA divided by total revenue. 4. Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), adjusted EPS (earnings per share) and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures as defined in the tables below. See the tables below for reconciliations to the most comparable GAAP measures. 5. Fleet productivity reflects the combined impact of changes in rental rates, time utilization and mix on owned equipment rental revenue. The company acquired Ahern Rentals, Inc. (“Ahern Rentals”) in December 2022. Pro forma results reflect the combination of United Rentals and Ahern Rentals for all periods presented. See the table below for more information. 6. The net leverage ratio reflects net debt (total debt less cash and cash equivalents) divided by adjusted EBITDA for the trailing 12 months. Total liquidity reflects cash and cash equivalents plus availability under the asset-based revolving credit facility (“ABL facility”) and the accounts receivable securitization facility. 2024 Outlook The company provided the following outlook for 2024. 2024 Outlook 2023 Actual Total revenue $14.650 billion to $15.150 billion $14.332 billion Adjusted EBITDA7 $6.900 billion to $7.150 billion $6.857 billion Net rental capital expenditures after gross purchases $1.900 billion to $2.200 billion, after gross purchases of $3.400 billion to $3.700 billion $1.934 billion net, $3.508 billion gross Net cash provided by operating activities $4.150 billion to $4.750 billion $4.704 billion Free cash flow excluding merger and restructuring related payments8 $2.000 billion to $2.200 billion $2.314 billion Summary of Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Results Rental revenue for the quarter increased 13.5% year-over-year to a fourth quarter record of $3.119 billion, reflecting broad-based strength of demand across the company’s end-markets and the impact of the Ahern Rentals acquisition. Fleet productivity increased 0.3% year-over-year, while average original equipment at cost (“OEC”) increased 15.1%. On a pro forma basis, rental revenue increased 7.6% year-over-year, supported by a 6.9% increase in average OEC and a 2.4% increase in fleet productivity. Used equipment sales in the quarter increased 7.1% year-over-year. Used equipment sales generated $438 million of proceeds at a GAAP gross margin of 50.0% and an adjusted gross margin9 of 55.3%, compared to $409 million at a GAAP gross margin of 58.9% and an adjusted gross margin of 61.6% for the same period last year. The year-over-year declines in the GAAP and adjusted gross margins primarily reflect the expected normalization of the used equipment market and the impact of sales of equipment acquired in the Ahern Rentals acquisition. Average fleet age was 52.4 months as of December 31, 2023. Net income for the quarter increased 6.3% year-over-year to $679 million, while net income margin decreased 120 basis points to 18.2%. Net income was a fourth quarter record excluding the fourth quarter of 2017, which included a one-time net income benefit associated with the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. On a pro forma basis, fourth quarter net income margin declined 40 basis points. The decrease in the company’s reported net income margin was primarily driven by the impact of the Ahern Rentals acquisition on rental and used equipment gross margins, and higher interest expense, partially offset by reductions in selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) and income tax expenses as a percentage of revenue. While the effective income tax rate of 24.7% for the quarter decreased 390 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to the settlement in the fourth quarter 2022 of non-recurring prior year tax adjustments, the full-year effective income tax rate was largely flat year-over-year at 24.5%. _______________ 7. Information reconciling forward-looking adjusted EBITDA to the comparable GAAP financial measures is unavailable to the company without unreasonable effort, as discussed below. 8. Free cash flow excludes merger and restructuring related payments, which cannot be reasonably predicted for
Toyota Material Handling Solutions announces its relocation to a new facility in Los Angeles
Toyota Material Handling Solutions (TMHS), a provider in the Los Angeles material handling industry, has announced that it has relocated to a new state-of-the-art facility in Santa Fe Springs. The move will enable the company to expand its operations and provide better customer service. The new location features a large warehouse and two buildings in a single structure: a front office at 12012 Burke Street for administrative and sales support and a back office at 12070 Burke Street for aftermarket parts and service support. The 130,000 square feet of modern office and warehouse space will allow TMHS to streamline its operations, enhance its customer service capabilities, and house more new, used, and rental forklifts and other material handling equipment. The new facility is located by the 5, 605, and 91 freeways. “This move represents a significant milestone in our 50-year history,” said President & CEO Dr. Shankar Basu. “As we continue to grow and expand, our new space will enhance collaboration, innovation, and the overall experience for our valued partners and customers.” Current and potential customers are encouraged to contact TMHS for a tour of the new facility.
Carolina Handling receives industry MVP Award
Carolina Handling, a material handling industry, has received the 2024 Most Valuable Partner (MVP) Award from the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) for outstanding achievements in 2023. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the company has received the award. The MVP Award is a prestigious accolade within the industry, with fewer than 10 percent of MHEDA’s 600 member organizations earning the distinction. Carolina Handling’s continued recognition as an MVP within the industry underscores a dedication to excellence, professionalism, and responsible stewardship in the business world. To qualify for the award, companies must provide evidence of a commitment to their customers, employees and suppliers, satisfying criteria in the following areas: Industry Advocacy; Customer Service & Safety Practices; Business Networking; Continuing Education; and Business Best Practices. “This award is a testament to our associates and their ongoing commitment to a culture of service and caring in a rapidly evolving industry,” said Carolina Handling President & CEO Brent Hillabrand. “We’re honored to be recognized by our customers, suppliers and industry peers for elite customer service, a commitment to collaboration and teamwork, and a passion of caring for the community.” The MVP Award is significant because it encompasses various facets beyond business achievements, according to Van Clarkson, President of Fairchild Equipment and 2024 MHEDA Chairman. “Achieving this recognition signifies that Carolina Handling has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, upheld industry standards, contributed positively to its community, and shown dedication to continuous improvement,” Clarkson said. “This acknowledgment not only elevates the company’s reputation among its peers but also instills confidence in its customers and community members, showcasing it as a leader in the materials handling world.”
Wrapping machinery manufacturer reports record-breaking year
Another year, another record for the patented TAB Wrapper Tornado. Packaging machinery manufacturer TAB Industries, LLC has broken its record for annual revenue for its TAB Wrapper Tornado orbital wrapping systems. Topping $4 million in 2023 for the first time, the annual sales record was broken in large part due to a 180% increase in sales of the TAB Wrapper Tornado Smart Controls orbital wrappers. These wrapping machines enable a single operator to stretch wrap pallet loads automatically by remote control from a forklift seat in 30 seconds or less. In addition, the company introduced a wave of advances during 2023 that garnered substantial interest among new and repeat customers. Its new plastic film cutting system automatically cuts the end of the stretch wrap after wrapping and eliminates the use of blades; its new wrapping ring design both reduces vibrations and speeds lead times; its new laser cut machine guarding sports a powder-coated, anti-scuff finish; and its new preventative maintenance kits help operators keep their wrappers running in peak condition. When forecasting this record sales increase in 2022, the company embarked on a facility expansion that brought 14,000 additional square feet online in its Reading, Pa. headquarters during 2023. This helped increase manufacturing throughput by 20% and cut lead times to as short as four weeks. The company also formally secured two patents for the TAB Wrapper Tornado orbital wrapping technology during 2023 which drew significant attention for improving pallet wrapping speed and efficiency.
KHS systems combine efficiency with safety
Sensitive beverages and flexible systems and solutions are the topics in focus at the KHS trade show booth for this year’s Anuga FoodTec. With its new InnoPET BloFill ACF-R aseptic block the Dortmund systems supplier wants to set new standards in safety and hygiene when it comes to bottle sterilization. Visitors can also find out all about the latest generation of InnoPET Plasmax barrier technology and the first module in the digital KHS ConnectApp service. “Economic success calls for maximum efficiency and availability in all filling and packaging processes. We provide innovative and resource-saving systems and solutions that fully satisfy all aspects of this demand,” says Tobias Wetzel, CSO of KHS. The most recent example of this is the new rotary InnoPET BloFill ACF-R aseptic block that combines the energy-efficient InnoPET Blomax Series V stretch blow molder with the rotary Innofill PET ACF-R filler for the very first time. Linear filters can process up to 14,000 bottles per hour. In contrast, the rotary aseptic block has a capacity of up to 36,000 1.0-liter bottles per hour and in the future is even to be available with a top output of 48,000 500-milliliter bottles an hour. The new plant engineering achieves a sterility of log 6 inside the bottles – which is equivalent to a reduction in germs of 99.9999%. “Our linear aseptic fillers, also blocked, have long proved themselves in practice in the filling of sensitive beverages into PET bottles, where maximum safety is of the essence. The newly developed rotary aseptic filler in the higher capacity range is thus the next logical step. With this, we also want to set standards regarding the machine’s hygienic properties,” Wetzel promises. Effective protection for sensitive beverages KHS consciously focuses on bottle sterilization that – unlike preform sterilization – can also be combined with the KHS FreshSafe PET coating system and thus offers additional barrier protection for sensitive beverages. In this variant, all potential germs are removed from the containers directly before filling. This process gives bottlers more flexibility and greater availability during format changeovers than preform sterilization, as here changing the stretch blow molds disturbs the sterile state of the block. KHS visitors to the exhibition can also look forward to discovering the latest generation of Plasmax coating technology. With this pioneering technique, a wafer-thin layer of chemically pure glass is applied to the insides of PET bottles, with bottle recyclability nevertheless fully retained. This protects sensitive products such as fruit juice, wine, beer, soft drinks, ketchup, sauces, and other liquid foods from oxidation and loss of CO2, meaning that they keep for considerably longer. KHS has continuously improved this procedure over the years and now brought it up to the next level. The result is better performance, quality and flexibility, and a higher degree of efficiency. Consistent expansion of the digital service portfolio In addition, the turnkey supplier’s range of digital services is now to be supplemented by KHS ConnectApp which provides two major extra benefits: Data-based transparency regarding the key line performance indicators helps with decision-making processes. Support with system operation. The first KHS ConnectApp function is the Guide module that with its interactive work instructions and powerful notification management system helps to ensure trouble-free workflows during inspection and maintenance or when training new employees, for instance. Moreover, all work steps can be documented with the app. “By expanding our digital service portfolio, and especially thanks to the introduction of KHS ConnectApp, we’re laying the foundations for further optimization and efficient organization of the entire system operation and management,” explains Wetzel. The KHS Group will be presenting its plant engineering at Booth B070 C089 in Hall 5.1 at Anuga FoodTec in Cologne, Germany, from March 19 to 22, 2024.
Tompkins Solutions to showcase robotics and warehouse automation at MODEX 2024
Tompkins Solutions, a supply chain consulting and material handling integration firm, has announced that it will be showcasing some of the industry’s latest warehouse robotics and automation solutions in booth #A11323 at MODEX 2024, March 11-14 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Tompkins Solutions’ newly redesigned state-of-the-art booth will include a technology area where visitors can see live demonstrations of hybrid automation solutions that are flexible and scalable to accommodate a variety of applications and evolving needs. The company’s team of experts will also be on-site to discuss the new solutions and speak with visitors about their unique supply chain challenges. Some of the specific technologies and systems Tompkins Solutions will have on display and in action at the booth include: Soft Robotics mGripAI high-speed picking solution utilizing AI and 3D vision technology Geek+ P800 shelf-to-person picking solution Tompkins Robotics tSort portable, automated unit and parcel sortation system Tompkins Solutions Cornerstone warehouse control system (WCS) “In the past, many companies may have been hesitant to invest in automated material handling systems due to the large capital expense and constantly changing demands,” said David Latona, CEO of Tompkins Solutions. “We’re excited to show how these innovative automation solutions enable logistics operations of all types and sizes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and remain agile in today’s dynamic environment.” Visit Tompkins Solutions at booth #A11323 in Hall A to learn more about the latest innovations in warehouse automation and supply chain operations.
Brent Poulton appointed as new president of Cromer Material Handling
Cromer Material Handling, the West Coast’s trusted material handling provider since 1989, has announced that Brent Poulton has been appointed as President of the business, overseeing all seven dealerships under the Cromer umbrella. Poulton brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of strategic leadership and business development within the material handling industry. “I’m thrilled to continue my journey with the GNCO organization as the President for Cromer Material Handling,” said Brent Poulton. “I look forward to working with the Cromer team to continue to build on what they’ve already accomplished and continue to grow and develop the business.” Poulton joins Cromer after most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Naumann Hobbs Material Handling, following thirteen years at Caterpillar leading the parts & service support operations in the Mid-Atlantic. Poulton’s demonstrated leadership, knowledge of operational efficiencies, and extensive market knowledge will shape the future success of the company.
Hubtex acquires Design Storage and Handling
German forklift manufacturer Hubtex has acquired Design Storage and Handling and will now known as HUBTEX North America. New Managing Director Alexander Baumann is responsible for North and Central America business. For over 30 years, Design Storage and Handling sold the HUBTEX Group’s products in the North and Central American markets with considerable success. The lift truck manufacturer HUBTEX has now acquired all shares in the general importer and will be looking after its North American customers under its own name. “We’re still the partner you can trust for transporting long, heavy, and bulky loads. But now we’re expanding this expertise beyond the confines of the steel industry, taking in the building materials trade and the timber and automotive industries as well – which our products are the perfect fit for. We guarantee users a reliable supply of spare parts, top-quality service, and flawless production processes.” says Alexander Baumann In the USA, HUBTEX aims to further develop the steadily growing market for multidirectional forklifts and special trucks. This includes opening a new depot on the west coast of America – in California, to be precise – alongside our existing major branches in Ohio and Virginia,” explains HUBTEX General Manager Hans-Joachim Finger “We’ve already laid the necessary groundwork and increased the size of our demonstration fleet. Establishing a presence in California is just one of the things we’re doing to get closer to our existing customers, learn even more about what they need, and showcase our products to new users too.” In addition, HUBTEX ensures the rapid availability and on-time delivery of standard machines. Besides the two branch locations, sales and service staff are also active in Washington State, Oregon, New Mexico, Texas and California. HUBTEX North America will sell bespoke material handling technology for the production logistics solutions engineered by Genkinger, a manufacturer of custom-made industrial trucks, as well as specialist airport and air cargo equipment from DIMOS Maschinenbau.