E Tech Group announces name change of recently acquired System Integrator, E-Volve Systems
E Tech Group announces the immediate renaming of E-Volve Systems to E Tech Group, following their strategic acquisition on February 23, 2023, emphasizing a unified vision, expanded services, and enhanced client and market value through this integration E Tech Group has announced that the brand formerly known as E-Volve Systems has now been renamed as E Tech Group. Effective immediately, the brand formerly known as E-Volve Systems will operate under the name E Tech Group, unifying the two entities under one market-leading brand. The transition to the new name will be seamless for clients and partners. All existing commitments remain in place, ensuring continuity and stability. “We’ve gained the ability to market and deliver large scale projects that may not have been available to us prior to the acquisition due to our size,” said Kevin Stout, previous E-Volve Systems founder and president and current vice president at E Tech Group. “We’ve also gained a tremendous network of team members whose skillsets seem to be limitless.” E Tech Group’s acquisition of E-Volve Systems was finalized on February 23, 2023. This strategic move allowed E Tech Group to significantly expand its range of services, thereby enhancing the overall value offered to its clients. The acquisition was a step towards integrating complementary strengths, consolidating market presence, and fostering innovation in service delivery. “The name change at this time is a formality as E-Volve Systems has been a part of the E Tech Group since late February 2023,” said Matt Wise, Chief Executive Officer of E Tech Group. “Their contributions have positioned E Tech Group to elevate its service offerings and reach with the added benefit of resources located throughout North America as well as a broader suite of services, allowing us to automate every facet of a facility, from process and discrete automation through cybersecurity and data intelligence services, leveraging a team of over 600 automation specialists.”
Episode 448: ShipPlug – Streamlining shipping with data-driven solutions
Episode 448 of The New Warehouse Podcast features an engaging conversation with Nick DiNatale, co-founder and CEO of ShipPlug. ShipPlug specializes in providing integrated shipping solutions, simplifying the shipping process for businesses. The episode explores ShipPlug’s innovative approach to combining multiple shipping services into a cohesive, user-friendly platform. Bridging the Gap in Shipping Data Access DiNatale compares the challenges faced by large and small shippers. He explains that large enterprises, shipping millions of dollars worth of goods, often have dedicated supply chain teams who analyze data regarding package shipments, costs, and delays. Small shippers, however, struggle with accessing this kind of data due to limited resources. They often resort to guessing shipping costs and sometimes choose not to sell certain products because they can’t work out profitable shipping strategies. DiNatale highlights that accessing and understanding supply chain data is increasingly complex and challenging for all, especially for small shippers lacking resources. He adds, “When we started ShipPlug, our goal was to make data easy to understand.” ShipPlug Simplifies the Freight Claim Process through Automation DiNatale highlights ShipPlug’s role in demystifying and streamlining the freight claim process, particularly for late shipments and damage claims. He notes how the traditional claims process is tedious and often confusing, deterring many shippers, especially smaller ones, from pursuing refunds or understanding their shipping costs. ShipPlug’s software automates this process, enabling shippers to file claims quickly, track late shipments, and receive detailed reasons for delays. This data allows for more informed decisions about carrier performance and helps e-commerce businesses manage the increasingly complex world of shipping costs and demand surcharges. Unified Carrier Integration and Pricing Transparency with ShipPlug DiNatale discusses ShipPlug’s ability to integrate various carriers, offering a unified platform for diverse shipping needs. “Providing data, especially around pricing, that’s the true value not only to make the claims process easier but to truly help you understand what they are paying,” he states. While the General Rate Increase (GRI) for carriers averages around 5.9%, DiNatale points out some surcharges go up as high as 17%. Delivery surcharges are becoming so confusing and difficult to manage that they become one of the biggest struggles for shippers. “Having the data to make actionable decisions on the best carrier or carrier mix can make or break a company,” DiNatale emphasizes. He details how ShipPlug’s platform is designed for simplicity, incorporating features like streamlined label printing and address verification. Key Takeaways ShipPlug’s integration of multiple carriers simplifies the shipping process for businesses. Focus on user experience and technology enhances the efficiency of shipping operations. Emerging e-commerce trends underscore the importance of versatile, integrated shipping solutions. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 448: ShipPlug – Streamlining Shipping with Data-Driven Solutions
Walker takes reins as CEO of MHEDA
Jeannette Walker is the new chief executive officer of the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA). She served as interim chief executive officer when Liz Richards retired on December 31, 2023. “Jeannette is the ideal selection given her vast background in executive leadership, marketing and communications, all the traits that are essential in association management.” said Liz Richards. “Combined with Jeannette’s knowledge and deep relationships with industry members and with the MHEDA team, this is a win-win-win for everyone.” added Richards. Walker has held executive positions in the materials handling sector for 22 years, most recently at TVH. “I am truly honored to have been selected for this pivotal role, and I am eager to contribute my skills and experience to MHEDA,” she said. ““I am committed to building upon the foundation that has been laid by Liz Richards’ inspirational vision and leadership.”” added Walker.
Staffing employment seasonally dips in December
Staffing employment dipped in the week of Dec. 11-17, with the ASA Staffing Index decreasing by 0.9% to a rounded value of 97. Some staffing companies mentioned seasonal business fluctuations and the holidays as primary factors that limited further growth. Staffing jobs were 8.3% below the same week last year. New starts in the 50th week of the year were down 2.5% from the prior week. Nearly four in 10 staffing companies (35%) reported gains in new assignments week to week. The ASA Staffing Index four-week moving average decreased from the prior week to a rounded value of 97, and temporary and contract staffing employment for the four weeks ending Dec. 17 was 8.3% lower than the same period in 2022. “The ASA Staffing Index saw a slight drop in December, though some holiday frostbite is typical for staffing employment this time of year,” said Noah Yosif, chief economist at ASA. This week will be used in the December monthly employment situation report scheduled to be issued by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on Jan. 5. To learn more about the quarterly ASA Staffing Employment and Sales Survey, visit americanstaffing.net/quarterly-survey or follow ASA research on X.
Rail Traffic for the Week Ending December 23, 2023
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) today reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending December 23, 2023. For this week, total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 486,787 carloads and intermodal units, up 24.2 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending December 23 were 230,946 carloads, up 23.7 percent compared with the same week in 2022, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 255,841 containers and trailers, up 24.7 percent compared to 2022. All of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2022. They included coal, up 16,458 carloads, to 66,730; motor vehicles and parts, up 4,936 carloads, to 16,287; and grain, up 4,475 carloads, to 21,237. For the first 51 weeks of 2023, U.S. railroads reported a cumulative volume of 11,519,813 carloads, up 0.6 percent from the same point last year; and 12,478,616 intermodal units, down 5.0 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 51 weeks of 2023 was 23,998,429 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 2.4 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending December 23, 2023, on 12 reporting U.S., Canadian, and Mexican railroads totaled 340,069 carloads, up 21.4 percent compared with the same week last year, and 337,542 intermodal units, up 25.3 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 677,611 carloads and intermodal units, up 23.3 percent. North American rail volume for the first 51 weeks of 2023 was 33,580,237 carloads and intermodal units, down 2.2 percent compared with 2022. Canadian railroads reported 93,678 carloads for the week, up 23.1 percent, and 70,358 intermodal units, up 33.5 percent compared with the same week in 2022. For the first 51 weeks of 2023, Canadian railroads reported a cumulative rail traffic volume of 8,168,179 carloads, containers, and trailers, down 2.5 percent. Mexican railroads reported 15,445 carloads for the week, down 11.0 percent compared with the same week last year, and 11,343 intermodal units, down 2.2 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 51 weeks of 2023 was 1,413,629 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 2.1 percent from the same point last year. For the traffic charts, click here
Key Texas Rail Gateways Reopen, Railroads ready to restore service
After five days of closures at Eagle Pass and El Paso, TX, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced today that the agency would reopen these key international crossings. With each passing day, rail customers, communities and the larger supply chain experienced increasing impacts as rail shipments remained halted at the border. Today, the Biden Administration answered wide-spread, resounding calls to restore this critical link in the supply chain. “The Biden Administration made the right decision to protect our supply chain and keep goods moving between the U.S. and Mexico,” said AAR President and CEO Ian Jefferies. “In the face of the unprecedented humanitarian crisis, CBP has been working under exceptionally difficult circumstances, but these ill-advised closures were a blunt force tool that did nothing to bolster law enforcement capacity. As CBP continues their work to address this crisis, railroads strongly encourage the agency to abandon this tactic moving forward in favor of approaches that are capable of meaningfully enhancing its response capabilities. “With the crossings reopened, railroads are focused on closely partnering with CBP to maintain the secure, reliable service that customers deserve and our nation requires.”
Equipment Depot becomes an early adopter of AWS Supply Chain in the material handling industry
Equipment Depot announced that they have been selected by Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS), to adopt AWS Supply Chain, a cloud-based application. As an early adopter in the material handling industry, AWS Supply Chain is designed to increase supply chain visibility to make faster, more informed decisions that mitigate risks and lower costs. Its primary directive will focus on Equipment Depot’s $22 million in parts inventory. “We have over 50 branches covering 3000 miles, plus 850 technicians; the AWS Supply Chain technology will provide machine learning (ML) technology capable of anticipating low parts inventory and OEM delays and reallocating parts to multiple branches and service fleets with real-time forecasting.” According to Joakim Langkaas, Director of Operations at Equipment Depot, “AWS Supply Chain automatically combines and analyzes data across multiple platforms, finding trends and quickly taking inventory rebalancing actions. We are pleased to include the AWS Supply Chain technology in our overall digital transformation strategy.” AWS Supply Chain is a cloud-based application that unifies data and provides ML-powered actionable insights, built-in contextual collaboration, and demand planning. The application can connect to existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) and supply chain management systems without re-platforming, upfront licensing fees, or long-term commitments. AWS Supply Chain will increase focus on data-driven supply decisions by leveraging advanced algorithmic capabilities within a simple and intuitive interface. Carol Tesarek, Director of Customer Experience at Equipment Depot, adds “AWS Supply Chain introduces ML and predictive maintenance capabilities to our supply chain operations. This allows us to provide an even greater customer experience by ensuring our technicians are fully equipped during customer service calls, resulting in increased speed of service, decreased equipment downtime, and an improved customer experience. I’m excited to witness the impact on customer experience, our technicians, and our entire process in the parts department.”
Carolina Handling named South Carolina Veteran Friendly Employer
Carolina Handling was named a veteran-friendly employer by the South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs (SCDVA) during a presentation held on December 5, 2023, at the company’s Hilton Learning Center in Piedmont, South Carolina. The SCDVA program recognizes South Carolina businesses that actively recruit military veterans and empower and enhance their employment through training and career development opportunities. Carolina Handling received the program’s certificate of bronze standard. “It’s an honor to be here to give you this award on behalf of the South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs and Secretary Todd McCaffrey and to recognize Carolina Handling not only for the great services you provide veterans in your workforce, but also veterans in your community,” said SCDVA Operations Coordinator Kailay P. Washington. The exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and the panhandle of Florida, Carolina Handling in a leading materials handling equipment supplier, offering consulting, design and engineering services, and integrated automation solutions for manufacturers, warehouses and distribution centers. About 12.5 percent of Carolina Handling’s 759 associates served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The company has 212 South Carolina associates, 31 of whom are military veterans. The presenting sponsor of the Veterans Employment & Transition Summit hosted by The RECON Network and a multi-year sponsor of the Military & First Responders Skybox at the BMW Charity Pro-Am in Greenville, South Carolina, Carolina Handling is committed to raising awareness among military veterans about careers in material handling. “The skills developed while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces can make you highly successful in the material handling industry,” said Carolina Handling President & CEO Brent Hillabrand. “Carolina Handling offers comprehensive onboarding and continuous training to assist with a meaningful military-to-civilian transition and a purpose-driven career.”
First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance names Shanks Head of Business Development
First Citizens Bank has announced that its Equipment Finance business has named Joy Shanks as senior vice president and head of business development dedicated to supporting and growing equipment finance vendor acquisition business. Shanks will be responsible for acquiring and cultivating new vendor relationships in key industries, as well as driving long-term business growth and generating meaningful end-user equipment financing transaction volume. She will also manage the internal sales cycle of the Equipment Finance business, including the advancement of key sales protocols. Shanks will lead a high-performing sales team and report directly to Ken Martin, a managing director at First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance. “Joy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in driving sales growth, capturing new business development opportunities and promoting brand awareness for companies in the financial services and technology industries,” said Ken Martin. “We are excited to welcome Joy to our team and are confident her skillset and perspective will contribute to the success of First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance as we strive to be the best salesforce in America.” Shanks joins First Citizens Bank with over 30 years of experience in sales, business development, operations and marketing. She most recently served as senior director, Global Channel Leader at Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Financial Services where she led Global Business Development function and championed partner development, lead generation and sales enablement activities. Prior to that she held several roles at Dell in global marketing, strategy and sales. She also served in business development roles at Frost National Bank and HP Compaq. Shanks attended Oakland University. First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance works with manufacturers, franchisors, distributors, resellers, dealers and systems integrators to finance their equipment, software and services to commercial customers.
New Distribution and Supply Chain Planned Industrial Project Drops for November 2023 to Below June Levels
Industrial SalesLeads announced the November 2023 results for the new planned capital project spending report for the Distribution and Supply Chain industry. The Firm tracks North American planned industrial capital project activity; including facility expansions, new plant construction and significant equipment modernization projects. Research confirms 175 new projects in the Distribution and Supply Chain sector as compared to 210 in October. The following are selected highlights on new Distribution Center and Warehouse construction news. Distribution and Supply Chain – By Project Type Distribution/Fulfillment Centers – 19 New Projects Industrial Warehouse – 158 New Projects Distribution and Supply Chain- By Project Scope/Activity New Construction – 88 New Projects Expansion – 30 New Projects Renovations/Equipment Upgrades – 51 New Projects Closing – 8 New Projects Distribution and Supply Chain – By Project Location (Top 5 States) Texas – 16 California – 13 Florida – 13 Illinois – 10 Pennsylvania – 9 Largest Planned Project During the month of November, our research team identified 1 new Distribution and Supply Chain facility construction project with an estimated value of $100 million or more. The largest project is owned by Nucor Corporation, who is planning to invest $280 million for the expansion and equipment upgrades on their manufacturing and warehouse facility in TUSCALOOSA, AL. They have recently received approval for the project. Completion is slated for Summer 2027. Top 10 Tracked Distribution and Supply Chain Project Opportunities VIRGINIA: Specialty metal processing company is planning to invest $82 million for the expansion of their processing and warehouse facility in SOUTH BOSTON, VA. They have recently received approval for the project. ILLINOIS: Eyewear MFR. is planning to invest $80 million for the construction of a 150,000 sf manufacturing, warehouse, laboratory, and office facility on Allen Lane in PEORIA, IL. They have recently received approval for the project. Completion is slated for late 2025. SOUTH CAROLINA: Corrugated packaging products MFR. is planning to invest $68 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on a 259,000 SF manufacturing and warehouse facility at 1105 Scotts Bridge Rd. in ANDERSON, SC. They have recently received approval for the project. VIRGINIA: Logistics service provider is planning to invest $60 million for the expansion of their distribution and warehouse center in NORFOLK, VA by 450,000 SF. They have recently received approval for the project. CALIFORNIA: Airport authority is planning to invest $40 million for the construction of a 521,000 SF warehouse and office facility at 1497 S Commerce Pw in ONTARIO, CA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. TENNESSEE: Logistics service provider is planning to invest $38 million for the construction of an 85,000 SF warehouse facility in KNOXVILLE, TN. They are currently seeking approval for the project. NEW YORK: Automotive MFR. is planning to invest $30 million for the construction of a distribution center in FISHKILL, NY. They will relocate their MANSFIELD, MA operations upon completion in 2025. WISCONSIN: Construction equipment MFR. is planning to invest $30 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on their manufacturing facility in MENOMONEE FALLS, WI. The project includes the construction of a 100,000 SF warehouse at the site. They are currently seeking approval for the project. ARIZONA: OEM parts supplier is planning for the renovation and equipment upgrades on a 420,000 SF distribution center in GLENDALE, AZ. Completion is slated for late 2024. GEORGIA: Auto parts supplier is planning for the construction of a 205,000 SF warehouse at 3351 Gateway Centre Pkwy in GAINESVILLE, GA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. About Industrial SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, Industrial SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline
Industrial News and Planned Industrial Construction Projects for November 2023 Recap
Research by Industrial SalesLeads’ experienced industrial market research team, shows 423 new planned industrial projects tracked during the month of November. Manufacturing and Production increased 4.3% as well as Industrial Warehouse by just about 3%. Overall, planned industrial project activity increased 1% from the previous month. The following are selected highlights on new industrial construction news and project opportunities throughout North America. Planned Industrial Construction – By Project Type: Manufacturing Facilities – 163 New Projects Processing Facilities – 94 New Projects Distribution and Industrial Warehouse – 175 New Projects Power/Energy/Oil and Gas – 8 New Projects Laboratory Facilities – 15 New Projects Mine – 1 New Project Terminal – 0 New Projects Pipeline – 0 New Projects Planned Industrial Construction – By Scope/Activity New Construction – 177 New Projects Expansion – 106 New Projects Renovations/Equipment Upgrades – 151 New Projects Plant Closing – 23 New Projects Planned Industrial Construction – By Location (Top 10 States) Texas – 29 California – 27 New York- 23 Indiana – 21 Ohio – 21 Michigan – 17 Wisconsin – 17 Florida – 16 Illinois – 16 North Carolina – 16 Largest Planned Industrial Construction Project During the month of November, our research team identified 26 new General Industrial facility construction projects with an estimated value of $100 million or more. The largest project is owned by Dow Chemical Canada, who is planning to invest $10 billion for the construction of a processing facility in FORT SASKATCHEWAN, AB. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Construction is expected to start in 2024, with completion slated for 2029. Top 10 Tracked Industrial Construction Projects NORTH CAROLINA: Automotive MFR. is planning to invest an additional $8 billion for the expansion of their currently under-construction EV battery manufacturing facility in LIBERTY, NC. Completion is slated for 2025. TEXAS: Global electronics MFR. is planning to invest $8 billion for the construction of an additional 2.7 million manufacturing facility in TAYLOR, TX. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Construction is expected to start in late 2024. ALBERTA: Oil and gas company is planning to invest $2 billion for the construction of a processing facility in STRATHCONA COUNTY, AB. They are currently seeking approval for the project. BRITISH COLUMBIA: Battery MFR. is planning to invest $1 billion for the construction of a manufacturing facility in MAPLE RIDGE, BC. Construction is expected to start in Summer 2024, with completion slated for 2028. LOUISIANA: Chemical company is planning to invest $800 million for the construction of two processing facilities in ST. GABRIEL, LA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Construction is expected to start in 2025, with completion slated for 2026. ALBERTA: Specialty fiber board MFR. is planning to invest $800 million for the construction of a manufacturing facility in STETTLER, AB. They are currently seeking approval for the project. NORTH CAROLINA: Battery material MFR. is planning to invest $650 million for the construction of a 1.5 million SF manufacturing campus in WILMINGTON, NC. They have recently received approval for the project. Construction is expected to start in 2024, with completion slated for 2026. SOUTH CAROLINA: Automotive component MFR. is planning to invest $500 million for the expansion and equipment upgrades on their manufacturing and warehouse facility at 2846 N. Old Laurens Rd. in GRAY COURT, SC. They have recently received approval for the project. CALIFORNIA: Aerospace company is planning to invest $500 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on their manufacturing and research facilities in LONG BEACH, CA, and MOJAVE, CA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. ALABAMA: Steel company is planning to invest $280 million for the expansion and equipment upgrades on their manufacturing and warehouse facility in TUSCALOOSA, AL. They have recently received approval for the project. Completion is slated for Summer 2027. About Industrial SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, Industrial SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline.
61 New Food and Beverage Industry Planned Projects for November 2023 Holds Firm with October
Industrial SalesLeads announced the November 2023 results for the new planned capital project spending report for the Food and Beverage industry. The Firm tracks North American planned industrial capital project activity; including facility expansions, new plant construction and significant equipment modernization projects. Research confirms 61 new projects in the Food and Beverage sector for both November and October. The following are selected highlights on new Food and Beverage industry construction news. Food and Beverage Project Type Processing Facilities – 33 New Projects Distribution and Industrial Warehouse – 34 New Projects Food and Beverage Project Scope/Activity New Construction – 27 New Projects Expansion – 25 New Projects Renovations/Equipment Upgrades – 17 New Projects Plant Closing – 1 New Project Food and Beverage Project Location (Top 10 States) California – 8 New York – 5 Texas – 4 Illinois – 3 Tennessee – 3 Kentucky – 2 Michigan – 2 Minnesota – 2 North Carolina – 2 South Carolina – 2 Largest Planned Project During the month of November, our research team identified 1 new Food and Beverage facility construction projects with an estimated value of $100 million or more. The largest project is owned by Nissin Foods USA, who is planning to invest $228 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on a recently acquired 641,000 sf processing and warehouse facility at 1170 Bracken Rd. in PIEDMONT, SC. Completion is slated for late 2025. Top 10 Tracked Food and Beverage Projects TEXAS: Grocery chain is planning to invest $60 million for the expansion and equipment upgrades on their processing and warehouse facility at 4710 N. Interstate 35 in SAN ANTONIO, TX. Construction is expected to start in early 2024, with completion slated for Summer 2025. WISCONSIN: Dairy company is planning for the construction of a 311,000 SF of distribution, cold storage, and office facility on County Line Rd. in FRANKLIN, WI. They are currently seeking approval for the project. CALIFORNIA: Specialty nut oil producer is planning for the expansion of their processing, warehouse, storage, and office facility in DENAIR, CA by 62,000 SF. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Construction is expected to start in Summer 2025. GEORGIA: Vending equipment MFR. is planning to invest $20 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on a manufacturing, training, warehouse, and office facility in SAVANNAH, GA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. They will relocate their operations upon completion. NEVADA: Food packaging service provider is planning to invest $13 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on a processing facility in NORTH LAS VEGAS, NV. They are currently seeking approval for the project. MINNESOTA: Food processing company is planning to invest $7 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on a 360,000 SF processing, warehouse, and office facility in CANNON FALLS, MN. They have recently received approval for the project. They will consolidate their operations upon completion. TEXAS: Specialty food products MFR. is planning to invest $4 million for the renovation and equipment upgrades on 122,000 sf of warehouse and office space at 31895 US Hwy. 90 in BROOKSHIRE, TX. They will relocate their operations upon completion in early Fall 2024. PENNSYLVANIA: Fresh produce company is planning for the expansion of their warehouse and office facility in ALLENTOWN, PA by 49,000 SF. They have recently received approval for the project. MASSACHUSETTS: Animal feed MFR. is planning for the construction of a 21,000 SF processing facility at 233 Old Webster Rd. in OXFORD, MA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. CALIFORNIA: Winery is planning for the construction of an 18,000 SF production facility in ST. HELENA, CA. They are currently seeking approval for the project. About Industrial SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, Industrial SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline. Our Industrial Market Intelligence, IMI identifies timely insights on companies planning significant capital investments such as new construction, expansion, relocation, equipment modernization and plant closings in industrial facilities.
Orbital Wrapper manufacturer introduces Semi-Automatic Upgrade Bundle
Orbital wrapper manufacturer TAB Industries, LLC, Reading, Pa., has introduced a Semi-Automatic Upgrade Bundle. Available as an option on the company’s TAB Wrapper Tornado Smart Controls orbital wrapping machines, the new Semi-Automatic Upgrade Bundle packages the most frequently purchased upgrades as a single unit to offer the high level of automation material handling managers prefer at a discounted price. The upgrade bundle features the company’s automated cut-and-wrap device and wireless remote transmitter and control system that enable one worker to operate the pallet wrapping machine automatically from the seat of a forklift. Durable, steel bumper guards that protect the wrapper from accidental contact with forklifts are also included in the discount package. Saving 25 percent versus purchasing the three upgrades individually, the Semi-Automatic Upgrade Bundle may be applied on the Smart Controls orbital wrappers in the standard 115-inch, 100-inch, and 80-inch wrapping ring sizes. The patented pallet wrapper machines automatically apply stretch wrap 360 degrees around and under a pallet and load to create a stable, secure, unitized load in one minute or less without boxes, crates, or banding. The stretch wrap machines are designed and manufactured at the company’s Reading, Pa. headquarters and delivered with the automation upgrade pre-installed, tested, and ready to operate. A full warranty is included.
BWT Logistics announces strategic acquisition of International Express
Deal expands the company’s contract logistics capabilities and footprint in North Carolina BWT Logistics (“BWT”), a national B2B warehousing and transportation business, announced its acquisition of International Express Trucking (“IET”), a regional 3PL leader in the North Carolina market. The deal expands BWT’s warehouse network in a fast-growing market and provides additional contract logistics capabilities to its end-to-end supply chain portfolio. BWT is a portfolio company of Bluejay Capital Partners, LLC (“Bluejay Capital”), a specialist in transportation and logistics investing. Terms of the transaction were not released. “We are impressed by IET’s people, capabilities and processes, and look forward to welcoming Howard Shope and his team into the BWT family,” said Winston McDonald Jr., President and CEO of BWT. “Howard has built an incredible business that shares our mission of providing great service to customers across a full suite of logistics solutions.” Shope, President and CEO of International Express, will join BWT as a Senior Vice President of Operations and retains a meaningful ownership stake in the business. “My team and I are excited to partner with BWT and Bluejay in this new chapter of growth for our company. IET’s customers and employees will benefit from access to BWT’s national network of warehouses and transportation, as well as its strengthened suite of services and technology,” said Shope. Josh Putterman, Managing Partner at Bluejay Capital Partners, said; “This is an important step in our long-term expansion plan for BWT. We will continue to support the team in its geographic and service line growth through both organic and strategic partnerships. Bluejay is thrilled by the potential that IET brings to the BWT platform.” Bluejay Capital financed the transaction with Argosy Private Equity, Southfield Mezzanine, Spring Capital Partners and Key Bank.
Staffing employment edges down in third quarter
Staffing jobs dropped 1.7% from second quarter The number of temporary and contract workers employed by U.S. staffing companies eased 1.7% to an average of 2.4 million workers per week from the second to the third quarter of 2023, according to the American Staffing Association’s Staffing Employment and Sales Survey released today by ASA. The decline reflects the overall slowdown in the pace of job creation during much of the past year among employers of all sizes in the face of volatile macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions and forecasts. Amid that cooling job market, temporary and contract staffing sales also declined by 3.5% during the same period. On a year-over-year basis, staffing jobs declined 14.1% in the third quarter of 2023, while temporary and contract staffing sales decreased 14.5% to total $34.7 billion in the third quarter of 2023. “As always, the staffing, recruiting, and talent solutions industry pivots quickly to assist employers with their variable and changing needs for flexible and permanent staff. In contrast to the furious pace of hiring in late 2021 and much of 2022, employers are now settling into a new normal of slow and steady growth,” said Richard Wahlquist, ASA chief executive officer. “But with 1.3 openings per worker, labor markets remain tight and employers continue to struggle with recruiting workers with the most in-demand skill sets—something we expect to continue for the foreseeable future.” Private company survey respondents are cautiously optimistic about the new year, with median expected year-over-year first quarter 2024 growth of 3.1% compared to the first quarter of 2023. Respondents expect to close 2023 with lower sales than in 2022, with a median expected decline of 5.3%. To learn more about the quarterly ASA Staffing Employment and Sales Survey, visit americanstaffing.net/quarterly-survey or follow ASA research on X.
33,130 euros for the COURAGE Foundation for chronically ill children
DIEFFENBACHER collected donations during its 150th-anniversary celebrations DIEFFENBACHER welcomed numerous business partners to a festive stakeholder event in its specially prepared assembly hall to celebrate its 150th anniversary. In the run-up to the celebrations, DIEFFENBACHER requested that guests refrain from bringing gifts but instead donate to a good cause. The response was tremendous, raising 33,130 euros, which DIEFFENBACHER CEO Christian Dieffenbacher handed over to Petra Köllner-Kleinemeier and Saskia Walker from the COURAGE Foundation for chronically ill children at the Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine at Heidelberg University Hospital. “The COURAGE Foundation is a cause close to our hearts and one that we’ve supported for many years,” says Christian Dieffenbacher. “After we sent out the invitations for our anniversary event in the summer, we were often asked about the topic of birthday presents. However, being able to celebrate our anniversary with all our guests was gift enough for us, so we came up with the idea of launching a fundraising appeal for COURAGE,” he states. The COURAGE Foundation aims to give chronically ill children and adolescents more quality and enjoyment of life beyond medical treatment during their hospital stay. It reinforces their courage, strength, confidence and support in fighting their disease. The donations collected by DIEFFENBACHER will help fund an annual two-week vacation camp in the Black Forest for dialysis patients and children and adolescents with kidney and liver transplants. Additionally, the COURAGE Foundation supports several other projects, including “Fit for School,” which aims to enable children to start school with friends of the same age without delays or learning deficits, and the children’s palliative care team in the Rhine-Neckar region. “On behalf of the foundation, I would like to thank DIEFFENBACHER for the donation initiative,” said Petra Köllner-Kleinemeier, Chairwoman of the COURAGE Foundation, during the check presentation on December 7, 2023 at the company’s headquarters in Eppingen, Germany. “I will pass on these thanks to our anniversary guests straight away,” added Dieffenbacher. “We didn’t expect to raise such a large sum of money. Once again, many thanks to all the donors.”
Year over year Cargo Traffic consistent with last year on US Great Lakes as of end of November
Shipping activity for the US Great Lakes in 2023 remained consistent with the previous year through the end of November, with approximately 32.6 million metric tonnes of commodity traffic traveling the seaway system for the year to date. The total represents an increase of approximately 422,000 tonnes of cargo over the amount transported during the same period last year. While there has been year-to-year variation in the traffic of specific commodities, concrete and steel slabs continue to be stand outs with respect to increased year-over-year traffic. More than 1.8 million tonnes of cement transited the corridor, representing an increase of approximately 192,000 tonnes, and more than 354,000 tonnes of steel slabs tonnage has been moved for the year to date, representing an increase of 93,000 tonnes. Among the ports seeing traffic gains for the year, Duluth-Superior reported a 3.9% increase in total tonnage and a 35% uptick in cement tonnage year over year through Nov. 30. Increases in cement shipments through the Seaway often coincide with regional infrastructure improvements, and the Duluth Seaway Port Authority provided an example of this with completion of a 56,000-square-foot warehouse expansion that opened in September. The new structure increased Duluth Cargo Connect’s total warehousing capacity to over 500,000 square feet, providing much-needed space to support additional cargo movement for regional manufacturers. “The amount of cargo traffic on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway this year demonstrates the importance of the Seaway as a trade conduit,” noted Bruce Burrows, President and CEO of the Chamber of Marine Commerce. “It also speaks to the professionalism and reliability of those who work on the Seaway, and their partners in marine shipping organizations that use the infrastructure to move what matters in North America. As chamber members like the Port of Duluth-Superior are showing, the marine shipping industry is more than ready to adapt to unforeseen developments and expand to meet the needs of the business community, and that is why our industry will continue driving economic growth throughout North America for years to come.”
Year in Review: Bobcat recaps new products, investments and initiatives of 2023
As 2023 comes to a close, Bobcat Company is recapping its major initiatives and announcements from the year. Bobcat, a global equipment, innovation and worksite solutions brand, celebrated a year of company growth, investments, strategic partnerships and new product introductions. Here are a few highlights from the year: January 2023: Inventors honored: Cyril and Louis Keller, the brothers who invented the world’s first compact loader (later named the Bobcat® skid-steer loader), were selected as 2023 inductees for the National Inventors Hall of Fame(NIHF). Read more. Most compact telehandler available: At just 6-feet wide, the TL519 is Bobcat’s most compact telehandler in its lineup, bringing powerful performance and enhanced maneuverability to jobsites big and small. Read more. Equipment showcased: Bobcat showcased its latest products at World of Concrete 2023, which included skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, telehandlers, compact excavators, compact wheel loaders, its light compaction lineup and several attachments perfect for concrete work. Read more. Parts distribution expanded: A new 396,000-square-foot facility in Atlanta opened marking Bobcat’s third parts distribution center in the U.S. The Atlanta location joined the other Bobcat parts distribution centers in Woodridge, Ill., and Reno, Nev. Read more. February 2023: Factory technology enhanced: A $9.3 million investment in punch press automation and press technology was installed at the Bobcat manufacturing facility in Gwinner, N.D. The press line more than doubles press production capabilities, reduces energy consumption, lowers noise levels and improves complex forming for sheet metal parts, all of which help meet the increasing demand for Bobcat equipment. Read more. Ag-tech partnership established: Bobcat and Agtonomy, a Silicon Valley-based, ag tech software company, announce their partnership to advance productivity in the agriculture industry through collaboration in the areas of electrification, autonomous operation and digital technology. Read more. March 2023: Global brand strategy unleashed: Bobcat announced plans to grow its brand portfolio with the transition of Doosan Portable Power, Doosan Industrial Air and Doosan Industrial Vehicle rebranding under the Bobcat brand in 2024. Read more. Innovation accelerated: Bobcat demonstrates its innovative capabilities by unveiling the world’s first all-electric skid-steer loader, the Bobcat S7X, and a new autonomous and all-electric loader, the Bobcat RogueX, during CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023. Read more. Material handling introduction: Following the news that Doosan Industrial Vehicle material handling equipment will transition to the Bobcat brand, forklifts showcased in new Bobcat branding were displayed at ProMat 2023. Bobcat also introduced its hydrogen fuel cell forklift prototype at the show. Read more. Creating vibrant and sustainable parks: Bobcat announces its partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Through this partnership, Bobcat extended five grants, each worth $50,000 to support park improvement projects. Read more. April 2023: Dealers recognized: Sixteen Bobcat dealerships were honored as the highest-performing dealers for Bobcat in North America according to the company’s Dealer Performance Review. Read more. May 2023: Recognized for innovation: The all-electric Bobcat T7X compact track loader was recognized as a winner of Fast Company’s 2023 World Changing Ideas Awards. It received multiple Fast Company honors as it was selected as the winner of the Transportation category, a finalist in the General Excellence category and honorable mention in the North America category. Read more. History commemorated: Bobcat put its history on display with an exhibit within the National Inventors Hall of Fame® Museumin Alexandria, VA. The exhibit, which runs through April 2024, features one of the Keller brothers’ original three-wheel loaders, along with a timeline of Bobcat’s history and a video display highlighting various aspects of Bobcat’s products, people and initiatives. Read more. June 2023: Strategic investment announced: Following the announcement of their partnership in February 2023, Bobcat announced its subsequent investment in Agtonomy to help agriculture and land maintenance operators optimize operations through sustainable, innovative solutions. Read more. Manufacturing facility renovated: A $5.3 million renovation at the Bobcat Johnson Creek facility modernized the office and employee spaces with an open-concept design, which included multiple meeting and conference rooms, updated furniture and an enhanced employee break room. Read more. New product announcement: Bobcat expanded its grounds maintenance lineup with the debut of the Bobcat AT450 articulating tractor. Read more. Sponsoring Park and Recreation Month: Celebrated every July, NRPA’s Park and Recreation Month promotes building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation areas. Bobcat’s sponsorship of the month further amplified NRPA’s efforts and recognized the more than 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals. Read more. July 2023: Backyard makeover contest commences: Bobcat announced its contest to win a $25,000 backyard makeover, along with the opportunity to meet country music superstar Justin Moore. Read more. Park grant recipients named: The five winners of the Bobcat and NRPA grant were announced. Each park received $50,000 for improvements projects, as well as a new Bobcat zero-turn mower. Read more. August 2023: New industrial air compressor introduced: A new 150-hp fixed-speed, oil-flooded, rotary screw compressor was introduced to the industrial air lineup. It will be known as the IA150 in 2024 as part of Doosan Industrial Air’s transition into the Bobcat portfolio. Read more. Backyard makeover winner announced: Julie Rummer of Turlock, Calif., was announced as the winner of the Bobcat Backyard Makeover. Her moving story garnered the most public votes rewarding her with a $25,000 backyard renovation and a chance to meet Justin Moore. Read more. September 2023: Communities served: More than 1,000 Bobcat employees around the world took part in its company-organized volunteer projects. Together, these employees supported nearly 100 different volunteer projects benefiting the places Bobcat calls home. Read more. New excavator joins lineup: Bobcat expanded its lineup of compact excavatorsto include the newly released Bobcat E40. As part of the lineup expansion, Bobcat also revised the model numbers for its 3-to-5-ton excavator lineup to more closely align with the industry’s size class. Read more. New equipment on display: Bobcat showcased some of its latest equipment at The Utility Expo 2023, including electric equipment, its latest Platinum machines, portable power in the Bobcat brand and more. Read more. October 2023: Bobcat expands its portfolio again: Bobcat announces RYAN® turf renovation equipmentwill rebrand under the Bobcat trade dress in 2024. Read more. Most powerful
AMT Expands Engineering Services portfolio with Ignition Programming to drive operational efficiency in Smart Manufacturing Automation Systems
Applied Manufacturing Technologies announces the expansion of its engineering services portfolio to include Ignition by Inductive Automation, a powerful tool for advanced HMI and SCADA solutions, to address the growing need for digital transformation in manufacturing industries Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), announced that following a successful large-scale automation project, the company has become a Credentialed System Integrator for Ignition by Inductive Automation and has launched a wide-ranging initiative for certification of the engineering staff. Recognizing the need for digital transformation by AMT’s Engineering Services customer base, the company has launched the 2024 initiative to offer Ignition programming as a core Engineering Services offering. AMT has recently installed successful multi-million-dollar robotic automation systems for clients in several industries which have included software developed with Inductive Automation’s Ignition platform for advanced HMI and SCADA. “Our Ignition projects have demonstrated the immense potential for data-driven, lean manufacturing, and operational excellence, and has inspired us to integrate Ignition programming as a cornerstone of our 2024 initiative,” said AMT President Craig Salvalaggio. “Our clients valued the power of integrated data to drive lean and smarter manufacturing and achieve operational efficiency and their software engineers were impressed with the ease in which real-time status and control, historical data logging, UDTs & templates, and alarming could be implemented.” Ignition by Inductive Automation enables comprehensive digital integration in industrial settings, allowing for the connection of multiple devices and extensive data collection. The platform facilitates the creation and deployment of custom applications across a variety of industrial and mobile devices, enhancing operational efficiency.
Gebrüder Weiss provides hundreds of donated meals for the 2023 holiday season
The international logistics company’s efforts support families in need over the holidays Gebrüder Weiss, a 500-year-old international transport and logistics company, announced an expanded effort to provide meals to local residents for the 2023 holiday season. The company matched employee donations to support families near its North American headquarters in Wood Dale, Illinois, and raised funds that provided 200 meals to 30 families over Thanksgiving. Additional fundraising is underway to provide meals to more families in need for the December holidays. Gebrüder Weiss employee volunteers also banded together to assemble meal packages at Feed My Starving Children’s MobilePackTM events, which provide hand-packed, nutritious MannaPack® meals designed to prevent undernutrition. “Gebrüder Weiss is a family-owned organization, and we saw this sense of family translate into enthusiastic participation in our company match for employee donations and in-person volunteer efforts to support families in our community,” said Mark McCullough, CEO of Gebrüder Weiss USA. “This is our seventh annual charitable program for the holiday season, and we’re proud to continue this important tradition.” Bleuroot, a local West Dundee, Illinois restaurant known for its wholesome menu, partnered with Gebrüder Weiss for the third year in a row to prepare the meals and deliver them to recipients’ homes. The local Home Depot donated a poinsettia for each family, which was provided with a Thanksgiving meal. Additional community participants joined in to enhance the fundraising efforts. The Goddard School in Elgin, Illinois encouraged parents to donate if they were able, and the school provided a $500 donation that allowed Gebrüder Weiss to drop off additional meals at West Dundee fire and police departments, a Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter, and a PADS shelter for people experiencing homelessness. To date, Gebrüder Weiss was able to more than triple the number of meals provided year-over-year, from 62 in 2022 to 200 so far in 2023. With its ongoing fundraising efforts, company match, and community partner support, the number of donated meals will continue to grow throughout the season.