Raymond introduces industry’s first wireless Integrated Tether System
System provides controlled slowdown functionality and valuable data to help reinforce operator training for very narrow aisle lift trucks Continuing a long tradition of industry-leading innovation, The Raymond Corporation introduces the Integrated Tether System, a first-of-a-kind operator assist tool designed to alert operators and managers and to limit lift truck functionality* if an operator is not properly tethered. The wireless connection in the Integrated Tether System is compatible with Raymond® lift trucks, is unique in the marketplace and offers valuable data-gathering capabilities that can help reinforce best practices with all operators, enhancing security and confidence. “Over the last several years, facility owners and managers have had to deal with increasing the number of operators in the warehouses and the need to reinforce and monitor best practices,” said Shannon Curtis, product manager at The Raymond Corporation. “As a result, managers are looking for technology-based offerings that can help assist managers with these ever-increasing demands. This solution comes at a perfect time to support the new U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration national emphasis program and reinforces Raymond’s dedication to providing secure solutions for operations.” The Integrated Tether System features a smart tether that uses a sensor to connect to and communicate with the lift truck and offers audio and visual notifications to alert the operator of tether status — connected or disconnected. When operators pair Raymond lift trucks and Raymond iWAREHOUSE® and iMONITOR® Telematics, the lift truck will respond in one of two ways: when the operator’s harness is properly connected to the self-retracting lanyard (SRL), the lift truck retains full travel speed and full lift-height capability; or if the operator is not properly connected, the lift truck limits travel speed to 1 mph and disables lift capability. Offering a single-source solution for those facilities with mixed fleets or facilities without iWAREHOUSE Telematics, the comprehensive system will still share audio and visual notifications to operators if a tether connection has not been properly made. In addition to controlling lift truck functionality, the Integrated Tether System offers valuable reporting capabilities through iWAREHOUSE and iMONITOR Telematics, allowing managers to simplify workforce management and training by providing data and metrics on operator connection histories, system involvements, and more. “That’s what sets the Raymond Integrated Tether System apart,” Curtis said. “Wireless integration with iWAREHOUSE Telematics means the tether is less expensive to integrate and there are fewer parts to maintain. Factor in the data-reporting capabilities,* and the Integrated Tether System becomes an easy choice for facilities that frequently hire new or inexperienced operators.” The Integrated Tether System offers full functionality when used with iWAREHOUSE Telematics and Raymond Very Narrow Aisle Equipment; 5300, 5400, 5500, and 5600 models and the Raymond 9600 and 9700 Swing-Reach® Trucks. Operators can use the Integrated Tether System with a full-body harness and an SRL.
Propane Council calls attention to energy resiliency for National Propane Day
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is celebrating the second annual National Propane Day on October 7, 2023. National Propane Day is an opportunity to celebrate all the ways propane keeps America running and to highlight all the benefits propane offers to users everywhere, including material handling professionals. “By keeping both small and large material handling operations running, propane is the powerhouse of the U.S. supply chain,” said Jim Bunsey, director of commercial business development at PERC. Material handling operations throughout the U.S. have used propane for decades and continue to rely on it to provide 100 percent power. Propane can be safely used in well-ventilated structures both indoors and out to keep product moving while keeping the air free from harmful emissions. Today, propane can be found powering forklifts, terminal tractors, and light- and medium-duty vehicles. As a low-carbon, highly efficient, and reliable energy source, propane is an ideal choice to ensure warehouses and ports stay resilient. With the ability to power prime and backup generators, facilities can stay operational no matter the electric grid’s status. “National Propane Day is about recognizing the impact of propane on material handling operations throughout the nation,” said Bunsey. As part of National Propane Day, PERC is also celebrating the continued growth and production of renewable propane—an ultra-low carbon option that further moves the propane industry down the path to zero carbon emissions. Renewable propane is made primarily from plant and vegetable oils, animal fats, or used cooking oil. It offers the same great features as conventional propane—reliability, portability, and power—with the added benefit that it introduces no new carbon into the environment. For more information on how propane power material handling operations, visit Propane.com/material-handling.
ALAN announces 2023 Humanitarian Logistics Awards winners
The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) has announced the 2023 winners of its Humanitarian Logistics Awards. “Today we’re honored to recognize a few of the people and businesses that have been a beacon of hope during disasters like Hurricane Ian and the conflict in Ukraine, as well as those who work diligently to fight systemic disasters like food insecurity,” said ALAN Executive Director Kathy Fulton. “Their combined efforts have shown the power logistics has to make a difference in the lives of disaster survivors – and inspire us to grow this network of giving more and more each day.” This year’s recipients include: United States Cold Storage, which received ALAN’s Outstanding Contribution To Disaster Relief Efforts Award Flexport.org, which received ALAN’s Outstanding Contribution To Disaster Relief Efforts Award ARPCO Transport Services, which received ALAN’s Outstanding Contribution To Disaster Relief Efforts Award Scotlynn, which received ALAN’s Employee Engagement Award And Dr. Diego Vega, Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management and Social Responsibility and Director of the HUMLOG Institute at the Hanken School of Economics, who received ALAN’s Research And Academic Contribution Award. United States Cold Storage was honored for providing seven months of frozen warehouse space free of charge to store 150 pallets of frozen pork – enough to help the requesting non-profit feed 500,000 future disaster survivors. Flexport.org merited its award for delivering more than 74 million lbs of relief supplies to over 91 different countries since 2018, providing support to 100 million people – including survivors of the war in Ukraine, drought and regional instability in the Horn of Africa, and COVID-19. ARPCO Transport Services received its award for donating transportation services to move more than 350,000 pounds of food and supplies to Fort Worth Hope Center Food Bank to combat food insecurity. Scotlynn was honored for providing financial and volunteer services to community members, employees and a local food pantry following Hurricane Ian – and for supporting the National Guard’s emergency response operations by transporting relief materials throughout southwestern Florida. Dr. Diego Vega was lauded for his 12+ years of research and thought leadership into how different logistics services providers can contribute to the establishment of more efficient and effective humanitarian supply chains. He’s the creator and lead educator of the first Introduction to Humanitarian Logistics MOOC, a board member of the World Humanitarian Forum’s SCM programming board, and will help review the 2022-2026 UN’s Global Logistics Cluster strategy. “These outstanding honorees are living, breathing examples of what selfless logistics is all about,” Fulton said. “We are thrilled to recognize them today – and proud they represent an industry that takes action to uplift the well-being of disaster survivors around the globe.”
H&E opens new branch in Daytona Beach Florida
Effective October 4, 2023, H&E Equipment Services Inc. (H&E) announces the opening of its Daytona Beach branch, its 13th rental location in the state of Florida. Since the beginning of the second quarter of 2023, H&E has opened 12 new branches across the country, and this is the fifth new location in the Sunshine State since the second half of 2022. The facility is located at 998 Bellevue Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32114-5162, phone 386-368-7301. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a repair shop and carries a variety of construction and general industrial equipment. “The location of our Daytona Beach branch gives H&E total coverage of the Atlantic Coast and Central Florida. The new facility is located between H&E’s Jacksonville and Palm Bay branches, and our Orlando and Ocala locations are even closer, so we can source equipment and reach any job site across the area with ease,” says Branch Manager Stefan Garza. “Our proximity to I-95, I-4, U.S. 1, and A1A is ideal for getting our new fleet to job sites.” The Daytona Beach branch specializes in the rental of aerial lifts, earthmoving equipment, telescopic forklifts, compaction equipment, generators, light towers, compressors, and more and represents the following manufacturers: Allmand, Atlas Copco, Bomag, Case, Club Car, Cushman, Doosan, Gehl, Generac Mobile, Genie, Hamm, Hilti, Husqvarna, JCB, JLG, John Deere, Kobelco, Kubota, LayMor, Ledwell, Lincoln Electric, Link-Belt Excavators, MEC, Miller, Multiquip, Polaris, Sany, Skyjack, SkyTrak, Sullair, Sullivan-Palatek, Tag, Towmaster, Unicarriers, Wacker Neuson, Yanmar, and others.
AAR Rail traffic for September and the week ending September 30 2023
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending September 30, 2023, as well as volumes for September 2023. U.S. railroads originated 921,716 carloads in September 2023, up 2.3 percent, or 20,754 carloads, from September 2022. U.S. railroads also originated 1,008,896 containers and trailers in September 2023, up 0.7 percent, or 7,096 units, from the same month last year. Combined U.S. carload and intermodal originations in September 2023 were 1,930,612, up 1.5 percent, or 27,850 carloads and intermodal units from September 2022. In September 2023, 13 of the 20 carload commodity categories tracked by the AAR each month saw carload gains compared with September 2022. These included: motor vehicles & parts, up 8,327 carloads or 15.2 percent; petroleum & petroleum products, up 5,547 carloads or 16.0 percent; and chemicals, up 5,530 carloads or 4.6 percent. Commodities that saw declines in September 2023 from September 2022 included: grain, down 6,651 carloads or 9.0 percent; coal, down 4,012 carloads or 1.4 percent; and coke, down 1,062 carloads or 9.1 percent. “Rail traffic, although improving, remains in uncertain territory along with the economy,” said AAR Senior Vice President John T. Gray. “Intermodal had the best volume month of the year in September, showing, after three years, that ‘peak season’ still exists although much more reserved and occurring somewhat later than past peaks. Grain shipments improved slightly from extremely low summer levels, while chemicals and petroleum products had reasonably solid months. However, a sustained boost across rail categories will require stronger overall industrial growth.” Excluding coal, carloads were up 24,766 carloads, or 4.0 percent, in September 2023 from September 2022. Excluding coal and grain, carloads were up 31,417 carloads, or 5.7 percent. Total U.S. carload traffic for the first nine months of 2023 was 8,774,830 carloads, up 0.3 percent, or 24,723 carloads, from the same period last year; and 9,329,334 intermodal units, down 8.2 percent, or 831,733 containers and trailers, from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 39 weeks of 2023 was 18,104,164 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 4.3 percent compared to last year. Week Ending September 30, 2023 Total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 500,154 carloads and intermodal units, up 2.8 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending September 30 were 235,988 carloads, up 3.7 percent compared with the same week in 2022, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 264,166 containers and trailers, up 2.0 percent compared to 2022. Nine of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2022. They included metallic ores and metals, up 2,681 carloads, to 23,142; chemicals, up 2,151 carloads, to 31,750; and motor vehicles and parts, up 1,403 carloads, to 15,973. One commodity group posted a decrease compared with the same week in 2022: grain, down 2,417 carloads, to 18,501. North American rail volume for the week ending September 30, 2023, on 10 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 350,483 carloads, up 3.6 percent compared with the same week last year, and 346,771 intermodal units, down 1.5 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 697,254 carloads and intermodal units, up 1.0 percent. North American rail volume for the first 39 weeks of 2023 was 25,361,005 carloads and intermodal units, down 3.8 percent compared with 2022. Canadian railroads reported 97,896 carloads for the week, up 2.1 percent, and 70,662 intermodal units, down 13.6 percent compared with the same week in 2022. For the first 39 weeks of 2023, Canadian railroads reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 6,175,243 carloads, containers and trailers, down 3.4 percent. Mexican railroads reported 16,599 carloads for the week, up 12.2 percent compared with the same week last year, and 11,943 intermodal units, up 7.4 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 39 weeks of 2023 was 1,081,598 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 3.0 percent from the same point last year. To view the rail traffic charts, click here.
Doosan Bobcat expands global brand strategy; RYAN® Turf Renovation Equipment transitions to Bobcat trand
Doosan Bobcat, Inc., a company within Doosan Group, has expanded its global branding strategy as it announces its RYAN® turf renovation equipment will rebrand under the Bobcat trade dress in 2024. Bobcat, a global compact equipment, innovation and worksite solutions brand, invented the compact equipment industry when it introduced the first compact loader in 1958. RYAN equipment joined the Doosan Bobcat portfolio in 2020, following the acquisition of BOB-CAT Mowers and the Steiner and RYAN brands of grounds maintenance equipment from Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. RYAN has produced trusted turf renovation equipment for more than 75 years and features a unique product lineup including aerators, sod cutters, dethatchers, power rakes, overseeders and other specialty products that serve landscaping and grounds care professionals across a variety of industries including golf, sports turf, landscaping and rental. Following the company’s success in new product industries such as mowers, compact tractors and grounds maintenance equipment, Bobcat has streamlined its branding approach to strengthen overall brand equity, market recognition and consumer recall of all product offerings. The transition aims to create a cohesive customer experience and grow the organization’s footprint, making the brand more accessible to more customers in more places. “Bobcat has been a recognized name for decades—known for its toughness and versatility. We are proud to extend the brand to new product categories so we can empower even more people to accomplish more,” said Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO and vice chairman. Earlier this year, Doosan Bobcat announced its Doosan Portable Power, Doosan Industrial Air and Doosan Industrial Vehicle brands would transition into the Bobcat product portfolio in North America and applicable markets worldwide in 2024. “The Bobcat brand has grown tremendously over the past years, and we recognize the opportunity to further unleash the brand in bold, new ways by extending it into new product categories as we grow our brand portfolio,” said Laura Ness Owens, Doosan Bobcat vice president of global brand and North American marketing. With this refreshed identity, RYAN products will undergo design and aesthetic changes in alignment with current Bobcat branding. The turf renovation equipment is produced at the Doosan Bobcat manufacturing facility in Johnson Creek, Wis., and will continue to be manufactured there following the brand transition. Bobcat-branded RYAN equipment, along with its newly rebranded portable power, industrial air and material handling, is expected to be available for customer purchase through Doosan Bobcat’s extensive, global dealer network in 2024. Bobcat and these rebranded product lines will proudly remain part of the broader Doosan Group portfolio. The Bobcat-branded turf renovation products will be displayed in the Bobcat indoor booth (3052) at Equip Exposition in Louisville, Ky., from Oct. 17-20.
Episode 425: Exploring Portable Storage Solutions with Pete Warhurst of Red Rover
We’re delighted to host Pete Warhurst, the CEO of Red Rover and PODS founder, on today’s episode of The New Warehouse podcast. Red Rover has found a creative solution for the moving and storage industry with its “fetchable” solutions. Tune in to hear Pete discuss the unique value proposition of their product, the technology behind it, and its potential application in the warehousing and logistics sector. Navigating Transportation in the Portable Storage Industry The portable storage industry has its own set of unique challenges and opportunities. Initially, the main hurdle was efficiently delivering the storage container to the consumer’s driveway. Traditional methods like roll-off tow trucks were not viable solutions, as they could damage the driveway and disarrange the items inside the container. Pete and his team had to innovate to find a more customer-friendly delivery mechanism that didn’t involve tilting or sliding the container off the truck bed. Pete discovered that consumer demands often drove innovation as the business evolved. For example, customers started asking to move their containers from one county to another, pulling the company into the moving industry. This need led to expanding services to meet consumer demands, from local to inter-county moves. Interestingly, customer creativity didn’t stop there; people continued to find new uses for these portable storage containers inside and outside traditional warehousing environments. This consumer-driven innovation prompted the company to adapt continually, leading Pete to his next venture, RedRover. At the core of RedRover is eliminating the logistical headaches that come with delivery and transportation. Pete realized that even with route optimization and increased density, delivery was still a break-even proposition and often a source of customer dissatisfaction. RedRover aims to eliminate the frustration from this part of the business, focusing on streamlining logistics to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Red Rover’s Portable Storage Solution Empowers Consumers Through Flexibility and Control Customers start by booking a truck and a container online or through the app. After confirming their reservation, they drive to a designated Red Rover facility, where they can access their reserved truck using a secure gate code. The Red Rover model offers two unique styles of trucks, which are: Ramp Truck – This is the initial truck style Red Rover started with. It features a versatile ramp the customer can position anywhere around the truck. This allows consumers to load items conveniently through doors on the side or the back of the truck. Retriever Truck – This newer truck model works best for those who need longer-term storage solutions and the convenience of a container. The container comes off the truck with the push of a button and is placed directly onto the consumer’s driveway, eliminating the need for the truck to remain parked there. Once they pick their desired truck, consumers can manage their portable storage needs without relying on a delivery schedule. The truck is free for up to 16 hours for loading and unloading. Once the customer is ready, they can simply return the container for convenient storage or efficient transportation across town or the country. Leveraging Portable Storage for Future Applications in Warehousing This Red Rover portable storage solution has significant potential for warehousing with wide use of storage containers. The safety measures, the ease of operation, and the potential for added automation could transform warehouse container management. Additionally, the Red Rover system could offer new opportunities in scenarios like driver shortages, where time and efficiency are of the essence. Warehousing operations could greatly benefit from this technology, as it could ease the process of unloading containers from chassis, saving time and boosting efficiency. As warehouses evolve, especially with the demand for space and quick turnover, solutions like Red Rover could become essential tools for handling storage and transportation challenges effectively. Key Takeaways Red Rover Revolutionizes Delivery: The company has innovated a more efficient, customer-friendly way to deliver storage containers, resolving traditional logistical headaches. Self-Service Model: Red Rover’s unique model allows consumers to manage their portable storage needs on their schedule, enhancing flexibility and control. Future Warehousing Applications: Red Rover’s technology can potentially solve warehousing problems, particularly in scenarios like driver shortages and quick turnover demands. Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 425: Exploring Portable Storage Solutions with Pete Warhurst of Red Rover
Help for truckers one-stop event returns Oct. 17-18 at the Port of Long Beach
Truck drivers and others can enroll in certifications and learn about new regulations required to work at the San Pedro Bay ports complex at a one-stop event at the Port of Long Beach scheduled for October 17 and 18. The event will allow truckers to enroll with the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), obtain radiofrequency ID tags (RFID) and sign up for the Port’s Truck Alert traffic notification system. Additionally, representatives from the California Air Resources Board will be available to provide information about the Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, requiring any new drayage trucks registered after Jan. 1, 2024, to be zero-emissions. The Port of Long Beach is hosting the event in partnership with CARB, the Transportation Security Administration and the identity certification company IDEMIA. The event is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17 and Wednesday, Oct. 18 at the Port of Long Beach Terminal Access Center, 1265 Harbor Ave., Long Beach (southwest corner of Harbor Avenue and West Anaheim Street). Free tacos will be available to participants from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, while supplies last. This will be the final Help for Truckers event for the year. TWIC appointments and pre-enrollment are available at universalenroll.dhs.gov/programs/twic. Click New Enrollment, complete the information and in Step 9 – Select Appointment Location, choose “Pop Up: Port of Long Beach, 10/17-10/18.”
Lineage acquires warehousing and e-Commerce assets of Burris Logistics
Acquisition of eight facilities strengthens Lineage’s network across the Eastern and Midwestern United States, providing customers with greater access to end-to-end cold storage solutions. Combination enhances Lineage’s existing e-commerce and direct-to-consumer fulfillment business that serves more than 100 customers Lineage Logistics, one of the world’s temperature-controlled industrial REITs and integrated solutions providers, has announced the acquisition of eight facilities from Burris Logistics (“Burris”), a temperature-controlled food distribution company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The addition of these eight cold storage facilities to Lineage’s warehousing network will provide nearly 1.3 million square feet of capacity and approximately 115,000 pallet positions across facilities in Lakeland, Florida; Jacksonville, Florida; McDonough, Georgia; Edmond, Oklahoma; New Castle, Delaware; Waukesha, Wisconsin; and Federalsburg, Maryland. The transaction represents Lineage’s third proprietary deal with Burris. Lineage acquired both its Lyndhurst, Virginia and Haines City, Florida locations from Burris in 2020 and 2021, respectively. “This deal represents the trust we have built and the track record we have delivered across our longstanding relationship with Burris, which is demonstrative of Lineage being the industry’s acquiror of choice,” said Greg Lehmkuhl, President and CEO of Lineage. “As with our previous acquisitions from Burris, these complementary locations and their supremely dedicated team members will further fuel Lineage’s fierce customer-driven approach and serve our vision to become the world’s most dynamic temperature-controlled logistics company.” A nearly-century old, family-owned business, Burris has developed deep relationships with some of the nation’s leading retailers and foodservice companies. The acquired facilities are strategically located in the Eastern and Midwestern United States, near major highways and transportation hubs, and will serve densely populated markets to help Lineage’s direct-to-consumer fulfillment operation reach all 50 states. Lineage’s team has over 14 years of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer fulfillment experience, managing the end-to-end experience for more than 100 customers across eight existing locations. The acquisition of these facilities will bolster Lineage’s comprehensive direct-to-consumer solution that harnesses Lineage’s leading cold storage network. Burris’s remaining portfolio will primarily consist of Honor Foods, its foodservice redistribution company, and Trinity Logistics, its freight solutions provider.
Nucor launches campaign highlighting commitment to sustainable steelmaking
Nucor Corporation launched “Made for Good,” a campaign highlighting the company’s more than five decades of producing steel using the cleanest methods commercially available, while also showcasing its work with customers in a broad range of industries to help them achieve their sustainability goals and, at the same time, our nation’s sustainability goals. “Sustainability is being driven by our customers’ values and focus on reducing emissions in their supply chains. As a steel industry leader, Nucor recognizes the importance of environmental stewardship and continuously challenges ourselves to reduce our emissions even more. Through purposeful innovation, Nucor is providing not just steel but solutions that empower our customers to meet their business and environmental goals successfully,” said Dan Needham, Executive Vice President of Commercial at Nucor. Nucor is among the world’s most sustainable steel producers, annually making more than one-quarter of the steel produced in the United States. The company is a leading pioneer in using a circular, recycling-based manufacturing process with an emissions intensity that is more than three times lower than the average of extractive steelmaking methods using blast furnaces. Nucor is dedicated to further reducing its carbon footprint through innovation and was the first industrial company to join the UN 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Compact, which is aimed at accelerating the decarbonization of the world’s electricity systems and ensuring access to clean and affordable electricity. “Made for Good” features the company’s recent achievements in sustainable innovations and invites customers, investors, and policymakers to partner with Nucor in tackling the challenge of decarbonization. The campaign’s highlighted case studies include Nucor’s investments in next generation technologies, such as small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear systems, fusion, Nucor’s involvement in reducing embodied carbon emissions in mass-market consumer vehicles, and Nucor’s own innovations, such as Elcyon, the first domestically produced sustainable steel product for offshore wind energy applications. “For more than 50 years, Nucor has been pioneering circular steelmaking and building a resilient and environmentally sustainable future. This campaign focuses on our dedication to building processes and investing in efficient systems that positively impact the world. The goal of Made for Good is to shape that sustainability narrative and uniquely capture Nucor’s position as an essential partner in constructing a greener tomorrow,” said Peter Campbell, Director of Marketing at Nucor. In addition to its sustainable steelmaking leadership, Nucor has engaged in policy conversations to accelerate greenhouse gas emission reductions within the industry. Nucor is a founding member of the Global Steel Climate Council (GSCC), which has developed the Steel Climate Standard – a single global standard to measure and report carbon emissions for steel companies in order to increase transparency and drive international investment in lower emission technology. Nucor partnered with Lippincott, a global creative consultancy, to generate the campaign and Luquire, a marketing and PR agency, to place the media. To explore the campaign, visit Nucor.com/madeforgood. Learn more about Nucor’s commitment to sustainability there and follow the conversation on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Hai Robotics launches new solutions aimed to heighten Warehouse Storage Density and real-time efficiency
Hai Robotics (“Hai”), pioneer and provider in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) Systems, has announced the launch of the world’s first telescopic Grapple Hook ACR, the HaiPick A42T-E2, and the HaiPick System 3—two new innovations that address customer concerns around increasing storage density and performance at a smaller warehouse footprint. The telescopic Grapple Hook ACR can be integrated within HaiPick System 3, creating a nexus that facilitates higher performance while delivering enhanced storage density. The HaiPick A42T-E2—equipped with ChainPick technology—features a grappling hook with a picking speed of 2.7 seconds, quickly pulling totes one after another. Such ChainPick technology is key to enabling up to five-deep tote storage capacity, allowing shorter picking and placing time to further streamline the goods-to-person workflow. Horizontal space in between totes can be slashed by 60%, ensuring no space gap at the back and hence optimizing existing warehouse storage space. Businesses are also offered tailored solutions to scale up or down, allowing them to maintain a competitive edge without compromising on financial agility, while still achieving cost-efficiency. “Businesses nowadays are struggling to not only optimize their warehouse space, but also strike a balance between automation and leaving room for growth,” said Peter Guan, General Manager at Hai Robotics EMEA. “We are thrilled with the launch of the HaiPick A42T-E2. This project encapsulates our commitment to providing intelligent, flexible and efficient solutions for the modern warehousing industry, while keeping in mind the growing and dynamic needs of this market on a global scale.” The HaiPick System 3, on the other hand, is the latest solution in Hai’s portfolio, enabling ultra-high storage density up to 50 totes/㎡ and increasing worker efficiency up to six times. HaiPick System 3 is a highly standardized system incorporating Hai’s telescopic Grapple Hook ACRs and Fast-transit K50 autonomous mobile robots (AMR) running at a speed of 4m/s. HaiPick System 3 introduces fast deployment and efficient ACR-AMR collaboration: While ACRs handle totes from the top to the bottom of the racks, AMRs handle rack-bottom totes between racks and workstation swiftly. Additionally, the solution facilitates rack expansion by up to five-deep configuration, by using the telescopic Grapple Hook ACR, with a maximum picking height of up to 10 meters. “HaiPick System 3 is a high-performance and agile solution that scales alongside businesses to better achieve instantaneous customer satisfaction,” added Guan. “Combined with the telescopic Grapple Hook ACR, warehouses will be able to achieve a level of performance efficiency and ROI at new heights in both B2B and B2C operations, such as within 3PL and apparel industries.” Davide Tuzi, Country Manager of Italy at Hai Robotics, will discuss more details in the upcoming episode of HaiPulse webinar. The special edition, scheduled to air on October 20th, at 9:30 AM (CET), will cover an in-depth analysis of these two innovations. Sign up for this webinar here.
The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) announced the 2023 Supply Chain Hall of Fame Inductees
The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) names Lynn Fritz, Chairman and CEO of Fritz Companies as the 2023 Supply Chain Hall of Fame Inductee. The CSCMP Hall of Fame was first initiated in 2016 to recognize individuals for having made outstanding contributions to the supply chain discipline and served as role models to supply chain students, young professionals, budding entrepreneurs and career supply chain professionals. Since its inception, each of the Distinguished Service Award past winners were inducted into the Hall of Fame and all future DSA recipients will automatically be inducted each year. As such, the 2023 CSCMP Distinguished Service Award Recipient, Ted Stank, joins Lynn in receiving the Hall of Fame honor. A visionary in the global logistics industry, Lynn helped develop and operationalize the concepts of third-party logistics and supply chain services during his 30-year career as Chairman and CEO of Fritz Companies, Inc., which enabled this small San Francisco customs brokerage company to expand to 120 countries and 11,000 employees. The company went public in 1992 and achieved Fortune 1000 status in 1997. His enduring contribution redefined a fragmented and limited services industry through the use of technology. Upon UPS’s acquisition of Fritz Companies in 2001, Inc., Lynn shifted professional gears, dedicating the Fritz Institute to the development and deployment of logistics expertise to the global Humanitarian Sector. Lynn partnered with his wife, Business Professor, Dr. Anisya Thomas, and resolved to be the advocate for humanitarian logisticians, bring academic expertise and private sector resources and best practices to their endeavors. He invested significant financial resources and devoted a majority of his time partnering with a broad array of institutions and individuals in the creation of a field now recognized as humanitarian logistics. The software developed by Fritz Institute, used to track the delivery of necessary relief items, is utilized by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Oxfam, Save the Children U.K. and World Vision. The Institute’s certified training programs and curriculum is the lynchpin of humanitarian logistics operational trading and benefits hundreds of relief logisticians and organizations, while Fritz Institute standards are being utilized in over 25 countries in Africa. Once the Fritz Institute was successfully underway, Lynn founded LynnCo Supply Chain Solutions, headquartered in Oklahoma, a compact technology driven new age domestic forwarding company. Simultaneously over the years, he had begun to appreciate the exceptional potential of a ranch he had purchased in 1980. Although originally intended as a family retreat, slowly over the ensuing 40 years it has become one of California’s leading ultra-premium wineries. CSCMP’s EDGE Conference is supply chain’s premier event™ and provides the finest networking and robust educational experiences unmatched by others in the industry.
KPI Solutions appoints Roger Counihan as Senior Vice President of Sales
KPI Solutions (KPI), a provider in supply chain consulting, software, automation, and systems integration, today announced that Roger Counihan has joined the company as Senior Vice President, of Sales. In this role, Roger will provide strategic leadership to drive growth by delivering successful solutions that help clients reduce labor dependence, increase productivity, and build scalability. “I’m excited to join KPI Solutions as our team designs and integrates new processes coupled with world-class automation technology that supports our clients’ operational transformation,” said Roger. “Developing creative, bespoke solutions for clients is a passion and I look forward to leveraging my experience in supply chain strategy, distribution center design, robotics, and software to help clients meet today’s business challenges.” “We are happy to welcome Roger to the KPI Commercial team as another seasoned, highly skilled leader for our clients as they seek options to elevate performance,” said Ron Adams, Chief Commercial Officer at KPI. “Roger’s ability to quickly grasp business challenges and address them with innovative operational designs and high-performing technologies will create scalable, resilient, and agile automation solutions for our clients.” Most recently, Roger served as Chief Revenue Officer at CognitOps, a supply chain software services firm. Prior, he rapidly rose through positions of increasing responsibility in both sales and delivery roles at Fortna, global telecommunications provider Brightstar, and Capgemini. He holds a B.S. and M.S., Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia and resides in Atlanta.
Women In Trucking Association announces Sarah Smith of Penske Transportation Solutions as Vice Chair
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Sarah Smith as vice chair of the association. In this role, Smith will collaborate with WIT’s officers, board of directors, and staff to guide the association’s mission of encouraging the employment of women in the industry, minimizing obstacles they face, and promoting their accomplishments. Along with this volunteer leadership role, Smith is senior vice president of human resources for Penske Transportation Solutions. “We are extremely pleased to have Sarah in this leadership role as she brings a depth of experience that will be invaluable to the association,” said Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of WIT. In her current position at Penske, Smith leads teams responsible for corporate and field human resources as well as diversity and inclusion. Throughout her career, she has held several other roles with Penske, including director of labor relations and vice president, human resources operations. Additionally, Smith spent time in private practice as an attorney. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in French from Wilkes University as well as her Juris Doctor degree from John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Il. “It’s an honor to hold a leadership position on the Women In Trucking Board of Directors,” said Smith. “Women In Trucking is the leading organization supporting women in transportation and encouraging more to join our strong industry. To contribute to that mission is professionally and personally rewarding to me. I believe that there is a tremendous opportunity for women in trucking and that my association with WIT demonstrates Penske’s commitment to diversity and inclusion for our association. I look forward to the impactful work that lies ahead.”
Women In Trucking Association announces its October 2023 Member of the Month
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Lauren Keeney as its October 2023 Member of the Month. Keeney is a regional driver from S&H Express, Inc. based in York, PA. Keeney was inspired to earn her CDL while waiting at a traffic light. As she finished making Amazon deliveries for the day, she glanced at the tractor trailer beside her and saw a woman was behind the wheel. “I realized that if she could do it, I could too,” said Kenney. Shortly after, Lauren enrolled at the Shelly Truck Driving School in York, PA. Training Supervisor Bob Grimaldi remembers Lauren as someone who always in high spirits and quick to master even the most complicated material. “Lauren never shied away from a new challenge and never settled for good enough,” said Grimaldi, who has closely followed her career at S&H Express which is affiliated with Shelly Truck Driving School. “She wanted to be the best she could be, and she worked with her classmates to help them reach the same level.” S&H Express Recruiting Manager Andrea Whipple has known Lauren since they were teens working together at Tom’s Gas Station and says, “Lauren has always been a hard worker. Even as a kid, she strived to do better. She has one of the biggest hearts and would help anyone out, whenever.” Lauren’s desire to help others and her drive to succeed continues. In September 2021, after earning her CDL, Keeney signed with S&H Express. She has recently begun to train new drivers and is earning rave reviews. Last year, Dispatcher Tina Bailey assigned Keeney to an important dedicated account in Richmond, VA and Keeney has achieved 100% on-time service for the customer. “What is notable is that this is a five-times-per week York, PA to Richmond, VA run to a very difficult, very tight dock location,” said Bailey. “It’s a location that many other drivers have refused after their first run. Not Lauren, and she is always willing to help other drivers, even from other companies, who are having trouble backing into that customer location.” S&H Express Director of Operations Doug Forry adds, “Lauren has a bright future in trucking. She’s smart, determined, and always willing to go above and beyond in this male-populated industry. She is one of a kind!” Keeney’s advice for anyone who is thinking about trucking as a career, especially women, is to do their research stating, “talk to the director of a reputable school, ask to talk with a few of their graduates, and call the recruiting department of a small, large, and mega trucking company. Interview them and a few of their female drivers so that you can make an informed decision for yourself.” Further showcasing her love for the road, Keeney enjoys travel. Her York to Richmond assignment affords lots of opportunities to appreciate beautiful scenery and take note of sites that would be great for vacation.
Episode 424: Addressing testing challenges by implementing testing automation in the supply chain industry with Cycle Labs
In this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Josh Owen, the Co-Founder and CEO of Cycle Labs, a company dedicated to revolutionizing testing in the warehousing industry. Cycle Labs is at the forefront of revolutionizing warehouse testing. By embracing automation and efficient testing, businesses can overcome the challenges of system upgrades and thrive in an environment that demands adaptability and innovation. Join us as we delve into how Cycle Labs is making waves in warehouse testing, helping businesses overcome their fears and anxieties regarding system upgrades and enabling them to thrive in this ever-evolving field. The Challenges of System Upgrades in Warehousing With his extensive experience in supply chain technology, Josh Owen recognizes the challenges that warehousing professionals face regarding system upgrades. He highlights, “Taking something as complicated as a warehouse management system and putting it into production can be trying times.” Manual testing, late nights, and weekend work become the norm, leading to burnout and increased risk. However, Josh emphasized that this is not a unique problem; many organizations share these challenges. It’s essential to understand that innovative solutions like Cycle Labs have addressed and solved these issues. The Role of Automation in Testing Josh stressed how Cycle Labs helps clients automate various testing scenarios, from regression testing during system upgrades to ongoing validation of critical processes. “We give our clients the ability to focus on the things that improve those projects and solve some of those challenges by giving them their time back.” In this light, automation is transforming the way warehouse testing is approached, making it more efficient and less resource-intensive. Josh’s insights convey how businesses can benefit from this approach and allocate their resources more strategically. The Impact of Testing Automation on the Warehousing Ecosystem By addressing the challenges of system upgrades and testing, Cycle Labs helps create smoother, more predictable relationships between systems integrators and their clients. Cycle Labs’ approach can lead to more frequent system upgrades, enhancing the overall competitiveness of warehousing businesses. Efficient testing can have a ripple effect, from fostering better relationships with OEMs to enabling businesses to embrace change and innovation. Key Takeaways on Testing Automation Efficient Testing Eases System Upgrades: Automation in testing alleviates the anxiety and resource drain associated with system upgrades. It allows businesses to confidently approach changes, knowing their critical processes are validated and error-free. Resource Allocation and Collaboration: By automating testing, businesses can allocate their resources more strategically, reducing the pressure on employees who would otherwise spend weekends testing. Collaboration between different stakeholders in the warehousing ecosystem becomes smoother and more predictable. Embracing Change and Innovation: Frequent system upgrades become more achievable, enabling businesses to adapt to the ever-changing warehousing landscape. This mindset shift can help organizations experiment, innovate, and stay competitive. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 424: Addressing Testing Challenges by Implementing Testing Automation in the Supply Chain Industry with Cycle Labs
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas hosts “Formula For Success” event celebrating record year of achievements
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas (Logisnext), a North American provider and manufacturer of material handling and innovative automation and fleet solutions, held its Logisnext Dealer General Manager Meeting in Houston this week for the Cat® lift trucks, Mitsubishi forklift trucks and Jungheinrich® dealer network. During the significant two-day event, Logisnext showcased its “Formula For Success” strategy and future plans as the industry moves toward electrification, automation and digitalization. Nearly 300 attendees gathered, including Dealer Principals and top-level management from across Logisnext’s North American Cat lift trucks, Mitsubishi forklift trucks and Jungheinrich dealer network. Special guests included Formula 1 World Champion and Jungheinrich Brand Ambassador Nico Rosberg, alongside Christian Erlach, Member of the Board of Management, Sales at Jungheinrich AG. At the heart of the event was the unveiling of a forward-looking roadmap, which highlighted a focus on sustainability and advanced technology across automation, telematics and advanced power solutions to meet evolving market demands. Nico Rosberg engaged with attendees and shared his passion for advancing electric mobility and sustainability. As an entrepreneur and advocate for these causes, Nico pushes the boundary in support of innovation and advancement of green technologies. “I am dedicated to advancing green innovation, with a clear focus on accelerating sustainability through electrification,” said Nico Rosberg, Formula 1 World Champion and Jungheinrich Brand Ambassador. “I’m inspired to work alongside partners like Jungheinrich and Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas, who are driven to deliver advanced technologies and new solutions to power the material handling industry into the future.” Day One: Celebrating Record-Breaking Growth During the event, Logisnext and its dealers aligned on strategic plans and celebrated the shared achievement of new historic milestones in electric market share growth and its resilience and adaptability in the changing post-COVID landscape. “Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas is heavily investing in the future with our dealers and strategic partner Jungheinrich,” said Jerry Sytsma, Executive Vice President, Sales and Aftermarket Services at Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas. “The industry is continuing to evolve – with electrification, automation and digitalization – and we’re proud to be partnering with our dealers to bring forward the latest solutions to customers across North America.” The day concluded with a compelling Q&A session featuring Rosberg and Christian Erlach, led by Sytsma at Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas. Day Two: Customer Event with Equipment Depot The celebration continued with a Customer Event dedicated to Jungheinrich customers and employees of Equipment Depot, one of Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas’ local Jungheinrich dealers. More than 100 attendees joined the event, which featured an exclusive interview with Rosberg hosted by Anthony Garcia, President of Equipment Depot. About Nico Rosberg Nico Rosberg was born in 1985 in Wiesbaden, Germany, the son of Formula One™ World Champion Keke Rosberg. Nico raced in F1 for eleven years and claimed the title of World Champion in 2016. Since his retirement from Formula One, he has embarked on a career as a sustainability entrepreneur and investor in green technologies and mobility start-ups. Based in Monaco, his team manages a large number of projects with the support of a dedicated team of international experts in Monaco, Great Britain and Germany. Rosberg has invested in numerous successful start-ups such as Lilium, Volocopter, What3Words, Tier and Formula E. In 2018, Rosberg was recognized for his commitment to sustainable innovation with the “GreenTec Entrepreneur of the Year” environmental award. A year later, he founded the GREENTECH FESTIVAL, a global platform for leading green technologies and a sustainable lifestyle. In 2020, Rosberg founded Rosberg X Racing to compete in Extreme E, a race series that highlights the impact of climate change and promotes the adoption of electric vehicles in the quest for a lower carbon future for the planet.
Equipment Depot’s management team sets revenue goal of a billion dollars within five years
Equipment Depot said it is on track to meet its aggressive financial growth goal: to reach a billion dollars in revenue within five years. In 2020, Equipment Depot’s leadership began analyzing how the organization approached the material handling business. As a result, the team created its “2025 Vision Strategy”, which included investment in strategic hires, expansion into key U.S. material handling markets, extensive employee advancement training, and the creation of two new divisions: EQSolutions and Heavy Trucks & Port Equipment. The new divisions are cited as significant factors contributing to the company’s growth. As the company prepared for growth, top leadership positions began to evolve. Anthony Garcia, former regional vice president of the company’s South Region, was appointed president, succeeding president and CEO, David O. Turner. Garcia takes on this role after a strong showing as regional vice president of Mammoet Americas, a Dutch heavy lifting and transportation service company. Jonathan Hesener advanced from vice president of sales and customer experience to chief sales officer. Hugh Parry went from vice president of operations to chief operating officer – both recognized for their military leadership experience and involvement in General Electric’s well-recognized Leadership Program for former military officers. Clint McNair was tapped as the company’s new chief financial officer. McNair has 22 years at Deloitte and experience in the private equity sector — and is recognized for his strategic thinking and fresh perspective on aligning finance and operations. EQ Solutions, launched in 2019, specializes in engineering transformative warehouse and automation solutions for manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution facilities. This allows Equipment Depot to fill an industry shortcoming — by providing the first fully end-to-end, one-source solution to help customers solve various challenges within one department, the company said. Over the past five years, Equipment Depot has expanded into several new markets. It opened a new location in Los Angeles on the West Coast in 2021, acquired Norlift in Portland, Ore., and opened a new branch in Seattle, representing the newly formed Northwest region. “This expansion now covers seven of the top 10 U.S. material handling marets,” Hesener noted. “Equipment Depot is on an incredible trajectory. I’m pleased to be part of the pendulum shift at the company and within the material handling industry.” “From our leading-edge advancements in warehousing to bespoke automated and energy transition solutions, together with our exceptional service and emerging digital advancements, Equipment Depot is definitely becoming the envy of the industry,” said McNair. “Equipment Depot has the right ‘playbook’ to hit our billion-dollar revenue target,” added Parry. “For instance, our partnership with Mitsubishi Logisnext allows direct access to the manufacturing plant for Cat Lift Trucks, Mitsubishi, Jungheinrich, and UniCarriers Forklifts, providing an incredible benefit and relief to customers facing equipment supply chain challenges. Additionally, we have secured strategic OEM partners in the port and heavy equipment industry, and are introducing new technologies, such as robotics and automation, which are making a quantum leap in the material handling industry.” “I am proud and honored to continue Equipment Depot’s growth plans,” said Garcia. With the industry advancing at an incredible rate, from how automation, electrification, robotics, and AI are playing a role, there is huge potential to reshape the landscape — I envision Equipment Depot being at the forefront.”
Alta Equipment Group to acquire Burris Equipment adding to its Construction Business segment
Expands product portfolio and presence in the Illinois market Burris’s $40.6 million in revenue, $1.9 million in net income, $4.6 million in EBITDA on a trailing twelve-month basis is expected to be immediately accretive to the Company’s leverage, profitability, and earnings per share ratios Alta Equipment Group Inc. has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Burris Equipment Company (“Burris”), a supplier of construction and turf equipment with three locations in Illinois. “The acquisition of Burris will not only yield immediately accretive returns to shareholders but will also notably enhance our business in Illinois,” said Ryan Greenawalt, Chief Executive Officer of Alta. “In addition to adding important infrastructure and industry talent to the Chicago area in our Construction Equipment segment, we also eagerly embrace new OEM relationships stemming from the Burris acquisition, while simultaneously expanding with existing OEM partners to best serve Burris customers. This acquisition will fortify our product support presence and rental capabilities in the market, opening doors for the growth of our high-margin parts and service business. We extend a warm welcome to the Burris team as they become part of the Alta family.” Strategic and Financial Highlights Diversifies product portfolio and end markets in the Chicago area and expands Alta’s infrastructure in the region with three new branches in Joliet, Waukegan and Lakemoor. Burris generated approximately $40.6 million in revenue, $1.9 million in net income and EBITDA of $4.6 million for the trailing twelve-month period through July 2023. Deal is structured as an asset acquisition allowing for step-up in tax basis of assets acquired. Additional Transaction Details The purchase price is $14.0 million in cash, subject to working capital adjustments. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2023. Including Burris, since the Company’s initial public offering in 2020, Alta has completed 15 acquisitions which have contributed $487 million in revenue, and $58 million in Adjusted EBITDA. More information on Burris, its products and applications can be found at https://burrisequipment.com/home.
Toyota Material Handling launches new Electric Pneumatic Forklifts
New electric models come with lift capacities ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 lbs. and deliver dependable power for outdoor applications Toyota Material Handling is launching a new line of electric pneumatic forklifts with 48V and 80V models. This durable line is built to withstand outdoor terrain and work in various weather conditions, making them ideal for retail applications such as lumberyards, home centers, landscaping, and store support applications. “Our goal at Toyota is to embrace the spirit of Kaizen – or continuous improvement – in everything we do and every product we offer,” said Tony Miller, Toyota Material Handling Senior Vice President of Engineering, Operations and Strategic Planning. “These new 48V and 80V electric pneumatic forklifts set a new standard in quality material handling solutions, helping elevate work efficiency for operators with the integration of cutting-edge technologies and versatility across a wide range of tasks and terrains.” These new models, featuring six different lift capacities ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 pounds, offer cost-effective and reliable solutions for end-users. Toyota’s innovative System of Active Stability (SAS) springs into action when operators encounter unanticipated loads and speed conditions. Additionally, Toyota’s Operator Presence Sensing System (OPSS) along with the optional Seatbelt Interlock Encourages operators to maintain a properly seated position with the seatbelt buckled or travel and load handling operations will be limited. Built with standard AC drive and lift motors, along with significantly lower noise and vibration levels this forklift provides a smooth operation. The regenerative braking system adjusts the speed of the truck when the operator’s foot is removed from the accelerator and conserves energy when speeds begin to slow by returning energy to the battery, increasing operational time, and improving the overall efficiency of the forklift. An optional Slope Assist feature maintains the speed of the forklift on a slope by switching the power mode of the truck. The load-sensing power steering capabilities provide smooth handling operation for operators, while also keeping more power in the battery. In addition to the industry-leading lineup of material handling solutions, the new 48V and 80V electric pneumatic forklifts provide customers with superior performance options while maintaining energy efficiency.