U.S. Patent approved for Felling Trailers’ Air Bi-Fold Ramps System
Felling Trailers, Inc. was recently awarded a U.S. patent grant for their Air Bi-fold Ramps System, U. S. Patent 11,613,197. The Air Bi-fold Ramps system was first introduced to the construction and paving industry at the 2020 CONEXPO-CON/AGG show. The Air Bi-Fold Ramps system was featured on Felling’s 25-ton FT-50-3 LP, a tri-axle low-profile flatbed tag trailer. Filing for a U.S. patent is an extensive process, taking anywhere from two to three years from start to finish. Felling’s VP of Engineering worked with a Registered Patent Agent to complete the many steps in the process, from patent search to application to acceptance. Once a U.S. Patent is granted, it remains in effect for a period of twenty years from the original filing date. The patent protects the intellectual property of the air bi-fold ramps system design, preventing others from creating, making, or selling a similar product. “The patent helps to protect our invention and maintain Felling Trailers’ presence in the marketplace as an innovative solutions provider both today and in the future,” said Patrick Jennissen, Felling Trailers’ VP of Sales & Marketing. Few manufacturers in the marketplace offer an Air Bi-Fold Ramp system, let alone with the functionality that Felling’s offers. A key feature of Felling’s design is the operation of the flip ramp. The flip ramp locks out fully when extending, preventing scraping or marring of the ground, which is undesirable, especially if it’s a new surface of any kind. Another key feature is Felling’ controlled flow air ramp technology, which provides for soft ground contact of the ramp, keeping new surfaces free from being damaged. The Air Bi-Fold Ramps are 45″ wide by 11′ (7.5′ +3.5′) wood inlaid. For over a decade, Felling Trailers has offered air ramps with available lengths of 6’ to 8’. The 11’ Air Bi-Fold ramps were designed to accommodate the load angle necessary for loading cumbersome low-clearance equipment such as paving equipment and directional drills. The Air Bi-Fold ramps’ length provides the operator with a gentler, more gradual incline to provide ease in loading/unloading with its 9.5º load angle with the option of air ride suspension when the air is dropped. Felling Trailers’ Air-Ramp technology allows operators to use the tow vehicles’ onboard air system to power the ramps, eliminating the maintenance of an onboard electric/hydraulic system. Furthermore, the patented technology allows for minimal ground contact when deploying/retracting the ramps to reduce damage to the new pavement when loading/unloading. “These ramps are available on a wide range of air brake-equipped trailers and allow the safe loading of most paving equipment with ease. Air-operated ramps are far more reliable than those powered by an electric/hydraulic pump, making it a clear choice for many paving crews,” said Nathan Uphus, Felling Trailers’ Sales Manager. The patented air bi-fold ramps system is currently available on 20, 22.5, 25, and 30-ton tag series with plans to expand into the semi-trailer lines.
ORBIS® Corporation adds heavy-duty Bulkpak®48×45 HDMP extended height containers to improve shipping efficiency and reduce costs
New extended-height containers offer more capacity, higher efficiency, and recyclability ORBIS® Corporation, an international leader in reusable packaging, has announced a new addition to its BulkPak® line of shipping containers: the BulkPak 48×45 HDMP Extended Height container system. The heavy-duty 48×45 HDMP Extended Height series offers 28 positions in a standard 53’ truck, enabling a gain of up to 20% in shipping efficiency and warehouse utilization. The HDMP extended height containers feature non-sequential collapse and multiple identification options to suit your different operational needs. Based on the standard Automotive Industry Action Group footprint, these containers are designed and constructed to efficiently move, store, and ship automotive, appliance, and transportation equipment components. These unitized loads can be delivered directly to the assembly line for immediate part presentation, with no unwrapping or unbanding required. “We are excited to launch our new addition to the BulkPak series and offer our customers an efficient and durable solution,” said Scott Krebs, senior product manager at ORBIS Corporation. “Our goal is to help our customers reduce costs and improve their bottom line while also providing them with a reliable and sustainable packaging solution.” The 48×45 HDMP Extended Height container is available in three heights, including 39”, 42”, and 50”, with the 39” container being the only 28-position bulk bin available in the market. Additionally, these containers interact with all other 48×45 bulk bins and boast the largest 28-position extended-height access door on the market. The one-piece base construction provides superior durability with a load capacity of up to 1,800 pounds. The HDMP series also offers superior corner interlock performance and a retention clip for easy panel removal. Constructed with high-density polyethylene, the HDMP is built for durability and a long service life. Custom protective ORBIShield® dunnage is also available for all ORBIS BulkPak containers for ultimate part protection.
Bastian Solutions awarded Gold in the 2023 Edison Awards
Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, was named a gold winner in the 2023 Edison Awards. The company is being honored in the Enhanced Automation category for its Bastian Solutions SmartPick™, a robotic bin picking solution, that combines cutting-edge AI-powered vision technology, industrial robotics, and goods-to-person technologies to create goods-to-robot solutions capable of picking the most complex assortment of products with 99.9% accuracy, gaining knowledge from previous picks to better handle various product shapes, sizes and surfaces. The Edison Awards, named after the American inventor Thomas Alva Edison, recognizes some of the most innovative products and business leaders in the world with past winners including Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, General Motors, and Genentech. The prestigious awards honor excellence in new product and service development, marketing, design, and innovation. All nominations go through a review process by the Edison Awards Steering Committee with the final ballot being determined by an independent judging panel. “We are honored and grateful for this recognition and proud that our efforts, to think of new and better ways to serve our customers, are being recognized by such a prestigious award. Bastian Solutions keeps its customers at the core of everything we do, and our incredibly talented employees help us serve our mission of being a best-in-class organization,” said Ron Daggett, Senior Vice President, Technology and Engineering All winners were officially recognized at the 36th annual Edison Awards™ Gala in Fort Myers, Fla. On April 20, 2023, where the finalists were granted Gold, Silver, or Bronze status.
LEDtronics launches new series of High-Lumen and High-Efficiency LED High Bay Fixtures
LEDtronics® introduces the latest additions to its highly popular and affordable series of dimmable, high-lumen and high-efficiency LED High Bay Fixtures! These low-profile and competitively-priced luminaires join the company’s other HBL series to offer a superior light output in a compact, lightweight body that delivers the longevity, premium performance, reliability, and energy efficiency of LED lighting technology. These Title 24 Compliant HBL007 luminaires are three-way dimmable and provide a 115° wide angle beam with a uniform light distribution pattern. Because they are so lightweight, weighing only 5.2 to 20.3 pounds (2.3 to 9.2 kg), as well as very shallow in depth, they offer much easier installation and maximum flexibility in every sort of application, both indoors and outdoors — factory production areas, industrial plants, workshop areas, warehouses, depots, conference halls, indoor tennis and basketball courts, hangars, gymnasiums, subway and rail platforms, toll booths and many more! The six ETL-listed luminaires in the new HBL007 series come in a choice of input power ranging from 60 to 500 watts, and replace old-technology metal halide and high-pressure sodium bay lights from 100 to up to 1500 watts — a 70% energy savings! They provide luminosity ranging from 8,756 lumens for the 60W unit to close to 63,455 lumens for the 500W unit, in 5000K Pure White lighting with a high CRI greater than 80. They are designed for eyebolt chain suspension installation, while the 500W unit may also be installed through bracket surface mount. Available attachments for these units include 60-degree-beam polycarbonate and 90-degree aluminum reflectors. Suitable for high-humidity sites, the IP65-rated and ETL-listed low-profile high bay lights have a durable, cold-forged aluminum heatsink with superior heat dissipation and anti-corrosion, together with a weather-resistant, tempered glass lens. They operate in a wide operating temperature range of ~-20°C to ~+65°C. Their solid-state construction renders them impervious to shock, vibration, frequent switching, and environmental extremes. The HBL007 luminaires operate in a flexible input voltage range of 100 to 277VAC. Different wattages, color temperatures, and voltage options are available for qualified volume offers. The LEDtronics new ETL-listed high-efficiency LED High Bay Fixtures boast lumen maintenance of over 70 percent at more than 50,000 hours and come with an unconditional 5-year U.S. factory warranty. The series is available through LEDtronics distributors, and quantity discounts are available.
Papé Material Handling acquires Globe-Bay Area Forklift
Papé Material Handling recently acquired Globe-Bay Area Forklift, effective May 12, 2023. No details of the acquisition will be released. Former Globe-Bay Area Forklift customers will gain access to Papé’s extensive selection of forklifts and other material-handling equipment. In an announcement from Papé Material Handling President, Chris Metle said, “Our members look forward to earning your business with unparalleled customer service and a full line of equipment rentals including scissor lifts, boom lifts, telehandlers, and forklift models including 3-and 4-wheel electric, internal combustion, narrow aisle, reach trucks, and big-jumbo trucks. We are excited to meet you, build a strong relationship, earn your trust, exceed your expectations, and be a continued part of your success.” Both Papé and Globe-Area Forklift have a long history of serving their customers as family-owned businesses. Globe-Bay Area Forklift was founded in 1952 as Globe-Wally Forklift before being acquired by Bay Area Forklift in 1991. This history of serving customers made Globe-Bay Area Forklift a perfect fit for Papé Material Handling. With 85 years of experience, Papé is a fourth-generation family-owned and led business with a long tradition of success in the equipment business. Papé Material Handling prides itself on providing a wide selection of versatile equipment for warehousing, construction, and other material handling operations.
New Combilift product launch at Ligna
As forklift manufacturer Combilift continues its 25 years in business celebrations, this week saw the launch of another new model truck, this time at Ligna, the international timber and woodworking show, which runs from 15th – 18th May in Hanover, Germany. The new Combi-CB70E is a further addition to Combilift’s ever-growing range of electric models which offers powerful performance, extensive battery life, and unrivaled ergonomics. This model, in the vibrant Combi-green livery, first seen on the recently launched Combi-CUBE product, boasts the distinction of being the shortest 7t capacity counterbalance truck on the market whilst also benefitting from multidirectional ability, enabling the versatile space-saving handling of both long and bulky loads. Design features incorporated into the high-capacity Combi-CB70E such as its large super-elastic tires and compact wheelbase make it ideally suited for the operational demands of the timber industry. With a 7,000kg/15,500lb lift capacity, this model benefits from an impressively small footprint as well as exceptional maneuverability meaning that it can easily move bulky loads of timber around in confined spaces. Occupational health and safety requirements mean that the welfare of the workforce has become ever more important over the years. Drivers of industrial vehicles, who are often required to spend extensive periods in their workstations, quite rightly expect the highest levels of comfort and safety. Combilift’s designers have therefore gone to great lengths to ensure that the latest generation of models is kitted out with top quality components that ensure sophisticated ergonomics for a stress-free in-cab environment. Features in the spacious cab include generous glazing for excellent all-around visibility, the tilting steering column, hydraulic steering, and the Grammer MSG65 seat. What sets the Combi-CB70E apart from other forklifts is its gas strut suspension cab, which uses components such as those found in large-scale industrial machinery with cab suspension. Combined with the super-elastic tires this guarantees the smoothest of rides over uneven or less-than-perfect ground conditions such as those typically experienced in lumber yards. Combilift’s newly developed Auto Swivel Seat also premiered at the Ligna show. This optional feature automatically engages and swivels the seat and armrest 15° to the right or left to accord with the direction of travel selected by the operator – reducing driver strain, particularly when traveling in reverse. (Patent Pending Application No. 2305983.5) The truck also features Combilift’s internationally patented and Red Dot-awarded independent electric traction which provides all front and rear drive wheels with 100% traction control. This negates the need for a differential lock on slippery surfaces and significantly reduces long-load momentum twisting when traveling sideways. Each electric drive incorporates parking and regenerative dynamic braking for power efficiency. Roll-out access for major electrical components also simplifies maintenance tasks. This mix of next-gen performance, extensive battery life, and exceptional ergonomics combined with all the advantages of the Combi-CB range, makes this the most powerful compact electric multidirectional forklift to date. Combilift CEO and Co-Founder Martin McVicar said: “The increased capacities that we are offering in our electric range will answer the demand for ever more powerful products which at the same time help companies to achieve their aims for more sustainable operations. We chose Ligna as the platform for launching the Combi-CB70E due to its innate suitability for customers in the timber sector, but we are confident that this model will be a popular addition to our portfolio for many other industry applications.”
Episode 384: Intralogistics Solutions with Joel Thomas of Siemens
Live from ProMat 2023 Joel Thomas, Director of Intralogistics at Siemens, stops by the booth to discuss the future of warehousing and intralogistics’ role in shaping it. If you aren’t familiar with Siemens, they provide engineering solutions in the industrial and manufacturing space. In this episode, Kevin and Joel talk about how intralogistics technology is revolutionizing the way warehouses and factories operate today, as well as what we can expect from Siemens and other innovators in the near future. What is Intralogistics? Thomas defines Intralogistics as “the movement of material within the four walls” Thanks to technological advancements and the need to address labor shortages and customer expectations, the role of automated material handling equipment in intralogistics, such as automated guided vehicle systems, is becoming more prevalent. Effective use of intralogistics solutions improves productivity and efficiency and increases quality and customer satisfaction. Siemens’ End-to-End Solutions and the Power of Digital Twins Many businesses in the material handling industry are tentative about adopting automated intralogistics solutions, often raising concerns that automation won’t deliver what it promises. Siemens aims to provide end-to-end solutions that give customers a closed-loop digital twin of their facility, allowing them to simulate and test automation before investing. A dream come true for project management. Thomas explained during the podcast that Siemens’ approach is to take the data from a customer’s real-world facility and bring it back into their algorithms. By running simulations using this data, they can identify potential issues a company may face in the future. Thomas adds, “Siemens provides that end-to-end solution where we can combine the electrical, the mechanical, the programmable logic controller (PLC), the logic, and everything so you can tell what your utilization is and what your throughput will be.”The digital twin technology ensures throughput matches reality for end customers, ultimately saving costs and reducing risks associated with implementing new material handling systems. Supporting Customer Success and Embracing Sustainable Intralogistics Solutions Siemens focuses on real added value and aims to support customers and their client base by introducing cutting-edge technologies tailored to their needs. Sustainability and energy efficiency are also crucial factors in their quest for optimization. During the podcast, Thomas talked about Siemens’ pledge to be net carbon zero by 2030 and the company’s commitment to achieving this through higher-efficiency motors and drives. Optimizing systems is also essential, as oversized components can lead to an overabundance of energy usage. With their digital twin technology, Thomas says, Siemens can ensure that components are properly sized, utilized, and matched to energy requirements. This results in intralogistics solutions that use less energy and achieve the desired energy efficiency. Siemens also considers ways to reuse energy efficiently, such as transmitting power back into the main for reuse elsewhere. Key Takeaways Digital twin technology allows for factory simulations, ensuring throughput matches reality and saves costs. Siemens is focused on sustainability and optimizing energy efficiency within their intralogistics solutions. Proper sizing of components can save energy and costs, streamlining warehouse processes and boosting overall efficiency. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 384: Intralogistics Solutions with Joel Thomas of Siemens
Port of Long Beach trade softens in April
Cargo declines due to reduced consumer demand, shifting trade routes Cargo container traffic slowed at the Port of Long Beach in April as consumers continued to limit purchases and shippers shuffled trade from the West Coast to seaports on the East and Gulf coasts. Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 656,049 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) last month, down 20.1% from April 2022, which was the Port’s busiest April on record. Imports declined 21.8% to 313,444 TEUs, while exports increased a narrow 0.6% to 122,663 TEUs. Empty containers moving through the Port decreased by 26.2% to 219,943 TEUs. “The unprecedented consumer demand we saw at the height of COVID-19 has diminished and cargo flows are now closer to pre-pandemic levels,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “We expect slow growth in the second half of 2023, as retailers continue to clear surplus inventory from their warehouses.” “Our facilities, dockworkers, marine terminal operators, and staff continue to make this the premier gateway for trans-Pacific goods movement,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Sharon L. Weissman. “So we do expect cargo volumes to rebound eventually as shippers seek out the top-notch customer service of the Port of Choice.” Economists say consumer spending has softened since the start of the year, while the Federal Reserve’s interest rate adjustments have slowed inflation as intended. The Port has moved 2,377,375 TEUs during the first four months of 2023, down 27.5% from the same period in 2022.
CP&A: ‘Is Hiring a Consultant Better Than an Employee?’
Casper, Phillips & Associates (CP&A), based in Tacoma, USA, has seen a rise in demand for its engineering design services, leading to the conclusion that companies have decided that it is better to hire a consultant rather than take on an employee, and is looking further at the benefits of this. According to Richard Phillips, a mechanical engineer at CP&A, the advantages to companies outsourcing work reduces the cost of a salaried employee and associated taxes and health care with that as well as overhead costs of hiring office space and computers. It could also solve the current problem of labor shortages by finding someone who has the right skills and experience and staff training. “We don’t want to work for our clients as their employees. Therefore, all our engagements are closed-ended. We determine how many program days are required to do a project, and charge for them, and only them. On successful completion of a project many clients then ask us to help with other projects, continuing the relationship. But, when the final program day comes, we move on to the next project,” said Phillips. “Our primary goal is to give our clients a competitive advantage over the competition. We are essentially a team that can be quickly hired and laid off without any onboarding costs or severance packages. If I were an employee, I’d strive for the opposite: permanence and dependency. “Our clients pay nothing into a 401k [profit-sharing plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their wages to individual accounts] on our behalf, and because we are outside vendors, the typical employee taxes and benefits don’t apply. We have our own computers, software, office space, etc. While we may charge multiples of what typical employees are paid, we can be more cost-effective, because we don’t have any idle time. In other words, our work is 100% put towards production. We don’t bill for typical overhead costs such as estimating, writing proposals, and other non-billable tasks that employees need to perform. “Another competitive advantage is the fact that we are outside experts. Our clients don’t currently have our capabilities, ideas, experience, or capacity to innovate. And we can be objective and work only at the margins of company politics. We’re not there to fit in, but to help them to stand out.” Clients who have previously worked with CP&A include National Oilwell Varco’s AmClyde brand, where CP&A provided the structural design of two different Whirley cranes for Ingalls Shipyard. Additionally, CP&A has provided design services to container crane manufacturers such as DHHI, DOOSAN, HHMC, IMPSA, and ZPMC. In the overhead crane industry, CP&A has provided structural and mechanical designs that were built by American Crane & Equipment Corporation. Phillips added, due to the labor shortage issue, a lot of companies have been looking more into the idea of outsourcing, to see if it’s better than hiring someone full-time. “There are advantages such as not having to carry out a training period, because we are already experienced engineers. We all know how to work together and although our billing rates may be higher, it’s justifiable because they don’t have to pay for benefits, employment taxes, or pension funds,” he added. “There’s two ways to do cranes. There’s design-build, where companies hire us to work under the fabricator. And then there’s design, bid, and build, where we design the crane and support the owner in a bidding contract.” CP&A also specializes in designing cranes that can survive an earthquake, otherwise known as seismic analysis. The company received many requests from various ports following the earthquake in Turkey on February 6, 2023, when a 7.8 magnitude earthquake rocked the country southeast near the Syrian border. CP&A designed a set of container cranes equipped with an anti-systemic system for DHHI for Asyaport in Turkey that were designed for a D3 level earthquake. A D3 level earthquake is a maximum considered earthquake that is expected to occur once in approximately every 2,500 years. “When you design a crane for an earthquake, the minimum that you must do is make sure the crane doesn’t collapse. It doesn’t have to be operational, and workers must be able to get off the crane safely. However, BASIS [crane base anti-seismic isolation system] will allow a crane to be operational after a much higher magnitude earthquake, keeping the top structure stable using special friction dampers as the ground shifts beneath it. We set the friction dampers to slip at a certain force so that the friction dampers do not slip during normal operation,” said Phillips. “It’s an innovative use of technology, which existed before we designed the BASIS system, but only in buildings in certain seismic regions such as Asia, South America, and West Coast USA. We are the first to use friction dampers for base isolation in the crane industry.”
Durante Rentals, LLC acquires assets of Iron Source, LLC
This strategic relationship will enable Durante Rentals to continue building a regional network of equipment rental, sales, and service for its expanded customer base. Durante Rentals has just announced its acquisition of Delaware-based equipment rental provider and dealer, Iron Source. This move is expected to expand Durante Rentals’ reach in the Mid-Atlantic region and enhance its already robust product and service capabilities. Iron Source will continue to operate under its current branding, and its day-to-day managers, Chess Hedrick and Wyatt Wiggins will remain in their positions. All of the company’s employees will also become part of the Durante Rentals team. According to Kenneth Cockrill, CEO of Durante Rentals, the two organizations share many common synergies and are well-positioned to deliver world-class products and services while maintaining exceptional customer service. For Chess Hedrick, the acquisition is an exciting opportunity to expand the company’s fleet and resources, enabling it to grow its footprint much faster than before. Hedrick also emphasizes that the two companies share similar values, particularly their mutual investment in their employees and their safety. Durante Rentals has been a reliable name in construction equipment rentals since 2009, and its geographic footprint continues to expand with locations throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. The company serves a broad range of customers in various industries, including general construction, facilities maintenance, civil construction, homebuilding, structural engineering, entertainment, and government. It is currently ranked #73 on the RER 100 and has won seven INC. 5000 Hall of Fame awards. Durante Rentals is supported by Clairvest Group Inc., a top-performing private equity management firm with over CAD $3.3 billion of capital under management based in Toronto, Canada.
Ocado Group announces an Agreement To Acquire 6 River Systems
Ocado Group (“Ocado”) has reached an agreement with Shopify to acquire 6 River Systems. 6 River Systems is a collaborative AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) fulfillment solutions provider to the logistics and non-grocery retail sectors, based in Massachusetts, USA. It was founded in 2015 and developed an Autonomous Mobile Robot product called ‘Chuck’ that provides automated assistance to pickers in a warehouse, working collaboratively with human operators. James Matthews, CEO of Ocado Technology, said: “We are delighted to welcome new colleagues to the Ocado family. 6 River Systems brings exciting new IP and possibilities to the wider Ocado technology estate, as well as valuable commercial and R&D expertise in non-grocery retail segments.” “Chuck robots are currently deployed in over 100 warehouses worldwide, with more than 70 customers. We’re looking forward to supporting 6 River Systems to build on these and new relationships in the years to come.”
Flux Power reports 3rd Quarter Fiscal 2023 financial results
Third Quarter Fiscal 2023 Revenue Increased 14% to $15.1 Million Third Quarter Fiscal 2023 Gross Profit Increased 146% to $4.7 Million Flux Power Holdings, Inc. a developer of advanced lithium-ion energy storage solutions for electrification of commercial and industrial equipment, has reported its financial and operational results for the fiscal third quarter ended March 31, 2023. Key Financial & Operational Highlights for the Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2023 Revenue (Shipments) increased 14% to $15.1M in Q3’23 compared to Q3’22 revenue of $13.2M. Achieved 19th consecutive quarter of year-over-year revenue growth. Gross profit increased 146% to $4.7M in Q3’23 compared to $1.9M in Q3’22. Q3’23 gross margin was 31% compared to 15% in Q3’22, reflecting gross margin improvement initiatives including sourcing changes, design cost reductions, and pricing recovery of pandemic-related cost increases. Operating Leverage continued its positive trend for the nine months ended March 31, 2023, of revenue growth and gross margin improvement compared with no increase in operating expense. Net cash used in operating activities decreased 16% in Q3’23 compared to Q3’22 and 73% for the nine months ended March 31, 2023, compared to the nine months ended March 31, 2022. Adjusted EBITDA loss decreased 80% in Q3’23 compared to Q3’22 and decreased 74% for the nine months ended March 31, 2023, compared to the nine months ended March 31, 2022. Customer order backlog totaled $25.0M as of March 31, 2023. Renewed the existing credit facility with Silicon Valley Bank, a division of First Citizens Bank of $14.0 million to support working capital requirements. Strategic Supply Chain & Profitability Improvement Initiatives continued to accelerate the path to cash flow breakeven. Added 2 new large fleet customers, reflecting customers’ desire to fulfill long-term fleet needs of replacing lead acid battery packs with lithium-ion. Backlog Summary Fiscal Quarter Ended Beginning Backlog New Orders Shipments Ending Backlog December 31, 2021 $ 19,433,000 $ 19,819,000 $ 7,837,000 $ 31,415,000 March 31, 2022 $ 31,415,000 $ 20,495,000 $ 13,317,000 $ 38,593,000 June 30, 2022 $ 38,593,000 $ 11,622,000 $ 15,195,000 $ 35,020,000 September 30, 2022 $ 35,020,000 $ 9,678,000 $ 17,840,000 $ 26,858,000 December 31, 2022 $ 26,858,000 $ 20,652,000 $ 17,158,000 $ 30,352,000 March 31, 2023 $ 30,352,000 $ 9,751,000 $ 15,087,000 $ 25,016,000 Management Commentary “We continued our successful cadence of year-over-year revenue growth with our 19th consecutive quarter of revenue growth, combined with a renewed credit facility providing additional cash to fund higher working capital requirements driven by increased customer demand and to meet our growth goals,” said Ron Dutt, Chief Executive Officer of Flux Power. “We also continued to improve gross profit, up 146% in the third quarter to $4.7 million, and gross margin expansion of 16 basis points to 31% compared to the year-ago period. Adjusted EBITDA loss decreased $0.2 million for the quarter on a sequential basis, and decreased $8.7 million, or 74%, for the nine months ended March 31, 2023, compared to the nine months ended March 31, 2022. “The positive trend of operating leverage during the nine months ended March 31, 2023, versus the prior year supports our profitability goals with revenue growth of 85%, gross margin improvement of 197% against the operating expense of a slight decrease. “To supplement our customer support services in response to this growth in nationwide sales, we recently announced the opening of our new Atlanta facility. The facility will enable faster response times to our customer base, with an effective service and call center capability. Investment in the Atlanta office broadens our geographic footprint to bring comprehensive and responsive services to customers in the eastern half of the U.S. while also, and importantly, resulting in lower service logistics costs incurred by our Company. “Although global supply chain disruptions have lessened, we increased our inventory to $21 million as of March 31, 2023, to accommodate the lengthening of forklift OEM delivery timelines being experienced in the material handling sector. To address disruptions and reduce excess inventory, we have improved lean manufacturing processes and supply chain management. We have launched an in-house automated modular production initiative to manage module SKUs and accommodate diversification of cell suppliers and also utilized lower cost, more reliable, and secondary suppliers of key components including cells, steel, electronics, circuit boards, and other production critical components. “We recently announced a renewal of the credit facility with Silicon Valley Bank, now a division of First Citizens Bank (“SVB Facility”), of $14.0 million to support higher working capital requirements related to increased customer demand. This renewal, along with our existing cash, will continue to meet our anticipated capital resources to fund planned operations. We also continue to explore alternative capital opportunities to enable us to meet the demands of our aggressive growth trajectory. “Looking ahead, we believe our strong purchase orders, backlog and continued expansion of margins through improved sourcing and supply chain management, continual process improvement, and pricing is leading us toward what we believe is a clear path to profitability. We are focused on the continuation of our growth trajectory through the advancement of our technology, capacity, and customer and partnership relationships, and expanding into new markets. I look forward to additional announcements, as well as a customer demo day we are planning, in the months to come as we strive to create long-term sustainable growth and shareholder value,” concluded Dutt. Q3’23 Financial Results Revenue for the fiscal third quarter of 2023 increased by 14% to $15.1 million compared to $13.2 million in the fiscal third quarter of 2022, driven by increased sales volumes and models with higher selling prices, including greater sales to existing and new customers. Gross profit for the fiscal third quarter of 2023 increased to $4.7 million compared to a gross profit of $1.9 million in the fiscal third quarter of 2022. Gross margin was 31% in the fiscal third quarter of 2023 as compared to 15% in the fiscal third quarter of 2022, reflecting a higher volume of units sold with greater gross margin and lower cost of sales as a result of the gross margin improvement
Session with OSHA’s Parker added to Safety 2023 in San Antonio
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) will again welcome Doug Parker, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health, to a special general session at Safety 2023 in San Antonio. Parker will discuss the latest activities and future plans of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect workers across the country. The newly added session to ASSP’s annual conference and exposition will start at 10:30 a.m. CT on Wednesday, June 7, in front of thousands of workplace safety and health professionals. It will be held in the Stars at Night Ballroom at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, 900 E. Market Street, along the River Walk. Parker will present “An OSHA Update” that will include regulatory priorities, enforcement actions, and outreach initiatives. The 60-minute session will include an interactive Q&A with questions submitted via text by attendees. Afterward, Parker will meet with journalists at 11:45 a.m. Parker became the 13th assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health on Nov. 3, 2021. He participated in a similar session last June at Safety 2022 in Chicago. The special session will be part of a dynamic three-day program designed to inform and inspire occupational safety and health professionals attending ASSP’s signature event, held June 5-7. Safety 2023 is the 62nd annual conference of the world’s oldest professional safety organization. ASSP is headquartered in the Chicago suburb of Park Ridge. Safety 2023 attendees can register online, with groups of eight or more from the same company qualifying for a discount. Stay informed of the latest conference news at safety.assp.org.
Xeneta real-time container freight rates update: Week 19
Ocean freight rates plummet from peaks across European export trades, but the main plot fails to reveal the full story The cost of shipping containers out of Europe has plummeted from the peak prices of 2021 and 2022, with spot rates on the main corridors down by close to 70%. However, according to the latest data from Oslo-based Xeneta, some trade lanes are still capable of commanding prices far above pre-pandemic levels, with recent long-term contracts on selected corridors over 100% more expensive than 2019 equivalents. Xeneta crowdsources real-time rates data from leading global shippers, allowing it to assess the very latest market moves. Unsurprisingly, given current sentiment, Xeneta’s European export intelligence shows both spot and long-term ocean freight rates have collapsed compared to the historical highs recorded in the space of the last year to eighteen months. The bigger they are… “All arrows are pointing down, with dramatic falls across the board,” says Peter Sand, Chief Analyst, Xeneta, when referring to prices on the five main European export trades (to the Mediterranean, Far East, Middle East, US East Coast, and South American East Coast). “The biggest lanes are also the biggest losers, with the front haul Far East corridor down 69% year-on-year. Spot prices for the trade are now just under USD 600 per FEU, equivalent to 18% below the pre-pandemic average of 2019. The US East Coast route has experienced the sharpest decline in absolute dollar terms, with prices now a staggering USD 6 000 per FEU lower than their peak in mid-May 2022. As of early May spot prices on this recently very strong trade stood at USD 2 745 per FEU.” Falling away Long-term contract developments in the region are, on the whole, equally depressing for carriers, with agreements signed within the last three months down an average of 45% against peak prices. The falls range from a 26% decline on the Middle East bound trade, to a fall of 59% on the short haul to the Mediterranean. Despite the apparent weakness of the market, Sand is keen to highlight the complexity behind the headline collapse, with a range of individual trends emerging across the corridors. Hidden strengths? Starting with the spot rates he points out that the Far East corridor is the only trade where rates are currently below 2019 levels. By contrast, exports to the South American East Coast are currently 96% more expensive than they were in 2019, while rates to the Middle East are 47% up for the same period. “And this is despite respective falls on the corridors of 43% and 40% from peak prices,” he notes. “So, the question arises, does this point to relative strength, or the capacity for further heavy falls in the months to come?” Standing strong On the long-term market, the scale of the drops can, Sand emphasizes, distract stakeholders from the size of the gains recorded throughout the pandemic. He says this is particularly evident in two key trades: “Here we see rates in early May up more than 100% against 2019 levels. The trans-Atlantic front haul to US East Coast is a commanding 114% up, while the smaller, yet still essential, trade into the South American East Coast also shows triple-digit growth, up 111% for the same period. “In fact, the only trade with long-term rates significantly below 2019 levels is the shortest of them all, to the Mediterranean. Here we see rates down 38% since 2019 (and 59% since their peak in mid-August 2021), with current prices at USD 524 per FEU.” All eyes are on Germany Sand concludes that the rollercoaster rates ride will be “a natural focus” for logistics professionals attending the main Munich shows Transport Logistic 2023 and Air Cargo Europe 2023 this week, but warns against oversimplifying current developments. “There’s real value to be unlocked in diving down into the data for individual corridors,” he says. “There’s never a ‘one size fits all’ trend in this market, and current developments in European exports make that very clear. Intelligence pays, for all stakeholders in this dynamic industry.” About Xeneta Xeneta is an ocean and air freight rate benchmarking and market intelligence platform transforming the shipping and logistics industry. Xeneta’s powerful reporting and analytics platform provides liner-shipping stakeholders the data they need to understand current and historical market behavior – reporting live on market averages and low/high movements for both short and long-term contracts. Xeneta’s data is comprised of over 300 million contracted container and air freight rates and covers over 160,000 global ocean trade routes and over 40,000 airport-airport connections. Xeneta is a privately held company with headquarters in Oslo, Norway, and regional offices in New York and Hamburg. To learn more, please visit www.xeneta.com
Williams-Mystic Maritime Program students awarded Crowley Scholarships
Williams-Mystic Maritime Studies Program students Jessica Jiang and Ari Quasney were awarded Crowley scholarships for their academic achievements, demonstration of the company’s core values of drive, integrity, and sustainability, and interest in the maritime industry. Jiang, of Brooklyn, New York, is a sophomore at Williams College where she studies English. Her marine education spans multiple areas including marine ecology, marine policy, and American maritime history. During her studies with Williams-Mystic, she is researching the effects of rising climate temperatures on the feeding rate of an invasive species of crab, as well as the impact of plastic bans on low-income communities. Quasney, from Munster, Indiana, is also a sophomore at Williams College and is pursuing a degree in geoscience in addition to a combined degree in art history and studio art. They are a member of the deaf community and serve as the accessibility coordinator for the Williams College of Accessibility. As part of their studies at Williams-Mystic, Quasney is researching the effects of variable tides and wave energy on coastlines and examining how port cities adapt construction in response to natural disaster events. The Williams-Mystic Maritime Studies Program is a collaboration between Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, and the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut. The program offers undergraduates from across the U.S. a semester-long experience at sea with opportunities to conduct original research and travel while studying literature, history, policy, and science of the oceans and coasts. Since 1984, Crowley has funded more than 1,000 students studying at maritime academies and other select schools in the U.S. mainland, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Central America, totaling more than $3 million dollars.
Robotics Company is helping facilities leverage economic uncertainty to leapfrog competition through automation
Hai Robotics US, the recent winner of the MHI Innovation Award for Best Innovation of an Existing Product, is making more waves in the American warehousing and manufacturing markets. As a result of market research and evaluating lessons learned from the last recession, Hai Robotics has developed strategic programs that flip exceptions of business development in a recession on its head. The company developed programs that allow facilities to leverage times of economic uncertainty to their advantage through strategic warehouse automation and planning that situate companies for accelerated advancements when markets stabilize. In a slow market, many companies typically increase cash balances to fund operations. As a result, we often see reduced budgets and delays in buying large capital expenses, but the need for automation does not slow down. Companies still face staffing concerns, operating costs still need to be reduced, inventory management and loss prevention need improvements, and business security is always front of mind. COVID provided many lessons on how to manage warehousing and facility development in economic uncertainty and how to reduce risk of entry in those times. Back in 2020 – 2021, many businesses held off purchasing facility automation. Then, when those businesses returned to their automation advancement plans after the initial COVID recession, material and automation equipment backlogs were at an all-time high. Lead times were pushing 12+ months for certain solutions. Businesses that were desperate to speed up their automation plans that were already delayed by spending pause were then facing further delays due to everyone jumping in at the same time. In comparison, the facilities that had already started to implement automation before or through the pandemic were, in some cases, now over a year ahead of their competition in operational advancement. These companies also had automation, or the foundations of a large-scale automated solution in place, making them better situated to manage the labor shortage and surge of consumer demand that followed. Knowing that facilities will someday again need to navigate economic uncertainty while developing business, Hai Robotics evaluated the needs of companies in times of uncertainty and established automation solution options that turn recessions into periods of strategic growth through their pilot programs. The company’s automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) is “material agnostic,” meaning it provides automated storage systems created out of almost any industry standard racking and containers. As a result, the system inherently has a lower price point than many comparative options and provides system flexibility not common in ASRS – allowing for simplified expansions and maintenance. For many companies, this also means installing a larger system with lower cost and lower risk, adding business security in times of economic uncertainty. Hai Robotics is offering pilot systems consisting of 1 or 2 robots, racking & totes, 1 workstation, software that includes host interface, implementation, and staff training, as well as a co-developed roadmap for future expansion, for a total price point less than $250,000 USD. These systems allow companies to gain immediate benefits from automation while laying the foundation necessary for smart facility updates with low risk and low cost. Facilities are able to make adjustments necessary for all automated advancements with a smaller system, laying the foundation for strategic growth: Familiarize the facility and workers with the technology, hardware, and equipment Set up the software interfaces and base code Establish operational workflows and trainings Currently, with a pilot program from Hai Robotics, systems can be implemented in 6 months or less, allowing for more immediate operational security. Each system is designed with an understanding of the anticipated growth for that business, making system expansions simpler and with a lower price point at each stage of growth. This breaks up the costs of a full-scale solution, so companies only pay for what is needed as they need it. When asked about the pilot programs, Brian Reinhart, VP of Sales, Marketing, and Solutions at Hai Robotics US, replied, “We’re excited to help our customers begin their automation journey in a low-risk environment. We’ve been touting the technology’s flexibility a lot recently and this is another avenue to prove that value to the market. We’re committed to maintaining and supporting a low-cost point of entry and speed to market, two critical elements for those just beginning their adoption of automation.” Customers are seeing the benefits of this scalable solution and are experiencing the value in the simplicity of its ability to expand. “We have a big space, but we don’t want to buy too much upfront.” Adam Womble, Co-Founder of Avenue Shops stated, “The flexible nature of Hai’s system and the ease to add more rows of racking and robots made it the better system for us.” Avenue Shops, a full-service apparel sourcing, storage, and distribution facility that supports thousands of women’s fashion boutiques around North America, purchased a pilot system at the end of 2022 that reduces their storage footprint to 30% of the original space, increases storage height by 4x, and improves operator order fulfillment speed by 3-4x. As the business continues to grow, the system is designed to expand. Companies that utilize time when the markets are slower to implement pilot systems that set up the foundation for larger-scale automation can find themselves months, or even a year+ ahead of companies that chose to hold off all together until markets rebound. To know more about Hai Robotics’ pilot programs, contact [email protected].
KION Group donates over half a million Euros to the German Red Cross for the Earthquake Victims in Türkiye and Syria
The Intralogistics group supports the German Red Cross’ efforts in the earthquake area Employees donate more than €280,000 to the German Red Cross, the KION Executive Board doubles the sum Paid time off for KION Group employees who wish to volunteer in humanitarian aid operations in Türkiye and Syria Following the devastating earthquake on the Turkish-Syrian border in February this year, the KION Group is donating almost 600,000 euros to support relief workers and thereby help earthquake victims. “We’re still deeply saddened by the tragedy that has struck Türkiye and Syria and want to play our part by supporting aid operations in the long term,” said Rob Smith, CEO of KION GROUP AG. “We’re immensely grateful to our employees who have generously donated to help victims of the earthquake in recent weeks, and we are more than happy to show our solidarity by doubling the amount donated by employees.” KION employees from all over the world donated as part of a Group-wide campaign to raise money for the German Red Cross. The aid organization has been actively helping to rescue, care for and house those in need in the earthquake zone in Türkiye and Syria since the disaster struck. In addition to this, colleagues in Germany were also able to convert their working time credits (overtime, etc.) into donations. All time credits (gross) have been donated to the Red Cross, as the KION Group has covered all the tax and social security contributions due in full. Furthermore, employees who have a personal connection to the crisis region and who wanted to assist with the humanitarian aid operations on the ground—independently from the German Red Cross—were able to do so with full pay. A total of around €285,550 was raised from February to April through monetary and time credit donations. The KION Executive Board will now double this amount, bringing it up to €571,100, as an additional contribution to the reconstruction efforts in the region. CEO Rob Smith continues: “We would like to extend our thanks to the professional and volunteer relief workers on the ground who continue with their tireless work to overcome the devastating effects of this natural disaster. It will take years for the region to be rebuilt.” The donations received by the German Red Cross are being used to provide those affected by the earthquake with the vital support they need, whether it be accommodation, food, water, medicine, or psychological support. Further information on how you can support those affected by the earthquake can be found on the German Red Cross website at https://www.drk.de/erdbeben-turkei-syrien/
New Study: Propane terminal tractors up to 99 percent cleaner than diesel
Port Newark Container Terminal emissions data shows propane far surpasses diesel in terminal tractor emissions reduction New data released from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) and Port Newark Container Terminal (PNCT) shows propane-powered terminal tractors are significantly cleaner than their diesel counterparts in several key emissions reduction areas. In recent testing at PNCT, researchers collected emissions data from a MAFI-manufactured propane terminal tractor and Tier 4 diesel technologies. The results confirm the propane-powered tractor yielded 99 percent fewer nitrogen oxide (NOx) composite and idle emissions than either diesel tractor. Additionally, the propane tractor produced 77.5 percent fewer THC idle emissions, 14 percent fewer brake-specific carbon dioxide emissions, and 75 percent fewer TPM emissions than diesel tractors. MAFI’s propane tractor is powered by Power Solutions International’s (PSI) 8.8-liter propane engine, which is over 90 percent cleaner than mandated U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards and certified to the optional ultra-low NOx emissions standard as defined by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for heavy-duty engines with .02 grams of per brake horsepower. Plus, the propane engine competes with diesel engines on performance, providing 270 horsepower with 565 lb-ft of torque. “This near-zero emissions technology terminal tractor is available now for an affordable price,” said Gavin Hale, vice president of business development at the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). “Propane technology adoptions are continuing to grow at ports, terminals, and warehouses throughout the country to eliminate diesel emissions and make significant strides toward greenhouse gas reduction.” Not only are propane-powered terminal tractors cost-effective, there is also grant money available through the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) to support the transition to clean propane-powered fleet technology. This includes terminal tractors, propane autogas fleet vehicles, and energy production technology.
Papé Material Handling named Combilift Dealer of the Year for 2022
Earlier this month, Combilift awarded Papè Material Handling with the Dealer of the Year award for 2022. The award was presented during the annual ProMat event, held this year at the Drake Hotel in Chicago, IL. Combilift’s line of heavy-duty forklifts, pedestrian stackers, sideloaders, and other warehousing and construction equipment offer solutions for a wide range of floor plans and applications. Papé was particularly honored to receive this year’s award during Combilift’s 25th-anniversary celebration and Papé’s 85th anniversary year. The award serves as a great celebration of the two companies’ combined knowledge and experience. “Congratulations to all at Papé Material Handling on your North America Dealer of the Year 2022 award,” said Anthony Rooney, Combilift Sales Director for Ireland, UK, and North America. “I would also like to extend a warm thank you for making our 25-year celebrations so special. We are extremely grateful for the continuous support from Papé Material Handling. We were delighted the Papé Material Handling team could join us to help celebrate 25 years of lifting innovation.” “We are thrilled and honored to receive the North America Dealer of the Year 2022 award from Combilift during our 85th anniversary year,” said Chris Wetle, President of Papé Material Handling. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who consistently strive to provide our customers with the best solutions for their material handling needs. We are proud to partner with Combilift, whose innovative line of heavy-duty forklifts and other equipment perfectly complement our offerings. We look forward to continuing this successful partnership and providing our customers with the highest level of service and expertise for many years to come.” As a dedicated provider of material handling equipment to suit any operation, Papé prides itself on providing a wide selection of versatile equipment. For warehousing, construction, and other material handling operations, Papé is the source of equipment and machinery that meet a broad range of operational needs.
ELOKON appoints Mark Stanton as Senior Vice President of Sales
ELOKON Inc. has announced the appointment of Mark Stanton as its new Senior Vice President of Sales. Mark brings with him a wealth of experience in the materials handling industry, with a deep knowledge of forklift fleet management and forklift safety systems. Mark has worked in the industry for over 25 years, including serving as General Manager for Supply Chain Solutions at a publicly traded fleet management solutions provider. He has an impressive track record of driving growth and innovation, as well as leading numerous business units. Mark’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding ELOKON’s continued strong growth in the North American (USA, Canada, and Mexico) markets. “We are thrilled to have Mark join our team,” said Alexander Glasmacher, CEO of ELOKON Inc. “Mark and I have worked together in the past, and I know that his extensive experience in the materials handling industry, particularly in forklift fleet management and safety systems, paired with his strong management skills, make him the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that his leadership and strategic vision will help us accelerate our growth in the North American markets.” Mark’s appointment comes at a critical time for ELOKON as the company continues to expand its presence in North America. ELOKON is a global leader in safety and fleet management technology for industrial trucks, and its systems are used by some of the world’s largest companies to improve safety and productivity in their warehouses and distribution centers. “I am very excited to join ELOKON at this important time in the company’s growth,” said Mark Stanton. “ELOKON’s modern cloud-based forklift fleet management solutions and cutting-edge forklift safety solutions are helping to make workplaces safer and more efficient around the world, and I look forward to working with the talented team to expand our reach and impact in the North American markets.” Mark’s appointment is effective immediately, and he will be based at ELOKON’s US headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.