Farewell
For the past six years, I have had the distinct honor of writing for Material Handling Wholesaler. When I left my dealership to enter the consulting world in late 2016, I had no idea what to expect. I was well aware of many of the challenges that lie under the surface of the day-to-day operations in a dealership. My own company tackled some of these things head-on, and along the way, found innovative solutions that we never expected. As a consultant, I was able to tie these victories to key “best practices”. I believed then (as I do now), that any dealer, in any marketplace, can be successful if they commit themselves to a “best practice” methodology. Not every dealer faces the same dragons. The challenges are many: OEM relationships Undercapitalization Debt Ratio Expense control Personnel issues Regulatory agencies Taxes No need to fill up the page. We all get it. The best practices that I focus on in my business are the low-hanging fruit. We many times miss harvesting that fruit because the noise and confusion of the current marketplace tend to drive us toward “problem-focused” activity instead of “process-focused” activity. Please make no mistake, I am not advocating ignoring or discounting existential threats to the health of your dealership. It’s important to always create and deploy countermeasures for known and perceived threats. This is why I advise that dealers utilize a regular SWOT analysis. The issue I see too often however is when the leadership gets so focused on solving individual issues, they lose focus on their core best practice regimen. The processes and accountability measures that undergird profitable day-to-day, operations, cannot be abandoned for any reason. Problems are actually more easily and sustainably solved when solutions are achieved through the enhancement of best practices….not by subverting them or putting them on hiatus. During my time with RDS, I have assisted many dealers in creating and refining processes that continue to pay handsome dividends today. I have developed programs from the ground up, and have also helped dealers refine and focus existing programs for improved results. RDS has addressed almost every internal and external area of the dealership’s aftermarket departments. Expansion of customer maintenance programs Improving the field service customer experience Refining field service van inventory policies Service and parts teambuilding and motivation Compensation programs that engender a unified team SOP creation (or refinement) Effective, repeatable industry onboarding Even the best-performing dealerships were not ready for what was waiting for us in Spring 2020. Here we sit over two years later, still trying to cope with the aftermath of the single largest disruption to American business we may ever encounter. Even some of my most trusted metrics and ratios regarding rental assets, sales coverage, and marketing had to be adjusted for this unprecedented interruption to the status quo. While internal metrics (in extreme circumstances) should be adjusted based on market conditions, the “client-facing” processes that govern customer contact, pricing, documentation, internal expenses, and invoicing should be exempt from attenuation, especially when the headwinds blow. My consulting efforts during this COVID interlude were understandably affected. Visiting dealerships, and helping dealers establish new initiatives were really not on the menu during 2020. The madness only continued in 2021 as we could not seem to escape the continuing ramifications of our collective COVID nemesis. At the end of last year, I was constrained to reassess my own future in light of the changes that COVID had made to the industry. I had a growing desire to be more productive, and continue to grow and innovate in a more meaningful fashion than COVID allowed. Thankfully, I found an opportunity to partner with an organization that is devoted to growing not only its revenues but also its influence as they seek to widen its appeal and extend its reach more deeply into the supply chain. This new venture offers me the opportunity to stay much closer to home, yet still affords me a platform for sharing many of the same ideas I have had the privilege to share with all of you during my 6-year tenure. No doubt, I will miss the forklift business. It’s not an easy task to walk away from an industry after investing over 40 years of your life. Fortunately, I get to keep the memories, the friendships, and the things I’ve learned along the way. I appreciate all of the kind and thoughtful comments I have received over the years. They kept me writing when I felt like I might just be repeating myself. My heartfelt thanks to Dean Millius, my editor, publisher, and valued friend. This industry, although evolving, will always require bright minds and new ideas. Thank you for letting me be a part of that mix. I have no doubt you all will be eager for the challenges that lie ahead. You can always find me on LinkedIn if you want to share new ideas or just chat. Godspeed to you all. Dave About the Author: Dave Baiocchi is the president of Resonant Dealer Services LLC. He has spent 40 years in the equipment business as a sales manager, aftermarket director, and dealer principal. Dave now consults with dealerships nationwide to establish and enhance best practices, especially in the area of aftermarket development and performance. E-mail [email protected] to contact Dave.
156 new plans for Industrial Manufacturing Investment – Top locations for July 2022
Industrial SalesLeads has announced the July 2022 results for the newly planned capital project spending report for the Industrial Manufacturing industry. The Firm tracks North American planned industrial capital project activity; including facility expansions, new plant construction, and significant equipment modernization projects. Research confirms 156 new projects with Texas leading the top locations for July. The following are selected highlights on new Industrial Manufacturing industry construction news. Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Type Manufacturing/Production Facilities – 139 New Projects Distribution and Industrial Warehouse – 71 New Projects Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Scope/Activity New Construction – 51 New Projects Expansion – 58 New Projects Renovations/Equipment Upgrades – 59 New Projects Plant Closings – 11 New Projects Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Location – Top 10 States Texas – 13 North Carolina – 11 Florida – 9 Georgia – 9 Indiana – 9 New York – 8 Ohio – 8 California – 6 Illinois – 5 Michigan – 5 Largest Planned Project During the month of July, our research team identified 18 new Industrial Manufacturing facility construction projects with an estimated value of $100 million or more. The largest project is owned by Samsung Electronics America, Inc., which is planning to invest $192 billion in the construction of 11 semiconductor manufacturing facilities in the AUSTIN, TX and TAYLOR, TX areas. The project is in the early design phase. Top 10 Tracked Industrial Manufacturing Projects NORTH CAROLINA: A Semiconductor company is planning to invest $5 billion in the construction of a manufacturing facility in CHATHAM COUNTY, NC. They are currently seeking approval for the project. KANSAS: Electronics mfr. is planning to invest $4 billion in the construction of an EV battery manufacturing facility in DE SOTO, KS. They are currently seeking approval for the project. ONTARIO: Battery mfr. is planning to invest $1.5 billion in the construction of a manufacturing facility in KINGSTON, ON. Construction is expected to start in 2023, with completion slated for late 2025. NEW YORK: A pharmaceutical company is planning to invest $470 million for a 260,000 SF expansion, renovation, and equipment upgrades at their processing and laboratory facility in PEARL RIVER, NY. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Completion is slated for early 2026. GEORGIA: Specialty copper foil mfr. is planning to invest $430 million in the construction of a manufacturing and office facility in AUGUSTA, GA. Construction will occur in three phases starting in early Fall 2022. Completion is slated for late 2024. TEXAS: A steel company is planning to invest $265 million in the construction of a manufacturing facility in SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX. They are currently seeking approval for the project. MINNESOTA: A steel company is planning to invest $150 million for the expansion of their manufacturing facilities in KEETAC, MN or MINNTAC, MN. They are currently seeking approval for the project. MISSISSIPPI: Steel tube mfr. is planning to invest $110 million in the construction of a manufacturing, warehouse, and office facility at 1923 Airport Road in COLUMBUS, MS. Construction is expected to start in Fall 2022, with completion for Summer 2023. TEXAS: Specialty roofing mfr. is planning to invest $100 million in the construction of a 450,000 SF manufacturing, warehouse, research, and office facility in GEORGETOWN, TX. They are currently seeking approval for the project. SOUTH CAROLINA: Medical equipment mfr. is planning to invest $90 million in the construction of a 270,000 SF manufacturing facility in NORTH CHARLESTON, SC. They are currently seeking approval for the project. Completion is slated for 2024. About SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline. Our Industrial Market Intelligence, IMI identifies timely insights on companies planning significant capital investments such as new construction, expansion, relocation, equipment modernization, and plant closings in industrial facilities. The Outsourced Prospecting Services, an extension to your sales team, is designed to drive growth with qualified meetings and appointments for your internal sales team.
Bust Out of Service Fatigue: The What, Where, Why and How behind a decline in Customer Service Excellence
Does it feel like no matter how hard you try to please your customer, it isn’t enough? Are you in charge of leading others and the faster you train teams and build energy, the quicker it seems to fade? Are you a business owner feeling hopeless about the never-ending needs of staff AND customers while trying to achieve a profitable bottom line? You’re exhausted, right? This exhaustion is what’s called service fatigue, defined as that feeling that keeps you from delivering the excellent customer service your staff and patrons have come to expect. Left unchecked, this weariness can impact your business in many negative ways, from short tempers to lost business. Let’s unpack the what, where, why, and how of service fatigue and get on the path to busting out of it. What does Service Fatigue look like? You know what customer service delivery should look like. Attentive. Proactive. Genuine. Service fatigue is “less than,” and it presents in many forms. It’s when your customer experience is less than you—or they—expect. It’s a lack of energy, elevated stress, constant ambivalence, difficulty concentrating, missed deadlines, frequent mistakes, or safety compliance issues. The trickiest kind of service fatigue to spot is the kind the team thinks they can hide from guests. It’s still there, lurking beneath the surface, threatening to bring everyone down in its undertow. Where does Service Fatigue come from? After a stressful few years, various challenges have caused service fatigue levels to skyrocket. But the truth is, that service fatigue can strike at any time, and much of it is really nothing new. It’s short-tempered customers who escalate to anger quickly. It’s trying (and usually failing) to juggle multiple priorities at a time. It’s navigating ever-changing business policies. It’s responsibilities that outnumber hours in the day. It’s one bad attitude draining a team’s morale. Service fatigue can come from anywhere and knowing how to identify it is half the battle. Why does Service Fatigue matter? The short answer: It matters because it impacts your bottom line. When service fatigue takes over your business, everything is at risk. You can play a huge part in lessening that burden for your team and your customers. If it’s possible, make work a welcoming, encouraging environment for your staff so they can give your customers a reason to crow about the great experience they had. By recognizing service fatigue and equipping your team with the tools to bust out of its grip before it’s too late, you’ll ensure that everyone’s experience is that much better. How do we mitigate the effects of Service Fatigue? There are countless ways to bust out of service fatigue, and no two businesses will adopt exactly the same solution. Decades of experience in the customer service industry prove that there’s no silver bullet to finally overcoming exhaustion. Instead, it takes a combination of strategy, patience, and commitment to bolster your team and get them back on track to deliver the kind of remarkable customer service you and your customers expect. To get you started, here are a few ways to start busting out of service fatigue as soon as today: Build Better Boundaries Professional boundaries can be the single best tool to help bust out of service fatigue, whether you need to put them in place with your boss or you need to ensure your team knows that work/life separation is a good thing. Unless it’s imperative to your industry, do you really need to reply to emails at 8 p.m.? Is that gap or hiccup in a process at work really yours to lose sleep over? We all can and should go above and beyond to deliver customer service excellence. But when you’re doing far more than is expected, you may be bringing service fatigue on yourself. Be honest: Are you guilty of your own boundary breakdowns? Are there honest conversations you can have to get those boundaries—and your energy levels—back on track? Re-evaluate your boundaries today and find where you can firm them up. You’ll soon see what a difference they make in boosting your energy and positive attitude. Grant Yourself Rest! Who doesn’t love rest? While some have mastered the art of taking breaks, Americans tend to do things fast—and often multitask. We like the concept of rest, but the demands on our time often get in the way of our ability to truly take a break. There are as many as seven types of rest, from physical and emotional to creative and spiritual. The truth is, they’re all important, and giving ourselves the space to breathe when things get stressful is imperative. Rest can mean putting down your phone an hour early and reading a book instead, or using your shift break to do a brief silent meditation so you’re prepared to head back to work. When we prioritize rest and start to see it as doing good for ourselves, we are more energized to deliver customer service excellence. Bonus: When do I need to address Service Fatigue? No surprises here: If you recognize the signs of service fatigue, now is the time to bust out of it! Start by identifying what’s causing the fatigue, then set aside time to plan for change, including both big and small steps to reinvigorate your team and return to delivering customer service excellence. When you commit to the change, the hardest part is already over. All it takes from there is digging in to bust out of service fatigue once and for all! About the Author A Hall of Fame keynote speaker and author, Laurie Guest, CSP, CPAE, is an authority on customer service excellence. Laurie blends real-life examples and proven action steps for improvement. She is the author of two books and is writing a third on the topic of service fatigue. To learn more or connect with Laurie, visit www.LaurieGuest.com
Episode 307 – Combilift at MODEX 2022
Welcome to the New Warehouse podcast. In this episode, Kevin welcomes Paul Short, president of Combilift North America, as his guest. Combilift is a fast-growing multi-directional forklift manufacturer specializing in helping warehouses maximize storage capacity. Combilift builds fully customizable products and solutions for all types of warehouse environments. They provide a warehouse layout service to customers worldwide designed to increase storage capacity and improve flow. Key Takeaways Paul breaks down some of the products from Combilift, like side loaders, multi-directional lifts, and articulated forklifts, and how each is designed to improve productivity and reduce costs in the warehouse. He also discusses some unique features that set them apart from other manufacturers, like their focus on customer service, ability to customize products, and constantly innovating their product line. Paul shares how MODEX 2022 attendees are anxious to automate their warehouses. However, many companies are still in the learning stages and have a lot of technical stops to make before they are ready to automate. One of the steps that Paul’s team can help with is getting racking systems set up in the most efficient way possible. Combilift prides itself on innovation and making the environment safer for operators and the people around them. They found that removing operators from hazardous situations and improving visibility can create a safer working environment. Listening to customer problems and solutions leads to unique opportunities for innovation throughout the industry. They’ve done this by super-sizing slip sheets in the COMBI-CSS container loader. This time-saver can load and unload entire containers in under six minutes. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 307: Combilift at MODEX 2022
Schneider’s KayLeigh McCall selected as Women In Trucking’s Driver Ambassador
As a Driver Ambassador, McCall will raise awareness for Women In Trucking Association’s mission and promote women in the industry Schneider, a premier multimodal provider of transportation, intermodal and logistics services, is excited to share that KayLeigh McCall, driver and training engineer at Schneider, has been selected as the Women in Trucking Association’s (WIT) newest Driver Ambassador. WIT is a non-profit organization with a mission to encourage employment, address obstacles and celebrate the successes of women in the trucking industry. “Being selected as Schneider’s Women in Trucking ambassador provides an opportunity for me to spread the message that women can and will continue to be successful in the industry,” said McCall. “I’m honored to serve in this role to emphasize that it is possible for all generations of women – new to this profession, and those who have been in the industry for a while, mothers, wives, caretakers – to acquire the hard-earned skills necessary and lead a fulfilling career in trucking.” In her ambassador role, McCall will lead and organize efforts to empower and connect women across the trucking industry, as well as assist in developing and sharing various resources available including career services, mentorship, training, and scholarships. “We are thrilled to have KayLeigh McCall as our new Driver Ambassador,” said WIT’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ellen Voie. “Not only will she represent WIT and Schneider, but she will also be a visible spokeswoman for all female professional drivers today and in the future.” “KayLeigh is a phenomenal example of what we strive for every day here at Schneider – fostering an environment where our associates can develop their unlimited potential and make a real difference for themselves, our customers and for the betterment of the industry as a whole,” says Schneider President and CEO Mark Rourke. “We’re so proud of KayLeigh and look forward to seeing all she accomplishes as WIT’s Driver Ambassador.” Previously, McCall worked as a pastry chef, earning her Class A CDL in 2017 and driving a mixer truck for a construction company before joining Schneider in 2020. McCall discovered a passion for truck driving and feels empowered in her role as a woman driver and trainer. “For those looking to join the industry, my best piece of advice is to just do it, you won’t know until you try,” says McCall. “Schneider has provided an inclusive culture and platform of growth for my career, and I look forward to sharing my knowledge and empowering other women to join me.” In addition to her roles and responsibilities at Schneider and as WIT’s Driver Ambassador, McCall is a wife and mother of four. She brings tenacity, resiliency, and passion to her job every day, making her an asset to the Schneider team. To learn more about how Schneider elevates women in the industry, visit: https://schneider.com/company/corporate-responsibility/diversity-equity-inclusion To learn more about KayLeigh McCall visit: https://schneiderjobs.com/blog/2021-featured-female-truck-driver
How can Port Terminal Operators save money on Heavy-Duty Forklift Equipment?
Port Sustainability: Delivering Clean Energy and Performance to Ports In port and terminal operations, having trucks to ensure that cargo can be shipped in volume and in a timely manner is key. For example, with the advent of large ships carrying more than 23,000 TEU, the terminal generates a lot of activity. Additionally, in the current environment, having an efficient fleet of high-capacity electric forklifts may help manage costs across the business. But what are the main challenges of operating forklifts in ports and terminals? How can a BSLBATT® high-capacity forklift lithium battery help overcome these challenges? What is your challenge? Port Terminal Operators – The current environment for port terminal operations requires a high priority to reduce carbon emissions. This is mandated by most councils in cities across North America. To date, most port terminals continue to use diesel forklift machinery, which takes a huge toll on the environment, employee health, and the people living in these environments. A forklift operator at a port terminal arrives at work in the hot summer sun and sits above a hot diesel engine. Additionally, noise pollution from forklifts often requires operators to wear ear protection. With the BSLBATT Heavy duty forklift lithium battery, these challenges are solved. Financially, many ports operate under the direction of committees and require board approval for capital expenditures. Some of the challenges for port operators are being able to communicate effectively with the board and requiring capital expenditures to replace forklifts when operating costs remain low over the life of the asset. As a result, many diesel forklifts in operation today continue to operate well beyond a reasonable life cycle, and as costs begin to increase, the financial efficiency of the asset becomes inefficient. Some of these costs include maintenance and repairs, energy consumption, tire changes, and extended downtime, all of which result in the need for backup machinery, the most expensive of all. The solution available for ports today is the BSLBATT industrial electric forklift lithium battery. These batteries are especially popular with bulk terminals, as the superior performance and visibility allow operators to use the equipment like a conventional diesel-powered truck. Guaranteed uninterrupted operation in the most demanding applications handling heavy loads (beverage distribution, paper, wood, and metal industries), high lift heights (very narrow aisle applications), and large attachments (roll clips, push-pull, single and double). Choose BSLBATT® Heavy duty forklift lithium battery manufacturer for…. Adaptable Products Based on Different Forklift Dimensions When purchasing a forklift battery, most of the time you are buying it for a specific piece of equipment. The battery compartment dimensions, minimum forklift battery weight requirement, and the connector cable length and position are all important aspects that the new battery must be compatible with. This process becomes much more of a headache when you are forced to look through 400-500 different SKUs to find the battery that fits your equipment’s exact specifications. To make this step in the process a whole lot easier, you can look for a manufacturer that offers customizable battery models that can be adapted to your equipment. This way, you can purchase a base model battery for whatever type of lift truck you’re outfitting, and then add an adapter to meet the truck requirements. Looking for a forklift manufacturer with this type of modular battery design is important because these batteries can be utilized with different forklift brands and models if your fleet composition changes in the future. As a leading full China Lithium-Ion battery provider, BSLBATT® heavy-duty lithium-ion batteries are used by many fortune 500 companies including Toyota, Yale-Hyster, Linde, Taylor, Kalmar, Lift-Force, and Raniero. BSLBATT aims to allow every individual vehicle driver in the world to enjoy the extraordinary experience of the superior performance of BSLBATT batteries, just like the feeling that the operator finishes their shift – fresh and ready to work. Excellent and Ongoing Technical Support Traditionally, forklift batteries tend to be seen as a one-time cost of doing business, and great customer support is not high on the priority list. But with the advent of lithium-ion technology, where batteries are more of long-term technology investment, the customer support experience is more important for fleet managers to get the most out of their equipment. Make sure to pay attention to the tools and resources the customer support team provide such as: Online product guides and videos Product training programs Safety and battery disposal and recycling documents Service bulletins Being able to leverage a responsive, helpful technical support team to ensure batteries are being used to their fullest potential and maintained correctly to maximize lifespan is crucial in the world of advanced battery technology. Additionally, since lithium-ion batteries can have different chemical compositions, it is important for users to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging, storage, shipping, and maintenance. Whether the battery is purchased directly from the manufacturer, an OEM, or through a local equipment dealer, you should be able to contact the manufacturer for help with any problems or questions they might have. Minimized risk of operator injury Reliability is also important as many terminals operate 24/7 with tight turnaround times. Trucks need to work when needed in order to move goods where they are needed. Likewise, forklifts need to be flexible. Since modern terminals handle a variety of loads, having different trucks for different load types takes up valuable space and reduces cost efficiency. The safety of people, cargo, and infrastructure are also critical to the success of terminal operations. For material handling equipment, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is thermally stable and can handle very high and very low temperatures, meaning thermal runaway is less likely. They can be used in temperatures up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit without the risk of burning or damaging the battery. It is critical for operators to always follow the battery manufacturer’s instructions to minimize risk. Compared to other lithium-ion chemistries, lithium iron phosphate batteries are generally the safest when mishandled. BMS with Telematics Offering for Battery Data Management Lithium-ion battery technology is more than just a power source for your equipment; it is a useful
PAC Machinery’s PACK EXPO International Exhibit provides packaging solutions to increase production
PAC Machinery, providers of packaging equipment, announces the company’s largest exhibit ever at PACK EXPO International (Oct. 23-26; McCormick Place, Chicago), the most comprehensive packaging and processing show in the world in 2022. With unprecedented demand for packaging and automation, PACK EXPO International 2022 is packing the show with lots of new, exciting features according to show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. Sure to be a “must-see” exhibit, PAC Machinery will be bringing a diverse range of machinery of its most popular models including flow wrappers, automatic baggers, shrink machines, heat and vacuum sealers, and validatable medical packaging machines. See the packaging machines that top companies are buying this year in PAC’s 2,500 sqft. exhibit in the South Hall at S 3314. “Exhibiting at Pack Expo is a great way to meet face-to-face with companies planning a more automated packaging process, said Greg Berguig, VP of Sales and Marketing. “PAC Machinery can help facilities plan the next 1-3 years out, developing solutions that increase production without increasing labor, which is what companies are seeking right now. Additionally, increased output through packaging automation can help companies put off costly facility expansion by using their current space more efficiently,” Berguig said. PAC encourages attendees to bring their products so solutions can be developed with machine experts at the exhibit. Due to the wide range of applications and various industries and companies that attend this bi-annual show, PAC Machinery will be showcasing packaging machines from all product categories as well as automatic bagging materials from its bag’s division – including green, more environmentally friendly packaging solutions! See Machines featured from all these categories: Automatic Baggers Materials for Auto Baggers Shrink Wrap Machines Medical packaging machines Heat Sealers Flow Wrappers Vacuum Sealers PAC Machinery is also a part of the interactive PACK to the Future Exhibit that celebrates the role of packaging and processing through history and future impact. As a family-owned business, PAC is proud to have developed the first commercial heat sealer, the Sealmaster, circa 1970, on display. Scan the QR code on the exhibit to learn more about the history of sealing from PAC Machinery. Visit our exhibit South Building S-3314 Visit our show page JOIN US! ATTEND FOR FREE LEARN MORE WATCH OUR SHOW PREVIEW VIDEO Click Here
Port of Long Beach welcomes Pasha Hawaii LNG-Powered Ship
‘MV George III’ first to refuel with liquefied natural gas on West Coast The Port of Long Beach on Wednesday welcomed Pasha Hawaii’s MV George III, the first container ship powered by liquefied natural gas to refuel on the West Coast. The ship’s LNG-powered engines are dramatically cleaner than those of a traditional cargo ship. Following George III’s inaugural visit to Long Beach, the newly built 774-foot-long ship will begin its maiden voyage to its home port in Honolulu. And there’s another LNG Pasha ship on the way – the Janet Marie will be the second of two “Ohana Class” container ships to join Pasha Hawaii’s fleet, in the fourth quarter of 2022, in service between Hawaii and the U.S. mainland. “Reducing ship emissions will have a significant and positive impact on the region’s air quality,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “We thank Pasha Hawaii for leading the way in green shipping at the Green Port.” “This is another positive step toward the widespread adoption of alternative fuels in cargo shipping and using cleaner technology to do business at the Port,” said Harbor Commission President Sharon L. Weissman. “Pasha Hawaii shares our long-term commitment for growing sustainably and responsibly.” “As we mark our 75th anniversary and welcome George III to Long Beach, we are proud to continue my family’s legacy of innovation and environmental stewardship, while recognizing our employees as our extended ‘ohana,’ ” said George Pasha IV, president and CEO, Pasha Hawaii. “We are also grateful for our partnership with the Port of Long Beach. Being able to fuel MV George III with natural gas at the Port reflects our shared vision of minimizing our environmental impact while setting a new standard for shipbuilding in the U.S.” The vessel was named after George Pasha IV’s late father, George Pasha III. Operating fully on natural gas, the new vessel surpasses the International Maritime Organization’s 2030 emission standards for ocean vessels, representing the most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly class of vessel to serve Hawaii and one of several that serve Long Beach. Energy efficiencies are also achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller. LNG-powered ships achieve a 99.9% reduction in diesel particulate matter and sulfur oxide emissions, 90% less nitrogen oxides, and a 25% reduction in carbon dioxide compared to ships running on traditional fuels. Accommodating Pasha Hawaii’s new LNG-fueled ship aligns with the Port of Long Beach’s dedication to environmental sustainability and strengthens its commitment to the Green Port Policy and San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan enacted more than 15 years ago. Those historic actions have led to unprecedented reductions in emissions connected to goods movement as the Port continues to work toward meeting a goal of deploying all zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment by 2030 and zero-emissions drayage trucks by 2035. The Port of Long Beach is one of the world’s premier seaports, a gateway for trans-Pacific trade, and a trailblazer in goods movement and environmental stewardship. As the second-busiest container seaport in the United States, the Port handles trade valued at more than $200 billion annually and supports 2.6 million trade-related jobs across the nation, including 575,000 in Southern California. Pasha Hawaii, an independent operating subsidiary of The Pasha Group, is one of the nation’s leading domestic ocean shipping companies serving Hawaii from the continental United States. The company operates a fleet of seven fully Jones Act-qualified vessels and operates out of multiple port terminals. Pasha Hawaii is a trusted partner for many of the nation’s leading retailers, manufacturers, and U.S. government agencies, providing reliable containerized and roll-on/roll-off cargo services that leverage its unique combination of ocean transportation and inland distribution capabilities to deliver goods that are vital to the people of the State of Hawaii and the prosperity of the Hawaii market it serves.
San Pedro Bay Ports seek comment on second Drayage Truck Assessment
The public may submit feedback through Sept. 27 The public is invited to comment on a draft 2021 feasibility assessment of cleaner drayage truck technologies needed to help the San Pedro Bay ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach reduce air pollution and reach the ambitious zero-emissions goals adopted in the 2017 Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) Update. The draft 2021 assessment, which builds upon the inaugural 2018 assessment, examines the current state of technology, operational characteristics, economic considerations, infrastructure availability, and commercial readiness related to zero-emissions and low-emissions drayage trucks. The draft 2021 feasibility assessment is available on the CAAP website, posted here. Comments on the 2021 draft feasibility assessment for drayage trucks will be accepted through Sept. 27 and can be emailed to [email protected]. The updated CAAP established goals of zero-emissions trucks by 2035 and zero-emissions terminal equipment by 2030. As part of this strategy, the ports committed to developing feasibility assessments every three years for drayage trucks and terminal equipment to inform the ports’ approach to meeting those goals. Currently, the ports are demonstrating 56 pieces of cargo-handling equipment, including zero-emissions yard tractors, top handlers, forklifts, and rubber-tired gantry cranes, and 16 class 8 on-road trucks, including hybrid, battery-electric, and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, with a number of additional terminal equipment and on-road trucks to be commissioned by the end of the year. Updated in 2017, the CAAP contains a comprehensive strategy to accelerate progress toward a zero-emissions future while protecting and strengthening the ports’ competitive position in the global economy. Since 2005, port-related air pollution emissions in San Pedro Bay have dropped 90% for diesel particulate matter, 63% for nitrogen oxides and 97% for sulfur oxides. Targets for reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs) from port-related sources were introduced as part of the 2017 CAAP Update. The document calls for the ports to reduce GHGs to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. The CAAP was originally approved in 2006.
TA Services named ‘Great Supply Chain Partner’
TA Services, a full-service 3PL (third-party logistics) provider, has announced that it has been included in SupplyChainBrain‘s list of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners. For two decades this award has recognized customer-nominated companies that show a dedication to providing outstanding solutions and services. “In a year that has proven to have ups and downs for many companies’ supply chains, our team has worked tirelessly to help our customers overcome shipping obstacles and deliver stability to their shipping needs. I’m thankful for the stellar TA Services team who continuously provides excellent customer service,” said Scott Schell, president and CEO of TA Services. “It’s always exciting to be recognized for the hard work and dedication that we provide our customers.” With over 36 years of industry experience, TA Services offers a wide variety of domestic and international transportation management and modes including dry van, truckload, flatbed, heavy haul, expedited, refrigerated, and less-than-truckload (LTL). Just this year, TA Services streamlined communication touchpoints and simplified orders between businesses and shippers by implementing their Supplier Portal, which calculates pricing models for shippers, earning Director of Cross-Border Logistics, Andrew Welling, the recognition of being named Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2022 Pros to Know List. Additionally, this year, TA Services acquired Alabama-based C2 Freight Resources to expand brokerage services as well as open a new cross-docking facility in Laredo, Texas. TA Services was also named to Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2022 Top Supply Chain Projects for TA Services’ overseeing of transportation management for a Memphis-based construction project that required specialized services other than just mill-to-mill operations. “Our six-month online poll of supply chain professionals requires a qualified response, asking them to nominate vendors and service providers whose solutions have made a significant impact on their company’s efficiency, customer service, and overall supply chain performance,” said Brad Berger, Publisher, SupplyChainBrain. “This year’s field of nominees was highly competitive and overall excellent – coming from all sectors of supply chain management. TA Services will appear in the 2022 August issue of SupplyChainBrain magazine and on SupplyChainBrain.com as an honored member of this year’s 100 Great Supply Chain Partners.”
31% of retirees say continued inflation would motivate them to rejoin the workforce
43% of retirees say age could be a barrier to finding a new job More than three in 10 U.S. retirees say they would be motivated to rejoin the workforce if inflation continued to eat into their savings, according to the latest American Staffing Association Workforce Monitor® online survey conducted by The Harris Poll. In addition to inflation, the role of Social Security insurance was also top of mind for many retirees, with 25% saying they’d be motivated to rejoin the workforce if Social Security no longer covered their expenses. Thirty-nine percent of retirees cited Social Security as their main source of income, while 33% cited retirement plans such as 401(k) accounts and pensions. Overall, 14% of current retirees stated they are open to or actively looking for work. However, the study found that 43% of retirees said their age could be a barrier to getting a new job. In addition, 41% of retirees would look for a job if they could have a flexible work schedule, and 35% would do so if they could work remotely full-time. “At a time when more retirees need additional income and employers need their expertise and experience, older workers continue to face hiring barriers,” said Richard Wahlquist, president and Chief Executive Officer of the American Staffing Association. “Employers that take steps to embrace flexibility and diversity across their entire workforces will be more productive and have higher levels of employee engagement.” The news comes at a time when there are nearly two job openings per unemployed person in the U.S., according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Method This survey was conducted online within the U.S. by The Harris Poll on behalf of ASA June 2–6, 2022, among a total of 2,027 U.S. adults age 18 and older of whom 459 were retired and not employed. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data are accurate to within + 2.8 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact Megan Sweeney at 703-253-1151.
Fairbanks Scales to showcase weighing innovations at Farm Progress Show 2022
Fairbanks Scales Inc., the oldest scale company in the U.S. and the world’s leader in weighing equipment, announces it will be showcasing several state-of-the-art industrial scales at the Farm Progress Show, August 29 – September 1, 2022, in Boone, Iowa. On display in booth # 444 will be Fairbanks’ Aegis Floor Scales, the FB1200 Instrument, our 1605 Remote Display, and the Perten 5200 Farm Grain Moisture Meter. Fairbanks Scales dependable, low-profile Aegis floor scales, featuring the latest advancements in weighing technology, will be promoted at the show. Constructed with A36 mild steel, and built with years of accurate and reliable service, the Aegis Industrial Mild Steel floor scales are ideal for general weighing applications in the agriculture market. Additionally, show attendees will be able to view the 1605 Series Remote Display, and watch and discuss with experts how it operates. Fairbanks’ high-intensity LED remote display with the integrated traffic light is designed to save you time, space, and money by combining traffic control and display functions in a single device. The FB1200 Industrial Scale Instrument, designed for basic applications using analog bench scales, floor scales, tank assemblies, or livestock scales will also be featured at the show. The instrument uses the livestock filter to calculate the weight of a single animal or a group. It also holds the highest stable or unstable weight, even when the weight is removed, perfect for agricultural use. Perten Instruments analytical products, ideal for use in monitoring quality, meeting specifications, and setting commodity pricing, will also be promoted at the show. Perten Instruments products are an excellent choice for such industry segments as biofuels, grain farmers and traders, oilseed processors, flour milling, and wet and dry corn processing. The Perten AM 5200 Farm Grain Moisture Meter is the most accurate and repeatable moisture meter available. Ideal for analyzing grains, oilseeds, pulses, beans, lentils, and seeds for moisture, test weight, and temperature, the AM 5200 can be used as a stand-alone moisture meter at terminals or can be integrated into automated testing systems.
Rail Traffic for the week ending August 13, 2022
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending August 13, 2022. For this week, total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 502,775 carloads and intermodal units, down 0.3 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending August 13 were 237,851 carloads, up 1.3 percent compared with the same week in 2021, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 264,924 containers and trailers, down 1.8 percent compared to 2021. Four of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2021. They included coal, up 2,497 carloads, to 69,300; grain, up 2,037 carloads, to 21,408; and nonmetallic minerals, up 1,710 carloads, to 34,323. Commodity groups that posted decreases compared with the same week in 2021 included metallic ores and metals, down 2,959 carloads, to 21,743; miscellaneous carloads, down 595 carloads, to 8,781; and petroleum and petroleum products, down 582 carloads, to 9,732. For the first 32 weeks of 2022, U.S. railroads reported a cumulative volume of 7,369,244 carloads, down 0.1 percent from the same point last year; and 8,443,509 intermodal units, down 5.6 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 32 weeks of 2022 was 15,812,753 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 3.1 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending August 13, 2022, on 12 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 333,905 carloads, up 1.5 percent compared with the same week last year, and 356,333 intermodal units, down 1.3 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 690,238 carloads and intermodal units, up 0 percent. North American rail volume for the first 32 weeks of 2022 was 21,607,752 carloads and intermodal units, down 2.9 percent compared with 2021. Canadian railroads reported 74,564 carloads for the week, up 2.7 percent, and 75,251 intermodal units, up 0.2 percent compared with the same week in 2021. For the first 32 weeks of 2022, Canadian railroads reported a cumulative rail traffic volume of 4,596,939 carloads, containers, and trailers, down 3.3 percent. Mexican railroads reported 21,490 carloads for the week, down 1.4 percent compared with the same week last year, and 16,158 intermodal units, up 1 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 32 weeks of 2022 was 1,198,060 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 1.2 percent from the same point last year. To view the weekly rail charts, click here.
See Orion’s S-Carriage, LoPro Drag Chain Conveyor, and other Pallet Wrapping Technologies at PACK EXPO 2022
Orion Packaging Systems, a ProMach brand, is displaying its vast array of stretch and pallet wrapping solutions, including its S-Carriage InstaThread Pre-stretch Film Carriage and LoPro Drag Chain Conveyor, in booth N-5646, at PACK EXPO 2022, October 23-26, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Known for durability, efficiency, and reliability, Orion offers the most comprehensive line of end-of-line stretch wrapping pallet packaging products available. Styles include rotary turntable, rotary tower, orbital, and horizontal wrapping systems. S-Carriage InstaThread Pre-stretch Film Carriage Orion’s S-Carriage brings several advantages to customers, including the ability to save up to 15% on film per load – substantial savings to help offset the rising cost of film seen over the past year. Launched in 2021, the S-Carriage improved upon what many consider to be the most important component of a stretch wrapper – the carriage. At the heart of the design are two pre-stretched rollers. The film travels in an S pattern around the rollers, providing over 180° of film contact to reduce slippage and neckdown. The result is a consistent pre-stretch of 260% at different tensions and 1” less neckdown. In other words, achieving this consistent level of pre-stretch means the customer can wrap faster while receiving better film yield; reducing film acquisition costs for shippers and improving end-user sustainability through less waste. The S-Carriage provides consistency and a unified experience for customers as it works across Orion’s entire stretch wrapping product line. On average, the S-Carriage enables customers to increase their loads per roll of film from 135 to 154, which equals a monthly savings of about $100. The S-Carriage allows customers to wrap faster while reducing film use and saving money. MA-DX LoPro and RTC Animations PACK EXPO attendees can watch interactive animation videos of Orion’s massive MA-DX LoPro Drag Chain Conveyor and Rotary Tower Automatic (RTC) Stretch Wrapper. Developed specifically for the beverage industry, the MA-DX LoPro Drag Chain Conveyor system is a safe and efficient method to wrap and move tall pallets of beer and other beverages. The system automatically receives, wraps, and discharges loads with designated specifications. It can accept three pallets at one time, allowing it to be operated by just one person, which saves on labor costs. The LoPro Drag Chain Conveyor is a low profile, three-strand chain conveyor with a passing height of only four inches, loading of up to three 2,500 pound-pallets from either a forklift or hand-powered electric walkie pallet jacks. The basic system includes one infeed conveyor, one wrap zone conveyor, and one exit conveyor. Loads are automatically sequenced through the conveyors, and the machine will automatically apply pre-stretched film to the load, cut the film, and wipe the film tail to the load. Orion’s Rotary Tower Automatic (RTC) Stretch Wrapper is a space-saving rotary automatic wrapper that easily integrates with new or existing conveyance. The RTC is an ideal solution for easy integration with 18” pass-height conveyors due to its compact size, affordability, and the option to expand with additional conveyance. The machine is also compatible with IAV and AVGs. Ring Bearings Bring 6,000 Pound Weight Limit to Turntable Pallet Wrapping Systems A notable improvement customers appreciate is adding strength to the base frame and turntable support of its turntable pallet wrapping systems. Orion has replaced the frames and phenolic casters of its Flex line with one universal ring-bearing frame. This change simplifies fabrication and assembly with a standard, universal ring bearing, enabling the Flex line to handle a maximum load capacity of up to 6,000 pounds. The addition of universal ring bearings makes the Flex line (LPA, LPD, HPA, and HPD) more reliable with increased uptime, all while reducing overall maintenance costs. Orion’s Flex line of semi-automatic and automatic turntable pallet wrapping systems are cost-effective, rugged, and reliable machines that provide users with all the features needed to wrap pallet loads quickly and efficiently while using the least amount of stretch film. To see how these solutions can add efficiency and safety to your next stretch and pallet wrapping application, visit Orion in booth N-5646 at PACK EXPO 2022.
AAR statement on Biden PEB Report
President Biden’s Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) issued its report outlining recommended terms to resolve the ongoing rail labor negotiations. The proposal would provide immediate pay increases and an average employee payout of more than $11,000 upon ratification. “President Biden’s PEB issued recommendations that should set the framework for a negotiated agreement between railroads and unions,” said AAR President and CEO Ian Jefferies. “The recommendations would provide 24% compounded wage increases by 2024, with 14.1% of those increases effective immediately, along with additional service recognition bonuses totaling $5,000 over the course of the contract. An agreement based on these terms would lead to the largest general wage increase in nearly 40 years. “While the Biden PEB’s recommendations markedly exceed the rail carriers’ proposal, they provide a useful basis to reach a resolution. In the interests of all rail stakeholders, now is the time for railroads and their unions to reach a contract. The industry is prepared to propose agreements based on the PEB’s recommendations to provide our employees with long overdue pay increases and avert rail service interruptions.”
What to do in the current Finance, Rental and Leasing world
This should be fun! Here I sit putting my thoughts together on July 27 waiting on Mr. Powell to announce how much Fed Fund rates are increasing this month. I will assume a .75% increase which should make some people happy and others looking for a window ledge to climb out on. Obviously, those that leveraged up to take advantage of the super low rates are trying to figure out how to make the next debt service payment. On the other hand, those that kept their balance sheet in decent shape with adequate cushion to deal with a recession or AR problems caused by customers that leveraged up will continue to move on ready to take advantage of competitors running out of gas (I assume they have no EV’s). So, what is going on? Prime Libor Fed Funds Dec 31 rate 3.25 .583 .250 July 5 rate 4.75 3.57 1.75 % increase 46% A A A = stupid numbers but you get the idea… increase in interest expense (if you have a floating rate deal), which will eat up your cash flow as well as call for higher EBITDA numbers to meet your Debt Service bank covenants. And these numbers do not have the July 27 rate hike included. You may want to check with your banker to see how this will work out for you. If you have a fixed rate deal with a rate lower than what a current rate deal would cost, you want to do whatever it takes to keep that contract in place. If you have a deal in place that is steadily increasing, you can investigate a swap that provides a “cap” on the rate you pay. The swap can get a little complicated and expensive if the rate you agree to is never reached. So, talk to multiple sources to make sure you understand what is happening. Just to make things clear the rates shown above are the base rates on which the bank adds another 2-3%. For example, it is Libor plus 2 or Prime plus 3. In either case, you encounter a material increase in interest expense. Lenders that finance dealers, customer purchases, and lessors have to change their outlook on their operations as well. The rates, as well as collateral values, are moving around on them which has made them nervous. And when you add the recession factor into the equation that scares them even more due to potential defaults and reductions in collateral value should they be required to liquidate collateral. We have not mentioned the rental segment of the market, but for dealers, this could be a win or a loss depending on your ability to finance an increase in the rental activity. Looking at the June 2022 Small Biz Optimism Index? ….it does not look good at all. They posted a sixth consecutive drop in June with all 10 components declining. Owners expect better business conditions in the next six months at the lowest level in 48 years. 69% report significant impact from supply chain issues. Labor top business problem. These business owners have been paying low-interest rates up until now. They are in a tricky situation. This Index leads me to believe that the equipment rental business is going to soar because businesses will not be able to fund Cap-x transactions, and at the same time will want to avoid fixed costs, additional debt, and the high-interest rates associated with the debt. It will pay to keep what they have to avoid the inflation-inspired unit cost increases which also adds to their debt burden without any additional benefit. So, dealers who can provide parts and service for multiple brands, perform refurb work to lower the cost of replacing units, and have the capital to carry a short-term fleet for customers that only need units on a seasonal basis or an up and down work-flow schedule. As you have figured out already your balance sheet is going to be the determinant factor in how you work your way through this economic scenario you are facing. There are opportunities out there, but do you have the capital to make profitable things happen? Better figure out where you stand because all the noise about prices falling, and a recession that will lower prices and interest rates are all wondering if you have the cushion to make it through the recession. A review of the MHEDA 3-year forecast does not support robust growth for the balance of this year and most of 2023, which supports finding programs to make money without taking on any long-term debt service. What I would do is: Dig out all your financing and dealer agreements to make sure you are following the contract terms. Your auditors probably do this as part of their yearly work. So, ask them to provide what they have in their files, and if necessary, ask them to review your covenant calculations to make sure they are correct and in the ballpark. Along these same lines, you should have a template to calculate your EBITDA number. EBITDA is normally part of the covenant process but is easily misused for “one-time” expenses that should be removed from the calculation as well as monthly non-cash charges over and above depreciation that should also be added back into EBITDA. You may also have “not normal” expenses that could also be added back. For example, if you engage in a lawsuit and incur a substantial amount of legal fees, I would want to add those back since they have nothing to do with operating the business. Personally, a company I worked with closed existing locations and added new locations, incurring a big cost to move the equipment around. That cost was added back. Calculate EBITDA on a TTM (trailing twelve months) cycle and keep updating the annual EBITDA you projected. And what you really do not need in 2022 is for the new lease accounting rules to appear on your 2022 financials. Making
Engineering Handling, Inc. joins Apex Material Handling & Storage Companies
Apex Companies, headquartered in Oak Brook, IL, has announced that Engineered Handling, Inc, a storage and warehouse equipment supplier based in Charlotte, NC will join the Apex family of companies to support growing customer demand in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast states. The combined company—operating under Apex Warehouse Systems—unites the talents and capabilities of Engineered Handling’s existing staff with the sales, design, engineering, automation, and rack repair services of Apex Companies. Apex Companies is a full-service storage and material handling equipment provider – from individual pallet rack systems, forklifts, and lift equipment to full-scale warehouse design, integration, and automation; Apex offers customers one-stop-shop expertise. The team from Engineered Handling has built a reputation as a premier material handling systems integrator offering warehouse design, engineering, installation, and training services to clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southern states. In addition, they maintain a sales and stocking facility in Hickory, NC, and a sales office in Greenville, SC. These locations will join the existing Apex offices in Oak Brook, IL, West Chicago, IL, Aurora, IL, and Denver, CO. All Engineered Handling employees will be joining Apex. “We have known and worked with the Apex team for many years and have appreciated their high level of expertise and customer service. We look forward to becoming a part of the Apex family and continuing to grow the combined company in the future, said Jerry Welsh, president of Engineered Handling, who will join the Apex team. With its extensive footprint in the automotive parts and tool crib market, Engineered Handling expands Apex’s capability into this valuable sector. Additionally, the acquisition blends two active business units dedicated to used and overstock racking to expand the supply and affordability for customers throughout the U.S. The addition of Engineered Handling, coupled with last year’s acquisition of Alpine Equipment Co. of Denver, gives Apex a coast-to-coast footprint that will help propel the company’s national growth plans. “Apex’s acquisition of Engineered Handling is a testimony to our plans to make Apex a truly nationwide company. The Mid-Atlantic and Southeast states are areas of tremendous growth in the warehouse and logistics market. We look forward to adding our capabilities to those of Engineered Handling to serve customers in this growing market,” noted Peter DeHaan, Principal, Apex Warehouse Systems. The merger was concluded on August 15, 2022.
Keep dumpsters clean and deodorized
Nilodor Waste Container and Dumpster System takes the guesswork out of clean The customer experience starts in the parking lot where, too often, garbage and grease corals dominate a landscape where they should be invisible. Don’t just mask issues, eliminate them. Hospeco Brands Group, which comprises Acute Care, Adenna®, HOSPECO®, Nilodor®, and other popular brands, offers the most complete weapon in this fight, the Nilodor Waste Container, and Dumpster System, a product mix developed to keep dumpsters and trash cans, trash rooms, loading docks, and other high-odor areas deodorized and clean. An important distinction between the Nilodor family of products compared to other odor-fighting tools is that Nilodor products do not mask odors; rather, they eliminate them. The lineup starts with Chute and Dumpster Wash All-Purpose Cleaner and Chute & Dumpster Wash PLUS Bio-Enzymatic Cleaner, with Nilodew Deodorizing Granules providing maintenance between cleanings. Chute & Dumpster Wash is a safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly all-purpose cleaner with odor-neutralizing power. Available in a 1-gallon concentrate or, for an easier application, in a special applicator spray system that perfectly dilutes and releases a ready-to-use cleaner. Simply connect to a water hose, turn the dial to “solution spray,” and begin applying to the inside and outside of dumpsters to eliminate dirt and grease buildup and severe odors. To rinse the area after cleaning, simply turn the dial to “water” and rinse. For cleaning that’s a step beyond, there’s Chute & Dumpster Wash PLUS. This bio-enzymatic cleaner is formulated with safe, grease-loving, enzyme-forming bacteria and citrus oils. It works just like a regular Chute & Dumpster Wash by attaching to a hose. Severe odors may require agitation with a brush or broom. Both products are also suitable for compactors, trash chutes, outdoor eating areas, recycling areas, and any other applications for which organic matter results in foul odors. Between cleanings, pour in one to two pounds of Nilodew Dumpster Deodorizer, an easy-to-use, clay-based, granular deodorizer that contains a natural odor absorbent, a proprietary odor neutralizer, and Citronella oil. Nilodew is used to control and neutralize foul odors in and around dumpsters, compactors, trash cans, and recycling areas around the clock, for up to 7 days. For sewers, elevator shafts, water treatment facilities, and anywhere an abundance of odor needs to be neutralized, there’s Super N® Deodorizing Super Sock. As a safer alternative to hazardous parablocks, Super Sock contains a concentrated Nilodor odor neutralizer for effective, long-lasting odor control that fights odors 24/7 for 30 days. Also, use it for fire restoration.
GEODIS to acquire Need It Now Delivers to significantly strengthen its U.S. offerings
GEODIS, a world provider in transport and logistics, today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire the American company, Need It Now Delivers. The acquisition will enable GEODIS to significantly increase its presence in the United States in the areas of contract logistics and last-mile delivery. The acquisition will also consolidate GEODIS’s position as one of the world’s ten leading logistics providers. Marie-Christine Lombard, CEO of GEODIS, commented: “The acquisition of Need It Now Delivers is a key step through which we will strengthen and diversify our offerings in the U.S., providing our customers with a global and integrated end-to-end freight network in the United States, from international transport to last-mile delivery. This new acquisition represents an important milestone as we continue to progress on our strategic plan, Ambition 2023.” Need It Now Delivers operates an expansive domestic road freight network with more than 65 company locations and 300 distribution points, providing strong national coverage, particularly in the eastern United States. To offer its customers complete port-to-door logistics solutions, the company specializes in distribution, last-mile delivery, and multi-channel contract logistics across a wide range of high-growth industry verticals. Owned in part by management along with the private equity fund Palm Beach Capital, the New Jersey-based company employs approximately 2,000 people and is expected to reach revenues close to $750 million in 2022. “Our U.S. supply chain business has consistently grown over the last 10 years,” said Mike Honious, GEODIS in America’s President & CEO. “With the services, capabilities, and the leadership team of Need It Now Delivers, we will expand our offerings and support the growth strategies of our customers.” This acquisition will strengthen GEODIS’s American footprint and e-Commerce services portfolio, with customers able to benefit from the Group’s expertise in end-to-end supply chain expertise in freight forwarding, road transport, contract logistics, and last-mile delivery. Eric Mautner, CEO of Need It Now Delivers, said: “Since our inception in 1987, Need It Now Delivers has scaled rapidly to position ourselves as an industry leader with a special focus on omnichannel and last-mile delivery. Together with GEODIS, our teams can continue to build upon this momentum to provide customers with a more expansive network of flexible, efficient, and reliable services that will ultimately allow us to successfully meet projected industry dynamics such as continued e-Commerce growth and increasingly complex supply chains that require the need for omnichannel capabilities.” Once the transaction is completed, the GEODIS group will employ roughly 15,000 people across more than 200 locations in the U.S and exceeding 17,000 in the Americas. The combined organizations of GEODIS and Need It Now Delivers would have generated $3.7 billion for full-year 2021 in the U.S. The acquisition is subject to regulatory review and approvals, which are expected to be obtained by end of 2022. Both companies will operate as independent businesses and run their operations as usual until that time.
TVH employees raise $4,000 for local dog shelter
TVH Americas, a global provider of quality replacement parts and accessories for the material handling, industrial, and construction equipment industries, has announced that TVH employees raised over $4,000 for Melissa’s Second Chances, a non-profit animal shelter located in Shawnee, Kansas. As part of the Health and Wellness Program at TVH, Health & Wellness Coach Lucy DelSarto put on several events during June relating to pets including puppy therapy. During this event, Melissa’s Second Chances brought three puppies to the Olathe facility for the employees to play with during their break. Employees collected supplies for the shelter and used 8000 Health and Wellness Points to purchase Giving Cards to donate $4000 to the shelter. Employees earn these points through participating in events and challenges that can be redeemed for a variety of items, including Giving Cards. “Employees donated a van full of items including kennels, blankets, and more. I had tears of joy flowing from my eyes after finalizing the incredible donation amount of $4,000 for Melissa’s Second Chance Animal Shelter,” said DelSarto. “The shelter was in awe and incredibly grateful as they rely on donations and this has been a financially challenging year. The ripple effect of small acts of kindness definitely made a huge impact. I’m looking forward to doing this again and making it an ongoing part of the program.” In addition to all of the donations, two of three were puppies that were adopted by employees. The Health and Wellness Program is one of the many programs that TVH offers employees to give back to the community. TVH also has a variety of benefits that they offer to their employees, including full health care coverage, 401k matching, employee discounts, tuition reimbursement, and much more.