ASSP remembers deadly factory fire that spurred workplace safety
Workplace safety and health became national news more than 100 years ago this month when the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City led to the deaths of 146 garment workers – most of them women as young as 14 years old – on March 25, 1911. A few months after the tragedy came the creation of the world’s oldest professional safety organization – the United Association of Casualty Inspectors now known as the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) – a group that remains dedicated to progressively advancing the safety and health of workers everywhere, especially during the global pandemic. ASSP encourages all companies and their workers to join the Society in recognizing this anniversary by observing a moment of silence at 4:45 p.m. ET on Friday, March 25 – the exact time the first alarm was sounded – to pay tribute to the workers who died in the fire while also refocusing on creating safe work environments. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 5,000 people are fatally injured on the job each year. During the Triangle fire in lower Manhattan, fire exit doors were locked and other doors only opened inward, making it impossible for the onrush of workers to get out. The fire escape was poorly constructed and didn’t meet weight requirements. Fire department ladders couldn’t reach the upper floors of the 10-story building. Many workers died by jumping out of windows and into an elevator shaft as they fought to escape the flames. “The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was the deadliest industrial disaster in New York City history, and it inspired our country to address workplace safety in an organized way that didn’t previously exist,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH. “The tragedy led to a series of laws and regulations that improved workplace safety. It also caused a concerned group of insurance company safety engineers to start an organization that is now ASSP.” From its inception on Oct. 14, 1911, ASSP has grown into a global membership organization of 36,000 occupational safety and health professionals whose efforts reduce workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. But the work of safety organizations, employers, and federal agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is never complete. “Whether you work at a construction site, in a restaurant, at a manufacturing plant, or in a mine, the lessons of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire should never be forgotten,” Giles said. “Keeping our workplaces safe takes an unwavering commitment from all involved. There are always advances to be made and new ideas to be shared.”
Siena Analytics launches Intelligent Flagship Logistics Solution, Siena Insights
The AI-enabled platform provides real-time visibility into warehouse operations Siena Analytics, a provider in supply chain AI and image recognition for high-volume logistics, announces the launch of its flagship product line, Siena Insights. The solution will provide customers with enhanced visibility into their warehouse operations to ensure the highest level of real-time product quality assurance, without requiring deep knowledge of AI integration. Siena Insights captures three key components within the warehouse: image capture at the tunnel level, powerful analytics on data and images at the facility level, and learning insights (AI). Together, the three allow organizations to gain visibility into the complete lifecycle of inventory from pre-arrival to the last mile, delivering precise data thanks to the platform’s edge computing capabilities. Images of packages are both easily accessible and searchable, thanks to AI integration. The no-code AI platform easily integrates with existing warehouse technology, creating a fully automated workflow that does not require the assistance of data scientists for model creation. Siena Insights additionally boasts AI models for common package compliance issues, barcode, and label detection, no-read reason. These AI models have been effective in launching vendor compliance programs in 200+ buildings in North America while complying with network and security standards. “The supply chain moves fast, and eCommerce even faster, which is why warehouses need to be confident in the technology supporting their operations,” said John Dwinell, Founder and CEO of Siena Analytics. “What we identified was that warehousing lacked a complete solution that provided not just data and image recognition analytics, but took it a step further. The distribution lifecycle was incomplete. That’s why we implemented AI, to close the gap and deliver real-time visibility at the edge. AI is not just a ‘nice to have’ anymore, it’s a ‘need to have’.” Siena Analytics AI models can be updated as needed to ensure organizations receive the most recent and relevant versions for their warehousing needs. See Siena Analytics at Booth #B2702 at MODEX in Atlanta, March 28 – 31, 2022.
Cimcorp and Murata Machinery USA bring Logistics and Automation Excellence to MODEX 2022
At Booth #B7632A/B, Cimcorp and Murata Machinery will showcase their end-to-end automation solutions designed to bring speed, efficiency, and peace of mind to warehouses and distribution centers Murata Machinery Group members, Cimcorp, a manufacturer and integrator of turnkey robotic order fulfillment and tire handling solutions, and Muratec, a world leader in high-speed, automated logistics & material handling, CNC turning & fabrication, clean factory automation, and textile machinery, announce they will be co-exhibiting at MODEX 2022, from March 28-31 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. At Booth #B7632A/B, Cimcorp and Muratec will showcase their comprehensive range of automation technologies—including robotic order picking systems, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), and automated guided vehicles (AGVs)—through live demonstrations. As integrators of intralogistics solutions for food & beverage, grocery retail, medical, automotive, and various industries, both Muratec and Cimcorp help customers improve warehouse and distribution efficiency, sustainability, and profitability by customizing integrated systems designed to fit their needs and specifications. Booth visitors will also experience an innovative 3D model that will demonstrate how these systems integrate, showcasing end-to-end automation solutions that solve top warehousing and distribution challenges. Derek Rickard, Director of Sales, Cimcorp Automation Ltd., commented, “Fresh food distribution is a race against the clock, with consumer expectations rising around product freshness and fulfillment speed. It’s time to get ahead of the game with automation. Our solutions enable food distributors and grocery retailers to satisfy their customers with fast, fresh, and affordable products—and do so in a way that’s safe, stable, and sustainable.” At MODEX, Rickard will co-present an MHI-sponsored seminar with fellow MHI AS/RS Industry Group members, titled, “ASRS as a solution for e-commerce, online shopping demands, high transportation costs, supply chain issues, and product shortages”. This exclusive seminar will be held on March 29, in Theater H, from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM. Muratec will also showcase their CNC turning centers and a robust line of AGVS, including the recently added A-Series line-up to their existing Premex vehicles. The series adds seven standard-based models that are customizable for a wide range of load capacities, lift heights, navigation methods, temperature ratings, and software applications. “Our recent control in leading all North American operations in partnership with the AGVE Group allows us to further build on Murata Machinery Groups’ long track record of integrating automation and solving customer challenges,” said Scott Matlock, General Manager of Logistics and Automation Divisions, Murata Machinery USA. “I’m excited to introduce our AGVs to this year’s MODEX attendees. Common in Industry 4.0 settings, AGVs are a high-value, easy-to-implement first step in automation,” added Matlock. In addition, Muratec will host with the Institute of Grocery Distribution an “Automation Integration in Grocery Retail. Transforming Resilience, Productivity, and Value” seminar on March 29, in Theater D, from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM. Key takeaways will include understanding the key trends that will shape retail grocery supply chains, drivers, headwinds, enablers, and examples of those taking a lead. Also, learn how customized, fully integrated systems can increase the speed and accuracy of production and order fulfillment while evaluating ways to enhance process capabilities in storing, transporting, sorting, and picking goods, and evaluating ROI. Muratec and Cimcorp are co-hosting a Pints & Pawns appreciation reception on Tuesday 3/29 from 1-5p. The live demonstration will feature custom machine fabricated chess sets that will be given to customers who pre-book a meeting or RSVP for the reception. Cimcorp and Muratec experts will be available to discuss their unique warehousing needs, and share strategies to boost order speed and accuracy, overcome labor shortages, and integrate with existing systems. To learn more about Cimcorp and Muratec solutions, stop by the booth or pre-book a meeting with Cimcorp and/or Muratec, or RSVP for the reception to reserve your custom chess set while supplies last.
Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s Survey of Economic Activity: Monthly Leasing and Finance Index
February new business volume down 4 Percent year-over-year, 14 percent month-to-month, nearly 1 percent year-to-date The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s (ELFA) Monthly Leasing and Finance Index (MLFI-25), which reports economic activity from 25 companies representing a cross-section of the $900 billion equipment finance sector, showed their overall new business volume for February was $7.1 billion, down 4 percent year-over-year from new business volume in February 2021. Volume was down 14 percent month-to-month from $8.3 billion in January. Year-to-date, cumulative new business volume was down nearly 1 percent compared to 2021. Receivables over 30 days were 1.7 percent, down from 1.8 percent the previous month and down from 2.1 percent in the same period in 2021. Charge-offs were 0.09 percent, down from 0.17 percent the previous month and down from 0.55 percent in the year-earlier period. Credit approvals totaled 78.2 percent, down from 78.4 percent in January. Total headcount for equipment finance companies was down 12.2 percent year-over-year, a decrease due to significant downsizing at an MLFI reporting company. Separately, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation’s Monthly Confidence Index (MCI-EFI) in March is 58.2, a decrease from 61.8 in February. ELFA President and CEO Ralph Petta said, “New business volume at MLFI 25 companies has grown modestly in 2022, as it typically does in the early months. What is eye-catching, however, is the extremely high credit quality reported by respondents. Geopolitical unrest, increasing interest rates, inflation, and continuing supply disruptions all pose headwinds that bear monitoring. But, equipment finance companies always find ways to stay relevant, resilient, and reliable in helping American businesses acquire the assets they need to thrive.” Kris Foster, President of Equipment Finance, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc., said, “With a quarter of the year nearly complete, we remain cautiously optimistic with steady deal flow and a strong pipeline. Supply chain constraints continue to be a major issue as we see equipment delivery delays for the foreseeable future. Positively, we see these delivery delays coupled with strong demand across most asset classes being a tailwind for future financing opportunities. Competition continues to be very strong with continued pressure on loan yield spreads. Credit quality and credit metrics are at historically strong levels; however, we are closely monitoring current geopolitical events, future Fed rate hikes, growing inflationary pressures on the broader economy, yield curve inversion, and record-high costs for many asset classes.”
Numina Group & Core eBusiness Solutions announce new strategic alliance
Core eBusiness Solutions, a developer and solution provider for 3PL, B2B, and E-Com Warehouse Management Software, announced a strategic alliance with The Numina Group. Numina Group, headquartered in Woodridge, IL, is a top-tier warehouse designer and integrator of order fulfillment automation technologies focused on reducing labor and increasing distribution productivity. Through this alliance, both Core and Numina are primed to offer their customers an end-to-end first-class combination of advanced Warehouse Management Software (WMS) and Warehouse Automation integrated as a single solution, scalable to support a business with single or multiple warehouse operations. In today’s tight labor environment, lean, efficient, low-touch technologies such as Autonomous Mobile Robots, AMRs, Goods to Person (G2P) and pick by voice play a critical role in lowering manual labor requirements to meet same-day eCommerce and B2B customer order fulfillment demand. Numina-Core’s software-driven solutions are focused on cutting labor costs while optimizing and accelerating productivity to meet customers’ demands for faster, accurate on-time delivery. Core’s Cloud-based WMS includes the required tools to manage the increasing complexity of 3PL, retail, medical, and B2B distribution centers, with software modules that support Receipt and Put-away, Transfers, Replenishment, Stock Movement, Inventory Transactions, QA Hold and Releases, 3PL Billing and a Customer’s Portal to access and view their specific Warehouse Inventory and customers order shipment status. Additionally, Core’s WMS includes a full feature pick, pack, and ship suite supporting barcode product and lot tracking, using a wide array of mobile wearable computers, tablets, or smartphone devices to manage to pick and view operational performance. Numina’s Real-time Distribution Software (RDS™) Warehouse Execution and Control Software, is a full suite of predeveloped modules, including order release optimization for managing the latest generation Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMRs) driven Goods to Person (G2P), and Voice and Pick to Light Systems with automated pack and ship conveyor systems. Numina Group recognizes the increasing role and economic advantages of deploying robots in streamlining warehouse operations. Numina’s RDS™ Batchbot software application module fully synchronizes people and AMRs and G2P Systems picking and packing processes. The solution unites pick, pack, and ship operations throughout the DC to dramatically increase productivity and cut labor costs. “Our strategy has always been to provide our customers with the right blend of technologies to operate a more competitive and efficient supply chain. We are proud to partner with the Numina Group. With our alliance and Numina’s wide array of Warehouse Automation Systems and their Robotics Warehouse Technologies, we can support our customer’s needs to add technologies that maximize productivity” explained Robert Schilt President Core eBusiness Solutions. “Core eBusiness Solutions has been a pioneer in the Supply Chain Industry developing and distributing over the past 19 years 3PL WMS software systems. Our customers are benefiting from the array of Warehouse Management Software solutions that are an inherent part of Core’s WMS system. Our objective has always been to stay at the forefront of new developments in the warehouse supply sector. Numina and Core joining together are now primed to bring to the industry a powerful group of new and advanced warehouse technologies.” said Dan Hanrahan President of the Numina Group.
Alta Equipment Group expands Nikola Dealer Network to Arizona
Alta Equipment Group Inc. (“Alta”), a provider of construction and material handling equipment, has announced that it has been awarded the Arizona sales and service territory for Nikola Corporation (“Nikola”), a global provider in zero-emissions transportation and energy infrastructure solutions. This agreement further expands Alta’s dealer territory with Nikola beyond the NY, NJ, eastern PA, and New England markets, as announced in August of 2021, and will replace Empire Transport in Arizona. With over 37 years of experience, Alta is well-established in the midwest and the northeast with over 60 dealership locations supporting other OEMs. With a proven track record of successful growth, Alta has a clear vision for the potential of the Nikola products (i.e., battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, mobile charging trailers, hydrogen fueling infrastructure, etc.), to grow their eMobility vertical by fulfilling its commitment to clean technologies. “We are excited to be granted this new territory as it gives us the opportunity to deepen our relationship with Nikola, especially given their headquarters and US manufacturing facility is in Arizona,” said Ryan Greenawalt, Chief Executive Officer of Alta. “It is also significant because we believe Arizona is a market prime for electric vehicle growth.” The first Nikola product Alta will sell is the Tre battery-electric vehicle (BEV). With an expected range of up to 350 miles, the Tre BEV has a cabover design ideal for metro-regional applications because of improved visibility and maneuverability. “As Nikola expands its BEV production in 2022 from our Coolidge, Arizona manufacturing facility, a great hometown dealer to sell and service our products is incredibly valuable,” said Pablo Koziner, President of Nikola Energy and Commercial. “Alta continues to be committed to our shared vision and is driven to grow this territory as yet another step towards a zero-emissions future. We are grateful for Alta’s enthusiasm and passion for our products and our partnership.”
Trelleborg Wheel Systems implements price increases across all segments
Effective from April 2022, Trelleborg Wheel Systems has announced price increases up to 15% on all brands and segments globally. This price increase is a result of the current market fluctuations and the sharp rise in the cost of raw materials, energy, and logistics. Increases will vary by region to reflect the local market conditions. Specific details on the actual increase will be communicated directly to customers by Company representatives in each market.
EnerSys® to explore latest Power Solutions to boost operational efficiencies during MODEX® 2022 on-floor seminar
Chris Wayment, EnerSys® Field Sales Enablement Manager, and NexSys® Battery Specialist, to deliver an educational seminar on Monday, March 28th at 3 p.m. E.S.T. in Theater D EnerSys® , the global provider in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, will deliver an informative seminar at MODEX 2022 on the latest power management tools and advanced battery modeling software to increase operational productivity, performance, and profitability. Featuring “real-world” case studies and insights on the current industry landscape, Chris Wayment, Field Sales Enablement Manager and NexSys® Battery Specialist at EnerSys, will demonstrate how these tools can generate customized, data-driven guidance to right-size a battery and charger fleet for maximum cost savings and throughput. In addition to guiding the selection of batteries and chargers to respond to evolving industry demands and deliver a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), these innovative solutions can also identify operational challenges for performance improvement and enhance vehicle efficiency with data-driven, actionable intelligence. MODEX 2022 will take place from March 28 to 31 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. During the on-floor seminar, Wayment will also explore how virtually maintenance-free Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) battery technologies are transforming warehouse operations by providing lift truck fleet managers with two convenient, high-performing, safe, and sustainable power solutions without the restrictive upkeep requirements of watering, equalizing and battery changing associated with conventional flooded lead-acid batteries. Engineered for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty applications, both battery technologies are optimized for fast- and opportunity-charging, can reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and water consumption, and when used in conjunction with one another within the same warehouse as a hybrid solution, can help deliver a lower TCO. “Over the last decade, our industry has seen tremendous growth as newer power management tools, sophisticated, data-driven software and advanced battery chemistries have entered the material handling sector, providing fleet managers with a variety of options to choose from that can boost operational efficiencies and decrease costs,” said Harold Vanasse, Senior Director of Marketing, Motive Power Global at EnerSys. “These changes require the use of data-driven tools to optimize the solution while simplifying the selection. Highlighting examples from ‘real-world’ scenarios that reveal how these solutions have helped facilities enhance their operations, this seminar is intended to provide attendees with an overview of the latest technologies that are available today to ensure they are getting the most from their battery and charger fleet.” Seminar date, time, location, and program highlights are as follows: Monday, March 28th from 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm EDT – Driving Fleet Power Productivity with Data: How Battery Modeling Software and Power Management Tools Can Boost Operational Efficiencies (THEATER D) Learn how sophisticated battery modeling software can generate customized data to right-size a battery and charger fleet Discover how advanced power management tools can give drivers a live view of their lift truck battery health to avoid costly unplanned downtime associated with premature battery failure from improper maintenance and charging practices Explore the benefits and features of the latest battery chemistries including virtually maintenance-free Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) technologies EnerSys® also welcomes attendees to visit booth B7811 during this year’s show to discover how the company’s suite of power solutions is taking warehouse operations to the “NexSys®” level.
WISER Systems launches ATLAS: High Density, Enterprise-Wide Live Positioning Solution
The new WISER ATLAS provides revolutionary WISER Locator precision and ease of use scaled to thousands of work orders/assets across millions of square feet WISER Systems, a provider of ultra-wideband (UWB) real-time location and tracking systems (RTLS), has just announced its newest product release, ATLAS (Accurate Tracking & Locating Asset Solution).TM This robust software allows users to wirelessly and precisely locate and track tagged items in densely packed metallic environments in real-time, without sacrificing the precision, minimal infrastructure, and ease of install/use that WISER’s lower-density Locator already provides. The WISER ATLAS system was recently installed at SWD, a provider in metal finishing and fastener sorting. Located in Addison, Illinois, SWD processes up to 500 work orders a day in their 200,000 square foot facility that runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The facility is a heavy industrial setting where metal bins and parts move in and around the packed facility to various finishing and sorting stations. “It was the ability to simultaneously track thousands of parts that sold us on the WISER ATLAS,” said Matt Delawder, SWD Sales & Marketing Manager/Partner. “On any given day we needed the ability to track up to 3,600 parts, with the capability to reassign 500 work orders to tags each day. WISER was great to work with and was accommodating when we requested the option to have different color tag enclosures for our needs. This is the best productivity improvement we’ve done in years. It will change our entire manufacturing process.” WISER ATLAS allows the user to easily log items to assets using the WISER mobile/desktop app. WISER ATLAS allows users to associate work-order or part numbers to tags instantaneously, to track them throughout their entire manufacturing cycle on the floor. As always, the user can view all tags as they move throughout the mesh using the app. The search function snaps to the tag being searched across the entire mesh for easy retrieval or process step identification in real-time. The WISER micro-location system uses ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to locate, identify, and track assets live in real-time. WISER ATLAS delivers solutions in Industry 4.0 priorities, including smart manufacturing, and operations improvement and efficiencies, warehouse and auto-inventory management, supply chain and logistics, occupancy and visitor tracking, and yard management, to name a few. “WISER ATLAS offers the industry a truly revolutionary system where companies can track thousands of work orders and assets live and simultaneously with high accuracy and minimal infrastructure. The system is simple to install and provides accuracy even in highly reflective industrial and metal-heavy environments like those of SWD, unlike anything available on the market today,” said Mark Dirks, Chief Revenue Officer at WISER Systems. “Other systems require a substantial number of additional antennas, hours of installation, and regular infrastructure maintenance, which until now has made real-time autonomous tracking in these high-density locations prohibitively expensive,” Dirks added.
Yale celebrates 2021 Dealer of Excellence Award winners
Yale Materials Handling Corporation announces winners of the 2021 Dealer of Excellence award, the company’s top honor for members of the Yale® dealer network. The award recognizes dealers for developing and maintaining the pillars of highly successful materials handling organization, including expert industry knowledge and dedication to customer support. “Our dealer network is integral in providing the expert knowledge and support that drives customer satisfaction and attracts new business while providing a competitive advantage,” says Bob Sattler, Vice President of Dealer Business Development. “Every year, the Dealer of Excellence recipients demonstrate their willingness to enhance capabilities and commitment to the safety and well-being of their associates, while meeting the increasingly demanding recognition criteria.” 2021 Dealer of Excellence Recipients Alta Material Handling – Eastern Michigan Alta Material Handling – New England Central Alta Material Handling – Western Michigan Berry Material Handling Black Equipment – North Burns Equipment Pittsburgh Eastern Lift Truck – Baltimore/DC/DE Eastern Lift Truck – Philadelphia/South NJ Fairchild Equipment – WI North Gregory Poole – Carolinas Insley-McEntee LiftOne – North LiftOne – West M&G Material Handling Medley Material Handling – West MH Equipment – Iowa MH Equipment – Ohio North Papé – Southern CA – North Riekes Equipment – Legacy Wheeler Material Handling – Carolinas Wheeler Material Handling – Tennessee Award-winning dealers meet rigorous standards in areas such as service, training, customer satisfaction, new unit sales, and general management tactics. These measures are updated annually to reflect evolving customer expectations and industry standards.
U.S. Rail Traffic for the week ending March 19, 2022
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending March 19, 2022. For this week, total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 499,362 carloads and intermodal units, down 2.7 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending March 19 were 232,770 carloads, up 1.1 percent compared with the same week in 2021, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 266,592 containers and trailers, down 5.7 percent compared to 2021. Five of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2021. They included coal, up 4,182 carloads, to 63,929; chemicals, up 2,656 carloads, to 34,178; and nonmetallic minerals, up 1,984 carloads, to 31,151. Commodity groups that posted decreases compared with the same week in 2021 included grain, down 4,014 carloads, to 23,317; petroleum and petroleum products, down 2,457 carloads, to 9,181; and motor vehicles and parts, down 958 carloads, to 13,953. For the first 11 weeks of 2022, U.S. railroads reported a cumulative volume of 2,521,622 carloads, up 3 percent from the same point last year; and 2,828,405 intermodal units, down 7.1 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 11 weeks of 2022 was 5,350,027 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 2.6 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending March 19, 2022, on 12 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 328,840 carloads, down 0.7 percent compared with the same week last year, and 348,166 intermodal units, down 6 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 677,006 carloads and intermodal units, down 3.5 percent. North American rail volume for the first 11 weeks of 2022 was 7,249,341 carloads and intermodal units, down 4 percent compared with 2021. Canadian railroads reported 73,635 carloads for the week, down 9.5 percent, and 65,486 intermodal units, down 10.7 percent compared with the same week in 2021. For the first 11 weeks of 2022, Canadian railroads reported a cumulative rail traffic volume of 1,487,674 carloads, containers, and trailers, down 10.2 percent. Mexican railroads reported 22,435 carloads for the week, up 16.2 percent compared with the same week last year, and 16,088 intermodal units, up 13.1 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 11 weeks of 2022 was 411,640 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 3.4 percent from the same point last year. To view the weekly rail traffic charts, click here.
Felling Trailers, Inc. announces beneficiary of 2022 Trailer for a Cause
Felling Trailers will be hosting its tenth annual Trailer for a Cause online auction of an FT-3 Utility trailer to benefit a nonprofit organization. Felling Trailers’ goal is to bring awareness to various nonprofits that are making a difference by donating 100% of the winning bid from the auction to a different nonprofit each year. The previous “Trailer for a Cause” auctions have raised over $30,000 for nonprofit organizations such as SOMN – Special Olympics Minnesota, Children’s Cancer Research Fund, Lymphoma Research Foundation, and Minnesota Fire Fighters Foundation, to name a few. Felling Trailers, Inc. has selected Eagle’s Healing Nest as the 2022 Trailer for a Cause auction beneficiary. Eagle’s Healing Nest provides a place of peace and healing for veterans struggling with issues ranging from PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, depression, years of homelessness to addiction. “Our country’s veterans’ decision to sacrifice their time with family and friends, careers, and safety to train and respond when our country calls demonstrate courage and bravery that deserves respect from its beneficiaries,” said Brenda Jennissen, President/CEO of Felling Trailers. “Having about 20 veterans on our team and being founded by a United States Air Force veteran makes it even more personal, and we’re honored to give back to Eagle’s Healing Nest to care for our country’s heroes and meet their needs.” A late Summer 2022 auction is being planned for Trailer for a Cause. Leading up to the auction, Felling Trailers will work with Eagle’s Healing Nest to generate awareness about the invisible wounds of war that our veterans carry. According to the National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report | September 2021, 6,261 Veterans died by suicide in 2019. Eagle’s Healing Nest provides veterans, military members, and their families with a place to heal with honor. “We want them to heal from whatever brought them to the Nest, overcome all obstacles, find their purpose, and make plans for their purpose/future,” said Melony Butler, founder of Eagle’s Healing Nest. Eagle’s Healing Nest is located in Sauk Centre, MN, on 124 acres with 24 buildings, originally Minnesota Home School for Girls from 1911-1967 and then a coeducational model as the Minnesota Home School until 1999. Veterans and volunteers operate the healing center. No government funding is received. “The programs have been created by the veterans and what they felt they needed,” said Melony. “The veterans here come from all across the country, from a failed system, active duty, hospitals, jail, commitments, we don’t tell them how long they can be here. They stay as long as they need to heal.” Services include a mental health clinic specializing in accelerated resolution therapy, outpatient substance abuse programs, art and rock studios, welding shop, Stable Foundation Ministry (equine program), Project Delta (service dog program), Welcome Home Vet for those ready to transition, “soar” the Nest, and much more. Since Eagle’s Healing Nest opened its doors in 2012, thousands of veterans and their families have been helped, between those who have resided there and the Nest’s outreach programs. Over the 9-1/2 years the nest has been in existence, the veterans and volunteers have renovated twenty-one of the twenty-four buildings onsite. When the last three buildings are completed, the Nest will have doubled its available capacity from the current 90-100 veterans.
Storage Solutions announces partnership with Vecna Robotics to integrate autonomous vehicles into warehouses, fulfillment centers
Storage Solutions just announced forming a new partnership with Vecna Robotics, which will feature Storage Solutions as a certified integrator of Vecna’s automation and technology solution set. Vecna Robotics supports distribution, warehousing, and manufacturing organizations with material handling and logistics solutions with a line of self-driving pallet trucks, tow tractors, and counterbalanced lift trucks. This technology is designed to increase fulfillment capacity and speed while improving safety for workers and equipment within a facility. “Our unique solution set offers the payload capacity of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) with the intelligence, safety, and obstacle avoidance of AMRs,” explained Van Garrett, Director of Channel Sales at Vecna Robotics. “We consider our technology to be best-in-class, and it delivers on our mission to maximize human productivity by delivering superior automation and orchestration technology.” Vecna Robotics Solution Set Automated Counterbalanced Fork Truck This solution is designed to move a wide array of pallet types, delivering goods to conveyor belts, wrappers, and carts. Autonomous Tugger The Vecna Autonomous Tugger delivers heavy payloads across long distances within a facility. Autonomous Pallet Truck This solution eliminates long manual pick hauls and assists with put-away efficiency for lift operators. Technology With autonomy stack™, beacon™, an intuitive UI, and dynamic envelope protection, Vecna can ensure products can deliver maximum throughput with minimal downtime. Automation solutions are replacing traditional systems as companies continue to adjust to labor availability challenges, operational cost increases, and in response to less expensive and quicker delivery demands from consumers. This partnership will allow Storage Solutions to assist warehouses, distribution centers, and fulfillment centers in utilizing this technology to meet those challenges and continue to grow their business. “We are excited about this new partnership with Vecna Robotics because they are uniquely positioned to harness the flexibility and adaptability of autonomous mobile robotics (AMR) technology with the capacity and automation capabilities of AGVs,” said Eric McDonald, Chief Customer Officer at Storage Solutions. “There has been a lot of disruption and turmoil over the last few years, and we’re confident that there are a variety of industries that will benefit from future-proofing their operations.” This partnership is announced days ahead of MODEX 2022, a highly attended supply chain conference hosted by Material Handling Industry (MHI), the nation’s most significant material handling, logistics, and supply chain association. If you want to see Vecna Robotics’ automation solutions or are thinking about integrating automation options into your operations, contact a Storage Solutions expert and plan a time to meet at the convention.
DESTACO completes updates to 800 Series Manual Clamps
Targeted “quality enhancements” are designed to improve service life, lower maintenance requirements, and optimize overall product performance DESTACO has completed quality enhancements for three models within its 800 Series Manual Clamp product family. These updates are in line with DESTACO’s commitment to continuously review and identify ways to improve the capabilities of its products, with an ultimate goal of achieving the highest level of innovative performance for each and every component. “Our customers and their needs drive us to stay on the cutting edge of product enhancement and performance,” said Russell Toney, president of DESTACO. “These updates to the 800 Series Manual Clamp product line illustrate how we are constantly listening to our customers’ needs and always striving to satisfy them.” Receiving the most extensive quality enhancements is the Model 802-U Manual Clamp. The updates include an upgraded air cylinder that ensures the clamp’s exerting force is less than the maximum holding capacity when operated at normal pressure, which extends service life; new composite bearings on the trunnion mount and cylinder pivot point that eliminate metal-to-metal contact while requiring no lubrication; and a redesigned clevis bolt, along with increased rivet and pre-stop diameters that increase longevity. Two other 800 Series Manual Clamps have also been updated: Model 807-U: Now features lubrication- and maintenance-free composite bearings on the trunnion mount, a redesigned clevis bolt, and a reconfigured base, resulting in the elimination of any hesitation that could compromise the unit’s open/close performance. Model 810-U: Features new composite bearings that eliminate metal-to-metal contact, thereby extending service life, while requiring no lubrication or maintenance.
EP 265: Locus and Waypoint Become One
In this episode, I was joined by Rick Faulk, Jason Walker, and Patty Katsaros of Locus Robotics. Locus has been on the show multiple times and I have even done a visit to their location in Massachusetts but recently they have acquired Waypoint Robotics which has expanded their robotic offerings. We discuss why Locus and Waypoint were such a great match for each other, why robots are improving jobs, and how robots can help with the high demand for space. Key Takeaways Locus Robotics has been offering one of the top cobot options for picking. As they have been growing rapidly and recently reached unicorn status they took a look at how can they continue to grow and bring the best offerings to their customers. One challenge that they had was that they were limited in the payload for supporting customers with larger items. One solution was to build new robots to address this challenge but the other solution was to go out and buy a company that was already addressing this solution. They went with the latter which led them to acquire Waypoint Robotics. Why were they the right fit? When Jason (of Waypoint) was looking for a home for Waypoint they saw that Locus had similar missions in putting the customer first and the way they were able to scale were big selling points. Bringing these two teams together has resulted in a great synergy in missions and a definite compliment to each other. Now they are both able to scale and grow to where they desired. It will be great to see how they grow together over the next few years and just how rapidly they expand. In fact, if you want to join in on the expansion they will have a booth just dedicated to recruiting employees! One of the most talked-about topics over the last few years has been the tight labor market. While robots and automation are helping to alleviate some of these pain points, some employees still have concerns that robots will replace them and they will lose their job. We discuss how this is not true with solutions like the ones that Locus is offering. These solutions actually help to improve the worker’s job and provide additional safety improvements. Rick even shares a great story about how one user of the Locus Bot gave a great testimony of how she can finally go home and have the energy to play with her kids without being worn out from the day’s work. Listen to the episode below and leave a comment on your thoughts. Be sure to check them out at MODEX! The New Warehouse Podcast EP 265: Locus and Waypoint Become One
What’s your organization’s change context?
Becoming customer-centric isn’t a simple change. Simple changes are linear, predictable, and manageable. Traditional change management techniques work well in these contexts but are less effective in multifaceted, interconnected, and unpredictable ones. A customer-centric change is just that – where relationships, networks, and social influence from peers have a stronger impact on success than top-down influence. This is because behaviors, not processes or directives, are at the heart of any organizational change initiative. And without understanding and addressing the organization’s unique change context, there’s no clear framework for readjusting, redirecting, and redefining behaviors to meet customer-centric goals. For example, say Company A wants to get employees to adopt a new customer-centric policy, which encourages people to share any service improvement ideas or opportunities associated with their areas of responsibility. Yet, rather than simply following company guidelines, individuals may tend to provide ideas only if other people with whom they are socially connected do so as well. This makes sense as people can be more personally invested in the perceptions of members of their social groups — especially those with whom they interact frequently — than in the interests of company leadership. Creating customer-centricity begins with understanding change context – the pattern of influencing factors that shape how change is perceived and adopted within a company. Change contexts can vary widely across organizations, and leaders need to recognize their own organization’s unique terminus as a quo. Change contexts are made up of two parts – a macro culture and a series of micro-cultures. Macro cultures are behaviors and mindsets defined by leadership, represented by an individual founder or CEO, and reinforced by corporate values, policies, and priorities. Micro cultures live inside the macro culture and form at a departmental or peer group level, where norms and behaviors are shaped by the members themselves. Micro cultures can develop their own spheres of power. They can influence productivity, communication flow, and even the retention of new employees. Depending on their location within the organization, micro-cultures can enable or kill a customer-centric change effort from within before it even begins. Effectively defining your own change context requires understanding your cultural strengths and weaknesses, along with threats to change initiatives and opportunities to accelerate adoption, in both your macro and micro-cultures. Because until new behaviors are rooted in the organization’s social norms, any customer-centric changes are subject to degradation. About the Author Andrea Belk Olson is a speaker, author, applied behavioral scientist, and customer-centricity expert. As the CEO of Pragmadik, she helps organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500, and has served as an outside consultant for EY and McKinsey. Andrea is the author of The Customer Mission: Why it’s time to cut the $*&% and get back to the business of understanding customers, No Disruptions: The future for mid-market manufacturing, and her upcoming book, What To Ask, coming in June 2022. She is a 4-time ADDY® award winner and host of the popular Customer Mission podcast. Her thoughts have been continually featured in news sources such as Chief Executive Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Financial Brand, SMPS Marketer, Rotman Magazine, and more. Andrea is a sought-after keynote speaker at conferences and corporate events throughout the world. She is a visiting lecturer and startup coach at the University of Iowa, a TEDx presenter, and TEDx speaker coach. She is also a mentor at the University of Iowa Venture School. More information is also available on www.pragmadik.com and www.andreabelkolson.com.
Registration opens for ASSP’s Safety 2022
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has opened registration for its signature safety event. The Safety 2022 Professional Development Conference and Exposition will be held in person June 27-29 in Chicago. The event will also feature an online program to give occupational safety and health professionals around the globe convenient access to continuing education. “As always, our conference and expo will be a dynamic learning and networking experience that supports our mission to help protect workers in every industry worldwide,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH. “It’s a place to find real solutions to workplace safety challenges, especially now when environments can quickly shift. We’re excited about what we have in store for attendees.” Thousands of safety and health professionals look to ASSP’s conference each year to grow their professional development and meet experts who can help them advance their careers and elevate safety at their companies. Safety 2022 will highlight best practices, industry trends, and the latest product innovations. Concurrent sessions by industry trendsetters provide practical information that can be used today and in the future to protect workers and enhance business operations. The expo will feature hundreds of companies showcasing innovative safety solutions that can help organizations reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. “If your job involves the safety and health of your organization, Safety 2022 is the place to gain critical insights and knowledge to advance your work environment,” said Stephanie Gurnari, CSP, chair of ASSP’s Professional Development Conference Planning Committee. “It’s a comprehensive experience that provides significant value.” ASSP will enhance the in-person event at McCormick Place with an engaging virtual program with mobile compatibility for broad access to additional concurrent education sessions. The conference’s popular general and plenary sessions that aim to inspire, entertain and inform will be live-streamed so that in-person and online attendees experience them together in real-time. The safety and health of everyone at the convention center remain a priority. Under ASSP’s on-site safety plan, attendees must provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of badge pick-up. Masks are not required at this time. ASSP continues to track public health guidance and may revise its protocols as the event draws closer. Safety professionals attending in person can earn 1.4 continuing education units (CEUs) for career advancement. All registrations include 60-day on-demand access to sessions recorded for the online event that provides an additional 6 CEUs, enabling attendees to earn up to 7.4 total. Online-only registrants can earn up to 6.4 CEUs. Register online to get the discounted early rate through April 21. Groups from the same company can save on the entire conference by contacting ASSP’s Nancy O’Toole at 847.768.3466 or [email protected]. ASSP is also offering an expo-only pass for the second year in a row. McCormick Place is the largest convention center in North America. The sprawling lakefront campus, featuring a network of pedestrian sky bridges and promenades, is connected to multiple hotels and located just minutes from downtown. Chicago is well-known for its architecture, museums, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, Millennium Park and deep-dish pizza. ASSP’s global safety event began in Chicago in 1962 and was last held there in 2011. Stay informed of the latest Safety 2022 news and current safety and health protocols at safety.assp.org.
John Lynch joins Saf-T-Gard as Senior Director of Business Development
Saf-T-Gard International, Inc., a full-line, quality-oriented supplier of personal protective equipment for more than eight decades, has stacked its safety sales deck even higher with the addition of John Lynch as the company’s Senior Director of Business Development. Lynch has an extensive background in safety sales and leadership with a heavy focus on electrical safety. “We are thrilled to welcome John Lynch to Saf-T-Gard,” said Richard Rivkin, Saf‑T-Gard CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Electrical safety is a particular strength of Saf-T-Gard as its Voltgard division operates as an offsite NAIL4PET-accredited test lab for numerous utilities, telecom companies, contractors, municipalities, and industrial facilities nationwide. John’s previous working relationship with Saf-T-Gard and knowledge of the market make him the perfect fit for the role as there is a large potential for growth into new categories within our current customer base as well as several opportunities to capture new business.” “I am extremely excited and grateful to have joined Saf-T-Gard International in a new business development role,” said John Lynch. “Saf-T-Gard International is a successful 4th generation family business with a solid foundation, and I am confident that I can utilize my experience, industry knowledge, and customer/supplier relationships to realize continued future success. I look forward to growing together with the entire Saf-T-Gard team.”
KEEN Utility Vista Energy Shift
With an easy-on, easy-off laceless design, the new Vista Energy Shift from KEEN Utility builds on the success of its standout predecessor, built for fast-paced indoor manufacturing environments where convenience, comfort, and agility are critical. Featuring a breathable, lightweight 2-layer engineered mesh upper, the Vista Energy Shift is the next generation of work sneakers, delivering the perfect blend of athletic performance without sacrificing safety. Product highlights include a KEEN.ReGEN midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam and an oil-and slip-resistant outsole with water diverting channels to maximize surface area and improve traction. The Vista Energy Shift is non-metallic and features asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than traditional steel while providing a more unobtrusive fit. The new Vista Energy Shift is available in three colorways for men and two colorways for women.
Experience exceptional Warehouse Execution at Booth B5019
Matthews Automation Solutions showcases the latest advances in warehouse execution systems, pick-to-light, put walls, and more at MODEX 2022 Matthews warehouse automation brands deliver innovative material handling solutions and proven results for major corporations worldwide. At MHI-sponsored MODEX 2022, from March 28–31, 2022, Matthews Automation Solutions’ exhibit displays advanced, best-of-breed solutions from Matthews’ three warehouse automation brands—Compass Engineering, Lightning Pick, and Pyramid. Matthews’ MODEX Booth B5019 will showcase: Warehouse Execution Software: Booth visitors can learn about NEXUS, Matthews’ next-generation Warehouse Execution System for centralized system control. NEXUS uses real-time data and adaptive learning to make intelligent decisions, balance workflow, eliminate bottlenecks, and increase visibility throughout a distribution center’s operations. The software automates and optimizes key order fulfillment tasks, such as picking, sortation, packing, and finishing. NEXUS enhances its users’ competitive positions in the e-commerce, omnichannel, subscription box, or third-party logistics marketplaces, just to name a few. A web-based front end and customizable dashboard give full process visibility and management. Put Wall Sortation: The Matthews booth shows the next wave of light-directed technologies, including a Lightning Pick “put wall” (put-to-light) equipped with the latest advances in bin illumination. Visitors can watch a demonstration of a scan-and-put process sorting batches of mixed-SKU merchandise into individual eCommerce orders. On the other side of the two-sided put wall configuration, operators receive light-directed instructions for pack out and shipping. A variety of light module types are available including modules with photo-eye sensors that enable operators to confirm a put without pushing a button. Lightning Pick hardware and software allow for myriad customization possibilities that can fit any complex sortation application. Light-Directed Picking and Assembly: MODEX booth visitors can build a complimentary LED flashlight using Build2Light, an economical pick-to-light solution for the error-proofing of parts picking, kitting, assembly, sequencing, and other material handling operations. Optional image viewer technology adds a monitor mounted in the work area to display assembly instructions, part images, tool tips, and more. Zone picking, cluster picking, and projection picking are also key light-directed technologies to boost the speed and order quality of broken case picking operations. Autonomous Mobile Robot: Matthews integrates autonomous mobile robotics as part of our holistic view of warehouse automation solutions. Matthews’ robot-assisted picking solution enables operators to concentrate on their main task—picking—without walking long distances or carrying heavy loads. Specialized material handling attachments are shown, each designed to address a specific application and distribution center need. Software Integration: All Matthews software can be integrated with WMS/MES/ERP systems and material handling equipment, such as conveyors, carts, autonomous mobile robots (AMR), and other robotic systems. Lightning Pick’s software integrates directly with a customer’s existing warehouse management system (WMS) or warehouse execution system (WES), such as NEXUS. Matthews’ track record includes end customers who are industry leaders in traditional retail and eCommerce for cosmetics, apparel, CPG, e-grocery, meal kits, convenience food, beverages, pet products, health and fitness, personal care, manufacturing, and other many other markets. Matthews also partners with the best integrators and material handling technology providers in the business. As the consumer fulfillment landscape expands and evolves, Matthews is uniquely positioned to help fulfillment operations boost throughput, capacity, accuracy, and cost-efficiency. Matthews’ approach enables distributors to apply the right combinations of automation and software for their specific challenges today, with the flexibility and scalability to meet future needs. Experience exceptional execution at MODEX 2022, Booth B5019, at the Georgia World Congress Center, March 28–31, 2022.