Material Handling Wholesaler

EW-EURODRIVE Powers One of the World’s Longest Single-Flight Conveyor Systems

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:15:21 +0000

2-mile Dune Express conveyor showcases advanced industrial engineering, heavy-duty reliability, and large-scale logistics innovation. SEW-EURODRIVE is helping power one of the most ambitious bulk material handling projects in North America through its contribution to the Dune Express conveyor system, a record-setting 42-mile single-flight conveyor designed to transport frac sand across the Permian Basin. Developed by Atlas Energy Solutions in collaboration with system integrator Voith Turbo, the Dune Express system is designed to move up to 13 million tons of frac sand annually from Kermit, Texas, to the New Mexico border. The infrastructure-scale conveyor is expected to significantly reduce truck traffic, roadway congestion, fuel consumption, and associated emissions while improving logistics efficiency for wellsite operations. To support the extreme demands of the application, SEW-EURODRIVE supplied 36 custom X.e Series helical-bevel heavy industrial gear units engineered specifically for continuous-duty performance in rugged desert conditions. The project required advanced thermal validation, high torque capacity, precision mechanical integration, and long-term reliability across one of the most demanding conveyor applications ever constructed. “Engineering for a 42-mile conveyor takes more than horsepower. It takes understanding application dynamics, thermal performance, and logistics at scale,” said Austin Burdette, HIG (Heavy Industrial Gearing) Product Manager at SEW-EURODRIVE USA. “Our X.e gear units and engineering teams delivered the reliability and performance required for a project of this magnitude.” SEW-EURODRIVE engineers collaborated closely with Voith Turbo throughout the project to deliver: Gearbox sizing matched to application dynamics Thermal performance modeling and bearing life analysis Mechanical interface verification and fabrication support Integrated condition monitoring and safety specifications On-site commissioning and logistics support The conveyor system incorporates multiple SEW-EURODRIVE X.e Series gear units ranging up to 900 horsepower and more than 1.46 million lbs-in. of nominal output torque, highlighting the scale and technical sophistication of the installation. Beyond the engineering achievement, the Dune Express represents a major evolution in bulk material transport infrastructure for the oil and gas industry. By replacing significant volumes of truck-based sand transportation with a continuous conveyor system, the project is expected to improve operational efficiency while reducing environmental and roadway impacts throughout the region.

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Weissman reappointed to Port of Long Beach Harbor Commission

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 21:42:01 +0000

The Long Beach City Council has voted unanimously to confirm Mayor Rex Richardson’s reappointment of Sharon L. Weissman to the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners through June 30, 2032. The five-member board sets policy for the Port of Long Beach, the City’s Harbor Department. Weissman was first named to the Harbor Commission in July 2020 by then-Mayor Robert Garcia. During her first six-year term, Weissman held one-year positions as board president, vice president and secretary. Weissman joined the Harbor Commission after retiring as the senior advisor and transportation deputy to former Mayor Garcia. The post capped a long career in the public sector during which Weissman specialized in transportation planning, goods movement, sustainability and budgetary policy. Weissman is also a longstanding civic leader. She has served on multiple boards including the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, the Arts Council for Long Beach, Sister Cities of Long Beach and the Long Beach Fair Housing Foundation. She continues to serve on the Board of Directors of the Long Beach Symphony. Weissman is the 72nd Long Beach Harbor Commissioner since the Commission’s current structure was established in 1925. The City Council approved her reappointment on June 9.

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May 2026 US Cutting Tool Shipments Totaled $239.8M; Year to Date Up 16.8% From 2025

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:18:38 +0000

Shipments of cutting tools, measured by the Cutting Tool Market Report, a collaboration between AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology and the U.S. Cutting Tool Institute (USCTI), totaled $239.8 million in May 2026. The value of shipments decreased 7.4% from April 2026 but was up 15.2% from May 2025. Year-to-date shipments totaled $1.2 billion, up 16.8% from the same period in 2025. The number of units shipped decreased for the second consecutive month after rising in February and March. “Shipments dipped in May compared to the previous two months, which were very high and broke records, but were still very strong in nearly all categories reported,” said Jack Burley, chairman of AMT’s Cutting Tool Product Group and president of Big Daishowa, a cutting tool manufacturer. “Carbide-based tools, such as drills and end mills, showed some noticeable increases in cost per unit – a clear indication that the carbide crisis, due to the lack of raw material, has increased costs for users. The demand on the metal cutting industry to increase output has strained the already scarce supply of tungsten. I don’t think we have reached the peak of higher prices for new tools yet, and this may be the right time for users to evaluate their efficiency and improve tool life.” Eli Lustgarten, president of ESL Consultants, said: “Shipments of cutting tools kept their robust upward trend in May, though it was driven by cost, reflecting material pricing and supply issues in the industry. Manufacturing activity continues to show strength, with a favorable outlook for machined-part demand among construction machinery, defense, and aerospace manufacturers. While inflation is still running hot, recent soft jobs data and falling oil prices will hopefully provide enough cushion for the Federal Reserve to keep rates steady. The U.S. economic and manufacturing outlook for the second half of 2026 looks to continue to improve, barring any geopolitical shocks.” The Cutting Tool Market Report is jointly compiled by AMT and USCTI, two trade associations representing the development, production, and distribution of cutting tool technology and products. It provides a monthly statement on U.S. manufacturers’ consumption of the primary consumable in the manufacturing process, the cutting tool. Analysis of cutting tool consumption is a leading indicator of both upturns and downturns in U.S. manufacturing activity, as it is a true measure of actual production levels.

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Revolutionary Yale direct-store-delivery solution wins Material Handling Innovation of the Year award

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 15:09:36 +0000

YALE ROUTE RUNNER REMOVES NEED TO HAUL TWO PIECES OF EQUIPMENT TO STOREFRONTS, REDUCES MANUAL HANDLING REQUIREMENTS BY 50% Yale Lift Truck Technologies has announced the Yale Route Runner™ direct-store-delivery solution has been recognized as the Material Handling Innovation of the Year by the SupplyTech Breakthrough Awards. Yale Route Runner is an innovative direct-store-delivery system engineered to improve efficiency and ergonomics by reducing product touches and minimizing manual material handling throughout the delivery process. It combines an electric walkie pallet jack with a detachable, nested motorized sled and specialized pallets to give drivers the functionality of two machines in one compact solution. “In direct-store or last-mile delivery applications, every extra touch, transfer and step cost workers valuable time and increases physical strain,” said Kevin McWilliams, Director of Major Accounts, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “The Route Runner was designed as a more efficient, ergonomic approach, purpose-built by a materials handling company to help delivery personnel move product from truck to shelf with fewer steps, less effort and minimal facility damage.” Traditional delivery methods often rely on drivers manually transferring product from pallet jacks to handcarts, while other single-truck alternatives tend to be bulky and heavy, creating a higher risk of facility damage and making them difficult to maneuver in tight environments. The Route Runner solution allows drivers to use the pallet truck to bring inventory to the front of a store, where they can detach the sled and navigate tight indoor spaces with ease. This avoids manual transfer of product from one piece of equipment to another and helps reduce the risk of damaging the facility due to bulky equipment. The motorized sled also helps address the risk of back strains and injuries by providing an ergonomic power assist when navigating inclines or traversing thresholds and raising the load platform approximately 18 inches during restocking. The two-in-one design of the Route Runner helps save valuable space in the delivery trailer, eliminates the need for separate equipment and reduces manual handling by up to 50%. This simplification of the material handling process saves time, reduces fatigue and enables drivers to lift 27,000 fewer pounds and reclaim up to 63 minutes over the course of a typical nine-stop route. That efficiency creates the potential to add an additional delivery to each shift and, in turn, reduce required labor and delivery fleet size.

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Comau extends its intralogistics platform by acquiring Invent Smart Intralogistics Solutions

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 14:54:39 +0000

Comau has completed its acquisition of Invent Smart Intralogistics Solutions (“Invent”), a Brazilian specialist in warehouse and intralogistics technologies The transaction strengthens the Comau–Automha ecosystem by adding intelligent orchestration software and AI-driven logistics capabilities Invent will continue operating under its current management structure and business model The strategic investment marks another step in Comau’s strategy of building a globally connected automation hub with advanced technologies and Italian roots Comau has announced that it has acquired 100% of Invent Smart Intralogistics Solutions (“Invent”), a Brazilian company recognized for its expertise in warehouse automation and intralogistics technologies. The strategic investment strengthens Comau’s position in a rapidly expanding market, projected to grow by approximately 13% annually over the next three to five years, where customers are increasingly demanding integrated solutions that seamlessly connect production, storage, and material flow. Together with Automha, the addition of Invent broadens Comau’s ability to support the evolving requirements of distribution centers, fulfillment operations, and industrial logistics facilities with end-to-end automation capabilities. By leveraging Invent’s software-driven warehouse orchestration approach, Automha’s automated storage technologies and Comau’s automation expertise, the companies will be able to deliver increasingly intelligent and connected intralogistics solutions. Where Automha primarily specializes in pallet handling and automated storage systems, Invent brings advanced expertise in box handling, order fulfillment and logistics orchestration, enabling Comau to offer a robust, comprehensive intralogistics portfolio. As supply chains become more dynamic and order fulfillment requirements continue to increase, companies are looking for technologies that can improve visibility, responsiveness, and operational efficiency. The combination of Comau, Automha and Invent creates a comprehensive portfolio capable of managing end-to-end material flows, from automated storage and order preparation through execution, movement, and process optimization. The acquisition also enhances Comau’s footprint in strategic growth regions. In addition to strengthening the company’s presence in Latin America, Invent provides valuable access to the U.S. mid-market intralogistics segment, where demand for automation solutions continues to accelerate (up to 15% annual growth in the US; up to 17% in Brazil over the next 3 to 5 years). Invent will continue to operate with its existing organization, leadership team and strategic direction, ensuring continuity for customers, partners and employees while benefiting from the scale and global reach of the broader Comau ecosystem.

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MAXXDRIVE Industrial Gear Units provide reliable operation for heavy-duty applications

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:38:37 +0000

NORD’s robust MAXXDRIVE industrial gear units deliver high-torque solutions and flexible integration to handle the toughest jobs. MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear units from NORD DRIVESYSTEMS are built to handle demanding applications such as bucket elevators, agitators, conveyor drives, mixers, cranes, hoists, crushers, and more. They deliver output torques from 132,000 to 2,495,900 lb-in, offer numerous input and output options, and are available as parallel shaft helical gear units or right-angle helical bevel gear units for flexible integration across a wide range of systems. Their robust UNICASE™ housings ensure excellent load capacity, long service life, longer bearing life, and quiet operation. MAXXDRIVE® XC Parallel and Right-Angle Industrial Gear Units Standard, compact MAXXDRIVE industrial gear units include MAXXDRIVE XC parallel industrial gear units and MAXXDRIVE XC right-angle industrial gear units. Parallel versions offer 11 case sizes to choose from, 2- and 3-stage gear reductions, a power range of 2.0 to 8,075.0 hp, and a torque range of 132,800 to 2,495,900 lb-in. Right-angle versions also have 11 case sizes available in 3- and 4-stage gear designs, a power range of 2.0 to 2,850.0 hp, and a torque range of 132,800 to 2,301,200 lb-in. Both versions feature multiple mounting options, cooling and heating options for flexible temperature management, and various sealing options for easy adaptation to a wide range of ambient conditions. For applications such as agitators or mixers that require increased bearing load capacities and additional oil leak protection measures, a dry cavity and spread bearing design with reinforced output bearings is available. Drives can additionally be equipped with sensors that monitor the operating state of the drive, including oil level sensors, temperature sensors, oil pressure sensors, vibration sensors, and leak indicators. MAXXDRIVE® XT Right-Angle Industrial Gear Units MAXXDRIVE XT industrial gear units are designed for high-speed applications requiring significant thermal ratings. These 2-stage, right-angle gear units offer 7 case sizes, performance up to 2,825.0 hp, and a torque range of 132,800 – 663,800 lb-in. Their unique finned housing design quickly dissipates heat while an axial fan and air guide covers enhance airflow to prevent the unit from overheating even at maximum power. These effective cooling abilities make them a reliable solution for environments with demanding ambient conditions and large temperature fluctuations such as those in bulk material handling and grain. The right angle housing additionally enables a symmetrical configuration for mirror image installations to reduce the number of replacement gear units and mounting on a swing base for a unified base frame with the gear unit and motor. MAXXDRIVE® XD Parallel Industrial Gear Units NORD developed MAXXDRIVE XD parallel industrial gear units to accommodate the specialized needs of crane and hoist applications. They feature an increased center distance by 35%, allowing the motor and rope drum to be on the same side of the gear unit in a unique U-shaped arrangement ideal for lifting drives. These units offer 12 case sizes, 3- and 4-stage gear reductions with the same footprint dimensions, power up to 3,084.0 hp, and torque up to 2,496,000 lb-in. MAXXDRIVE XD housings are additionally FEA-optimized for overhung load, especially downwards forces, and include an inspection cover on top of the unit for easy maintenance and service access. MAXXDRIVE® XJ Right-Angle Industrial Gear Units MAXXDRIVE XJ right-angle industrial gear units feature a special J-shaped shaft arrangement that is built to deliver high performance in small, compact installation spaces, making them ideal for traveling drives and material handling. They offer 12 case sizes, 3-stage gear reductions, a power range of 4.0 to 2,414.0 hp, and a torque range of 60,200 to 1,947,100 lb-in. Like MAXXDRIVE XD units, MAXXDRIVE XJ units also have a housing engineered for high external loads and an extended center distance design. They additionally offer various options including drum couplings, brake attachments, solid or hollow shaft designs adaptable to applications dimensions, foot mounting or shaft mounting, and belt drive synchronization. In addition to the wide range of configuration options, NORD also offers an Endurance Package that consists of protective measures that optimize drive performance, maintain system reliability, and extend the service life of drive components in harsh environmental conditions such as those in the Grain Industry. The main features of the package include a drying agent filter, oil sampling point, oil inspection glass, quick fit filter trolley connection, and an additional quick fit filter trolley connection with an oil drack cock. Together, this package combines multiple drive options into one comprehensive solution. NORD recently unveiled an update to the myNORD online customer portal that allows registered users to configure MAXXDRIVE industrial gear units in the system themselves. Users can select XC, XD, XT, and XJ MAXXDRIVE designs with a solid input shaft and NEMA or IEC adapter. As only the first step in online tool expansion for the MAXXDRIVE product family, NORD plans to add more options in the future, including MAXXDRIVE gear units with motors.

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Fairchild Equipment celebrates new Moorhead facility with ribbon cutting

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:45:25 +0000

Fairchild Equipment, a provider of materials handling and storage solutions, celebrated the grand opening of its new Moorhead, Minnesota branch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 25, 2026. Located at 1921 26th Street South, the new facility marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to serving businesses throughout northwestern Minnesota and North Dakota. The event brought together industry professionals, community leaders, and employees to recognize the company’s growth and long-term vision. Speakers at the event included Jessie Schell, Ambassador at the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce; Stacia Sytsma, Executive Director of the Greater Moorhead Business Association; Van Clarkson, President of Fairchild Equipment; and Chad Fairchild, CEO of Fairchild Equipment. “At Fairchild Equipment, one of our core values is being actively involved in the communities we serve,” said Van Clarkson, President of Fairchild Equipment. “From the moment we acquired this facility, we looked for ways to make a positive impact, including donating the building’s industrial freezer through the Great Plains Food Bank to benefit an underserved community in North Dakota. As we continue to grow in the Fargo-Moorhead area, our commitment extends beyond doing business. We are dedicated to being a trusted community partner and contributing to the region’s long-term success.” The new Moorhead branch is equipped to provide an extensive parts inventory, in-house shop service, on-site repairs, and rental equipment, offering businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead region and throughout northwestern Minnesota and North Dakota a local, full-service material handling resource backed by more than 40 years of industry expertise. The new branch marks Fairchild Equipment’s fourth Minnesota location and comes as the company celebrates 25 years of serving customers throughout the state. “After years of searching for the right location, we found an outstanding home in Fargo-Moorhead that positions us to better serve customers,” said Chad Fairchild, CEO of Fairchild Equipment. “As we celebrate 25 years in the Minnesota market and expand to our fourth Minnesota location, we’re proud of what our team has accomplished, and we’re excited to continue investing in our customers, our people, and the Fargo-Moorhead region.” The new Moorhead branch is equipped to provide an extensive parts inventory, in-house shop service, on-site repairs, and rental equipment, offering businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead region and throughout northwestern Minnesota and North Dakota a local, full-service material handling resource backed by more than 40 years of industry expertise. The new branch marks Fairchild Equipment’s fourth Minnesota location and comes as the company celebrates 25 years of serving customers throughout the state. “After years of searching for the right location, we found an outstanding home in Fargo-Moorhead that positions us to better serve customers,” said Chad Fairchild, CEO of Fairchild Equipment. “As we celebrate 25 years in the Minnesota market and expand to our fourth Minnesota location, we’re proud of what our team has accomplished, and we’re excited to continue investing in our customers, our people, and the Fargo-Moorhead region.” Following the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the new facility and experience the company’s capabilities firsthand. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with industry experts and get an inside look at the solutions Fairchild Equipment provides to help organizations improve safety, efficiency, and uptime across their operations.

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AAR reports Rail Traffic for the week ending July 04, 2026

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:17:31 +0000

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending July 4, 2026. For this week, total U.S. rail traffic was 482,121 carloads and intermodal units, up 8.7 percent from the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending July 4 were 212,691, up 3.7 percent from the same week in 2025, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 269,430 containers and trailers, up 12.9 percent from 2025. Nine of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2025. They included grain, up 2,490 carloads, to 21,622; metallic ores and metals, up 2,134 carloads, to 22,262; and farm products excl. grain, and food, up 1,961 carloads, to 17,346. One commodity group posted a decrease compared with the same week in 2025: coal, down 4,197 carloads, to 48,841. For the first 26 weeks of 2026, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 5,894,302 carloads, up 3.2 percent from the same point last year; and 7,254,412 intermodal units, up 3.6 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 26 weeks of 2026 was 13,148,714 carloads and intermodal units, an increase of 3.4 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending July 4, 2026, on 9 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 316,737 carloads, up 6.3 percent compared with the same week last year, and 354,603 intermodal units, up 10.3 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 671,340 carloads and intermodal units, up 8.4 percent. North American rail volume for the first 26 weeks of 2026 totaled 18,099,612 carloads and intermodal units, up 2.9 percent from 2025. Canadian railroads reported 88,601 carloads for the week, up 8.1 percent, and 70,562 intermodal units, down 4.1 percent compared with the same week in 2025. For the first 26 weeks of 2026, Canadian railroads reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 4,277,145 carloads, containers and trailers, up 0.6 percent. Mexican railroads reported 15,445 carloads for the week, up 42.2 percent compared with the same week last year, and 14,611 intermodal units, up 56.0 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 26 weeks of 2026 was 673,753 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 9.2 percent from the same point last year.

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OTR Delivers More Flat-Free Options with New SolidBoss® Smooth Skid-Loader Tire Assembly Size

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 15:09:58 +0000

OTR Engineered Solutions has expanded its popular SolidBoss® smooth skid-loader tire lineup with the introduction of a new 31×10-20 (10-16.5) size, providing customers with another flat-free solution engineered for demanding hard-surface applications. The new tire assembly extends the reach of the SolidBoss family, giving equipment owners and fleet managers a durable, low-maintenance tire option for skid steers operating in some of the harshest environments, including demolition sites, recycling facilities, scrap yards, waste handling operations, and other applications where tire damage and downtime can significantly impact productivity. SolidBoss smooth tire assemblies are specifically designed for maximum durability on abrasive surfaces such as asphalt and concrete. Unlike traditional pneumatic tires, the semi-pneumatic SolidBoss design eliminates flats while incorporating cushioning apertures that help absorb shock and deliver a smoother, more comfortable ride. “The addition of the 31×10-20 size allows us to accommodate an even wider range of skid steers,” said Steve Jensen, VP National Accounts at OTR Engineered Solutions. “Customers have consistently asked for more flat-free options in this size category, and we’re excited to bring the proven durability and ride quality of SolidBoss smooth tires to even more machines and applications.” In addition to its flat-free construction, the SolidBoss smooth tire features proprietary rubber compounds engineered to resist chunking, tearing, and slicing damage commonly encountered in severe-duty environments. The result is longer service life, reduced maintenance costs, and increased machine uptime. Designed for quick and easy replacement, the new 31×10-20 assembly features an 8 on 8.0 bolt pattern, the most popular in the industry. It is now available through OTR’s extensive distribution network or online at otrb2b.com.

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Barrett Distribution Centers: How 3PLs Build Trust to Retain Brands

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 14:49:23 +0000

Welcome to this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast! In this episode, Kevin welcomes Mark Healy, Vice President of Customer Solutions at Barrett Distribution Centers, Inc., to discuss the dynamic world of third-party logistics. Barrett Distribution Centers is a privately held, third-generation, omni-channel fulfillment and managed transportation provider founded in the early 1940s. Operating 19 strategic facilities across the United States, Barrett specializes in scaling alongside emerging and established brands across retail, wholesale, and direct-to-consumer channels. Healy shares his extensive 30-year industry perspective on why brands leave 3PL providers, the critical importance of proactive communication, and how to operationally align warehouse teams to ensure long-term client retention. Uncovering the Root Causes of 3PL Dissatisfaction When brands face challenges with their logistics providers—such as delayed shipments, inventory inaccuracies, or missed service-level agreements—they often look to switch to a new 3PL. However, Healy emphasizes that switching providers is a painful, costly disruption that may not actually solve the core issue. “I’m always looking to understand what is going to be successful for our customers or prospective customers and to figure out a solution or a path to help them get there.” True customer solutioning begins with diagnosing whether the friction stems from operational failures or a deeper lack of mutual transparency and forecasting. “Have you really sat down with your current 3PL and really, really done a deep dive on this?” Healy frequently asks prospective clients during initial discoveries. By pushing brands to analyze their current relationships, logistics leaders can uncover whether miscommunications—like unannounced flash sales or poorly optimized pick paths for slower-moving SKUs—are contributing to the breakdown. Moving Beyond the Toolbox via Proactive Communication The modern fulfillment landscape has experienced an incredible proliferation of technology, from advanced analytics platforms to complex warehouse automation. Yet, Healy notes that tools are only as effective as the strategy behind them, and true differentiation in the 3PL space comes down to how providers interact with clients. Brands ultimately seek a strategic partner that can look around corners and act as an extension of their business rather than a passive vendor. “The toolbox has just gotten bigger. Now, where you set yourself apart in any perspective of your life, whatever you might do, regardless of whether you’re in the world that I’m in or some other position, it’s understanding how you use the tools.” Providers must use their analytics to proactively advise clients on cost-effective packaging, safer pack-outs, and carrier cutoffs to actively drive business growth. Combating Customer Apathy in Warehouse Operations Connecting front-facing customer feedback directly to the physical warehouse floor is a critical operational requirement for sustaining healthy partnerships. Barrett uses regular client surveys, detailed onboarding processes, and hyper-care periods to ensure full operational alignment. Healy adds, “If we do a good job of listening and defining what is most important to the customer… then everyone is going to be happy, and you’re going to move forward in your relationship. There’s always going to be a cost, but it isn’t just a cost—it’s value.” A quiet client is not necessarily a satisfied one; a lack of communication can often signal that a brand feels neglected and is quietly evaluating alternatives. “Where professional teams lose out is when their fan base has become apathetic. You can’t have an apathetic customer.” To combat this, fulfillment leadership must maintain a consistent, year-round communicative cadence, checking in regularly, whether a brand ships one order or 100,000 orders a day, to resolve issues before they reach a tipping point. Key Takeaways from Barrett Distribution Centers The Pain of Transition: Moving 3PL providers is a highly disruptive process that requires deep discovery to determine whether problems are rooted in operational failures or poor visibility. Proactive Account Management: Leading fulfillment partnerships rely on “looking around corners” to optimize packaging, manage transportation, and protect retail compliance scorecards. The Danger of Client Apathy: Quiet accounts require proactive outreach; structured cadence and comprehensive customer surveys keep relationships active and healthy. Year-Round Scaling: Successful peak season preparation is not a seasonal scramble but a natural extension of consistent weekly or monthly forecasting habits. The New Warehouse Podcast Barrett Distribution Centers: How 3PLs Build Trust to Retain Brands

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OZ Lifting Doubles Impact of K9 Guardian Program

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:58:28 +0000

Winona, Minnesota-based OZ Lifting Products LLC has expanded its K9 Guardian Program by committing to fund a second police dog every year, as Arcadia Police Department, Wisconsin became the latest beneficiary at a check presentation last week (July 1). Image caption: Steve and Jane Napieralski, either side of Arcadia’s Mitchell Zastrow; Trace Erickson is far right. The manufacturer of davit cranes and industrial lifting equipment had committed to funding training for a new police dog every year but based on the positive impact the program has had on local communities, this will be expanded with immediate effect to cover Spring and Fall donations. Having first placed a dog, named Ozkar, at the City of New Hampton Police Department in 2024, the Pleasant Hill Police Department, also in Iowa, was the next recipient of a fully trained animal, Ozlo. This year, Ozzy was welcomed by the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin, before the first Fall program will result in a fourth dog, Ozcar, bound for Arcadia. The K9 Guardian Program is aligned with the Code Blue K9 Program, led by Trace Erickson, a former law enforcement officer. Erickson oversees 12-week United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) training courses, even utilizing an out-building on the property of OZ Lifting’s 40,000 square-foot facility. As part of the agreement, OZ Lifting-funded dogs that pass through Erickson’s program will have ‘OZ’ somewhere in their name, as demonstrated by successful graduates, Ozkar, Ozlo and Ozzy. Steve Napieralski, president at OZ Lifting, said: “We’ve seen firsthand the need for these units and the difference they make in their communities, and it continues a family legacy in that my father served as a police officer in Chicago; and my wife, Jane’s father was a Winona firefighter. Expanding the program was a natural next step; we’re excited to continue growing this initiative and to support even more K9 teams doing critical work in the field. It also reflects the company’s commitment to giving back to communities throughout the Midwest.” Letter of request As the Guardian Program expands, law enforcement agencies have been reminded that they can submit a letter of request to Code Blue K9 or OZ Lifting Products, explaining the requirements of their department and community. Applications are reviewed based on likely impact, agency needs, and the additional benefits a K9 unit would provide. The goal is to help agencies that may not otherwise have the budget to acquire and train a police dog. Ozzy, for example, a German shorthair pointer, is a non-biting K9 and specializes in detection and patrol support. Erickson built the program around drug detection in addition to search and rescue. Chief Nic Scholl and future K9 officer, Mitchell Zastrow, at Arcadia, meanwhile, pointed to budget constraints and the retirement of an existing dog as a case study of the impact these animals have on the community. ‘A new police K9 would significantly enhance our ability to protect our citizens, assist in searches, support school safety initiatives, and respond more effectively to high-risk situations,’ they wrote. Zastrow added: “It’s exciting to become a first-time K9 handler. Ozcar will be a valuable member of the team, delivering full patrol duties, covering drugs, apprehension and tracking.” Napieralski said: “The program aligns with OZ’s core values of reliability, trust, safety, service, and community involvement, while many employees are dog owners, creating a personal connection to the mission. “Police K9s provide valuable public safety services that extend well beyond criminal apprehension. Depending on the agency’s needs, K9 teams may assist with tracking missing children, elderly individuals, and people with special needs; search and rescue operations; evidence recovery; community outreach and public engagement; and much more. The specialist units often allow situations to be resolved more safely for officers, suspects, and the public. Their presence alone can de-escalate situations and encourage compliance before force becomes necessary.” A serial philanthropist, OZ has also donated to the American Legion, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, National Child Safety Council, and YMCA. It also supports local youth sports, schools, and organizations such as the Rotary Club.

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Hyster-Yale Materials Handling and NTT Data announce breakthrough physical AI solution in manufacturing

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:33:08 +0000

Innovation embeds real-time, sensor-driven intelligence into manufacturing workflows to enhance quality, speed deployment and drive more consistent production outcomes. Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. has announced a breakthrough application of physical AI that embeds new intelligence directly into manufacturing processes. This approach leverages sensor data to enable machines and systems to perceive, understand, and act in real-time within real-world operations. Bringing this capability into practice introduces AI-driven quality assurance directly into HYMH’s manufacturing operations. This co-developed approach represents a first-of-its-kind use case of how physical AI can be applied in an industrial assembly environment by embedding intelligence into production workflows, helping to safeguard that products are built to consistently high standards. NTT DATA designed and developed the solution at HYMH’s manufacturing facility in Berea, KY, integrating vision sensors, edge AI that processes data on-site, and advanced analytics into a critical assembly workflow. Together with partner Archetype AI, NTT Data in collaboration with HYMH, adapted a physical AI model that analyzes assembly activity against expected production steps, validating that all parts are installed and assembly stages are completed, flagging deviations before the product moves to the next stage. By validating quality throughout the assembly process, the solution helps identify and address potential issues before products leave the factory floor. This initiative demonstrates a step-change in how AI can be applied in manufacturing environments. Combined with edge computing, the solution can run locally so all processing happens on-site, enabling faster rollout and quicker time-to-value. Early results showed that physical AI cuts deployment timelines from months to weeks when compared with legacy techniques, accelerating adoption and iteration across manufacturing operations. “Our confidence in physical AI continues to grow, and we’re starting to see the countless benefits that AI can bring to our global manufacturing operations,” said Barbara Binda, Director of Global Manufacturing Innovation, Hyster-Yale Materials Handling. “Working with NTT DATA allows us to leverage how physical AI can help our production teams maintain high-quality standards and deliver the most reliable products to our clients.” “This deployment shows what physical AI looks like in real production environments, not as a concept, but with tangible impact on the factory floor,” said Shahid Ahmed, Global Head of Edge Services, NTT DATA. “By combining real production data with physical AI models at the edge, we’re helping leading manufacturers like HYMH deliver high quality products, support frontline workers and apply AI in ways that deliver real-world outcomes.” As manufacturers accelerate automation, demand is rising for physical AI that can operate safely in complex environments, driving efficiency, quality and resilience. NTT DATA is uniquely positioned to deliver this capability at scale, combining industry expertise with end-to-end services to integrate AI across IT and operational technology environments, enabling intelligent, data-driven operations. Today’s news builds on a longstanding collaborative relationship between NTT DATA and HYMH. Together, the companies are advancing more adaptive and intelligent manufacturing processes and exploring how physical AI can be scaled to drive repeatable, high-quality production outcomes.

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Open Logistics Foundation starts open source project for the eDeliveryNote

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:02:41 +0000

Every day, millions of delivery notes accompany goods shipments across Europe. However, there is no standardised digital data model for this. The Open Logistics Foundation is launching the eDeliveryNote project and will in the future provide free, openly available open source components that connect existing systems rather than replacing them. The delivery note plays a central role in domestic freight transport. It documents the handover of goods, serves as proof of delivery and a receipt, and accompanies shipments throughout the entire supply chain. Because it primarily fulfils an operational requirement, its digitalisation has historically developed in a largely uncoordinated manner. The result is a fragmented system landscape in which industry-specific custom solutions and proprietary data formats continue to hinder seamless data exchange to this day – and prevent end-to-end digitalisation at the data level. The Open Logistics Foundation is addressing precisely this problem and is launching the eDeliveryNote project within its Working Group Electronic Transport Documents. Markant is leading the project. Markant is a pan-European service provider that supports companies in the retail, industrial and logistics sectors with integrated digital solutions across the entire value chain from financial and payment services, through data and integration platforms, to supply chain and market data services. Together with other member companies, the aim is to develop an open, consensus-based data model for the digital delivery note, supplemented by standardised application programming interfaces (APIs) and interoperable interfaces. The driving force behind this is not the development of a new product, but cross-sector interoperability. Systems, companies and sectors should be able to communicate with one another, regardless of the solution they currently use. From the eCMR to the eDelivery Note: a tried-and-tested foundation, a new goal The project builds on the experience and components already developed by the Working Group Electronic Transport Documents as part of the eCMR project. The Working Group’s aim is to create a digital portfolio. With the digital consignment note, the members of the Open Logistics Foundation have successfully demonstrated that the logistics industry can work together to create interoperable open source standards and bring them into widespread use. The eDelivery Note is the next logical step. Whilst the eCMR addresses cross-border road freight transport, the focus is now shifting to a document that plays an equally central role in domestic transport and exists in widely varying forms across different sectors. The aim of the Open Logistics Foundation is not to build a new platform, but to provide an open, modular framework comprising relevant open source components that companies can integrate into their existing system landscapes with minimal effort. The focus is on the transformation from a document to a structured data set. The components developed are freely available in the Foundation’s repository and may also be used commercially under the OLF license. “We are not starting from scratch, but building on what we have already achieved together with the eCMR”, explains Reiner Sailer, Lead Service Owner for SupplyChainServices at Markant. “This gives us a robust technical foundation and provides the industry with a head start in the digitalisation of its transport processes”. Alexander Theegarten, project lead, adds: “At the same time, we are bringing experience from existing standards (such as EANCOM) to the project, so that a wide variety of standards does not emerge”. Open to all competitors The project has been designed to be broad in scope from the outset: logistics service providers, shippers, consignors and IT providers are all equally welcome to join the Working Group at any time and play an active role in developing the standard. “A motivated group of frontrunner companies has initiated this project”, says Nathalie Böhning, Innovation and Project Manager at the Open Logistics Foundation. “But a standard thrives on the diversity of those who use and further develop it. The more expertise that is contributed, the more robust and practical the solution becomes for everyone”.

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June 2026 Logistics Manager’s Index Report® LMI® at 71.1

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:43:34 +0000

Growth is INCREASING AT AN INCREASING RATE for: Inventory Levels, Warehousing Utilization, Warehousing Prices, and Transportation Utilization Growth is INCREASING AT A DECREASING RATE for: Inventory Costs and Transportation Prices Warehousing Capacity and Transportation Capacity are CONTRACTING The June Logistics Manager’s Index reads in at 71.1, up (+1.6) from May’s reading of 69.5. This is the first time the overall index has read in above 70.0 – which we consider to be a significant rate of expansion – since the reading of 76.2 in March 2022. second fastest level of expansion since March 2022’s reading of 76.2. The upward push in June stems from much faster expansion in Inventory Levels (+5.7 to 60.5). This increase can be largely traced to surges among larger respondents (68.6 to 55.6 for small respondents) and Downstream retailers (66.0 to 59.1 Upstream). The move was more pronounced later in June, as expansion rates went from moderate expansion at 55.4 early in the month to robust growth at 66.3 later on. The move in Inventory Levels led to subsequent increases in Warehousing Utilization (+6.5), Warehousing Prices (+3.0) and Transportation Utilization (+5.2). At the same time, we see Warehousing Capacity (-3.0 to 47.5) moving back into contraction as more storage space is needed to accommodate increased inventories. This level of Inventory Level expansion is a flip from what we have seen for most of 2026. The push from retailers is likely representative of two factors: 1) In spite of inflation, consumer spending has held through the first half of the year, giving retailers confidence in bringing forward goods for the second half of the year; 2) tariffs may increase in later July, so some of what we’re seeing is a pull-forward ahead of peak season. Transportation continues to move at a significant pace. Transportation Prices expansion is down (-3.6) from last month’s reading of 96.0, which was the fastest rate of expansion ever recorded for any metric in the history of the index. Price expansion in June is 92.4, which represents a significant upward movement – just at a slightly slower rate than what we saw in April and May. Transportation Capacity continues to compress (-0.9) at 30.8, which may be a factor in the continued upward swing (+5.2) of Transportation Utilization at 74.7. University, Colorado State University, Florida Atlantic University, Rutgers University, and the University of Nevada, Reno, and in conjunction with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) issued this report today. Results Overview The LMI score is a combination of eight unique components that make up the logistics industry, including: Inventory Levels and Costs, Warehousing Capacity, Utilization, and Prices, and Transportation Capacity, Utilization, and Prices. The LMI is calculated using a diffusion index, in which any reading above 50.0 indicates that logistics is expanding; a reading below 50.0 is indicative of a shrinking logistics industry. The latest results of the LMI summarize the responses of supply chain professionals collected in June 2026. The June LMI read in at 71.1, which is up (+1.6) from May’s reading of 69.5, and is the first reading over 70.0, as well as the fastest rate of expansion, since March of 2022. This month’s reading is well above the all-time average of 61.6. This robust rate of expansion is driven primarily by larger respondents, who saw significantly faster expansion in logistics activity at 71.3 than smaller respondents who reported more moderate (but still robust) expansion at 63.3. There is also evidence that expansion was stronger later in the month. The moves in the logistics industry reflect (and often precede) the movements in the overall economy. The economy continues to be in an interesting place this month as supply chains continue to adjust to disruptions caused by war, tariffs, and the resulting inflation. Trade policy remains a source of uncertainty in the global economy. The USMCA trade deal between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico expired on July 1st. The Trump administration has speculated that it may opt against renewing the deal and instead negotiated separate bilateral trade deals with Mexico and Canada. Under the USMCA trade between the three nations increased by $540 billion from 2020 to 2024 as several firms reconfigured their supply chains to take advantage of the revamped trade deal[1]. Ford Motor Company is a strong example of this shift – and of the impact that the move away from North American free trade have had. Ford assembles more vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, producing over 2 million of them in 2025. Their supply chain relies on several cross-border moves, with vehicles like the F-150 crossing between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada seven times during production. This has made Ford particularly vulnerable to shifts in trade policy, which, along with a shortage of components, partially explains their just-reported 9.6% year-over-year decline in sales[2]. There is also uncertainty regarding U.S.-European trade, as President Trump threated to scrap the recently finalized U.S./EU trade by imposing a 100% tariff on countries that have levied digital taxes that impact U.S. service exports[3]. The uncertainty may be impacting the jobs market as 22.5% of U.S. Consumer Conference Board respondents reported that jobs are “hard to get” – up from 19.8% in May[4]. This aligns reports that the U.S. added 57,000 jobs in June, which is lower than the 100,000 that had been expected[5]. This report comes on the heels of downward reassessments for April and May, as job gains have been revised down by 74,000 from initial reports The low, but still steady, job gains complicate the overall economic picture for the Fed, which is attempting to navigate a path through the current bout of inflation, but will not want to upset the job market[6]. Several Fed Governors have penciled in rate increases at some point this year, contrasting with Chairman Warsh’s more dovish statements from earlier this year[7]. Consumer spending has remained strong despite all of these headwinds. Consumer retail spending was up 0.9% in May and the National Retail Federation estimates that 32% of consumers

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WINIT’s modular platform helps tackle rising costs and customer expectations

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:03:49 +0000

3PL WINIT’s modular, technology-led fulfillment platform is the first-of-its-kind in the industry, helping companies meet rising consumer expectations around accuracy and delivery speed, reducing complexity, and providing visibility throughout the fulfillment chain in an increasingly complex cross-border market Tech-driven 3PL WINIT is helping retailers across North America to compete in an increasingly complex cross-border retail market with its highly configurable, unique modular fulfillment platform (MFP). As e-commerce continues to rise, cost pressures grow, and consumer behavior shifts, the 3PL sector is evolving. In response to the growing need from retailers for greater visibility and more tailored solutions, WINIT is providing configurable, efficient, transparent, and accurate fulfillment services. The company uses flexible automation and AI-driven orchestration, alongside a portfolio of regional carriers, to help customers sell more, stock less, and reduce their overall costs. WINIT enables sellers to adapt to changing e-commerce demands The e-commerce market has flourished in recent years, accelerating since the COVID-19 pandemic and experiencing strong cross-border fulfillment growth. In response, 3PL providers are employing a technology-driven approach to meet shifting customer needs. In a recent report commissioned by WINIT, market intelligence specialist Interact Analysis highlights how tech-driven 3PLs are gaining market share as automation matures, e-commerce demands more agility and transparency, seasonal volatility rises, and labor and cross-border costs climb. Within the current landscape of 3PLs, WINIT differs from its competitors in the range, transparency, and efficiency of its operations: From human capital 3PLs supplying labor to run a customer’s site, to dedicated-facility 3PLs, which run warehouses exclusively for a single client, to multi-client site 3PL, which harness the operational and financial advantages of sharing space, labor, systems, and infrastructure. WINIT marks an evolution of the multi-client site 3PL model, with an advanced technology-driven MFP and highly efficient end-to-end cross-border logistics capabilities, covering the entire fulfillment process from first-mile to last-mile. It leverages technological innovation, alongside its network of partners and facilities, to provide customers with efficient, cost-effective, transparent, and highly configurable tailored services. Mobile e-commerce and deeper integration of embedded finance continue to drive growth, while consumers increasingly expect same-day and next-day services. According to Interact Analysis, the current market favors 3PLs with automated, high-SKU, configurable fulfillment networks, while the elimination of the US de minimis duty-free threshold in August 2025 is accelerating brands’ shift to US/nearshore inventory and pre-order fulfillment models. WINIT’s positioning as a tech-focused, end-to-end MFP provides faster onboarding, greater flexibility, lower cost, and shared-automation benefits to its customers. WINIT’s configurable modular approach addresses key industry challenges In the face of rising cost pressures, including cross-border fulfillment, complex last-mile operations, increasing returns, higher real estate and wage bills, companies need full supply chain visibility and flexible logistics solutions that meet their specific needs. Meanwhile, growing consumer demands around delivery and accuracy, alongside tightening trade rules, provide additional challenges to logistics operations around inventory risk and stock positioning. WINIT’s modular approach allows companies to tailor their distribution operations for maximum speed, efficiency, and transparency down to the last mile. Using the configurable fulfillment model, companies can reduce overstocking, manage rising SKU counts, seasonal volatility and last-mile complexity, and adapt their fulfillment strategies as market conditions change. Its integrated modular fulfillment platform (MFP) enables WINIT to work closely with its customers to address their challenges across a wide variety of industry sectors, reducing cost and complexity. Sector-specific solutions range from fast, accurate storage, packaging, and kitting for auto parts, to custom packaging and labeling for apparel to enhance brand experience. WINIT’s value-added services extend beyond the warehouse, with partner services such as eBay Fulfillment providing extensive benefits to sellers in terms of fulfillment efficiency, traffic support, enhanced account protection, and more. Chen Hongwei, Founder, Chairman & CEO of WINIT, says, “WINIT meets the need for transparent, flexible e-commerce solutions and increasing customer demand for faster, more accurate deliveries. Our platform is the first-of-its-kind in the industry that provides a tailored modular solution to companies, connecting all endpoints along the fulfillment chain, with visibility at all stages. “Our configurable approach to fulfillment meets demand for shortened delivery times and provides an enhanced consumer experience. We are continually expanding our service capacity, and growing our network of distribution and automation partners to deliver fast, accurate, tailored services to vendors of all sizes.” Established in 2012, WINIT has a total of 15 warehouses across North America as part of its global network of almost 500,000 sq m, covering North America, the UK, Europe, Australia, and other regions. Its array of regional carriers helps to provide three-day delivery coverage of 60-70% across the US and five-day coverage of 98-99%, with end-to-end visibility of the entire cross-border fulfillment process giving 99.99% inventory accuracy.

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Big Joe celebrates its 75th anniversary

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:43:56 +0000

Big Joe Forklifts, a North American provider of integrated lithium-ion forklifts, warehouse equipment, and autonomous material-handling solutions, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, marking seven and a half decades of helping businesses move materials more efficiently, safely, and productively. Founded in 1951, Big Joe has grown from a Midwestern manufacturer of innovative warehouse equipment into a leader in the industry’s transformation from internal combustion to electric and autonomous solutions. “Reaching 75 years is an incredible milestone, but what excites us most is the opportunity ahead,” said Dan Rosskamm, President & CEO of Big Joe Forklifts. “Our history has been defined by challenging conventions and finding better ways to solve customer problems. As warehouses and supply chains continue to evolve, Big Joe is uniquely positioned to lead the electrification movement, providing purpose-built, integrated lithium solutions as a direct replacement for propane and diesel powered forklifts. We are also emerging as a disruptor in the autonomous space, offering approachable solutions that simply work. The foundation built over the last 75 years is our launch pad for the next 75.” Founded by the Kiefus and Levine families in Chicago, Big Joe introduced its first product, the In Between Handling (IBH) manual straddle stacker in 1951. More than seven decades later, the IBH remains in production and continues to serve customers from the company’s Wisconsin manufacturing facility, reflecting Big Joe’s long-standing commitment to solving real-world material handling challenges with practical, dependable equipment. Throughout its history, Big Joe has built its reputation on innovation. From pioneering power-drive pallet trucks and compact powered stackers that became indispensable in retail environments to introducing the E30 Electric Pallet Truck, which helped establish the ITA Class 3.1 category, the company has consistently focused on developing solutions that directly address customer pain points. In recent years, Big Joe has expanded its investment into integrated lithium-ion forklifts and launched a groundbreaking autonomous division focused on practical, user-directed automation solutions. “As we celebrate 75 years of Big Joe, we’re honoring the people, partnerships and innovations that have defined our journey,” said Martin Boyd, Chief Marketing Officer of Big Joe Forklifts. “From the introduction of the original IBH stacker to our leadership in lithium-powered equipment and autonomous solutions, Big Joe has always focused on empowering the people who move things. Our anniversary is not just a celebration of where we’ve been – it’s a statement about where we’re headed as we continue helping customers move confidently into the future of material handling.” Today, Big Joe is headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, and serves customers throughout North America, both directly and through an extensive dealer network. The company’s mission is “Empowering the People Who Move Things,” delivering innovative products and technologies that make material handling safer, easier, and more productive. The company’s 75th anniversary theme, “Powering Progress,” reflects both its heritage and its vision for the future. Since becoming part of the EP Equipment family in 2009, Big Joe has accelerated investment in electrification, lithium-ion battery manufacturing, and automation, helping customers modernize their operations while improving productivity and sustainability. Today, Big Joe and EP are recognized leaders in lithium-ion adoption and in vertically integrated power systems, and have become the world’s largest manufacturer of Class 3[DR1] [AS2] equipment. Throughout 2026, Big Joe will commemorate its anniversary with special events, historical storytelling, employee initiatives, and content highlighting the innovations, employees, dealers, and customers who have helped shape the company’s success.

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12 New Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Medical Device Projects Include $1 Billion J&J Facility in June 2026

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:38:43 +0000

NEW for 2026 from SalesLeads! Life sciences manufacturing activity continues to show progress in June 2026, led by sustained investment from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device sectors. Industrial SalesLeads research team identified 12 pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device projects, signaling continued demand for facility construction, expansion, and equipment modernization across the U.S. and Canada. The following are selected highlights on new Life Science industry news: Life Sciences – By Project Type Pharmaceutical – 5 Medical Device – 4 Biotechnology – 3 Life Sciences – By Project Location (Top 5 States) Indiana – 2 Massachusetts – 2 Florida – 1 South Carolina – 1 Delaware – 1 Life Sciences – By Project Scope/Activity New Construction – 8 Equipment Upgrade – 7 Renovation – 5 Expansion – 2 Largest Planned Project The largest project is owned by Johnson & Johnson. The medical device manufacturer is investing $1 billion in the construction of a new distribution facility in Jacksonville, FL, with completion slated for 2028. Life Sciences Equipment Categories in Demand In the month of June, identified life sciences project managers are procuring the following equipment: 100%: Material Handling/Storage Equipment, Compressed Air Systems, Lighting, HVAC Equipment 92%: Loading Dock Equipment, Conveyors, Mechanical Construction, Fire Protection Equipment, Networking/Security Equipment 83%: Control Systems & Instrumentation 75%: Air Emissions Control Equipment, Building Construction, Floor Coatings 67%: Packaging Equipment, Heat Exchangers, Tanks/Vessels – Stainless 50%: Process Equipment Top 5 Tracked Life Sciences Projects FLORIDA: Johnson & Johnson is investing $1 billion in the construction of a new distribution facility. Construction has recently started, with completion slated for 2028. The project also includes the renovation and equipment upgrades of the company’s existing manufacturing facility. INDIANA: Indiana logged two of the month’s largest biotech and medical device commitments. Biotechnology company is planning to invest $150 million in the construction of a 130,000 SF processing facility, and is currently seeking approval. MASSACHUSETTS: A radiopharmaceutical company, is planning renovation and equipment upgrades to a recently leased 128,000 SF processing, laboratory, and office facility. They are currently seeking approval. DELAWARE: A biotechnology company is planning to invest $100 million in the construction of a 138,000 SF laboratory, processing, and office facility. The company is currently seeking approval for the project. SOUTH CAROLINA: A pharmaceutical ingredient company is planning to invest $119 million in the expansion and equipment upgrades of its processing facility. The company is currently seeking approval, with completion slated for late 2027. About Industrial SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, Industrial SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline. 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. Visit us at salesleadsinc.com. Each month, our team provides hundreds of industrial reports within a variety of industries.

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13 New Chemical and Industrial Manufacturing Projects Signal Continued Capital Investment in June 2026

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:05:15 +0000

NEW for July 2026 from SalesLeads!! Industrial manufacturing activity continued in June 2026, led by sustained investment from the chemical processing, specialty materials, bio-based manufacturing and battery materials sectors. Industrial SalesLeads research team identified 13 chemical and industrial manufacturing projects, signaling continued demand for facility construction, expansion, and equipment modernization across the U.S. More than $500 million in disclosed capital investment was confirmed across just five of the 13 projects tracked this month. The following are selected highlights on new chemical and industrial manufacturing news: Chemical & Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Category Chemical Manufacturing & Processing – 9 Bio-Based Manufacturing (Biofuel/Biochar) – 2 Battery & Advanced Materials – 1 Industrial Coatings & Finishing – 1 Chemical & Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Location (Top 5 States) Indiana – 3 Texas – 2 California – 1 Iowa – 1 Kentucky – 1 Chemical & Industrial Manufacturing – By Project Scope/Activity New Construction – 5 Expansion – 4 Renovation – 3 Equipment Upgrade – 3 Relocation – 1 Largest Planned Project The largest project is owned by Wildcat Discovery Technologies Inc. The lithium iron phosphate battery materials manufacturer is planning to invest $230 million in the construction of a processing facility in Hooks, TX. The company is currently seeking approval for the project. Chemical & Industrial Manufacturing Equipment Categories in Demand In the month of June, identified chemical and industrial manufacturing project managers are procuring the following equipment: 92%: Material Handling/Storage Equipment, Lift Trucks, Compressed Air Systems, Lighting, HVAC Equipment 85%: Loading Dock Equipment, Cranes and Hoists, Mechanical Construction, Fire Protection Equipment, Networking/Security Equipment 69%: Air Emissions Control Equipment 62%: Packaging Equipment, Heat Exchangers, Floor Coatings, Control Systems & Instrumentation, Tanks/Vessels – Stainless 46%: Building Construction, Process Equipment Top 5 Tracked Chemical & Industrial Manufacturing Projects INDIANA: Indiana logged three separate chemical and materials manufacturing projects this month, more than any other state. Bioprocessing company is investing $200 million in an expansion of its processing facility. Construction has recently started, with completion slated for Fall 2027. TEXAS: Texas drew two of the month’s largest capital commitments. An advanced battery materials company is planning to invest $230 million in construction of a lithium iron phosphate processing facility. This is the single largest project tracked this month. The company is currently seeking approval. CALIFORNIA: A medical chemical company is planning the renovation of a recently leased 66,000 SF warehouse facility. The $10–25 million project is in planning and design, and the company will consolidate its operations upon completion. IOWA: An agricultural manufacturing company is investing $17 million in the construction of a new processing facility. The project has recently received approval. KENTUCKY: A manufacturer and global supplier of chemical admixtures is planning a 60,000 SF expansion of its manufacturing and office facility in Louisville, valued at $10–25 million. The company is currently seeking approval for the project. About Industrial SalesLeads, Inc. Since 1959, Industrial SalesLeads, based in Jacksonville, FL is a leader in delivering industrial capital project intelligence and prospecting services for sales and marketing teams to ensure a predictable and scalable pipeline. Our Industrial Market Intelligence, IMI identifies timely insights on companies planning significant capital investments such as new construction, expansion, relocation, equipment modernization and plant closings in industrial facilities. 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. Visit us at salesleadsinc.com. Each month, our team provides hundreds of industrial reports within a variety of industries.

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Interact Analysis: Inside the 2026 Warehouse Automation Market

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:55:50 +0000

Welcome to another exciting episode of The New Warehouse Podcast. In this episode, host Kevin sits down with Rueben Scriven, Research Manager at Interact Analysis. Interact Analysis is a premier market intelligence firm providing clarity to the complex warehouse industry. This discussion dives deep into the findings of their mid-year warehouse automation report, exploring market shifts, regional trends, and emerging technologies. This episode provides a vital roadmap for operators looking to future-proof their supply chains in a changing landscape. The Evolution of Pouch Sortation and Segment Shifts Sectors like food and beverage are experiencing unexpected acceleration, driven by smaller product quantities and rising logistical complexity. Conversely, the apparel sector is entering a cooling period following a massive pandemic-era investment boom. Admittedly, Rueben Scriven notes that “part of this update is us putting our hands up and saying that we’ve probably got it a little bit too aggressive” regarding previous apparel forecasts. Amid these shifts, traditional technologies are finding entirely new life outside of their original applications. Pouch sortation systems, historically confined to apparel warehouses, are rapidly expanding into healthcare, pharmacy, and parcel facilities to maximize overhead spatial efficiency. Scriven highlights, “We’ve effectively lifted our projections a bit by accounting for the fact that we’re seeing more use cases of pouch outside of the apparel sector”. This expansion proves that old design paradigms are shifting, and, as Scriven states, “this prophecy…from 10 years ago is starting to become a little bit more grounded in truth.“ Contract Innovation Fuels High 3PL Automation Growth Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are adopting automation at a historically high rate. The industry is overcoming this barrier through flexible co-investment frameworks and Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) models. Scriven explains the historical bottleneck by noting that “Contract lengths tend to be too short to justify automation investments. Now, there have been several factors recently that have made automation more attractive.” Furthermore, macroeconomic shifts and tariff uncertainties have prompted more companies to outsource their supply chains, leading to a net increase in logistics investments. Scriven observes that “3PL saw more companies outsourcing their logistics because of the uncertainty around tariffs and how tariffs would affect logistics”. This influx of capital allows 3PLs to actively integrate advanced robotics, changing how they position themselves to customers. As the market evolves, Scriven points out an overarching trend where “this prediction is starting to come true” regarding the ultimate convergence of system integrators and 3PL providers. The Warehouse Automation Market is Moving from Custom Engineering to Modular Plug-and-Play Systems The fundamental nature of system integration is changing as the industry moves toward rapid deployment models. The market is actively shifting away from highly customized, rigid engineering projects toward standardized, modular systems. Scriven highlights this baseline change by stating, “We’re seeing this shift in the industry away from highly customized systems more towards more modular, plug-and-play systems”. Rather than bending unique steel and writing bespoke software code for every warehouse, system integrators are now configuring highly pre-designed platforms. Scriven elaborates that “10 years ago, an automated system was highly customized. Steel was bent for that particular project, and code was written for that particular project”. This evolution drastically lowers traditional deployment costs and reduces integration complexity. Both of which end-user surveys reveal are the single largest barriers to automation adoption. Rather than building things from scratch, the modern landscape is dictated by predefined technology stacks, or as Scriven summarizes, “the integrator is configuring them rather than kind of customizing them”. Key Takeaways on the Warehouse Automation Market The Final Frontier: Robotic piece picking is hitting an inflection point. Vendors natively integrate arms into wider systems rather than treating them as an afterthought. The Integration Barrier: End-user surveys reveal that integration complexity, not budget or ROI, is the primary obstacle preventing automation adoption. The 3PL Convergence: Automation providers are increasingly building and running their own facilities, signaling a structural convergence between 3PLs and system integrators. Micro-Fulfillment Resurgence: Following a boom-and-bust cycle, grocery micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs) are seeing renewed interest led by large-scale rollouts from giants like Walmart. The New Warehouse Podcast Interact Analysis: Inside the 2026 Warehouse Automation Market

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Material Handling Market Update: Positive signs ahead

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 19:59:37 +0000

While manufacturers continue to navigate higher equipment costs and shifting trade policies, the outlook for the material handling industry is increasingly encouraging. One of the biggest positive developments this month is the easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which has helped lower fuel prices and improve confidence across the manufacturing sector. Although steel, aluminum, and other raw material costs remain elevated, overall price pressures appear to be stabilizing. Manufacturing activity continues to expand, particularly in industries such as defense, semiconductor production, and advanced manufacturing. These sectors are investing in new facilities, automation, and warehouse operations—all of which support continued demand for forklifts, warehouse equipment, and material handling solutions. Supply chains are also showing signs of improvement. Shorter supplier lead times and increasing inventory levels should help improve equipment availability and reduce delays for customers planning fleet additions or replacements. At the same time, many businesses are choosing to extend the life of their current equipment rather than make immediate capital investments. That trend continues to drive demand for planned maintenance, replacement parts, repairs, and rental equipment to keep operations running efficiently. What This Means for Your Business Equipment pricing is beginning to stabilize, although steel, aluminum, and tariffs continue to influence costs. Manufacturing growth remains strong across several key industries, supporting future demand for material-handling equipment. Supply chain improvements are helping shorten lead times and improve equipment availability. Service, maintenance, rentals, and fleet optimization remain cost-effective strategies for maximizing uptime while managing capital expenses. The July 2026 newsletter from Oxford Economics reported that the ISM manufacturing index fell by 0.7 pp to 53.3 in June, in line with our expectations. The report details point to a positive outlook for the sector. The supplier deliveries index registered the largest drag on the headline index, falling by 3.2pp, indicating an improvement in supply conditions. New orders and production fell modestly in June but remain well within expansion territory. Defense and semiconductor-related machinery demand were the brightest spots, and we expect these sectors to drive growth amid supportive fiscal policy and a seemingly insatiable AI buildout. Inventories moved into expansion territory for the first time since April 2025. With customer inventories still in “too low” territory, the inventory upswing will likely gain momentum.

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