Automated Equipment Archives - Material Handling Wholesaler

Advanced automation for E-commerce and intralogistics

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 08:26:10 +0000

The rapid growth of e-commerce is transforming the organization of logistics centers. The increase in shipping volumes, the progressive fragmentation of orders and the demand for more sustainable packaging are imposing new standards of flexibility and control on warehouses. Coesia responds to this need with an integrated portfolio covering packaging, handling, and palletizing, positioning itself as a technology partner capable of operating consistently across the entire order fulfillment flow. “E-commerce has transformed the warehouse into an environment where every order is a case of its own. Different products, different formats, different timing, and the constant need to optimize every phase,” says Alessandro Parimbelli, CEO of Coesia. “The solutions we bring to LogiMAT come from this context: automation that adapts to the real flow of operations, not the other way around. Every shipment with empty space is a cost that someone ultimately pays — whether the manufacturer, the distributor or the planet. Our goal is to eliminate such costs through packaging that adapts to the product and delivers measurable results from the very day one. Our approach brings together the key elements of mechanical automation, digital integration and modular architecture. In this way, customers can configure lines that closely match their processes, improving operational efficiency and optimizing the use of packaging materials.” According to recent market analyses, the global market for automated e-commerce packaging solutions is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of over 16% in the next five years, driven by the need to reduce operating costs, increase fulfillment speed and optimize shipping volumes. Warehouses must be able to handle heterogeneous products in terms of size and characteristics while maintaining high standards for traceability, accuracy and speed in order preparation. Automation therefore represents a decisive factor in ensuring operational continuity, cost control and service quality.* System Digital – SELECTA SELECTA is System Digital’s solution — a Coesia Group company — for the automated handling of pre-formed paper bags in e-commerce fulfillment. The system is designed to eliminate one of the most common bottlenecks in packaging operations: the manual selection of the most suitable format for the product. Once it receives the dimensional data of the product from the customer’s management system or through direct acquisition via incoming scanning, SELECTA automatically selects the correct bag among the formats available in stock. The bag is then picked, opened and presented to the operator in an ergonomic position for quick loading. Once the product is inserted, the system performs the sealing, applies the shipping label and transfers the package to the outgoing line, ready for logistics. The result is a faster, more precise and more sustainable process. Packaging calibrated to the product means less material used, reduced shipping volumes and a customer experience cared for down to the last detail. SELECTA manages five bag formats — from Small (300×250 mm) to XXL (600×450 mm) — with productivity of up to 530 pieces per hour in a fully automated configuration. SELECTA will be physically displayed at Coesia’s Hall B – Booth B7519 for the entire duration of the exhibition. System Digital – ELEVA ELEVA is System Digital’s modular platform for the automated handling of corrugated cardboard boxes in intralogistics. The system integrates functional modules for box erecting, dynamic height adjustment, closing and labeling. The height-reduction module operates continuously rather than discretely, processing boxes with different bases in sequence without requiring mechanical changeovers between formats. ELEVA reads the height of the inserted product and automatically adjusts the cardboard, eliminating empty space, improving load stability and reducing transport costs. Throughput reaches up to 600 units per hour. The modular architecture is designed to evolve over time, with each module able to be operated independently or integrated into a complete line, allowing the system to be configured according to the available layout and the desired level of automation.

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Peak Technologies partners with Jacobi Robotics to Deliver Next-Generation Mixed-Case Palletizing Automation

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:05:06 +0000

The OmniPalletizer physical AI platform intelligently adapts to mixed-case variables and eliminates upstream complexities to save time and money Peak Technologies has announced its partnership with Jacobi Robotics. The collaboration brings AI-powered mixed-case palletizing to complex warehouses and distribution centers. Using the Jacobi OmniPalletizer – a physical AI platform – the need for upstream buffering, sorting and sequencing can be eliminated, driving unmatched operational efficiency. Combined with Peak Technologies’ deep expertise in enterprise technology integration, the turnkey solution can be deployed rapidly without disruptions to active workflows. This makes it ideal for a wide range of industries, including retail, grocery, beverage, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), parcel and third-party logistics (3PL) facilities. “Mixed-case palletizing is traditionally one of the most time- and cost-intensive workflows in warehouse environments, often forcing operations teams to trade off between automation and flexibility,” said Tony Rivers, president and CEO at Peak Technologies. “Our partnership with Jacobi Robotics eliminates that constraint by providing a fully packaged solution that adapts to real-world variability without adding upstream complexity.” Leveraging real-time motion planning, computer vision and self-learning AI, the OmniPalletizer continuously adapts to case variables without manual programming. The platform intelligently discerns product mix, packaging dimensions and arrival patterns while honoring operational rules such as heavy-to-light prioritization or crush limits. This flexibility enables it to efficiently build stable, dense and store-ready mixed-case pallets without changing upstream processes. Onboard digital twin technology allows users to validate system performance using their own historical data, providing clear performance insight from day one. Backed by Peak Technologies’ proven systems engineering, on-site integration and lifecycle support, OmniPalletizer can be deployed rapidly within complex brownfield facilities – providing a low-risk path from manual to automated mixed-case palletizing.

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Siemens and KION partner to shape the supply chains of the future

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:04:41 +0000

The partnership strengthens the resilience of supply chains and warehouses Siemens’ new simulation technology is being deployed in Europe for the first time KION and Siemens announce data collaboration Siemens and KION are making supply chains and warehouses future-ready with AI, automation and simulation technologies. The two companies have entered into a strategic partnership to digitalize complex intralogistics processes. The goal is to make operations more predictable and flexible, while improving productivity and resilience. The partnership centers on intelligent warehouses in which the digital and physical worlds converge. On-site cameras and sensors capture vast amounts of data, which is analyzed by artificial intelligence (AI). This data forms the basis of a digital twin for individual machines, entire systems and complete warehouses, enabling end-to-end process simulations. That means logistics companies can virtually test how changes to warehouse layouts impact overall throughput. As part of the partnership, KION will be the first company in Europe to use Siemens’ new Digital Twin Composer software. The solution enables multiple processes to be simulated in parallel and in real time – unlocking a previously unattainable level of efficiency and flexibility. “Supply chains today have to be efficient, but above all resilient,” said Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board at Siemens AG and CEO of Siemens Digital Industries. “Together with KION, we are using a comprehensive digital twin and industrial AI to turn the warehouse from a physical hub into the digital nerve center of the supply chain – laying the foundation for greater resilience and flexibility.” “As The Supply Chain Solutions Company, KION orchestrates end-to-end solutions for its customers within warehouses and factories, and eventually across the entire supply chain. With Siemens as a strategic partner, KION is strengthening its ability to combine the digital and physical worlds at scale. This takes our digital twin-based solutions to a new level,” said Rob Smith, CEO of KION GROUP AG. Siemens first introduced Digital Twin Composer in January at CES in Las Vegas. The software acts as a modular toolkit for an AI-powered digital twin of factories and logistics. It allows users to create a new digital twin of their products, production facilities or processes and completely optimize it in the Industrial Metaverse, all powered by industrial AI, simulation and physical real-time information. Once a warehouse is operational, the Digital Twin Composer serves as a toolbox for continuously improving operations. The solution enables companies to rapidly simulate all aspects of their product or production data – both virtual and physical – in a secure, managed high-fidelity 3D experience, throughout the lifecycle of the product, process or facility. KION maps the planning, implementation and operation of its logistics solutions in its own software environment. Based on Siemens’ PLM software Teamcenter and the creation of a digital twin, KION manages logistics solutions across their entire lifecycle. This allows companies to simulate warehouses and processes early on, make data‑driven decisions and optimize operations by testing changes virtually before implementation. As part of their collaboration, Siemens and KION have agreed to exchange selected industrial data. KION contributes operational data and domain expertise from complex warehouse environments. This will accelerate the deployment of AI-enabled solutions in warehouses and supply chains. This typifies the data partnerships bringing Siemens closer to realizing an Industrial Foundation Model that will scale the benefits of industrial AI across industrial processes and domains.

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Integrion Automation announces CEO Transition

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:08:39 +0000

Craig Rossman to succeed Joe Gemma as CEO Integrion Automation has announced that Joe Gemma will retire from his role as Chief Executive Officer and transition to serve as Strategic Advisor to the company. Craig Rossman has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective February 18th. Gemma joined the organization three years ago, first serving as Chief Revenue Officer and later as CEO. During his tenure, he led the launch of Integrion Automation as a standalone brand and repositioned the business for long-term growth. Under his leadership, the company broadened the robotic platforms it integrates, expanded customer relationships, and increased the average automation project size by more than threefold. He also recruited and developed a dedicated leadership team to support Integrion’ s next phase of growth. “This transition reflects the strong foundation Joe helped build over the past three years,” said Peter Paras, Chief Executive Officer of Cornerstone Corporation. “He established Integrion as an independent brand, expanded our capabilities, and built a leadership team positioned for long-term growth. We are grateful for his leadership and pleased he will continue to support the business as a Strategic Advisor.” Gemma said, “It has been a privilege to help launch and lead Integrion during this important period. I am proud of the team we’ve built and the foundation now in place. As I step into retirement, I look forward to supporting Craig and the leadership team as the company continues to grow.” Rossman brings significant experience leading industrial and automation businesses. As CEO, he will focus on strengthening customer partnerships, building scalable processes, and continuing to develop the organization to support long-term growth. “With the foundation established, our priority is putting the customer at the center of everything we do and strengthening the processes, capabilities, and culture that will allow us to scale alongside them,” Paras said. “Craig brings the leadership and operational discipline to lead Integrion into its next chapter.” Rossman added, “Integrion has built strong momentum and a talented team. Our focus now is ensuring we consistently deliver for customers while structuring our teams and business to support lasting partnerships. I look forward to working alongside our associates and customers as we strengthen Integrion for the long term.” About Integrion Automation Integrion Automation delivers transformative automation solutions across diverse industries. With advanced engineering, exceptional service, and relentless innovation, Integrion enables customers to move from complexity to confidence. The company’s certified team specializes in automation consulting, machine design, installation, and lifecycle support, continuously shaping the future of industrial automation.

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Dematic Expands Flexible Automation Capabilities through GreyOrange Partnering Relationship

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:10:05 +0000

AI-powered capabilities help customers increase flexibility, optimize operations, and get more value from automation investments Dematic has announced a partnering relationship with GreyOrange to expand its flexible automation capabilities, providing scalable solutions for customers through distribution and fulfillment. Through this relationship, Dematic will offer GreyOrange’s GreyMatter®, an AI-powered platform that coordinates robots and workflows to improve speed and accuracy. “Today’s warehouse environments are more complex than ever, requiring seamless coordination between people, robots, and systems,” said Mike Larsson, Dematic president and KION executive board member. “Our partnering relationship with GreyOrange reflects Dematic’s commitment to delivering flexible, high-performance solutions that help customers adapt, and scale with confidence. By integrating GreyMatter, we’re extending our approach within flexible automation for a more unified integration capability that helps customers maximize existing investments while unlocking new levels of efficiency and agility.” Advancing Flexible Automation This partnering relationship represents an extension and acceleration of the Dematic software ecosystem, strengthening its ability to deliver flexible automation solutions by integrating the GreyMatter platform into Dematic’s existing software portfolio. Together, these capabilities connect diverse technologies and integrate activity across multi‑agent warehouse environments. By incorporating this capability within its software orchestration ecosystem, Dematic enables customers to better coordinate fixed automation, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and human workflows within a unified system. The result is greater operational visibility, real‑time optimization, and the flexibility needed to adapt as fulfillment operations evolve while maximizing the value of existing automation investments. Looking ahead, this relationship creates a foundation to explore a joint network-level vision, extending orchestration beyond the warehouse to enable real-time, execution-aware coordination of inventory, capacity, and order flows across distributed fulfillment nodes including instore environments. Key capabilities include: Unifying diverse automation technologies, robots, and human workflows across the warehouse Integration within the Dematic software orchestration ecosystem to extend capabilities across operations Hardware agnostic integration that supports flexible automation and multiple fulfillment models Improved throughput and operational visibility across complex workflows “Dematic is known for its innovation and experience in delivering automation solutions to the world’s most complex supply chains, and understands that the future of automation is flexibility,” said Akash Gupta, CEO of GreyOrange. “Together, we’re giving Dematic’s customers the ability to do more with the automation investments they’ve already made by orchestrating every robot, system, and person in their operation through a single AI-driven layer. That means greater throughput, smarter decision-making, and the freedom to keep expanding their fleets on their own terms, without limits.

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Thoro Unveils New Autonomous Solution Powered by Orbbec, Driving Scalable Material Handling Innovation

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:57:11 +0000

At MODEX 2026, North America’s leading supply chain and logistics trade show, industrial automation innovator Thoro unveils its latest modular autonomy stack —CoreFlex, a large-scale, infrastructure-free solution capable of supporting multiple types of industrial vehicles. Equipped with Orbbec’s 3D cameras, CoreFlex delivers significantly enhanced autonomous navigation, pallet handling, and obstacle detection, bringing new levels of efficiency and reliability to industrial automation. CoreFlex integrates high-quality sensors, lightweight autonomy compute, and standardized plug-and-play interfaces, all unified under Thoro’s autonomy software, fleet management, and cloud platform. This full-stack approach lets OEMs accelerate time to market, reduce costs, and scale a single autonomy solution across multiple robot types without rebuilding from scratch. Orbbec’s Gemini 336 stereo 3D camera is critical to making this versatile architecture a reality: Precise Depth Perception: Equipped with the MX6800 depth engine, Gemini 336 provides high-quality depth data, enabling smoother navigation and precise pallet handling. Robust Performance in Complex Environments: Enhanced active infrared imaging delivers reliable depth sensing under varying lighting conditions, reflective surfaces, and dynamic scenes. Modular Compatibility: Compact design and standardized interface perfectly match CoreFlex’s cross-platform architecture. Reliable and Consistent: Demonstrates high consistency across deployments, reducing edge-case failures and ensuring operational efficiency. Patrick Mondi, CEO of Thoro states, “When sensor performance is exceptional, the software fully delivers on its design intent. We commit to providing OEMs worldwide with safe, scalable, and easy-to-use industrial autonomy solutions. Orbbec’s superior hardware and software capabilities give us the confidence to scale applications, and we are excited to expand into new vehicle types and deployment scenarios.” Brad Suessmith, Robotics Sales Manager at Orbbec, adds, “CoreFlex demonstrates the tremendous potential of modular autonomous systems. The chip-level depth sensing capability of Orbbec enables CoreFlex to achieve stable and efficient autonomous operations even in complex warehouse environments. We look forward to accelerating the industry’s shift toward intelligent, automated operations together.”

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Idealworks establishes U.S. Headquarters in Greenville, South Carolina, as North American Demand Accelerates

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:37:01 +0000

Idealworks has announced the establishment of Idealworks Inc., its U.S. legal entity headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina. The expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s international growth and reflects increasing demand from North American manufacturers, particularly in the United States. With more than 1,700 AMRs and AGVs already in operation worldwide, Idealworks enters the U.S. market as an established provider of scalable automation solutions. The new U.S. headquarters strengthens the company’s ability to serve customers locally while expanding its footprint across North America. The move accelerates Idealworks’ existing U.S. business and establishes a permanent local presence. Responding to Growing North American Demand Idealworks has been active in North America for several years, building a track record of successful deployments and customer relationships prior to establishing a dedicated U.S. entity. The creation of Idealworks Inc. formalizes this presence and enables closer collaboration with customers and partners on the ground. Existing U.S. customers include Toyota North America in Georgetown, Kentucky, and BMW Manufacturing Co. in Spartanburg, South Carolina. These deployments demonstrate the company’s ability to deliver and scale automation solutions in highly complex automotive production environments. Beyond automotive, Idealworks supports customers across manufacturing and logistics sectors where coordinated robotic fleets are critical to operational efficiency. One Partner for End-to-End Automation Idealworks provides an integrated offering to industrial automation, combining hardware, software, and services into a single solution. As an end-to-end orchestrator of robotic logistics operations, the company enables customers to manage and scale heterogeneous fleets of mobile robots with Idealworks serving as the single accountable partner. This approach is built on a clear performance promise: delivering reliable, scalable automation outcomes in complex industrial environments. At the center of this offering is the Idealworks Orchestration System (Idealworks OS) integrated with NVIDIA Omniverse libraries and the Mega Omniverse blueprint, designed to ensure interoperability across multi-vendor fleets. In a market where interoperability remains an unsolved problem for most operators, Idealworks’ commitment to open standards is a core differentiator. The company is also actively contributing to the development of VDA 5050, the open communication standard for AGVs and AMRs, supporting greater flexibility and vendor independence for customers. Idealworks is part of the Munich-based Agile Robots Group, a global leader in physical AI, providing access to an established network of engineering expertise and service infrastructure across the United States. Locations are in Palo Alto, California, and Auburn Hills, Michigan; the latter was added with the acquisition of Krause Automation, a leader in manufacturing automation. The company is also actively engaged in key industry networks, including Material Handling Industry (MHI) and Mobile Automation Group (MAG), further strengthening its position within the North American automation ecosystem. Through its technology collaboration with NVIDIA, Idealworks integrates NVIDIA libraries, frameworks, and blueprints to bring advanced artificial intelligence, robotics, and simulation capabilities into its platform. This collaboration supports the development of digital twins and simulation-driven deployment models, helping customers optimize automation strategies before implementation. Markus Schmermund, Chief Commercial Officer at Idealworks, said: “North America is a key market for Idealworks, and establishing our U.S. entity brings us closer to our customers. We’ve proven the scalability of our solutions in some of the world’s most demanding production environments. With Idealworks Inc., we are strengthening our local presence and ensuring we can support customers with the speed, proximity, and accountability they expect.” Greenville: A Strategic Location Greenville, South Carolina, sits in the heart of the Southeast’s advanced manufacturing corridor. The region offers proximity to leading automotive OEMs, tier-one suppliers, and industrial operators. With BMW Manufacturing Co. already an Idealworks customer in neighboring Spartanburg, the region is familiar territory. Greenville gives Idealworks Inc. proximity to existing customers and a natural base for growing the pipeline across the Southeast and beyond. To mark the launch of Idealworks Inc., the company will participate in two major industry events for supply chain, material handling, and automation: MODEX (April 13-16, Atlanta) and Automate (June 22-25, Chicago). At both events, Idealworks will showcase its orchestration platform, portfolio of AMRs and AGVs, and simulation capabilities.

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Duravant announces Pyramid as new company name

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:41:13 +0000

Following the acquisition of Matthews Automation Solutions. New Pyramid brand identity to debut at MODEX 2026 in Atlanta. Duravant LLC has announced Pyramid as the new company name for the business formerly known as Matthews Automation Solutions, following the acquisition completed on December 31, 2025. Pyramid is a leading provider of Warehouse Execution System (WES) and Warehouse Control System (WCS) software, controls, and integration services. Through established products including Pyramid Director, NEXUS, Compass CORS, and Lightning Pick pick-to-light technologies, the company delivers flexible, scalable automation that supports efficient material flow and order fulfillment across omnichannel, ecommerce, and advanced warehouse environments. “We are excited to announce the rebrand of our company to Pyramid,” said Gary Cash, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Pyramid. “Our trusted product brands have been delivering warehouse solutions for over 30 years, and now, under the Pyramid name, we add a powerful software and controls layer to Duravant’s industrial automation portfolio—bringing even more comprehensive capabilities alongside the conveyor, parcel, packaging and fulfillment technologies customers rely on to keep operations moving.” The transition to the Pyramid name will strengthen how the organization works with customers, integrators, and partners. Pyramid will continue to implement systems as it has in the past—drawing on its expertise in controls, warehouse execution software, and light-directed fulfillment systems—alongside trusted partners, integrators, and Duravant operating companies. “Within the unified organization, we are excited to extend the reach of our signature pick-to-light software and systems to more applications by drawing on Duravant’s broader industrial and material handling automation expertise—helping more organizations boost speed, accuracy, and scale,” said Mike McManus, General Manager of Pyramid’s Lightning Pick operations. Duravant will formally introduce the Pyramid name at MODEX 2026, taking place April 13–16, 2026, in Atlanta, GA. Attendees are invited to visit Pyramid at Booth B15922 and Duravant’s other material handling companies at Booth B11319 to experience the latest advances in warehouse automation technology and solutions. The MODEX exhibit will feature warehouse execution software, light-directed picking, put wall sortation, robotics and AS/RS capabilities, and conveyor controls.

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Swisslog expands pallet ASRS portfolio with the AgileStore 4-way shuttle for flexible, high density pallet storage

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:05:19 +0000

Swisslog is expanding its automated storage and retrieval portfolio for pallet solutions with AgileStore, a next generation roaming pallet shuttle (4-way shuttle). The system is designed to maximize storage density, optimize space, and enable flexible, fully automated material flows. With AgileStore, Swisslog completes its pallet ASRS portfolio. It strengthens the company’s ASRS offering by adding a roaming pallet shuttle system alongside its established PowerStore bi-directional pallet shuttle system and Vectura pallet stacker crane. Flexible, high-performance warehouse automation AgileStore enables multidirectional travel—forward, backward, cross-aisle, and vertical. This allows each shuttle to move independently across the system and improves how pallet movement is managed. The 4-way shuttle supports flexible pallet storage and adapts to changing demand. It is particularly effective in warehouse environments with irregular geometries, where traditional aisle-based systems limit flexibility. It enables high-density storage with dynamic access across deep lanes and mixed SKU environments, without the need for structural changes. The roaming shuttles work with integrated lift systems that move both shuttles and pallets between racking levels, supporting efficient load transfer and storage. Each shuttle can reach any location in the system, reducing manual interventions and supporting dynamic routing and workload balancing. This also improves space utilization across the warehouse. As part of a pallet ASRS system, AgileStore uses automation and control software to manage storage and retrieval, reducing forklift use, and maintain inventory accuracy. “Warehouses today need automation systems that go beyond traditional shuttle limitations,” said Alexander Leitner, EVP Strategy & Markets, Swisslog. “The roaming pallet shuttle moves across aisles and levels, enabling efficient pallet handling, and scalable performance as storage needs evolve.” System capabilities and applications Swisslog is partnering with Eurofork as the supplier of roaming pallet shuttle technology and automation systems. Eurofork has already deployed multiple installations worldwide, demonstrating strong market adoption, reliable warehouse operations, and proven automation performance. The system supports a wide range of pallet types, including EURO, Industry, CHEP Block, CP1, CP2, CP3, and GMA. It handles loads up to 1,500 kg, ensuring safe storage and full load control. AgileStore operates in both ambient and cold storage environments, down to -30 °C, making it well-suited for food & beverage, grocery and 3PL providers that require dependable pallet storage and accurate inventory. In cold storage environments, the system controls traffic, load sequencing, and pallet flow to protect goods, maintain throughput, reduce forklift travel, and minimize manual handling. “With its reliable performance in both ambient and deep-freeze environments, AgileStore delivers the versatility that today’s diverse warehouse operations demand,” said Maurizio Traversa, CEO Eurofork. Software integration and scalable design AgileStore integrates seamlessly with Swisslog’s software ecosystem, supporting warehouse automation and real-time control for pallet storage and inventory visibility. The control software of the roaming pallet shuttle with advanced traffic management optimizes the system’s performance across shuttles and lifts, while storage and retrieval strategies are executed via control interfaces to Swisslog’s intralogistics platform SynQ (or any standard WMS software). These software capabilities work towards ensuring accurate inventory control across the warehouse, maximizing both space utilization and operational reliability. Underlying all of this is a modular design built around purpose-built racking, highspeed lifts, and roaming shuttles, each with continuous WiFi connectivity for a safe, coordinated operation. This architecture scales readily as storage needs evolve, making AgileStore equally suited to current demands and future growth.

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igus autonomous mobile robot platform is easy to configure and deploy

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:01:17 +0000

igus has introduced its ReBelMove Pro modular, customizable autonomous mobile robot (AMR) which promises simple configuration with flexible superstructures, easy commissioning and cost savings. ReBelMove Pro integrates quickly into various industrial processes without any programming experience. This compact AMR boasts a high speed of 6.5 miles per hour, carries up to 550 pounds and can pull more than 1,980 pounds of payload. Navigating its surroundings using LIDAR, 3D sensors and a RealSense camera, ReBelMove Pro can map more than 2,150 square feet in under three minutes! And one charge can last for a full eight-hour workday. Programming the unit’s movements takes as little as 15 minutes without coding skills. In addition, ReBelMove Pro integrates with IT systems with many well-known open interfaces, and it works with popular fleet management tools. A variety of attachments can outfit the ReBelMove Pro for a host of tasks in assembly workstations, material transport and logistics, order picking, and more. Priced at $46,989, ReBeLMove Pro can be significantly more cost-effective than competing models and is available via the igus RBTX marketplace.

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AI-Powered analytics solution to optimize batch production

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:53:30 +0000

TwinThread has announced the release of Perfect Batch, an AI-powered manufacturing analytics solution designed to optimize batch production processes by empowering manufacturers to standardize and consistently replicate their best performing or “golden batches”. Unlike legacy systems that rely on passive alerts and static manual settings, Perfect Batch applies industrial AI to dynamically identify ideal batch proﬁles from historical data and actively recommend actions for increasing efficiency. This enables organizations to rapidly shift from reactive firefighting to proactive optimization in a matter of weeks – not months or years. Perfect Batch At-a-Glance Rapid Speed to Value: Perfect Batch connects to existing batch execution systems and automatically interrogates past data to build digital twins and apply models in hours. Dynamic Perfect Profile Learning: Instead of setting limits manually, Perfect Batch dynamically learns ideal control limits and process centerlines, based on actual process capability and historical performance. Unlocked Hidden Capacity: Granular cycle time analysis identifies bottlenecks and lost production time, facilitating capacity improvements from existing assets without new capital investment. Optimization by Exception: Automated alerting and issue diagnosis empowers operations teams to focus on solving problems without getting bogged down with endless troubleshooting and investigations. Optional Closed-Loop Action: Thread Builder, a real-time workflow engine that works with Perfect Batch, automates anomaly responses, performs automatic diagnoses, and can trigger specific corrective actions automatically. Automated Compliance: Tailored for regulated industries, Perfect Batch provides automated material tracking, quality and yield conformance, and audit-ready histories. Perfect Batch furthers TwinThread’s position as a complete industrial AI platform. By continuously monitoring and simultaneously optimizing five key dimensions—utilization, cycle time, quality, process control, and yield—operations teams gain actionable intelligence that helps them drastically reduce investigation times, minimize waste, and accelerate continuous improvement activities. Available in both Simple Batch and Complex Batch tiers, the solution scales easily to meet the needs of process manufacturers of all sizes. “This solution’s core promise is to empower operations teams to deliver the ideal batch every time, regardless of recipe, shift, or variations in raw materials,” says Erik Udstuen, co-founder and CEO at TwinThread. “By completely automating the discovery of hidden capacity and enabling proactive optimization, we are giving manufacturers the power to eliminate inconsistencies and maximize financial performance of their existing assets.” Beyond the plant floor, Perfect Batch helps drive strategic and collaborative alignment across organizations’ entire manufacturing portfolios by providing a global view of asset utilization and batch-making performance. As a result, the platform serves as a single source of truth for cross-functional teams. This offers a common lens that operations teams, engineering teams, and supply chain leaders can all use to identify, prioritize, and proactively execute improvement initiatives that optimize the deployment of capital across the supply network.

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Dematic Redefines Warehouse Intelligence with Launch of Command Center

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:08:21 +0000

Advanced analytics solution will be unveiled at LogiMAT 2026 and showcased at MODEX 2026. Dematic has announced the Command Center, a vendor-agnostic, centralized intelligence platform for warehouse operations. The solution unifies real-time monitoring, AI-enhanced decision support, and operational analytics into a single interface to help distribution and fulfillment centers better understand and manage complex operations. “Warehouse operators have more data at their fingertips than ever before, but data alone doesn’t drive performance,” said Chris Steiner, senior vice president, product management, Dematic. “Dematic Command Center brings together information from automation, software systems, and manual processes to create a unified layer of operational intelligence for confident decision making. With the ability to quickly understand not just what happened but why, teams can resolve issues faster and keep their operations running at peak performance.” Addressing the Data Gap in Modern Warehouses Modern warehouse environments generate large volumes of data from automation equipment, warehouse software, and enterprise systems. However, this information is often fragmented across multiple vendors and monitoring tools, making it difficult for operators to quickly diagnose issues and understand what is driving performance changes. How Dematic Command Center Supports Warehouse Operations The platform helps distribution and fulfillment operations: Make more confident decisions with centralized analytics and performance visibility Detect emerging issues early to strengthen operational resilience and protect productivity Resolve issues faster by identifying the root causes behind performance disruptions Optimize resources and workflows through better understanding of operational patterns Maintain throughput and service levels with real-time monitoring and operational insights Connect existing systems and automation technologies to create a unified operational view without replacing current technology investments Scale operations with confidence through cloud-based infrastructure designed for enterprise reliability Built on Experience Dematic Command Center incorporates operational insights derived from the company’s experience across more than 9,000 automation projects worldwide. This helps the system recognize patterns in warehouse performance and guide operators toward the most effective responses. The initial release delivers unified operational visibility and insights across warehouse environments. Future releases will expand on this foundation with enhanced AI decision support, advanced orchestration, and warehouse data twin modeling with what-if analysis, giving single and multi-site operations the tools to translate insights into coordinated decisions. Dematic will showcase its Command Center at upcoming trade conferences, LogiMAT (Hall 1/H61) and MODEX (Booth B11919), where attendees can experience live demonstrations of the platform.

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The Strategic Advantage: Why Modularity Defines the Future of Sheet Metal Automation

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:11 +0000

In sheet metal manufacturing, the transition to automation has evolved from a competitive edge into a fundamental operational imperative. In a landscape defined by razor-thin margins, persistent labor shortages, and an escalating demand for high-level customization, the strategic question for fabricators is no longer whether to automate, but how to execute that transition with precision. The advantages of automation are clear: it reduces the need for manual labor, minimizes human error, increases throughput, and ensures consistent quality. Conversely, fabricators reliant on manual processes encounter bottlenecks that hinder productivity and growth, limiting their ability to adapt to market shifts. Despite these benefits, many businesses remain hesitant to adopt automation. The inhibiting factors are understandable. There is a palpable apprehension surrounding the costs, risks, and perceived complexity of overhauling a production line. The fear of “getting it wrong” often leads to paralysis. Much of this complexity stems from the sheer number of pathways available. Should a shop begin by installing a single high-performance machine to achieve the biggest immediate return? Should they pursue incremental process improvements, adding one component at a time? Or is the right answer a full-scale “greenfield” project that creates or converts the entire production line in one fell swoop? The answer is that there is no single right answer for everyone. For most manufacturers, the most effective path is a phased, modular approach that lets them start small, build confidence with early wins, and expand as production requirements and budgets grow. This is where the concept of how you automate becomes as critical as how much or how fast you do it. A key success factor in navigating this effectively, whether you are installing a single laser cutter or building a fully automated factory, is modularity. Modularity: The Architecture of Flexibility At its core, modularity in sheet metal automation is about architectural foresight. It is not just about buying machines that can physically connect to one another; it is about a design philosophy that governs the entire manufacturing ecosystem. It also creates a practical roadmap for phased automation, so shops can move from a single machine to a fully connected system over time, instead of in one disruptive leap. In practice, modularity operates on two distinct levels. First, it concerns the attributes of each individual component. Each asset, from laser and punching machines to automated loading, unloading, and sorting components, must be designed for seamless integration. This ensures that both the flow of material and flow of information are synchronized with precision. This “future-proof” architecture allows individual units to function as part of a cohesive, evolving system rather than as isolated tools. Second, it concerns the nature of the whole ecosystem. The system itself must be engineered to accept new modules without requiring a complete teardown or conflicting with existing workflows. When we view automation through the lens of modularity, we stop seeing machines as isolated islands of production. Instead, we see them as building blocks in a fluid, evolving organism. This perspective is critical because it shifts the focus from short-term capacity fixes to long-term strategic capability. The Key Benefits of a Modular Approach Why is this architectural approach so critical for modern fabricators? Modularity directly impacts the bottom line by enhancing flexibility, equipment effectiveness, and business process optimization. 1. Flexibility The primary advantage of modularity is flexibility. In the past, rigid automation lines were designed for high-volume, low-mix production. If the market shifted or a product line was discontinued, the entire line often became obsolete. A modular solution, however, can be tailored to meet a fabricator’s unique needs and resources. It allows a business to adapt to evolving demands without discarding previous investments. If a shop starts with a standalone laser and demand grows, they can add a loading/unloading robot. In markets like data centers, for example, a fabricator might begin with enough capacity to produce a few hundred racks per day, with a clearly defined plan to add modules as orders climb into the 400–600‑unit‑per‑day range. Modularity makes that growth a series of manageable steps instead of a binary choice between “too little” and “far too much” automation. If demand shifts toward complex forming, they can integrate a panel bender. This ability to scale and adapt protects capital investment against market shifts, ensuring that the factory floor remains relevant regardless of what the sales team brings in. 2. Accelerating Material Flow Modularity enhances Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by speeding up material flow and increasing valuable “green-light time” for sheet metal fabricators, no matter their automation path or stage. Removing Bottlenecks Fabricators typically begin their automation journey by addressing their single biggest bottleneck or most labor-intensive process. This targeted approach avoids large, multimillion-dollar commitments in favor of a modest initial investment that delivers the most significant impact. It allows them to demonstrate ROI, gain experience, and build confidence. Modularity then enables them to protect and build on this investment in the future as they add components like load/unload systems and additional machines. The process is controlled and incremental, not an all-or-nothing leap, ensuring that the first step is designed for future adaptability and growth. A Journey from Cells to a Connected Line One HVAC manufacturer, for instance, began with dozens of standalone punching machines, shears, and press brakes arranged in traditional cells, each staffed by an individual operator. Over several years, they transitioned to a modular line anchored by automated panel bending, followed by a punch‑shear combination machine and a Night Train–fed material handling backbone. Today, a small team runs what used to require many more operators across multiple cells, with panels moving from raw sheet to finished form in a fraction of the time and with far less manual handling. Automating Material Handling Consider a standalone laser cutter. Without automation, a significant portion of its available time is spent waiting for an operator to load a raw sheet or unload finished parts. By layering on material handling capabilities, such as a compact loading/stacking system, fabricators can dramatically shift this dynamic. In typical implementations, green‑light time can climb from roughly

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KION brings physical AI into live warehouse operations at GTC 2026 in San José, California

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:01:09 +0000

Lighthouse physical AI projects move from simulation into live warehouse operations, showing how advanced AI is turning into measurable value for customers KION showcases two core applications: an autonomous industrial truck supporting day‑to‑day warehouse operations, and AI‑based, safety‑certified human detection enabling automated trailer loading Rob Smith, CEO of KION GROUP AG: “Our customers are facing increasing labor shortage and have a high need to increase operational efficiency. KION solves this challenge with the use of intelligent automated mobile robots and AI-cameras in supply chain operations. Our GXO pilot marks an important step forward in demonstrating how physical AI solutions deliver clear, tangible value for customers.” KION presents two industrial applications of physical AI at GTC 2026 in San José, California. The demonstrations focus on autonomous material handling in operational warehouse environments and on safety-certified human detection for automated trailer loading. It is the next step of the strategic collaboration between KION, NVIDIA, and Accenture, aimed at bringing AI and digital twins to the physical world in the supply chain, driving the integration of AI-driven perception, simulation, and fleet orchestration. These lighthouse projects mark a transition from simulation-based development to deployment in real-world operations. KION uses NVIDIA’s Omniverse platform and the MEGA simulation engine as well as a physical AI-powered digital twin and systems architecture pioneered by Accenture to create digital twins of customer warehouses, enabling virtual commissioning before physical installation. This approach allows scenarios to be tested under variable conditions, including safety-critical situations. “Our customers are facing an increasing labor shortage and have a high need to increase operational efficiency. KION solves this challenge with the use of intelligent automated mobile robots and AI-cameras in supply chain operations,” said Rob Smith, CEO of KION GROUP AG. “Our GXO pilot marks an important step forward in demonstrating how physical AI solutions deliver clear, tangible value for customers.” Autonomous industrial truck at GXO KION has deployed its first AI-supported autonomous industrial truck at a GXO Logistics warehouse in Épinoy, France. GXO, the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, is the leader in tech-enabled fulfillment managing outsourced supply chains, warehousing, and reverse logistics for leading brands across 27 countries. The site, which currently operates more than 200 manual trucks, serves as a pilot environment for KION’s physical AI. “We’re focused on turning advanced AI into tangible value across our operations and this pilot helps explore what’s possible for the future of supply chain,” said Patrick Kelleher, CEO of GXO Logistics. Before deployment, the warehouse was mapped using spatial scanners and then converted into a digital twin. Now, the truck completes full end-to-end transport missions autonomously in a live warehouse. It detects pallets using AI-based ceiling and onboard cameras before transporting them to defined drop locations. Most importantly: it operates alongside warehouse personnel and manual forklifts – all without human intervention. Safety certification for human detection KION is working with NVIDIA on a certification for a functional safety solution that relies on AI-based human detection in warehouse environments. The system uses NVIDIA’s Halos foundation model, which detects and localizes humans and industrial trucks, and is fine-tuned with KION’s domain-specific data for intralogistics environments. The application is designed for automated trailer loading, a use case demonstrated at CeMAT Shanghai in October 2025. KION’s approach uses stationary cameras connected to an NVIDIA edge AI platform. A proof of concept at a live warehouse is planned for later this year. Synthetic data and edge case simulation Training AI models for safety-critical applications requires exposure to rare but plausible scenarios. KION generates synthetic training data within virtual environments to prepare systems for so-called long-tail situations: events that occur with very low probability but must still be handled correctly. The virtual warehouse environment allows these scenarios to be simulated without disrupting live operations or requiring physical staging.

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Altech pluggable terminal blocks combine secure connections and ease of use

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:20:00 +0000

Altech Corporation, an industrial automation solutions, has introduced a line of pluggable terminal blocks that enable simple and fast installations, field wiring, and equipment test setups. These compact, pluggable terminal blocks combine the best of both worlds: accurate, secure wire connections with simplicity and time savings. Pluggable terminal blocks are a truly hybrid technology, combining the security of a spring clamp connection with a plug connection to make disconnection and reconnection fast and easy without the connection errors often caused by vibrations, configuration issues or poor manual assembly. With Altech pluggable terminal blocks, technicians and installers can achieve: 100% secure connections. Specially engineered spring contacts create a reliable wire-to-wire connection without tools. Integrated locking pins keep the connection in place even during severe vibrations. Reduced time and effort. Altech pluggable terminal blocks allow instant connections that also eliminate time- and labor-intensive screw tightening. The plugs come in stackable single blocks or can be ordered pre-stacked up to 15 poles. 100% accurate field wiring. In addition to the simplicity of push-in units, DIN rail versions simply snap onto the DIN rail. Plugs can be easily inserted and removed on the opposite side. Coding pins and breakaway stubs insert directly into the base assemblies to eliminate mating errors. Configurations range from one contact on one side and one plug on the other, to two contacts on one side and two plugs on the other. In addition, multiple plugs can be stacked together to create a wire harness. A wide variety of accessories is also available.

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Cyngn advanced site-wide autonomy with DriveMod Tugger Operations across connected facilities

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:52:51 +0000

Cyngn Inc. continued expansion of DriveMod Tugger deployments across large, connected industrial facilities, reflecting growing customer demand for site-wide autonomy that supports end-to-end material movement. DriveMod is increasingly being used in workflows that span multiple buildings and outdoor transit corridors, helping organizations reduce bottlenecks, improve throughput consistency, and redeploy labor toward higher-value operations. As warehouses and manufacturing campuses grow larger—often exceeding 200,000 square feet and operating across multiple structures—transport between zones becomes a persistent source of inefficiency. DriveMod helps automate these repetitive movements, enabling smoother transitions between storage, production, and distribution areas and supporting more scalable facility-wide automation. “Customers are increasingly looking for autonomy that fits into their entire operation, not just a single aisle or point solution,” said Marty Petraitis, Cyngn’s VP of Sales. “As industrial sites grow larger and more interconnected, the ability to move materials reliably across a full facility becomes a meaningful lever for efficiency and scale.” “DriveMod is built to perform in real production environments and support site-wide automation as a long-term capability,” Petraitis added. “This broader deployment scope strengthens the foundation for sustained customer expansion as organizations scale autonomy across multiple workflows and facilities.”

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Smarter automation in bulk material handling

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 13:24:10 +0000

How to Integrate, Modernize, and De-Risk Across bulk material handling, controls and automation have become the quiet engine of competitiveness. When these automated systems are thoughtfully engineered, plants see measurable gains, including higher throughput, fewer unplanned stops, safer operation, and clearer decision making at every level, from the operator panel to the enterprise layer. The day-to-day reality is less glamorous but more important: moving powders, granules, and ingredients consistently while meeting production targets and regulatory expectations. Purpose-built control systems make that consistency repeatable by coordinating equipment, sequencing steps, validating interlocks, and surfacing the right information to the right person at the right time. A big part of “smart” systems is practical visibility. Systems that identify the specific fault location, prompt operators with what to check, and notify the line when materials are running low prevent small issues from cascading into hours of downtime. Those “heads-up” cues, such as letting staff know it’s time to stage the next tote or replenish a bin, keep the process balanced, which is often the difference between sprint-and-stall production and steady, profitable flow. The Integration Imperative: One Brain for Many Machines The defining trend in material handling controls is the shift from machine-centric islands to line-centric orchestration. Facilities want a single control package that can supervise not only conveying, but also upstream and downstream assets, mixers, feeders, packaging cells, from multiple OEMs. This requires panels and software that speak the languages of the plant: DCS connections, third-party PLCs, and a mix of industrial communication protocols. In short, one brain coordinating many limbs. Done well, that orchestration fades into the background for operators. Instead of babysitting handoffs, they get a unified interface that sequences steps, enforces permissives, and makes line status obvious at a glance. Consider projects where the conveying system sits mid-process: integrating the machine before, the conveyor itself, and the machine after into a single control package removes manual interventions and error-prone timing. In practice, this compresses troubleshooting time (the HMI points to the faulted segment), prevents misfeeds, and keeps OEE steadier across shifts. Integration also means acknowledging the brownfield reality. Most plants run a patchwork of vintage machines and vendors. Modernizing tactically, bridging old to new rather than ripping and replacing, starts with a discovery deep-dive into the current state (I/O, protocols, safety functions, documentation), then a design that slots in easily without breaking what already works. The most effective deployments use customized interfaces and gateway strategies so legacy controls can “talk” to the new system and the new system can safely coordinate the legacy asset. From Legacy Bottlenecks to Plant-Wide Reliability Common roadblocks show up repeatedly in the form of antiquated controls that can’t communicate, undocumented changes layered over time, and compliance demands that differ by area (sanitary zones vs. hazardous locations). The path forward from here is systematic: map the process, rationalize setpoints and states, standardize alarms, and design for the most constrained environment first (e.g., dust-hazardous areas or washdown requirements). For powders in particular, panels and devices must meet the correct classification, or the reliability you gain on paper never materializes on the floor. This is where the choice of a controls partner matters less for branding and more for engineering depth. Manufacturers that design and build their panels in-house maintain tighter quality control and verification. Every panel can be function-tested against the intended process before shipment, which reduces commissioning surprises and accelerates time to rate. In practice, that looks like simulated I/O, recipe validation, and fault-tree checks in a shop environment, so day one on site is about turning product, not wiring triage. Around this point in a project, many teams look for a provider with both equipment and controls pedigree, someone who understands powders, conveying physics, and the realities of regulated environments. Hapman, a global leader in custom bulk material handling equipment, is one example of why domain experience matters. With decades of work across industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, agriculture, plastics, and wastewater, Hapman has developed control designs that anticipate edge cases and integrate smoothly with the rest of the plant. Experience across thousands of applications goes beyond informing just hardware, and extends to informing how interlocks and operator flows are structured, so the line keeps running under real-world conditions. Design for Operators First: Fault Clarity, Event Foresight, and Safer Flow Robust automation improves reliability, and operator-centered automation keeps a system reliable. Intuitive HMIs that name the faulted device or zone cut troubleshooting from minutes to moments. Clear alarm philosophy, prioritized, actionable, and free of nuisance, prevents alarm floods that operators learn to ignore. Additionally, proactive notifications (“Load material in feeder B now to avoid a stop in 12 minutes”) turn firefighting into simple prep work. Plants that institutionalize these patterns see fewer micro-stops and faster shift changeovers because system status is clear and accessible, rather than relying on informal or hard-to-transfer knowledge. Compatibility is the other pillar of operator-first design. Control platforms should natively support common DCS connections and the PLC families already present, so upgrades don’t force wholesale migrations. In mixed-vintage environments, that often means adding communication modules or protocol gateways and then validating handshakes thoroughly, start/stop, permissives, speed references, feedbacks, and alarms, before the first production run. Case work shows how unifying three separate process steps into one control package eliminates handoff gaps and reduces manual confirmations, which is especially valuable when staffing is lean. Finally, industry context can’t be bolted on at the end. The food and beverage and pharmaceutical industry bring sanitary and documentation requirements, chemicals bring area classification and containment concerns, and agriculture and building products bring dust management and ruggedization needs. Controls that “meet or exceed” the relevant standards, rather than merely connect, avoid expensive rework and compliance findings later. How to Move Forward: A Practical Playbook for Upgrades Modernization does not need to be a major overhaul. Start by conducting an inventory of devices, mapping states and transitions, documenting possible failures, and ranking risks by consequence and likelihood. Use this data to define what needs to

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HOPTEK appoints Marc Held to CEO

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:02:46 +0000

Held, a Serial Supply Chain Entrepreneur, Will Prioritize Freight Monetization using HOPTEK’s AI -Powered Suite, Enabling Trucking Companies to Improve Efficiency, Revenue and Profitability HOPTEK has announced the appointment of Marc Held to the position of CEO. Marc Held is a serial supply chain entrepreneur who joins HOPTEK following three successful exits, Daily Mail Group, Turvo, and Triumph Financial. His companies have spanned maritime intelligence, inventory optimization, and predictive freight pricing, covering the full spectrum of global trade and supply chain technology. Backed by investors including Andreessen Horowitz, his platforms have helped Fortune 500 brands optimize their supply chains through AI and IoT. Marc joins HOPTEK with the mandate to accelerate the company’s freight monetization platform. He noted, “I’ve spent 15 years building data and intelligence products for supply chain — HOPTEK is the first company I’ve seen that turns that intelligence into automated margin capture. Freight monetization is a completely new category, and we’re defining it.” HOPTEK’s suite of solutions addresses several chronic and intractable challenges by enabling fleets to see, act, and monetize freight through automation to achieve higher revenue and utilization, while reducing deadhead empty miles. HOPTEK’s robust freight orchestration platform provides the best available decision-making tools today, even as fleets remain dynamic, nuanced, and routing and load scenarios shift constantly. Today, HOPTEK is a strategic partner to some of the most forward-thinking fleets in the country, such as Werner Enterprises Inc., Prime Inc., Marten Transport, and Hirschbach Motor Lines, Inc. Stefan Simonetti, HOPTEK’s Chairman of the Board, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Marc to our team at this pivotal moment in HOPTEK’s evolution. His exceptional ability to identify and apply innovative technologies that drive real value underscores HOPTEK’s growing reputation as a leader in AI and fleet operations. We firmly believe Marc’s proven leadership in delivering growth and scaling game-changing technologies will empower us to accomplish both our short-term and long-term objectives.”

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Movu Robotics accelerates 4-way pallet shuttle automation

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:08:02 +0000

Backed by expanded U.S. production capacity in North America At MODEX 2026, taking place at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from 13–15 April 2026, Movu Robotics, a member of stow Group, will demonstrate how it is driving the large-scale transformation of automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) toward 4-way pallet shuttle technology across North America. From FMCG and Food & Beverage to cold storage operations and leading 3PLs, Movu continues to redefine high-density pallet automation at scale. Visitors can meet the Movu team Hall B, Booth B13128. At the heart of Movu’s MODEX 2026 presence is Movu atlas, its flagship 4-way pallet shuttle solution. Designed for maximum storage density, high throughput, and long-term scalability, Movu atlas is increasingly becoming the reference architecture for modern pallet ASRS. With close to 200 Movu atlas systems deployed or underway globally, Movu Robotics is the first automation provider to successfully break through at scale, demonstrating the maturity, robustness, and industrial readiness of 4-way pallet shuttle technology. Driving the ASRS transformation at scale in North America The logistics industry is undergoing a structural shift away from traditional crane-based pallet ASRS toward more flexible, modular, and resilient solutions. Movu Robotics is at the forefront of this evolution, enabling customers to future-proof their warehouses through 4-way pallet shuttle systems that scale horizontally and vertically, adapt to fluctuating demand, and optimize total cost of ownership. Movu atlas supports deep-lane, high-density pallet storage with shuttles capable of handling standard pallet formats at high speed and precision. The system is engineered for demanding industrial environments, operating reliably in ambient and cold storage conditions down to –25°C, and supporting high-throughput operations with multiple shuttles per level and high-speed vertical lifts. Its modular architecture allows customers to expand capacity and throughput incrementally by adding shuttles, lanes or lifts, without disrupting ongoing operations. Strengthening U.S. market support with new stow production facility Movu’s growth in the U.S. market is further reinforced by stow Group’s investment in a new production facility in Gordon County, Georgia, scheduled to begin operations mid-2026. The $36 million investment will create approximately 200 jobs and significantly expand stow’s manufacturing footprint in North America. This new, highly automated production facility will strengthen the Group’s local supply chain, reduce lead times, and enhance delivery reliability for customers across the United States. For Movu Robotics, the expanded U.S. manufacturing presence will directly support the deployment and scaling of automation projects, ensuring closer proximity to customers, faster execution, and long-term serviceability for large-scale ASRS installations. Proven across FMCG, Food & Beverage, Cold Storage and 3PL Movu atlas is already delivering measurable value across a wide range of industries. Reference installations include Clarebout Potatoes (Simplot) and Westhof Bio in the (frozen) food sector and third-party logistics operations for GXO and UPS Healthcare. These projects highlight how Movu atlas adapts to different throughput profiles, storage strategies and operational constraints while maintaining consistent performance and system availability. At MODEX 2026, visitors will be able to explore concrete reference cases, gain deeper insight into specific Movu atlas use cases, and discuss application scenarios directly with Movu experts, from system design to operational optimization. One integrated solution: robotics, software, and racking A key differentiator highlighted at the show is Movu’s fully integrated approach. Movu combines robotics, intelligent software, and structural racking into a single, high-performance sub-system, entirely sourced from the stow Group’s European and North American supply chain. This “one-stop shop” approach ensures optimal system performance, seamless integration, and reduced project risk for both end customers and system integrator partners. All Movu atlas systems are controlled by Movu’s proprietary warehouse execution software, ensuring intelligent shuttle orchestration, real-time system visibility, and smooth integration with higher-level warehouse management systems. By engineering and delivering the full automation stack in-house, Movu guarantees reliability, scalability, and long-term serviceability. “4-way pallet shuttle technology has moved beyond innovation into industrial reality,” says Christophe Coulongeat, CEO of Movu Robotics. “With nearly 200 systems in the market and a strengthened production footprint in the United States, Movu atlas is setting the standard for scalable, high-density pallet automation across North America.” Stefan Pieters, CTO of Movu Robotics, adds: “Our focus has always been on delivering performance at scale. Movu atlas is engineered to combine speed, density, performance and reliability in a modular architecture that evolves with our customers’ needs, whether in FMCG, Food & Beverage, cold storage or 3PL operations.” According to Noë van Bergen, CSO of Movu Robotics, “Customers in North America are looking for disruptive yet proven innovations, not just experiments. By mastering our full supply chain – robots, software, and racking – and with Movu atlas and stow’s new U.S. production facility, we ensure the success that our customers and integration partners experience with flexible shuttle-based systems, backed by real reference projects and strong local support.” Proven performance for customers and integrators With nearly 200 4-way pallet shuttle systems in the market, Movu Robotics has moved beyond pilot projects into true industrial deployment. This extensive installed base, combined with expanded U.S. manufacturing capacity, provides customers and integrators with proven performance, repeatable system designs, and accelerated project execution. At MODEX 2026, visitors will discover how Movu atlas enables warehouse operators to transition confidently toward next-generation pallet ASRS, combining density, speed, and scalability while maintaining operational resilience.

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Dematic appoints Alexandre Guiard as Senior Vice President

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:34:23 +0000

Seasoned global leader to oversee integrated sales and execution functions, advancing Dematic’s commitment to seamless solution delivery   Dematic has  announced Alexandre Guiard rejoined the company as senior vice president, business solutions for the Americas region , effective January 26, 2026. In this role, Guiard will lead the business solutions sales strategy and execution for the Americas, bringing these functions together to strengthen regional performance and support scalable growth. “With Alex’s return, we will continue to solidify our operational performance while scaling our business through our customer-centric culture,” said Mike Larsson, President, Dematic and KION Group Executive Board Member. “His leadership will strengthen how we support customers at every stage — from early engagement through final implementation — aligning sales and delivery to ensure a more seamless, consistent experience across the Americas.” Guiard previously led the Americas Project Execution team at Dematic before joining VALEO’s Brain Division Group in Japan, where he was later appointed as National President for VALEO Japan and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at KPS Capital Partners, Faurecia Automotive Seating, and VALEO Thermal Business Group. “Returning to Dematic is an opportunity to work with the people shaping the future of the supply chain,” said Guiard. “Dematic’s customer-first approach and reliable solutions are why it continues to lead the industry. I look forward to building on both my global experience and deep familiarity with Dematic in this new role to enhance operational performance and drive growth for us and our customers.” With more than 20 years of global experience in the U.S., Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, and Mexico, Guiard brings a deep international perspective to the organization. His background in leading diverse, cross-regional teams will help strengthen Dematic customer support across the Americas. Guiard holds a master’s degree in business administration from the Institute of Business Administration (France) and a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from EPMI (France). He also completed the General Management Program (GMP) in Business Administration and Management at Harvard Business School.

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