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Month: September 2019

Interroll Plant in Thailand Now Fully Operational

Posted on by David Priestman

Interroll Thailand has completed its relocation to a new location in Phantong (Chonburi) which provides a shop floor of more than 4,800 sqm as well as a 700 sqm office space in attractive Interroll design.

The construction of the new plant in Thailand is an important part of Interroll’s consistent globalisation strategy. Growth markets in Southeast Asia—especially Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and Myanmar—show a good demand for Interroll products, with significant potential for the long-term future. Moreover, an increase in the base of installed material handling systems in the region provides additional opportunities for services in the region.

“We are running a state-of-the-art location with improved capacities here,” says Grisorn Nakapong, Managing Director of Interroll Thailand. “The locally manufactured products are Rollers, RollerDrive, Pallet Flow, and Drum Motors service. Our customers can also count on upgraded Drum Motor services, which we provide at this location.”

By the end of 2019, a production line for the Modular Conveyor Platform (MCP) will be added. Moreover, the container loading area has been laid out to support big orders of Pallet Flow for markets in Southeast Asia. The facility also provides an in-house canteen for the employees as well as multipurpose areas for sports and team building activities. Modern office concepts facilitate communication among employees and within project teams.

“By introducing product lines with One Piece Flow and a high degree of automation, we have further raised our productivity significantly,” says Jens Strüwing, Executive Vice President Products & Technology at Interroll. “The new plant enables us to shorten delivery times for our customers in the region by 30 to 50 percent and to produce a much larger range of our solutions in proximity to our Southeast Asian target markets.”

New Name for Bridgestone-Owned TomTom Telematics

Posted on by Paul Hamblin

Following the acquisition of TomTom Telematics by Bridgestone Europe in April, the company has announced that TomTom Telematics’ company name will become Webfleet Solutions as of 1 October 2019.

The acquisition of TomTom Telematics is part of Bridgestone’s ongoing transformation from a premium tyre producer into a mobility solutions leader. The new Bridgestone company says it is Europe’s number one provider of fleet solutions, a double-digit growth industry.

The acquisition has reinforced Bridgestone’s footprint in data-based solutions that make fleet operations more effective and efficient. Now, the newly-named Webfleet Solutions – inspired by its main solution platform WEBFLEET, which has been providing leading telematics for fleets for the past 20 years – reflects Bridgestone’s ambition to provide a wider range of digital mobility and fleet solutions to its customers and consolidate a global leadership position. The EMEA business now serves over 1.2 million vehicles with mobility subscriptions and fleet solutions.

 

Thermo King and Frigoblock Discuss Future of Refrigerated Transport

Posted on by Paul Hamblin

Ingersoll Rand-owned brands Thermo King and Frigoblock will discuss the future of refrigerated transport at a conference organised by the Cold Chain Federation in Birmingham, UK, on September 12.

Joe Grealy of Ingersoll Rand Transport Solutions will address policy makers, transporters, cold store operators and other industry practitioners.

“As a global company, we have long considered it our responsibility to lead the industry and design and manufacture sustainable products for our customers. Products that not only meet current market requirements but future proof our customers operations for years ahead,” he commented. “Improving the efficiencies and environmental footprint of our diesel-powered products, encouraging the use electric stand-by options, promoting cryogenic refrigeration technology, and developing hybrid and full-electric options to combat exhaust, CO2 and noise pollutions, we have proven to be an innovator of solutions that has always had its customers satisfaction at heart.”

Thermo King and Frigoblock are leaders in electrification in the transport climate control industry and claim the largest range of zero and low-emissions solutions in all segments of the market, including SLXi-Hybrid trailer unit, wide range of Frigoblock products for large trucks and the E-200 all electric units for small trucks and vans. In total, there are more than 25 Thermo King and Frigoblock electric products in the portfolio, and more than 20,000 trucks and trailers on the road with its electrified transport refrigeration units and the number is growing daily across many new markets.

“Environmentally-focused regulations, and the general perception and desire to ‘be green’ are currently initiating customers’ adoption of electrification but the long-term economics will drive substantial conversion across the industry. It is anticipated that rapid market adoption of electrical architectures will take place between 2020 and 2025, as total cost of ownership calculations turn positive and transporters adopt compliant systems before mandated by law,” said Joe Grealy.

Thermo King’s and Frigoblock’s product development is driven by Ingersoll Rand’s Climate Commitment, which is the company’s pledge to increase the energy efficiency and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) related to its operations and products.

 

UK AGV Specialist to Show New AGV at IMHX

Posted on by David Priestman

JBT, a Leicester (UK)-based global designer and manufacturer of automatic guided vehicle systems (AGVs), is introducing a new forkover-style AGV specifically designed for the UK market at IMHX 2019.

The new forkover features a streamlined design, with a higher maximum capacity of 1,250 kgs in a reduced footprint. These features allow it to operate efficiently and safely in tighter spaces. The forkover joins a growing family of AGV designs JBT offers for the UK market, including a new reach AGV, an expanded line of counterbalance units and a vehicle specifically designed for Automated Trailer Loading. JBT’s AGV systems are manufactured at its EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) headquarters in Leicester.

JBT’s technology is opening up new automation capabilities in the UK market, offering Automatic Trailer Loading (ATL), which has proven to deliver substantial ROI.

“JBT has been designing and installing ATL systems for over 15 years,” says Mark Stevenson, JBT’s sales director for AGVs in EMEA. “With an ATL system, AGVs can pick up pallets from storage, from conveyors or staging, and place them directly into standard trailers at the loading docks. Our SGV Manager software directs all AGV movements and manages the fleet for maximum throughput. SGV Manager also provides inventory location management.”

JBT has been designing, building and servicing AGV systems and software from its UK headquarters in Leicester for over 30 years. The company can solve the most challenging applications. In addition to ATL, JBT has delivered AGVs for outdoor operations and in freezers.

“Our wide range of AGV options means that we can better serve our customers with the right product for the right applications, as they work to meet their business goals in an Industrie 4.0 world. And our manufacturing base in Leicester provides an excellent central location to efficiently service our customers throughout the UK.”

Meet JBT at IMHX 2019, Stand 20E20

Dachser has the Tools for DIY Logistics Solutions

Posted on by David Priestman

Every year, the GLEE Exhibition hosted at the NEC in Birmingham is a great venue to showcase the very best of DIY products and services. This year’s show will be held between 10th – 12th September.

DACHSER, the global logistics operator, will present its tailored DIY logistics solutions and will be the perfect opportunity for businesses to learn more about getting their products to market quickly and reliably.
From stand no. 19L12, DACHSER’s team of logistics professionals will explain how their DIY logistics solution has grown and adapted with the industry, and the essential factors for successful product delivery to markets throughout the world, both today and in the future.

21 years ago DACHSER launched its logistics solution for the German DIY industry to offer flexible and integrated supply chain services for home and garden improvement equipment. This specialist service is now offered to both UK exporters and importers.

DACHSER’s expertise throughout Europe has grown, along with the DIY and garden market. Its continuous development and steady growth has created a deep understanding of the needs of the industry, now reflected in the tailored solutions offered by DACHSER DIY logistics services.
The core services in the DIY logistics solution combine integrated IT solutions with transport, warehousing, value added services, as well as comprehensive customs experience, all benefiting from DACHSER’s extensive global network.

This expansion now includes DACHSER’s new facility in Rochdale in the North West of England, due to open in September 2019. The new 5,175 square metre logistics centre has been developed on a 3.7-hectare (9.2 acre) site and represents a GBP 14.4 million investment by the company.

It is evidence of DACHSER’s commitment to the UK market and the company’s optimistic view on the future of both import and export trade with the rest of Europe.

Such optimism extends to the UK’s DIY sector and for DACHSER DIY logistics there is every indication that the future will bring further growth, as visitors to the exhibition stand at GLEE will soon discover.

Element Logic Launches Robotic Piece-Picking Solution at IMHX

Posted on by David Priestman

Element Logic is launching a robotic piece-picking solution that combines their expertise as AutoStore system integrators with technology from leaders in piece-picking, RightHand Robotics (RHR). The new solution will be showcased at IMHX in Birmingham, September 24-27.

The robotic piece-picking solution combines award-winning technology from RightHand Robotics with Element Logic software and AutoStore. The solution integrates with any warehouse management software or enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, enabling customers to decrease operational costs and boost overall profit.

Range, Rate, and Reliability RHR’s technology excels at the 3Rs of robotic piece-picking: Range, Rate, and Reliability. The technology is able to pick and place a wide range of items, fulfilling orders at high speeds while ensuring that customers consistently receive what they ordered. The system uses vision, machine learning, and an advanced multi-function gripper with gripping fingers and a suction cup that can be used independently or in tandem with humans at the same picking station for maximum flexibility.

“The Element Team’s expertise in warehouse automation has made the project run smoothly, and RHR is excited to be working together to connect robotic picking with customers’ operations,” said Leif Jentoft, co-founder of RightHand Robotics. “With proven reliability and millions of picks, the technology provides an obvious advantage in today’s environment of shrinking labour and increasing customer pressure for supply chain performance.”

Element Logic offers Design and Consulting services to ensure that customers know how this solution can work for them. This includes a pickability assessment where customers have the option to see for themselves how well the robotic piece-picking solution picks and places their SKUs, followed by a detailed report with recommendations for optimal use tailored to their specific needs. “After a long test phase to ensure that our robotic piece-picking solution will produce profitable results for our customers, we are now ready to launch our collaborative robotic piece-picking solution at IMHX. Our solution is ready to run with any warehouse management software to optimize warehouse performance. The interface is intuitive, reducing the need for training,” says Steinar Overbeck Cook, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Element Logic.

See the new robotic piece-picking solution in action at IMHX: Stand #19J25, NEC Birmingham UK, 24-27th of September.

Körber Logistics to Make IMHX Debut

Posted on by David Priestman

Visitors to the Körber Logistics booth at the IMHX – the UK’s largest logistics event from September 24th to 27th – will be able to dive into the world of Körber Logistics and learn how to optimize their warehouses in a tailored and unique way. The Körber Logistics companies Riantics and Consoveyo will be present with their vast expertise within flexible, scalable and automated material handling and storage systems.

With Layer Picker® Solutions Körber Logistics addresses customers with the need for sustainable improvement of highly specialized layer picking processes.

The system combines highbay storages, conveyors and a Warehouse Control System (WCS) of Körber Logistics with the market leading Layer Picker® technology from Riantics – and scores with unique efficiency and capacity.

It provides customers with Rainbow and Sandwich pallets, software-driven by the proprietary WCS that can be integrated into any warehouse software environment via plug-and-play. Setting the industry standard for depalletizing and pallet-to-pallet picking systems, the Layer Picker® technology is an unmatched, proven solution.

It operates fully automated and handles almost every kind of food retail packaging in the customers’ warehouse. It handles single or several layers and also layers with voids and operates in temperatures ranging between -28°C and +40°C. With automated material handling and storage systems from Consoveyo, Körber Logistics provides its customers with the possibility of building turnkey solutions for intralogistics applications such as automated storage, handling, internal transport, picking and order fulfillment.

An extensive range of products are available for Consoveyo’s Integrated Solutions eg. Stacker Cranes, Overhead Monorail, AGV’s, RGV’s and Conveyor Systems. From building a new distribution center to modernizing or expanding a logistics operation, Körber Logistics works in close cooperation with the customer, providing tailormade solutions in a structured, interactive process from idea to production and to implementation.

IMHX 2019 takes place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, September 24th to 27th. Visit Körber Logistics at booth 18M105.

Keeping Business Moving with Briggs at IMHX

Posted on by David Priestman

Briggs Equipment brings extensive engineering services, high-performance equipment and asset management solutions to IMHX this year, demonstrating how it keeps industry moving across the UK and Ireland.

At Stand 19K125 during the show (24th – 27th September 2019, NEC, Birmingham, UK) visitors can see industrial trucks in action. One important focus will be how Briggs can meet the challenges of different industry applications with Hyster and Yale materials handling equipment.

Materials handling for all industries

Visitors will be introduced to new Yale robotics solutions, ideal for the warehousing and logistics industries. The Yale MC15 Robotic Counterbalance Stacker will move loads in and out of racking, demonstrating why robotics solutions can be a cost effective and efficient solution for repetitive warehouse tasks. In addition, the MTC15 Yale VNA will be on display.

Also on show will be Hyster lift trucks for arduous industry applications. This includes the J5.5XN6 lift truck, specially optimised for safety and damage avoidance in paper reel handling operations, and a 3.5-tonne Hyster Fortens lift truck with additional driver awareness features to support operations in the construction supply chain.

Keeping industry up and running

The stand will also feature other application examples, such as a JCB 16C mini digger and MasterMover AT300 tow, highlighting Briggs’ breadth of solutions. This includes Hako industrial cleaners, as well as aerial access, groundworks and agricultural equipment and machinery.

“Supplying high performance equipment tuned to the specific application is just part of what we do,” explains Leigh Edgley, Sales Director for Briggs Equipment. “We are also uniquely positioned to maintain and service what we supply, with a 600-strong workforce of expert engineers that can help keep your fleet up and running, whatever the industry.”

“We provide a total solution for customers large and small, whether it’s a single lift truck for an independent manufacturer or managing a fleet of varied industrial equipment for a multi-national port operator including resident engineers on site,” Leigh continues.

A complete solution

Alongside its specialist engineering services, Briggs also provides a total asset management solution. Their BE Finance option gives industry customers more flexibility, with quick financing decisions made in-house to keep businesses moving. To complement this, BE Portal provides total transparency in one dashboard, helping customers to optimise fleet performance and giving access to data to help them best manage their investments.

“We are a unique business. When you talk to us, we advise on the bigger picture of any operation,” says Leigh. “At IMHX, we look forward to showing how our comprehensive and complete industry solutions can really make a difference.”

To enable visitors to experience the importance of exceptional performance and a fast response, the Briggs Equipment stand will also feature a Formula 1 racing simulator.

Note of Caution Sounded by JCB while Strong Growth Recorded

Posted on by David Priestman

JCB says it has set new records for turnover, machine sales and earnings in 2018 as global markets for construction equipment and agricultural machinery remained strong. Revealing its annual figures, Staffordshire-based JCB revealed that its sales turnover in 2018 rose by 22% to £4.1 billion (2017: £3.35 billion), while machine sales increased to 96,246 (2017: 75,693). Earnings on an EBITDA basis rose by 31% to £447 million (2017: £341 million).

JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald said: “2018 was a very strong year for JCB during which the global construction equipment market grew by 18% to an all-time high of one million machines. JCB outpaced this growth by increasing its sales revenue by 22% last year, which was a very significant achievement. However, this growth has now stalled, with many markets softening this year, particularly the Middle East, Turkey, Latin America and India. We continue to make strategic investments in new product development and new manufacturing capacity to ensure JCB is ready to capitalise on future long-term growth opportunities.”

JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “The continued growth in global markets during 2018 has seen JCB production reach new peaks. As we approach our 75th anniversary next year, the pace of innovation remains relentless. Recent product launches, especially JCB’s electric mini excavator, puts the company in a strong position to tap into a growing demand for zero-emissions or ultra-low emissions equipment in the construction industry, particularly on urban job sites.”

India remained JCB’s largest market in 2018. This year marks the 40th anniversary of JCB India and comes as the company invests in a new £65 million factory in Gujarat, which is due to open in 2020. JCB is also investing £50 million in a new factory to manufacture cabs for its machines in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, which will open in Autumn 2019. JCB has 22 factories around the world, including 11 in the UK.

Heavyweights Team Up for Collaboration Seminar at IMHX

Posted on by David Priestman

Industry behemoth XPO Logistics will be joined by heavyweight customer Nestlé UK Ltd. in presenting The Warehouse of the Future: Collaboration Is King at IMHX 2019. The seminar will take place in Birmingham on September 27 at 10:00 a.m. BST. IMHX is the UK’s largest logistics industry event.

Gavin Williams, managing director, supply chain – UK and Ireland, XPO Logistics, and David Hix, Nestlé director of supply chain, will discuss the upcoming launch of a fully automated, 638,000 sq ft. distribution centre in Leicestershire. Custom-designed with the latest technologies, the “warehouse of the future” will have a transformative impact on volume flow management, fulfilment and other logistics operations, it is claimed.

XPO’s Gavin Williams said, “IMHX gives us an opportunity to share our perspective on the role of advanced automation in the future of logistics. Supply chain technology is evolving at a rapid pace, constantly raising new possibilities. The best results are achieved when the customer, logistics provider and supplier each contribute to a solution through collaboration.”

Nestlé‘s David Hix said, “We’re working closely with XPO to future-proof our supply chain. Our new distribution centre will integrate predictive data and autonomous machines to get our products to customers most efficiently, while the digital infrastructure will act as a test environment for new technological breakthroughs. We look forward to sharing more with IMHX attendees.”

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