Day: 28 January 2020

Paragon Software Systems has introduced a zoning tool in the latest version of its routing and scheduling software. Using Zone Editor, transport operations will now be able to further streamline planning processes by automatically factoring in geographic restrictions such as Low Emission Zones.

The new functionality will allow geographic zones to be specified and stored within Paragon’s routing and scheduling software to help manage the increasing complexity of urban distribution plans. For example, transport planners will have the ability to create areas where low emission vehicles must be used for all deliveries. The tool includes pre-configured zones for London’s Congestion Charge, Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ), London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS) and all red routes to support deliveries within the capital.

Zone Editor will also simplify planning for regions where transport requirements are handled by a subcontracted logistics partner. By placing a zone around these areas, it will enable any deliveries that fall within them to be automatically allocated to appropriate third-party vehicles, without the need for these requirements to be manually managed.

William Salter, Managing Director of Paragon Software Systems commented: “Our customers are faced with ever more complicated transport planning requirements. Paragon’s software development roadmap aims to provide solutions that simplify the planning process, making life easier. The latest functionality means that bespoke zones, of all shapes and sizes, can be drawn, stored and then displayed over the maps within the routing and scheduling software, giving customers another layer to their transport planning. This will help reduce planning time and create the most accurate and achievable routes possible.”

The Zone Editor functionality is available in Version 6.15 of Paragon’s routing and scheduling software. It includes a number of enhancements that will help Paragon customers to further streamline the transport planning process; make use of resource usage data such as driver hours worked; and gain added visibility of vehicle and driver performance.

Logistics automation specialist, Cimcorp, has established an office in Spain in response to growing interest in its robotic automation solutions, and has appointed Jarkko Hakkarainen as General Manager. The manufacturer and integrator of turnkey robotic handling solutions has also formed a new subsidiary – Cimcorp Iberia, S.L., based in Madrid – in order to serve the Spanish market better.

“Our decision to expand our presence into Spain is a logical step at this point,” commented Tero Peltomäki, Cimcorp’s Executive Vice President, Operations and Technology, “and supports our growth strategy. We have a well-established customer base in Spain and our material handling systems are in high demand there.”

In spring 2019, Cimcorp secured an order worth over €120 million to automate the distribution of fresh food at four new distribution centres for the Spanish supermarket chain, Mercadona. “With this being Cimcorp’s largest ever order in the intralogistics market,” explained Peltomäki, “this is the right time to establish a base in Spain, to ensure that we meet the evolving needs of Mercadona and other customers, and that we allocate our resources in the best possible way.” Cimcorp has previously supplied automation to Mercadona, to another Spanish supermarket chain (Eroski) and to several of its tyre-manufacturing customers in Spain, including Michelin.

Tero Peltomäki commented: “Local presence in Spain will enable Cimcorp to strengthen relationships with our existing customers, as well as to create new partnerships. The central location of our Madrid office and its excellent transport connections to all our customer sites will mean smooth project management and timely response to requests for customer support.”

Cimcorp has appointed Jarkko Hakkarainen (above) as General Manager of Cimcorp Iberia. “Jarkko Hakkarainen has over 20 years’ extensive experience in international business,” said Tero Peltomäki. “In addition to responsibility for project implementation, he has worked successfully in new technology development, sales and service, and is praised for his leadership skills. Hakkarainen is target-oriented, committed to Cimcorp’s growth strategy and has a strong track record of business results. He is also fluent in both Spanish and Portuguese, so I cannot imagine a better person to lead Cimcorp Iberia.”