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Month: September 2021

PSI renews IT infrastructure at Cologne/Bonn Airport

Posted on by David Priestman

With a major contract for software and control computers as well as for the monitoring and display systems in baggage handling, the Flughafen Köln/Bonn GmbH has concluded a fundamental update of the primary components of its baggage handling system.

With the modernisation of the software for the baggage handling system, the airport operators are using the current airport systems of the PSI Logistics Suite. This required the replacement of the control computer with modern hardware and the migration to a new database. For the automatic control of the complete baggage handling system behind the 86 check-in counters in the two airport terminals, PSIairport/BHS, in the current release 2020, replaced the old system from 2006.

The monitoring and coordination of the processes is performed with the assistance of cameras in the baggage handling system. Here, a new CCTV system from PSI Logistics is being used. The camera system allows for continuous documentation and tracking of baggage.

For the first time the PSIairport/BRS baggage reconciliation system is being installed at the Cologne/Bonn Airport. The BRS takes over the control and documentation of process sequences for baggage handling in ground traffic between the airport building and the total of 111 aircraft positions on the nine aprons as per international security guidelines. The scope of services of the software also includes the flight information display system (FIDS) from PSI Logistics. The new display systems at the baggage carousels were connected to the new airport systems as part of the project.

The PSI Group develops its own software products for optimising the flow of energy and materials for utilities (energy grids, energy trading, public transport) and industry (metals production, automotive, mechanical engineering, logistics). PSI was founded in 1969 and employs more than 2,100 people worldwide.

PSI renews IT infrastructure at Cologne/Bonn Airport

Posted on by David Priestman

With a major contract for software and control computers as well as for the monitoring and display systems in baggage handling, the Flughafen Köln/Bonn GmbH has concluded a fundamental update of the primary components of its baggage handling system.

With the modernisation of the software for the baggage handling system, the airport operators are using the current airport systems of the PSI Logistics Suite. This required the replacement of the control computer with modern hardware and the migration to a new database. For the automatic control of the complete baggage handling system behind the 86 check-in counters in the two airport terminals, PSIairport/BHS, in the current release 2020, replaced the old system from 2006.

The monitoring and coordination of the processes is performed with the assistance of cameras in the baggage handling system. Here, a new CCTV system from PSI Logistics is being used. The camera system allows for continuous documentation and tracking of baggage.

For the first time the PSIairport/BRS baggage reconciliation system is being installed at the Cologne/Bonn Airport. The BRS takes over the control and documentation of process sequences for baggage handling in ground traffic between the airport building and the total of 111 aircraft positions on the nine aprons as per international security guidelines. The scope of services of the software also includes the flight information display system (FIDS) from PSI Logistics. The new display systems at the baggage carousels were connected to the new airport systems as part of the project.

The PSI Group develops its own software products for optimising the flow of energy and materials for utilities (energy grids, energy trading, public transport) and industry (metals production, automotive, mechanical engineering, logistics). PSI was founded in 1969 and employs more than 2,100 people worldwide.

Heppner purchases further German distribution businesses

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Heppner has acquired the family-owned businesses ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge, based in Düsseldorf and Krefeld. These acquisitions form part of Heppner’s international growth strategy, designed to strengthen the Group’s distribution capacity in Western Germany and increase its competitiveness in the French and German transport markets.

The overall goal is to strengthen the territorial network in Germany, perceived as a vector of new economic dynamics

Following the acquisition of Hamacher Logistik in 2019 and the conclusion of a strategic partnership with Koch International in early 2021, the acquisition of ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge, specialists in goods storage and transport in the North Rhine region, marks a new milestone in Heppner’s continued international growth. These acquisitions are aimed at boosting and accelerating Heppner’s distribution capacity in the region, endowing it with the capability to propose transport and logistics solutions to its customers and partners within an integrated international network.

As leader in traffic between France and Germany, the latter country represents a strategic perimeter in the company’s growth ambitions. When combined with the solid regional presence of ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge and the know-how of their 270 employees, Heppner’s international expertise will enable excellent service provision in support of transport solutions tailored to its customers’ needs.

With more than 12% of its turnover generated in Germany, the country is currently Heppner’s second-largest market. Each year, it carries out almost 400,000 groupage shipments between the two countries, which account for close to 30% of its total overland shipments. The 12 agencies that Heppner now has in the country provide a strong base in key regions for serving its customers and partners.

“The integration of ABC-Logistik’s business in Heppner is excellent news for customers who want to grow their operations in Germany. The synergies generated by our respective areas of operational, geographical and technical expertise will become key assets for strengthening our European network, offering our partners increasingly personalised and reliable services, and leveraging opportunities for future growth,” Heppner Group CEO Jean-Thomas Schmitt explained.

Founded in 1997 by Holger te Heesen, ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge have a combined turnover of €22m and 270 employees. Characterised by a distinctive family business culture, they share a dynamic vision of the business. With a strong presence in North Rhine-Westphalia and corporate headquarters in Düsseldorf, the companies have almost 60,000 sq m of warehouse space and operate a logistics centre in Krefeld. In addition, as member of the CTL network in Germany, ABC-Logistik brings a strong distribution capacity in the region that will create more closely-knit transport links between Western Germany and France.

“We are delighted to embark upon this new chapter between Heppner and our company. It is an important step that will create new growth opportunities, in line with the values of entrepreneurship and excellence that we uphold in our daily work. By pooling our resources with an international group such as Heppner, we will be able to offer our customers a broader range of transport solutions, particularly in international traffic to and from France,” highlighted Holger te Heesen, CEO of ABC Logistik Group.

ABC will continue to operate independently with its network of partners, initiating a phased process to integrate its businesses and human resources with those of the Heppner Group in Germany.

Sustainable urban logistics

In line with its sustainable development commitments undertaken in 2010 and in response to growing restrictions on traffic in town centres, Heppner is working to expedite implementation of its sustainable delivery solutions in these areas, while maintaining its competitiveness within the industry. Last-mile delivery is a major challenge for the transport industry and requires engagement and reflection by all the economic agents involved.

“As one of the pioneers in the drive to master last-mile logistics in the Düsseldorf conurbation, the acquisition of ABC-Logistik will allow Heppner to consolidate its know-how at local level, offering innovative, sustainable solutions in coordination with public and private sector stakeholders,” observed Ghislain Fernandez, Heppner’s International Subsidiaries Manager.

“For the last few years, we have been developing our know-how to offer competitive services on the cutting edge of sustainable logistics. In 2017, ABC-Logistik launched incharge Smarte Innenstadtlogistik, a smart, innovative solution that seeks to reduce traffic by grouping deliveries in the centre of Düsseldorf and reducing emissions through the use of electric vehicles and low environmental impact technologies,” explained incharge CEO Michael te Heesen.

Heppner purchases further German distribution businesses

Posted on by David Priestman

Heppner has acquired the family-owned businesses ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge, based in Düsseldorf and Krefeld. These acquisitions form part of Heppner’s international growth strategy, designed to strengthen the Group’s distribution capacity in Western Germany and increase its competitiveness in the French and German transport markets.

The overall goal is to strengthen the territorial network in Germany, perceived as a vector of new economic dynamics

Following the acquisition of Hamacher Logistik in 2019 and the conclusion of a strategic partnership with Koch International in early 2021, the acquisition of ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge, specialists in goods storage and transport in the North Rhine region, marks a new milestone in Heppner’s continued international growth. These acquisitions are aimed at boosting and accelerating Heppner’s distribution capacity in the region, endowing it with the capability to propose transport and logistics solutions to its customers and partners within an integrated international network.

As leader in traffic between France and Germany, the latter country represents a strategic perimeter in the company’s growth ambitions. When combined with the solid regional presence of ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge and the know-how of their 270 employees, Heppner’s international expertise will enable excellent service provision in support of transport solutions tailored to its customers’ needs.

With more than 12% of its turnover generated in Germany, the country is currently Heppner’s second-largest market. Each year, it carries out almost 400,000 groupage shipments between the two countries, which account for close to 30% of its total overland shipments. The 12 agencies that Heppner now has in the country provide a strong base in key regions for serving its customers and partners.

“The integration of ABC-Logistik’s business in Heppner is excellent news for customers who want to grow their operations in Germany. The synergies generated by our respective areas of operational, geographical and technical expertise will become key assets for strengthening our European network, offering our partners increasingly personalised and reliable services, and leveraging opportunities for future growth,” Heppner Group CEO Jean-Thomas Schmitt explained.

Founded in 1997 by Holger te Heesen, ABC-Logistik, ABC-Warehousing and incharge have a combined turnover of €22m and 270 employees. Characterised by a distinctive family business culture, they share a dynamic vision of the business. With a strong presence in North Rhine-Westphalia and corporate headquarters in Düsseldorf, the companies have almost 60,000 sq m of warehouse space and operate a logistics centre in Krefeld. In addition, as member of the CTL network in Germany, ABC-Logistik brings a strong distribution capacity in the region that will create more closely-knit transport links between Western Germany and France.

“We are delighted to embark upon this new chapter between Heppner and our company. It is an important step that will create new growth opportunities, in line with the values of entrepreneurship and excellence that we uphold in our daily work. By pooling our resources with an international group such as Heppner, we will be able to offer our customers a broader range of transport solutions, particularly in international traffic to and from France,” highlighted Holger te Heesen, CEO of ABC Logistik Group.

ABC will continue to operate independently with its network of partners, initiating a phased process to integrate its businesses and human resources with those of the Heppner Group in Germany.

Sustainable urban logistics

In line with its sustainable development commitments undertaken in 2010 and in response to growing restrictions on traffic in town centres, Heppner is working to expedite implementation of its sustainable delivery solutions in these areas, while maintaining its competitiveness within the industry. Last-mile delivery is a major challenge for the transport industry and requires engagement and reflection by all the economic agents involved.

“As one of the pioneers in the drive to master last-mile logistics in the Düsseldorf conurbation, the acquisition of ABC-Logistik will allow Heppner to consolidate its know-how at local level, offering innovative, sustainable solutions in coordination with public and private sector stakeholders,” observed Ghislain Fernandez, Heppner’s International Subsidiaries Manager.

“For the last few years, we have been developing our know-how to offer competitive services on the cutting edge of sustainable logistics. In 2017, ABC-Logistik launched incharge Smarte Innenstadtlogistik, a smart, innovative solution that seeks to reduce traffic by grouping deliveries in the centre of Düsseldorf and reducing emissions through the use of electric vehicles and low environmental impact technologies,” explained incharge CEO Michael te Heesen.

Toughbook upgrade promises improved performance

Posted on by David Priestman

Panasonic has announced the latest version of its Toughbook 55 notebook, that is as versatile as ever but with improved performance, connectivity and security. When launched in 2019, the Toughbook 55 set a new benchmark for mobile computing by enabling users for the first time to customise their device for different tasks while in the field. The latest Toughbook 55 maintains this popular modular approach but has been updated with the latest technologies ideal for users in field services, automotive, emergency and security services.

According to Panasonic, for the ultimate reliable communication on the move, the second-generation rugged clamshell notebook has enhanced connectivity with eSim, and the option for 4G to deliver Dual Sim. Additional comms improvements to future-proof the upgraded device include the latest WiFi (Intel Wireless 6 AX201) and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, alongside support for Thunderbolt 4.

For use with demanding applications, such as CAD, performance has been boosted by up to 19% with the addition of the 11th generation Intel CoreTM i5-1145G7 Processor (with Intel vPro Technology). Storage has been improved with the NVMe OPAL SSD, which self-encrypts in real-time, freeing-up processing capacity and offering enhanced data protection to information sensitive industries such as emergency services, security forces and defence. To make the device even more secure, the device is also equipped with the Microsoft Secured-core PC technology.

Versatile Modular approach

The Toughbook 55 allows users to boost graphics capabilities with support for Intel Iris Xe Graphics. They can also configure the device on the move to suit their industry sector or changing job requirements. A smartcard reader, additional storage or a DVD or Blu-Ray drive can be added with a simple switch, fit and click into the Toughbook  Universal Bay. In addition, a front expansion area can be used to quickly integrate a fingerprint reader, HF-RFID or regular smart card reader or for the addition of a second battery. For sustainability and cost efficiencies, all peripherals used with the first generation Toughbook 55 remain compatible with the latest device.

“The Toughbook 55 notebook was a game-changer, taking mobile computing to new levels of flexibility, productivity and sustainability and the updated generation will further enhance its reputation,” said Dirk Weigelt, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Panasonic Mobile Solutions Business. “Users can customise their device on the move to suit the needs of their job role at the time. While buyers can invest in the device knowing that it has the flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of the business and the workforce over the long-term.”

Panasonic says the Toughbook 55 is lightweight (2.08kg), slim (32.8mm) and easy to move around with its premium designed handle. It carries an enhanced Ingress Protection Rating (IP53) against dust and water splash and is protected against drops up to 91cm. It can comfortably operate in temperatures ranging from -29°C to +60°C.

With a battery life of up to 19 hours and an extended capability of 38 hours, with the addition of a hot swap second battery, the Toughbook  55 is as long working as it is adaptable.

The latest Toughbook 55 notebook is available in three options: HD, Full-HD and Full HD with Touchscreen. All devices come with a standard 3-year warranty and are available from September 2021. Prices start from €1,988/£1,799 + VAT.

Toughbook upgrade promises improved performance

Posted on by David Priestman

Panasonic has announced the latest version of its Toughbook 55 notebook, that is as versatile as ever but with improved performance, connectivity and security. When launched in 2019, the Toughbook 55 set a new benchmark for mobile computing by enabling users for the first time to customise their device for different tasks while in the field. The latest Toughbook 55 maintains this popular modular approach but has been updated with the latest technologies ideal for users in field services, automotive, emergency and security services.

According to Panasonic, for the ultimate reliable communication on the move, the second-generation rugged clamshell notebook has enhanced connectivity with eSim, and the option for 4G to deliver Dual Sim. Additional comms improvements to future-proof the upgraded device include the latest WiFi (Intel Wireless 6 AX201) and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, alongside support for Thunderbolt 4.

For use with demanding applications, such as CAD, performance has been boosted by up to 19% with the addition of the 11th generation Intel CoreTM i5-1145G7 Processor (with Intel vPro Technology). Storage has been improved with the NVMe OPAL SSD, which self-encrypts in real-time, freeing-up processing capacity and offering enhanced data protection to information sensitive industries such as emergency services, security forces and defence. To make the device even more secure, the device is also equipped with the Microsoft Secured-core PC technology.

Versatile Modular approach

The Toughbook 55 allows users to boost graphics capabilities with support for Intel Iris Xe Graphics. They can also configure the device on the move to suit their industry sector or changing job requirements. A smartcard reader, additional storage or a DVD or Blu-Ray drive can be added with a simple switch, fit and click into the Toughbook  Universal Bay. In addition, a front expansion area can be used to quickly integrate a fingerprint reader, HF-RFID or regular smart card reader or for the addition of a second battery. For sustainability and cost efficiencies, all peripherals used with the first generation Toughbook 55 remain compatible with the latest device.

“The Toughbook 55 notebook was a game-changer, taking mobile computing to new levels of flexibility, productivity and sustainability and the updated generation will further enhance its reputation,” said Dirk Weigelt, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Panasonic Mobile Solutions Business. “Users can customise their device on the move to suit the needs of their job role at the time. While buyers can invest in the device knowing that it has the flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of the business and the workforce over the long-term.”

Panasonic says the Toughbook 55 is lightweight (2.08kg), slim (32.8mm) and easy to move around with its premium designed handle. It carries an enhanced Ingress Protection Rating (IP53) against dust and water splash and is protected against drops up to 91cm. It can comfortably operate in temperatures ranging from -29°C to +60°C.

With a battery life of up to 19 hours and an extended capability of 38 hours, with the addition of a hot swap second battery, the Toughbook  55 is as long working as it is adaptable.

The latest Toughbook 55 notebook is available in three options: HD, Full-HD and Full HD with Touchscreen. All devices come with a standard 3-year warranty and are available from September 2021. Prices start from €1,988/£1,799 + VAT.

Ocado invests in further CNG station

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Ocado Group has reaffirmed its transition to alternative fuels by signing a deal to open a further natural gas refuelling station at its Dordon Customer Fulfilment Centre.

In January 2019, the online supermarket became the first UK retailer to self-fund the purchase of an onsite grid-connected gas refuelling station at its depot in Hatfield.

The new facility at Dordon is due to open in Q2 2022 and will again be designed and built by Gasrec – the UK’s largest supplier of gas to the road transport sector – to fuel the 10 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tractor units already running from the site and allow for the remaining Dordon tractor fleet (70 total) to transition from diesel to blended biomethane.

Graham Thomas, Fleet Operations Manager at Ocado Group, says: “The results we have seen since beginning our switch to gas have been fantastic and shown that we are on the right path to a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly future.

“This new facility at Dordon will allow us to get more gas trucks on the road and access delivery routes further up the country with our CNG fleet.”

The facility at Dordon will be a tanker fed operation, with Ocado signing a 10-year supply agreement with Gasrec. With 60 natural gas-powered trucks operating from Hatfield and Dordon, this latest development will allow Ocado to more than double their total CNG units over the next three years, with over two thirds of its total fleet running on natural gas.

“We are committed to transitioning away from diesel and the performance of the IVECO gas trucks we have in service, as well as the resilience of the facilities and support Gasrec has provided for us so far, has only strengthened our conviction,” adds Thomas.

Environmental benefits of switching to natural gas include 99% fewer particulate emissions and 70% less nitrogen oxide than the latest diesel standard. Natural gas-powered vehicles are also, on average, 10db quieter than diesel vehicles, significantly reducing their impact in residential areas.

Gasrec currently supplies a minimum 50% biomethane blend to Ocado, meaning significant reductions in CO2 output – up to 68% across the fleet calculated from the total amount of biomethane used. Going forward, the mix of biomethane is being increased, making further inroads to cleaner transport.

James Westcott, Chief Commercial Officer at Gasrec, says: “Ocado Group continues to take great strides in reducing the carbon footprint of its transport operation. We have built a fantastic working relationship with them over the past few years and are delighted they have chosen us again to build and deliver the new refuelling site in Dordon.”

Ocado invests in further CNG station

Posted on by David Priestman

Ocado Group has reaffirmed its transition to alternative fuels by signing a deal to open a further natural gas refuelling station at its Dordon Customer Fulfilment Centre.

In January 2019, the online supermarket became the first UK retailer to self-fund the purchase of an onsite grid-connected gas refuelling station at its depot in Hatfield.

The new facility at Dordon is due to open in Q2 2022 and will again be designed and built by Gasrec – the UK’s largest supplier of gas to the road transport sector – to fuel the 10 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tractor units already running from the site and allow for the remaining Dordon tractor fleet (70 total) to transition from diesel to blended biomethane.

Graham Thomas, Fleet Operations Manager at Ocado Group, says: “The results we have seen since beginning our switch to gas have been fantastic and shown that we are on the right path to a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly future.

“This new facility at Dordon will allow us to get more gas trucks on the road and access delivery routes further up the country with our CNG fleet.”

The facility at Dordon will be a tanker fed operation, with Ocado signing a 10-year supply agreement with Gasrec. With 60 natural gas-powered trucks operating from Hatfield and Dordon, this latest development will allow Ocado to more than double their total CNG units over the next three years, with over two thirds of its total fleet running on natural gas.

“We are committed to transitioning away from diesel and the performance of the IVECO gas trucks we have in service, as well as the resilience of the facilities and support Gasrec has provided for us so far, has only strengthened our conviction,” adds Thomas.

Environmental benefits of switching to natural gas include 99% fewer particulate emissions and 70% less nitrogen oxide than the latest diesel standard. Natural gas-powered vehicles are also, on average, 10db quieter than diesel vehicles, significantly reducing their impact in residential areas.

Gasrec currently supplies a minimum 50% biomethane blend to Ocado, meaning significant reductions in CO2 output – up to 68% across the fleet calculated from the total amount of biomethane used. Going forward, the mix of biomethane is being increased, making further inroads to cleaner transport.

James Westcott, Chief Commercial Officer at Gasrec, says: “Ocado Group continues to take great strides in reducing the carbon footprint of its transport operation. We have built a fantastic working relationship with them over the past few years and are delighted they have chosen us again to build and deliver the new refuelling site in Dordon.”

FDL accelerates e-commerce in Greece with smart sorting robots

Posted on by David Priestman

Geek+, a global AMR leader, has announced the successful deployment of smart sorting robots in the warehouse of Athinaiki S.A., a logistics and transport service provider specialising in last-mile delivery in Greece.

The solution was implemented in partnership with FDL Group, a leading integrator for supply chain solutions and the exclusive distributor of Geek+ AMR solutions in Greece and Cyprus. It marks the company’s second project in the region.

Jackson Zhang, VP of Geek+ Europe, says: “We are very excited to see our sorting robots provide Athinaiki S.A. with the speed and accuracy needed for excellent last-mile delivery services. With Geek+ and FDL, intelligent automation is easily accessible to Greek companies.”

Vassilis Karakoulakis – Chairman FDL GROUP, says: “We see it as our responsibility to explore new technologies that can help streamline supply chain operations and work together with local pioneers like Athinaiki S.A. to facilitate the transition from physical stores to e-commerce. Geek+ flexible sorting robots provide us with an efficient tool that widens our reach, allowing us to help SMEs and big brands alike meet customer expectations for accurate and efficient services to compete and grow.”

Set in a 562 sq m warehouse, 29 sorting robots currently support warehouse employees by handling sorting of 1,400–1,500 parcels/hour. Today, employees will put ordered goods onto sorting robots that will automatically transfer them to one of the 104 sorting cages bound for different destinations following a simple chutes layout made up of QR codes. With no need for wires or fixed infrastructure, companies can flexibly scale operations should there be a sudden change in throughput demand by simply adjusting the number of robots and sorting destinations.

The solution can be immediately set up into existing facilities, saving considerable infrastructure costs, leading to fast ROI. Controlled by RMS (robot management system) and powered by algorithms, the solution monitors robot traffic and balances the task of each robot to achieve maximum sorting efficiency, allowing 3x more productivity and 99.99% sorting accuracy.

FDL accelerates e-commerce in Greece with smart sorting robots

Posted on by David Priestman

Geek+, a global AMR leader, has announced the successful deployment of smart sorting robots in the warehouse of Athinaiki S.A., a logistics and transport service provider specialising in last-mile delivery in Greece.

The solution was implemented in partnership with FDL Group, a leading integrator for supply chain solutions and the exclusive distributor of Geek+ AMR solutions in Greece and Cyprus. It marks the company’s second project in the region.

Jackson Zhang, VP of Geek+ Europe, says: “We are very excited to see our sorting robots provide Athinaiki S.A. with the speed and accuracy needed for excellent last-mile delivery services. With Geek+ and FDL, intelligent automation is easily accessible to Greek companies.”

Vassilis Karakoulakis – Chairman FDL GROUP, says: “We see it as our responsibility to explore new technologies that can help streamline supply chain operations and work together with local pioneers like Athinaiki S.A. to facilitate the transition from physical stores to e-commerce. Geek+ flexible sorting robots provide us with an efficient tool that widens our reach, allowing us to help SMEs and big brands alike meet customer expectations for accurate and efficient services to compete and grow.”

Set in a 562 sq m warehouse, 29 sorting robots currently support warehouse employees by handling sorting of 1,400–1,500 parcels/hour. Today, employees will put ordered goods onto sorting robots that will automatically transfer them to one of the 104 sorting cages bound for different destinations following a simple chutes layout made up of QR codes. With no need for wires or fixed infrastructure, companies can flexibly scale operations should there be a sudden change in throughput demand by simply adjusting the number of robots and sorting destinations.

The solution can be immediately set up into existing facilities, saving considerable infrastructure costs, leading to fast ROI. Controlled by RMS (robot management system) and powered by algorithms, the solution monitors robot traffic and balances the task of each robot to achieve maximum sorting efficiency, allowing 3x more productivity and 99.99% sorting accuracy.

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