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Month: October 2021

Mitsubishi launches powerful new electric forklift

Posted on by David Priestman

Changes to fuel subsidies, enhancements in battery technology and increasingly stringent emissions regulations mean electric trucks are becoming the new favourite – even in industries where diesel was once considered indispensable.

And now electric trucks offer more capabilities than ever before with the arrival of the new EDiA XL from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.

Built with a wealth of unique and innovative features, Mitsubishi says its EDiA XL is the perfect alternative to IC engine trucks, having been designed to outperform not only its electric rivals, but also any diesel forklift.

Stewart Gosling of RDD, the exclusive UK importer for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, explains: “The new EDiA XL will do everything a diesel can do… only better. It is the first electric to fully overcome every issue that may have stopped some owners of IC engine trucks from making the switch to electric.”

Available in 4-5 tonne models, EDiA XL will handle heavy-duty applications with ease.

“In the past many industries favoured diesel for its brute strength, but electric forklifts like EDiA XL offer power like never before,” adds Gosling.

Take for example, the AutoBoost feature. This kicks in automatically to provide torque and acceleration boosts where and when they’re needed, like on ramps and steep inclines, so power drops are a thing of the past.

Even harsh environments are no match for EDiA XL. Its Electric Differential Lock feature gives the truck better traction and control both indoors and out.

“EDiA XL is an exceptionally intuitive forklift,” says Gosling. “Handling is smooth and precise, high lifts are rock-steady, while Four Wheel Steering enables a 100° lock delivering the smallest turning circle on the market – perfect for working in tight spaces. There’s no challenge the EDiA XL can’t overcome.”

Operator comfort has been placed front and centre with EDiA XL. With its ergonomic, adjustable seat, and its range of advanced control options, EDiA XL helps operators stay productive. Not least because noise levels inside the cabin are extremely low at just 65dB, and microvibrations are minimal thanks to the rubber-mounted cabin.

Gosling concludes: “The placement and design of the mast means operators have unparalleled visibility while working in a comfortable, stress-free environment, giving them the confidence to work efficiently and safely. Every detail has been considered in the EDiA XL. It really does set a new standard for forklift trucks.”

FedEx grows to meet Saudi Arabia demand

Posted on by David Priestman

FedEx Express has announced its transition to a direct-serve presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to meet the country’s growing international shipping demands. The company will invest more than SAR1.5bn (c.US$400m/€345m) into the country’s economy over the next 10 years through talent management and local operations and infrastructure.

This investment will reaffirm the company’s commitment to the country’s non-oil economic growth, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, and the ‘National Industrial Development and Logistics Program’ which seeks to increase non-oil exports to more than SAR1tr (c. US$266bn/€230bn).

FedEx Express has been facilitating trade in Saudi Arabia since 1994, offering international solutions and connectivity through local service providers, most recently through SAB Express. This announcement and the company’s direct presence in the country will further help local businesses trade with ease and expand their reach into the more than 220 countries and territories FedEx serves.

Jack Muhs, regional president of FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa, said: “Our customers will be able to take advantage of FedEx digital tools and a wider service portfolio. This strategic expansion in the Kingdom will help Saudi-based businesses connect to new markets and customers around the world, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify the national economy.

“In addition to our commitment to the Saudi economy, we see FedEx Express playing an important role in developing the small and medium enterprise environment in Saudi Arabia, which forms the backbone of the economy, and represents 99% of Saudi Arabia’s private sector.”

FedEx Express will continue to work closely with SAB Express to provide pickup, delivery, and customs clearance services across the country.

Sheikh Salah Al Bluewi, chairman of SAB Express, said: “We’re happy to continue supporting FedEx Express in Saudi Arabia with their growth journey, and join them in playing a critical role in developing Saudi Arabia’s logistics infrastructure, in line with the country’s coordinated efforts and strategy in diversifying the economy. The logistics sector is a key contributor towards employment, investment, and overall economic growth in our nation.”

Under Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom is committed to increasing its total air cargo capacity. With nearly 50 years of experience, specialised services, and advanced technology solutions, FedEx will support the trade requirements of the healthcare, e-commerce, technology, energy, aerospace, automotive, and petrochemical sectors.

DHL’s Driving Ambition aims to help solve shortage

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Supply Chain has announced Driving Ambition, a new training programme which aims to tackle the national driver shortage in the UK with a long-term solution by providing fully funded training for applicants to qualify as LGV drivers.

The Driving Ambition programme removes a key barrier to a career in logistics by providing company-funded driver training, opening a door to an industry that has proved itself essential during the Covid-19 pandemic. One of the main aims of the programme is to encourage a wider pool of diverse candidates to consider a driving career.

Driving Ambition offers candidates free driver training worth up to £3,000 to obtain either a Category C licence (Class 2) to drive rigid trucks, or licences C and E (Class 1) to drive artics.

Ian Clough, MD Transport at DHL Supply Chain UK, said: “The supply chain industry is facing a huge shortage of drivers. One of the most important steps we can take to solve this for the long-term starts at grass roots by encouraging and enabling people to pursue a career in logistics. By investing in someone’s future, and offering them the opportunity to be trained and ultimately become a qualified LGV driver, we’re hoping to attract as broad an audience as possible.

“New recruits will be welcomed into the wonderfully diverse DHL family and we’re very much encouraging applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, as well as those underrepresented in the industry, such as women and the ex-military.”

Roads Minister Baroness Vere added: “This is a fantastic initiative and I fully support DHL as they encourage UK workers to kick-start a rewarding and lucrative career in our vitally important road haulage industry. We will continue to do all we can to help industry leaders boost driver recruitment numbers, improve job opportunities right across the country, and address the problems caused by this global issue.”

Recognising the need to create a long-term flow of driver candidates, Marks & Spencer has backed the programme and is inviting colleagues and partners to take part in the opportunity to retrain.

The programme is open to anyone looking to become an LGV driver, or those wanting to upskill from a Class 2 licence to a Class 1 and step into one of DHL’s 1,000 training vacancies. Driver roles will be available across the UK, with dedicated transport training centres in the South East, Avonmouth, Crick, Worksop and Bellshill.

As the global logistics leader, DHL is committed to offering rewarding, flexible, long-term career opportunities for the widest possible range of people. The programme is a fantastic opportunity for veterans, school leavers and career changers looking for their next challenge.

Robert Boateng, 59, from London, has recently completed Driving Ambition and is now a qualified LGV driver: “I used to drive vans but I wanted to have a specialist qualification and develop a career. The programme is really good – you get lots of support, so I’d recommend it to anyone else thinking about a career change.”

The programme has been trialled with internal candidates and to date 250 people have completed the training programme. All new employees will be invited to join DHL’s pension scheme, along with accessing a range of exclusive wellbeing benefits such as mortgage advice, online tutoring for kids and a free online GP service, plus retail and supermarket discounts of up to 10%.

As part of its aspiration to achieve zero-emissions logistics by 2050, the company is investing in the latest low emissions trucks and recently opened its industry-leading Transport Development Centre at Crick to teach safe, environmentally responsible driving techniques.

The Information Factory launches Business Intelligence as a Service

Posted on by David Priestman

The Information Factory, an independent software vendor specialising in the logistics sector, has launched Business Intelligence as a Service, an end-to-end, fully managed data reporting and analytics system, available on a subscription basis and operating with cloud based technology.

Logistics is a data driven industry with many complex moving parts requiring monitoring and measuring in order to keep on top of costs, revenue and performance. The pressure on margins, time, customer expectation, service standards and shipment sensitivity increases the need to have oversight across the whole logistics process plus a detailed view on individual elements and support activities.

When harnessed effectively data helps people to improve decision making, identify problems (and solutions), optimise processes and identify trends & opportunities. This is what The Information Factory provides with its new Business Intelligence as a Service. The system connects to the client’s data sources, integrates the data into a secure cloud based warehouse & transforms it into simple to use dashboards, visualisations and detailed reports tailored to company and department KPIs.

The benefits of this service based approach to business intelligence / analytics can be classified in three main categories:

Customer/user experience. The end-to-end approach means that the complete package is provided, all the way from data extraction to reporting and ongoing support. Reports are customised to individual requirements, easy to use and need little user training. Data consulting is also provided to help customers make the best use of their data.

Business insights. Consolidating and managing data from different sources enables ‘one version of the truth’ to be created across the company. More people can access data and the insights it delivers when transformed into reports, charts and dashboards.

Productivity: Business Intelligence as a Service automates the analytics process, improves data quality and delivers at speed. This significantly reduces the time, money and resources needed to be spent manually producing reports.

Robert Jordan, CEO of The Information Factory, says: “We’ve built on our 15+ years of developing tailor-made data driven solutions to offer Business Intelligence as a Service specifically for the logistics, postal, parcel and ecommerce sectors. It’s a market we are very  familiar with and we’re excited at the opportunity to help even more businesses to harness the potential of their data.”

Logistics company encourages rewilding

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Warehousing and logistics providers Johnston Logistics UK is supporting its sustainability policy by allowing green spaces to blossom. The grassy areas, spread around Johnston Logistics UK’s 130-acre site in Norfolk, have been encouraged to grow with plants and foliage that support local wildlife.

As part of its focus on enhancing sustainability, Johnston Logistics is allowing its outdoor spaces to grow to benefit both the environment and its staff and visitors.

It has made changes including minimising its mowing routine and allowing plants to flower to create nectar for bees and other pollinators.

“We’re making the most of our green areas by encouraging nature to take over,” says Jane Bull, Head of Compliance for Johnston Logistics UK. “We’ve seen big improvements already including in our lagoon which is flourishing and has already welcomed back ducks and other visitors.”

Allocating green spaces for nature gives a number of benefits, including providing habitat for insects and wildlife, capturing CO2, reducing emissions by not mowing or using pesticides, improving biodiversity and encouraging native wildflowers.

Greener spaces also benefit Johnston Logistics UK’s employees as they are associated with better physical, social and mental health.

“It seems everyone is experiencing benefit from our re-wilding project,” continues Bull. “Whilst plants, birds and animals are clearly benefitting, it’s lovely to hear the insects buzzing and see the wildflowers blossoming again. Many staff have commented how it makes the working environment much more serene and tranquil.”

The Norfolk-based operation provides a full range of services including warehousing, supply chain logistics, contract packing, pick and pack and e-commerce fulfilment. With over 40 years’ experience, Johnston Logistics UK is trusted by major supermarkets, leading brands and growing companies alike to deliver their third-party logistics.

“Going wild has been a big success but we’re not finished yet. By encouraging the right species of native plants, we can encourage even more wildlife to re-enter our site and breathe life into our environment,” concludes Bull.

GS Yuasa launches battery range in Europe

Posted on by David Priestman

GS Yuasa has launched a new range of traction batteries for the European material handling market. The launch sees the manufacturer – which describes itself as a world leader for vehicle and industrial batteries – expand upon its class-leading Japanese traction battery range with an all-new line up of European DIN and BS sizes.

The new range of individual 2V cells, full-tank solutions and accessories utilises the very latest technology and premium Japanese engineering for maximum quality and long life. Available in 24, 48 and 80V solutions, the extensive range provides coverage for all makes and models providing reliable power and hassle-free performance.

The new European-sized range is available as a fully plug-and-play solution, meaning it can be easily integrated into a wide range of applications. All batteries offer low maintenance, minimised water consumption and quick charging. They are supplied in a high durability, dip coated tray and are fully recyclable.

As an original equipment supplier, GS Yuasa says it is trusted by engineers worldwide. Its traction batteries are the preferred choice to the Asian materials handling market, and GS brand traction batteries are still widely referenced for their unrivalled quality many years after discontinuation in Europe.

James Hylton, Managing Director of GS Yuasa Battery Sales UK, said: “We’re delighted to have launched our traction range in Europe and offer our world-renowned quality and long service life to the materials handling industry.

“Our experienced engineers have developed this range using their extensive knowledge of traction technology to ensure the highest performance and reliability. We are already receiving a huge level of interest from materials handling suppliers and manufacturers who are delighted GS Yuasa have returned to the European market.”

GS Yuasa  says an optional Air-Mix system enhances electrolyte mixing, prolonging service life and reducing the risk of stratification and premature battery failure. The system brings a number of additional benefits including a 20% reduction in energy consumption during charging and reducing overall charge times by 30%. A fully integrated filling solution makes maintenance quick and easy while an optional LED indicator means electrolyte levels can be checked with just a glance.

Sensor manufacturer benefits from uniform IT infrastructure

Posted on by David Priestman

Sensor technology manufacturer elobau GmbH & Co. KG fully commissioned the PSIwms warehouse management system from PSI Logistics GmbH in August 2021. This will increase efficiency and transparency in warehousing for production supply and shipping. The close functional networking with the PSIpenta ERP system also reduces interfaces. The resulting integrated IT infrastructure opens up additional optimisation potential. PSIwms replaces the previous systems.

Founded in 1972, elobau is one of the leading international suppliers of non-contact sensor technology and operating elements in mechanical engineering. Around 1,400 pallet storage locations are managed at the logistics centre in Leutkirch to ensure on-time production supply and processing of shipping orders.

As a central automation system, elobau also uses a state-of-the-art AutoStore cube with 30,000 container storage locations. The direct connection of the programmable logic controller to PSIwms and new processes optimised for AutoStore ensure a significant increase in system performance and efficiency of up to 20% compared to the old system. An external warehouse is also integrated into the warehouse management and process control via the multisite capability.

PSIwms controls the management of incoming goods and storage locations, the piece-precise order picking and, via transport kanban from the AutoStore system and high-bay warehouse, the demand-oriented provision of components in production.

“The result is a sustainably improved and significantly efficient workflow with a high level of process transparency,” sums up elobau Logistics Manager Matthias Gromer. “In addition, PSI Click Design allows user interfaces to be optimally adapted to individual requirements. Despite the complex processes, we benefit from a clear IT infrastructure.”

EPG automates Al Maya’s central DC

Posted on by David Priestman

Al Maya Group is a Dubai-based conglomerate with multiple business verticals: food and non-food products and over 90 retail stores in the Middle East including supermarkets, international bookstores, franchises, and many other lifestyle retail stores. In the food sector, the company serves the major supermarket chains in the region.

Handling sensitive and temperature-controlled goods is a challenge, especially since Al Maya has to offer a wide range of products to all the major retailers in the region through its distribution operations. All of this requires a well-functioning logistics operation.

In order to manage its existing processes and also ensure that it is well-equipped for the future, the company took the decision to automate the processes at its central distribution centre for all sectors with the EPG ONE Warehouse Management System (LFS). Al Maya also requested EPG’s consulting services to help design the different storage solutions and the overall structure of the warehouse. The company achieved its goal of having a state-of-the-art distribution centre with a WMS within a very short time – and without any disruption to ongoing operations.

“We are very satisfied with the development of the project as well as with the support of the EPG team on site and with the overall planning”, says Bharat Korwani, IT Manager at Al Maya Group. “The efficiency and level of detail with which the entire project was carried out really impressed us.”

As one of the largest FMCG distributors in the UAE, Al Maya supplies all the major retail stores in the region. The product range in the company’s distribution division is focused on fresh products purchased directly from the countries of origin. Premium customers of its distribution division include Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket and other retail stores as well as its own supermarket chain Al Maya Supermarkets.

All the business areas in which Al Maya operates follow very different and unique logistical rules. In addition, the variety of products being stored is vast and requires the utmost sensitivity in handling, especially in the food segment. Up to 2,500 different items have to be managed. The main objective is to handle the goods based on best-before dates and in compliance with the FIFO (first in, first out) principle.

Al Maya predicted the development of this requirement way in advance and was correct to assume so. Due to the increasing order volume, operations can no longer be managed on the basis of old platforms.

EPG’s logistics experts developed a warehouse matrix to meet Al Maya’s requirements based on the key indicators that needed to be met in terms of warehouse structure and business requirements. As a result, EPG designed various storage areas and temperature-controlled zones, while also considering the specific requirements of the individual business units.

The introduction of customer classes A, B and C divides the distribution centre into reasonable units. Before this classification, the handling of the goods and the stock overview were mainly dependent on the experience of individual employees. FIFO handling and the secure administration of best-before dates were not possible without errors. Due to the different storage zones – rack storage, pallet floor, filling stations and floor storage – product groups can now be clearly assigned.

LFS ensures automatic control of the storage areas and offers maximum transparency with respect to the current stock. If required, replenishment is requested automatically. EPG’s warehouse management system LFS also controls the sorting of goods according to BBD (best-before date), product group and customer. The orders are assigned a storage location upon receipt.

Order processing is highly reliable with LFS, as the warehouse management system controls picking in sequences and – depending on the products ordered – according to priority and shelf life. The goods are assembled on pallets and then loaded onto trucks according to the sequencing, ensuring that the goods of the customer being supplied first are loaded last. More than 700 orders are processed in Al Maya’s distribution centre every day.

EPG organised the processes in the new 22,000 sq m distribution centre and planned the transfer of goods to this new warehouse facility without any disruption to day-to-day operations.

“LFS has helped us to manage our inventory and overall logistics operations for our FMCG distribution division in the most effective way,” says Korwani. “This has given us strict control over the operation. It has also provided us with complete visibility of our stock and helped us with BBD maintenance.”

“As a result of the implementation of LFS, we now have an effective supply chain operation and Al Maya is consistently able to deliver goods to our customers on time,” Korwani adds: “We were always able to count on EPG during the entire changeover process and the move. We are therefore confident that we will rely on the logistics experts at EPG for future projects.” Within a short space of time, Al Maya decided to introduce EPG’s LFS in two additional divisions.

Interroll automates Imnasa’s DC

Posted on by David Priestman

Interroll and Toyota Material Handling have installed a powerful and efficient conveyor system for Imnasa in Campllong near Girona, Spain. Core components of the new material-handling solution are the Modular Conveyor Platform (MCP), the RollerDrive EC 5000 and the MultiControl from Interroll.

The state-of-the-art system, which spans around 360m, automates the flow of goods between two buildings, increases productivity, and improves customer service as well as the working environment of the personnel deployed.

The automated conveyor system for Imnasa was fully designed and installed by Toyota Material Handling. Imnasa manufactures and distributes nautical equipment from numerous brand manufacturers to businesses and private customers. With a range of over 30,000 different products, it is one of the leading players in its sector in Europe.

The starting point for the new solution was the construction of a new building complex of 9,000 sq m expanding the capacity of Imnasa’s distribution centre. To seamlessly integrate the different work processes within the already existing and new buildings, the two sites were connected by a 360m-long conveyor system in a tunnel. Using a zero-pressure-accumulation material-handling solution, the diverse goods are thereby automatically routed between the picking area in the existing building via the respective packing stations to the shipment area in the new building.

“The new solution has not only enabled us to significantly increase the capacity and productivity of our distribution centre. We have also succeeded in further increasing customer satisfaction through faster and more reliable deliveries. In addition, the new solution now offers our employees significantly improved work ergonomics,” explains Pol Revuelta, Project Manager at Imnasa.

A total of around 250 EC 5000 RollerDrive and 120 MultiControl from Interroll are used for the energy-saving transport of boxes and totes via driven roller and belt conveyors.

Scan Global Logistics takes first step into UK

Posted on by David Priestman

The Nordic-based logistics forwarder Scan Global Logistics (SGL) has purchased Horizon International Cargo Limited, a traditional air and ocean forwarder headquartered in the UK. SGL says becoming present in the second-largest market in Europe is a strategic move pivotal to its long-term strategy and the continued development and expansion of the European part of the organisation.

The ink is barely dry on the latest acquisition agreement with the New Zealand freight forwarder, Orbis Global Logistics Limited before SGL sets foot in the UK. The acquisition will allow SGL to pursue new business opportunities and offer notable commercial synergies to its customers worldwide through an improved position in key trade lanes. Besides, three common denominators will strengthen the logistics offers of the expanded organisation: Strength in air freight, customer-centricity, and matching cultural identity.

Nigel Davies, Horizon International Cargo’s Chairman, comments: “From the outset, the cultural fit between our two companies was very evident. This, combined with the synergies of our respective operational footprints, makes a perfect platform to take advantage of the exciting opportunities ahead. We very much look forward to our future with SGL, remaining every bit as focused on providing customers with the dedicated service, care, and flexibility they have come to expect from Horizon over the years.”

Up to this point, Scan Global Logistics has not had a presence in the UK. The infrastructure and the 150 Horizon staff located in five countries will remain unaltered and play an essential role in expanding the company’s presence in key verticals retail, pharma healthcare, aid & relief.

Expanding global footprint

Horizon also fills a significant gap in expanding SGL’s global footprint, as Ragnar Dalen, EVP Corporate Development, expands: “The new locations are important pillars in our strategic growth plans, not only in the UK but also in the rest of the world. Horizon’s offices in Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, and the USA will further strengthen our existing setups and help us reach our goals in these countries.”

He continues: “Furthermore, we are excited to help our customers uncomplicate the increased complexities in the aftermath of Brexit through the vast experience of Horizon’s import and export customs departments.”

A strong cultural fit is an essential step in SGL’s acquisition strategy. Allan Melgaard, Group CEO, explains how the evident fit will strengthen the expanding family in several locations: “To ensure there is a cultural fit between our organisations, we perform an extensive cultural DNA study before concluding the process. In the case of Horizon, the cultural match is unquestionable. Also, our shared belief of the customer in focus provides the best possible basis for a successful amalgamation of the two companies.”

 

 

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