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Day: 28 September 2022

Sparck manager receives SCM award

Posted on by David Priestman

Jo Bradley, Sparck Technologies’ UK business development manager, has been selected as an award recipient of Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s prestigious 2022 Women in Supply Chain Awards.

The Women in Supply Chain Awards honour female supply chain leaders and executives whose accomplishments, mentorship and examples set a foundation for women in all levels of a company’s supply chain network. This year over 280 submissions were received.

Jo has been a high profile evangelist for the advancement of eco-friendly packaging in the ecommerce sector for the past six years. Her work, raising industry awareness as to the wasteful practice of using oversized boxes for ecommerce deliveries, has helped establish automated right-sized packaging as an accepted and transformative technology for the industry.

Sparck Technologies’ Richard Nijboer, director of sales & services, said: “This award is fitting recognition of Jo’s determination to change the way that ecommerce supply chains approach packaging. Jo believes that she can make a difference, by encouraging the industry to do the right thing for the planet and for the sound business principles of capacity, performance and cost. She passionately believes that right-sized packaging is the sustainable way forward for the ecommerce sector.

“Her determination to deliver change is just one of Jo’s many fine qualities. She has an entrepreneurial spirit and a creative mind that thinks both ‘inside and outside’ the box. Everyone at Sparck is delighted that Jo has received this prestigious award.”

With the capability to tailor-make up to 1,100 packages per hour, for multiple or single item orders, Sparck Technologies’ CVP Everest and CVP Impack packaging systems effortlessly create, fill, fold and label each parcel in one seamless process – reducing package volumes by up to 50%, cutting cardboard usage by 30% and eliminating the need for void fill.

Through her efforts, Jo has achieved considerable success positioning the machines at some of the UK’s largest retailers – including ASDA, The White Company, Boots and Frasers.

Commenting on the Award, Jo Bradley said: “Receiving a Women in Supply Chain Award has been both a wonderful surprise and a great honour. In many ways this Award is industry recognition of the important roll eco-friendly packaging plays in the supply chain – saving materials, transit space and energy.”

 

Sparck manager receives SCM award

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Jo Bradley, Sparck Technologies’ UK business development manager, has been selected as an award recipient of Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s prestigious 2022 Women in Supply Chain Awards.

The Women in Supply Chain Awards honour female supply chain leaders and executives whose accomplishments, mentorship and examples set a foundation for women in all levels of a company’s supply chain network. This year over 280 submissions were received.

Jo has been a high profile evangelist for the advancement of eco-friendly packaging in the ecommerce sector for the past six years. Her work, raising industry awareness as to the wasteful practice of using oversized boxes for ecommerce deliveries, has helped establish automated right-sized packaging as an accepted and transformative technology for the industry.

Sparck Technologies’ Richard Nijboer, director of sales & services, said: “This award is fitting recognition of Jo’s determination to change the way that ecommerce supply chains approach packaging. Jo believes that she can make a difference, by encouraging the industry to do the right thing for the planet and for the sound business principles of capacity, performance and cost. She passionately believes that right-sized packaging is the sustainable way forward for the ecommerce sector.

“Her determination to deliver change is just one of Jo’s many fine qualities. She has an entrepreneurial spirit and a creative mind that thinks both ‘inside and outside’ the box. Everyone at Sparck is delighted that Jo has received this prestigious award.”

With the capability to tailor-make up to 1,100 packages per hour, for multiple or single item orders, Sparck Technologies’ CVP Everest and CVP Impack packaging systems effortlessly create, fill, fold and label each parcel in one seamless process – reducing package volumes by up to 50%, cutting cardboard usage by 30% and eliminating the need for void fill.

Through her efforts, Jo has achieved considerable success positioning the machines at some of the UK’s largest retailers – including ASDA, The White Company, Boots and Frasers.

Commenting on the Award, Jo Bradley said: “Receiving a Women in Supply Chain Award has been both a wonderful surprise and a great honour. In many ways this Award is industry recognition of the important roll eco-friendly packaging plays in the supply chain – saving materials, transit space and energy.”

 

Megadyne introduces ‘game-changing’ rubber belt

Posted on by David Priestman

Megadyne, a recognised leader in the world of power transmission solutions for logistics, has introduced what it describes as a new game changer – Megadyne Rollpower. This recent development is a high-performance elastic ribbed rubber belt that requires less maintenance than standard options and offers savings on energy consumption.

The logistics industry has been calling for an innovation, because today, more than ever, the warehouses and distribution centres are under the pressure of time. They are required to run longer and at higher speeds without sacrificing the precision and efficiency of performance.

The Megadyne Research and Development Centre has recognised these needs and proposed a matched solution Rollpower, which is designed with an extra-strong elastic polyamide cord tension members for greater flexibility and extended belt life. Rollpower eliminates the need for frequent replacements, and its antistatic qualities prevent the accumulation of dust and dissipated electrostatic charges. The wide working temperatures, from -40°C to 120°C, make it operable in a variety of working conditions.

Though Rollpower has been originally developed with logistics applications in mind (including receiving lines, order picking, sortation, transfers and diverters), it may also be a suitable match for the world of domestic appliances and fitness.

What Are the Benefits?

Rollpower means improved efficiency. It provides stable tension, together with smooth, reliable and quiet running. Because of the resistance to wear, aging and abrasion, the life of the belt is extended. This, in turn, translates into cost savings. The belt can reduce energy requirements by up to 5%.

The installation is fast and easy. Rollpower is able to run even 50 rollers together. There is no need to use idlers or tensioners. No slippage occurs because of the precision of rib design and accumulated sidewall friction.

This innovative solution requires also less maintenance. The process of replacement and installation is simple, and the line downtime is significantly reduced.

Megadyne introduces ‘game-changing’ rubber belt

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Megadyne, a recognised leader in the world of power transmission solutions for logistics, has introduced what it describes as a new game changer – Megadyne Rollpower. This recent development is a high-performance elastic ribbed rubber belt that requires less maintenance than standard options and offers savings on energy consumption.

The logistics industry has been calling for an innovation, because today, more than ever, the warehouses and distribution centres are under the pressure of time. They are required to run longer and at higher speeds without sacrificing the precision and efficiency of performance.

The Megadyne Research and Development Centre has recognised these needs and proposed a matched solution Rollpower, which is designed with an extra-strong elastic polyamide cord tension members for greater flexibility and extended belt life. Rollpower eliminates the need for frequent replacements, and its antistatic qualities prevent the accumulation of dust and dissipated electrostatic charges. The wide working temperatures, from -40°C to 120°C, make it operable in a variety of working conditions.

Though Rollpower has been originally developed with logistics applications in mind (including receiving lines, order picking, sortation, transfers and diverters), it may also be a suitable match for the world of domestic appliances and fitness.

What Are the Benefits?

Rollpower means improved efficiency. It provides stable tension, together with smooth, reliable and quiet running. Because of the resistance to wear, aging and abrasion, the life of the belt is extended. This, in turn, translates into cost savings. The belt can reduce energy requirements by up to 5%.

The installation is fast and easy. Rollpower is able to run even 50 rollers together. There is no need to use idlers or tensioners. No slippage occurs because of the precision of rib design and accumulated sidewall friction.

This innovative solution requires also less maintenance. The process of replacement and installation is simple, and the line downtime is significantly reduced.

Second phase of Redditch scheme approved

Posted on by David Priestman

Stoford has secured planning consent for the speculative development of almost 450,000 sq ft of new industrial and logistics accommodation near Redditch.

The leading commercial property developer will build two new warehouse units at Redditch Gateway, a multimillion pound logistics and manufacturing scheme off the A4023 Coventry Highway.

The new net zero carbon units will comprise 160,208 sq ft and 286,328 sq ft respectively and will be developed on the southern side of the 78-acre Redditch Gateway site, which is fully serviced and delivers a 9.5 MVA power supply.

Features will include integral hub and office space, 15m clear eaves height, secure yard space and parking, as well as the creation of an external gym area and upgrades to the existing trim trail.

Construction of the new units is expected to begin imminently, with work likely to be completed in autumn 2023.

Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director of Stoford, said: “We are very pleased to have gained approval for the second phase of development at Redditch Gateway, which will meet a growing demand from regional occupiers. When complete, the scheme will deliver almost one million sq ft of highly sustainable new and high quality office, logistics and manufacturing accommodation and provide support to the local economy through new jobs and investment opportunities.”

Gary Woodman, Chief Executive of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “It is great news to have confirmation of planning approval for more commercial units at the Redditch Gateway site in Worcestershire. We recognise that many businesses in the region are looking for new units to expand or invest their business into, and this development will help that to become a reality in Worcestershire.

“This is a key commercial site for the county and supports the Worcestershire LEP’s 2040 Plan for Growth to increase the number of commercial premises available to support the growth of the local economy.”

Anita Bhalla, Interim Chair of GBSLEP, said: “This is another great step forward for Stoford and the wider partners in fulfilling the vision for Redditch Gateway. It will provide quality logistics space for regional occupiers looking for a central location with good transport infrastructure. The £1.8 million grant GBSLEP contributed to this project has helped to unlock the potential of this site, creating jobs and boosting local employment and skills opportunities. Sites like this are vital to growing the local economy and driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth.”

Leader of Redditch Borough Council, Cllr Matt Dormer, said: “The approval of this application marks the next vital stage in the regeneration of Redditch, as we continue to unlock previously untapped potential and inspire progress with exciting projects like this one. This council continues to deliver on our promises to improve our town; creating jobs for and enhancing the skillset of our residents and providing opportunities for local people to work close to home. This will help propel us into the future, boost our local economy and in turn make our town a fantastic place to live and work.”

Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council said: “This is a key employment location as identified in our Core Strategy. At a time when UK economic growth is stalling, the approval of this scheme will be a real tonic to the economic development of the area and will create a great many employment opportunities.”

Councillor Marc Bayliss, Cabinet Member for Economy, Infrastructure and Skills, Worcestershire County Council, said: “We are pleased to see the continued development at Redditch Gateway; it presents the county with another prime investment site with superb connectivity and the potential to see more jobs created. I look forward to seeing the delivery of this phase to help us achieve our vision of making Worcestershire a connected, creative, dynamic economy for all.”

Tim Davies, Senior Development Manager, Homes England, said: “Securing planning for the scheme is a fantastic achievement testament to Stoford’s capabilities. We are currently working through conditions with Stoford to enable them to commence development in the next few months.”

Stoford is lead developer for Redditch Gateway, working alongside landowners, The Gorcott Trust and Homes England. The scheme is being supported through a blend of grant and loan funding of £1.7 million from Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP) through its Growing Places Fund and a £1.8 million grant from Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).

Redditch Gateway is being marketed by Burbage Realty, Colliers International and Savills.

 

Second phase of Redditch scheme approved

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Stoford has secured planning consent for the speculative development of almost 450,000 sq ft of new industrial and logistics accommodation near Redditch.

The leading commercial property developer will build two new warehouse units at Redditch Gateway, a multimillion pound logistics and manufacturing scheme off the A4023 Coventry Highway.

The new net zero carbon units will comprise 160,208 sq ft and 286,328 sq ft respectively and will be developed on the southern side of the 78-acre Redditch Gateway site, which is fully serviced and delivers a 9.5 MVA power supply.

Features will include integral hub and office space, 15m clear eaves height, secure yard space and parking, as well as the creation of an external gym area and upgrades to the existing trim trail.

Construction of the new units is expected to begin imminently, with work likely to be completed in autumn 2023.

Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director of Stoford, said: “We are very pleased to have gained approval for the second phase of development at Redditch Gateway, which will meet a growing demand from regional occupiers. When complete, the scheme will deliver almost one million sq ft of highly sustainable new and high quality office, logistics and manufacturing accommodation and provide support to the local economy through new jobs and investment opportunities.”

Gary Woodman, Chief Executive of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “It is great news to have confirmation of planning approval for more commercial units at the Redditch Gateway site in Worcestershire. We recognise that many businesses in the region are looking for new units to expand or invest their business into, and this development will help that to become a reality in Worcestershire.

“This is a key commercial site for the county and supports the Worcestershire LEP’s 2040 Plan for Growth to increase the number of commercial premises available to support the growth of the local economy.”

Anita Bhalla, Interim Chair of GBSLEP, said: “This is another great step forward for Stoford and the wider partners in fulfilling the vision for Redditch Gateway. It will provide quality logistics space for regional occupiers looking for a central location with good transport infrastructure. The £1.8 million grant GBSLEP contributed to this project has helped to unlock the potential of this site, creating jobs and boosting local employment and skills opportunities. Sites like this are vital to growing the local economy and driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth.”

Leader of Redditch Borough Council, Cllr Matt Dormer, said: “The approval of this application marks the next vital stage in the regeneration of Redditch, as we continue to unlock previously untapped potential and inspire progress with exciting projects like this one. This council continues to deliver on our promises to improve our town; creating jobs for and enhancing the skillset of our residents and providing opportunities for local people to work close to home. This will help propel us into the future, boost our local economy and in turn make our town a fantastic place to live and work.”

Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council said: “This is a key employment location as identified in our Core Strategy. At a time when UK economic growth is stalling, the approval of this scheme will be a real tonic to the economic development of the area and will create a great many employment opportunities.”

Councillor Marc Bayliss, Cabinet Member for Economy, Infrastructure and Skills, Worcestershire County Council, said: “We are pleased to see the continued development at Redditch Gateway; it presents the county with another prime investment site with superb connectivity and the potential to see more jobs created. I look forward to seeing the delivery of this phase to help us achieve our vision of making Worcestershire a connected, creative, dynamic economy for all.”

Tim Davies, Senior Development Manager, Homes England, said: “Securing planning for the scheme is a fantastic achievement testament to Stoford’s capabilities. We are currently working through conditions with Stoford to enable them to commence development in the next few months.”

Stoford is lead developer for Redditch Gateway, working alongside landowners, The Gorcott Trust and Homes England. The scheme is being supported through a blend of grant and loan funding of £1.7 million from Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP) through its Growing Places Fund and a £1.8 million grant from Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).

Redditch Gateway is being marketed by Burbage Realty, Colliers International and Savills.

 

Zeus grows rapidly with Primark

Posted on by David Priestman

Zeus, the UK-based start-up which is disrupting the freight industry with its next-generation digital platform, has expanded into Europe after signing up the pioneering international fashion retailer, Primark.

The partnership, which will see Zeus handling freight transport for the retailer on distribution routes to France, Italy and the Czech Republic, comes as Zeus recently marked its second anniversary. Under the agreement, Zeus is starting with distribution to destination stores in Italy and fixed ad hoc work to Czechia and France.

Primark is a leading international retailer providing affordable fashion for everyone, from great quality everyday essentials to stand-out style across women’s, men’s, and children’s, as well as beauty, homeware and accessories. It currently has over 400 stores globally, employs more than 70,000 people in 14 countries, with 20 stores in France, 11 in Italy and two stores in their newest market of the Czech Republic.

Zeus was founded in 2020 by young entrepreneurs Jai Kanwar and Clemente Theotokis, and has since undergone phenomenal growth, serving 40 enterprise-level clients handling over 600,000 tonnes of cargo annually worth circa £6bn.

The firm experienced a 100% conversion rate from manufacturers who trialled their platform in 2021, which offers a near ‘zero-touch’ approach to managing road freight, with complete end-to-end tracking, reconciliation, and system integrations.

The platform also reduces road freight administration for both shippers and hauliers, while helping carriers grow quickly with fast payment terms and a generous loyalty programme that includes 50% discounts on premium Apollo and Vredestein truck tyres and prepaid service cards.

Zeus, which aims to reduce the industry average of 30% of trucks running empty to just five% by 2025, achieved a 326% growth in total volume in 2021, and is on track to deliver a 400% growth in revenues by the end of 2022.

Chief Commercial Officer, Zeus, Sam McGuirk, said: “Primark is a great example of how quickly our unique model and freight platform can be applied into  new countries. New verified haulage firms join daily, and we already have over 10,000 trucks signed up. We met Primark’s need for high volume market activation and hope to further build on this relationship.”

Alistair Lindsay, Chief Operations Officer at Zeus, added: “Primark is our latest European client and represents a huge step for Zeus, which we are taking ahead of schedule. This client needed a rapid solution and our technology, teams and unique mixed model approach delivered this. Our easy-to-use platform is designed to help companies like Primark rapidly scale their middle mile supply chain while also helping hauliers find new freight that fits their fleet.”

 

Zeus grows rapidly with Primark

Posted on by David Priestman

Zeus, the UK-based start-up which is disrupting the freight industry with its next-generation digital platform, has expanded into Europe after signing up the pioneering international fashion retailer, Primark.

The partnership, which will see Zeus handling freight transport for the retailer on distribution routes to France, Italy and the Czech Republic, comes as Zeus recently marked its second anniversary. Under the agreement, Zeus is starting with distribution to destination stores in Italy and fixed ad hoc work to Czechia and France.

Primark is a leading international retailer providing affordable fashion for everyone, from great quality everyday essentials to stand-out style across women’s, men’s, and children’s, as well as beauty, homeware and accessories. It currently has over 400 stores globally, employs more than 70,000 people in 14 countries, with 20 stores in France, 11 in Italy and two stores in their newest market of the Czech Republic.

Zeus was founded in 2020 by young entrepreneurs Jai Kanwar and Clemente Theotokis, and has since undergone phenomenal growth, serving 40 enterprise-level clients handling over 600,000 tonnes of cargo annually worth circa £6bn.

The firm experienced a 100% conversion rate from manufacturers who trialled their platform in 2021, which offers a near ‘zero-touch’ approach to managing road freight, with complete end-to-end tracking, reconciliation, and system integrations.

The platform also reduces road freight administration for both shippers and hauliers, while helping carriers grow quickly with fast payment terms and a generous loyalty programme that includes 50% discounts on premium Apollo and Vredestein truck tyres and prepaid service cards.

Zeus, which aims to reduce the industry average of 30% of trucks running empty to just five% by 2025, achieved a 326% growth in total volume in 2021, and is on track to deliver a 400% growth in revenues by the end of 2022.

Chief Commercial Officer, Zeus, Sam McGuirk, said: “Primark is a great example of how quickly our unique model and freight platform can be applied into  new countries. New verified haulage firms join daily, and we already have over 10,000 trucks signed up. We met Primark’s need for high volume market activation and hope to further build on this relationship.”

Alistair Lindsay, Chief Operations Officer at Zeus, added: “Primark is our latest European client and represents a huge step for Zeus, which we are taking ahead of schedule. This client needed a rapid solution and our technology, teams and unique mixed model approach delivered this. Our easy-to-use platform is designed to help companies like Primark rapidly scale their middle mile supply chain while also helping hauliers find new freight that fits their fleet.”

 

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