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Day: 13 May 2024

Effective Recycling of PET and PP Strapping

Posted on by David Priestman

PET and PP strapping raw materials can be recycled effectively as part of a circular economy. Mosca GmbH relies on Interzero’s efficient recycling of PET and PP strapping to minimize the need for new material in their strapping production. In the future, the company based in Waldbrunn will track the status of recycled source materials using the material account of the experts for closed-loop solutions and plastics recycling.

At first glance, the lifespan of packaging materials may appear to be brief: after being used, they are disposed of and replaced with new ones. As the sustainable use of commodities becomes more important, recycling is gaining in popularity. Reprocessed cardboard, paper, and other materials remain in the value chain. This also applies for strapping: its base materials – mainly PET and PP – are highly recyclable. As a manufacturer of strapping for packaging safety, Mosca relies on recycled materials as well. The share of recyclate in Mosca’s PP strapping ranges from 30 to 100 percent, depending on the strapping size. Mosca’s PET strapping is made entirely from recycled materials. “As a company that operates sustainably, we prioritize the responsible use of primary resources and the systematic recycling of PET and PP materials,” emphasizes Simone Mosca, Managing Director of Mosca GmbH. This does not only make the company less dependent on volatile commodity markets but also enables controlled production of vital strapping in high quality.

Flexible, robust, and sustainable

Since fall 2023 Mosca has been collaborating with Interzero, a partner specializing in innovative circular solutions and effective plastics recycling, to reach these targets. “Sustainable action thrives on robust partnerships across the value chain, supporting us in implementing an effective circular economy,” says Ann Mertens, Sustainability Officer at Mosca. In addition to recycling, Interzero is responsible for Mosca’s upstream and downstream logistics in the long term: the company will collect used strapping from end customers and return the shredded or recycled material to the Waldbrunn-based company. Transparency regarding the recycling process and the available quantities of PET and PP are crucial for Mosca. “Through our material account, we provide our partners with a digital twin of their raw materials and circular management. This tool enables them to track the status of recycled materials at any time, strategically secure access to raw materials, and thereby close the loop,” emphasizes Britta von Selchow, Head of Sales Circular Solutions at Interzero.

Circular economy

The material account tracks the amount of PET and PP that has been collected for recycling, is currently undergoing recycling, or is available for reuse. Just like a bank account, the digital platform shows the amount of ‘credit’ Mosca has available for producing new strapping but measured in tons of material rather than euros. “This allows us to precisely control our strapping production while maintaining access to vital raw materials – in line with our tagline of ‘Nonstop Performance,’” emphasizes Simone Mosca.

Transparent communication

Finally, the continuous recording of circular economy data supports seamless sustainability and financial reporting. “Thanks to the platform, we do not only know the current status of our PET and PP but also the share we have recycled each year – and thus create an important basis for transparent sustainability communication,” concludes Simone Mosca.

read more

Huge Delivery of Plastic Pallets Helps Automate Pet Food Maker

 

Effective Recycling of PET and PP Strapping

Posted on by David Priestman

PET and PP strapping raw materials can be recycled effectively as part of a circular economy. Mosca GmbH relies on Interzero’s efficient recycling of PET and PP strapping to minimize the need for new material in their strapping production. In the future, the company based in Waldbrunn will track the status of recycled source materials using the material account of the experts for closed-loop solutions and plastics recycling.

At first glance, the lifespan of packaging materials may appear to be brief: after being used, they are disposed of and replaced with new ones. As the sustainable use of commodities becomes more important, recycling is gaining in popularity. Reprocessed cardboard, paper, and other materials remain in the value chain. This also applies for strapping: its base materials – mainly PET and PP – are highly recyclable. As a manufacturer of strapping for packaging safety, Mosca relies on recycled materials as well. The share of recyclate in Mosca’s PP strapping ranges from 30 to 100 percent, depending on the strapping size. Mosca’s PET strapping is made entirely from recycled materials. “As a company that operates sustainably, we prioritize the responsible use of primary resources and the systematic recycling of PET and PP materials,” emphasizes Simone Mosca, Managing Director of Mosca GmbH. This does not only make the company less dependent on volatile commodity markets but also enables controlled production of vital strapping in high quality.

Flexible, robust, and sustainable

Since fall 2023 Mosca has been collaborating with Interzero, a partner specializing in innovative circular solutions and effective plastics recycling, to reach these targets. “Sustainable action thrives on robust partnerships across the value chain, supporting us in implementing an effective circular economy,” says Ann Mertens, Sustainability Officer at Mosca. In addition to recycling, Interzero is responsible for Mosca’s upstream and downstream logistics in the long term: the company will collect used strapping from end customers and return the shredded or recycled material to the Waldbrunn-based company. Transparency regarding the recycling process and the available quantities of PET and PP are crucial for Mosca. “Through our material account, we provide our partners with a digital twin of their raw materials and circular management. This tool enables them to track the status of recycled materials at any time, strategically secure access to raw materials, and thereby close the loop,” emphasizes Britta von Selchow, Head of Sales Circular Solutions at Interzero.

Circular economy

The material account tracks the amount of PET and PP that has been collected for recycling, is currently undergoing recycling, or is available for reuse. Just like a bank account, the digital platform shows the amount of ‘credit’ Mosca has available for producing new strapping but measured in tons of material rather than euros. “This allows us to precisely control our strapping production while maintaining access to vital raw materials – in line with our tagline of ‘Nonstop Performance,’” emphasizes Simone Mosca.

Transparent communication

Finally, the continuous recording of circular economy data supports seamless sustainability and financial reporting. “Thanks to the platform, we do not only know the current status of our PET and PP but also the share we have recycled each year – and thus create an important basis for transparent sustainability communication,” concludes Simone Mosca.

read more

Huge Delivery of Plastic Pallets Helps Automate Pet Food Maker

 

Innovating Mental Health Strategies in Fulfilment

Posted on by David Priestman

Mental health strategies in the fulfilment industry can be innovated, writes Zihana Jaleel, Head of HR at Huboo.

The fulfilment industry has increasingly come under the spotlight for its treatment of employees, with particular attention to mental health and general wellbeing. Fingers are often pointed to large corporations like Amazon, highlighting harsh working conditions including demanding shift schedules and physically intense tasks – with some warehouse staff reportedly walking over 16 kilometres during a single shift. These issues have led to well-publicised strikes and debates around labour practices.

With Mental Health Awareness Week upon us, it feels prudent to evaluate what shifts have taken place within the industry when it comes to employee wellbeing. Are the perks and initiatives many companies implement actually effective in making a real difference to employees’ lives?

After many years in HR, I’ve gained firsthand insights into the various challenges and potential solutions for promoting better mental health in our industry – and it starts with going right back to basics.

Prioritising meaningful workplace enhancements

Our experience at Huboo has shown that while wellness perks like free exercise classes and healthy snacks are appreciated, they are not a panacea. We offer activities such as yoga and sports clubs, which are popular for team bonding and relaxation, yet these benefits only touch on broader issues if a company’s foundational work conditions remain unaddressed.

The crux of improving employee wellbeing lies in enhancing the actual work conditions themselves. A significant emphasis on bettering these conditions is crucial, as it not only elevates the immediate work environment but also serves as a prerequisite for other wellness initiatives to succeed. In environments that are safe, supportive, and respectful, employees are more likely to engage with additional perks, leading to a healthier, more satisfied workforce.

To this end, we have introduced a unique ‘hub’ model within our warehouses, segmenting larger spaces into smaller, more manageable units. This reduces physical strain by organising items efficiently and empowers our hub managers through enhanced technology use. This initiative has proven to reduce the physical demands of our roles significantly, improving job satisfaction and reducing staff turnover.

Listening to What Employees Really Need

Too often, companies adopt the latest HR trends without ensuring longevity or real impact. The key to meaningful change lies in genuine engagement with employees, actively seeking their feedback and involving them in the decision-making process.

At Huboo, we’ve implemented Coffee & Cake sessions, initially in our UK offices with plans to expand these internationally. These sessions provide a relaxed forum for staff to discuss their concerns and suggestions with senior management directly. Such initiatives are not just well-received; they’re crucial for creating an adaptive and responsive work environment.

By aligning employee feedback with our operational policies and decisions, we underscore our commitment to their overall wellbeing and satisfaction. This approach not only addresses potential mental health issues before they escalate but also enhances the collective performance of our workforce.

Looking ahead, the future of workplace wellness in the fulfilment sector hinges on a culture that embraces continuous listening and meaningful action. By prioritising employee feedback and their wellbeing, we can transform the industry into a supportive environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.

read more

Mates in Mind Support Employee Mental Health

 

Innovating Mental Health Strategies in Fulfilment

Posted on by David Priestman

Mental health strategies in the fulfilment industry can be innovated, writes Zihana Jaleel, Head of HR at Huboo.

The fulfilment industry has increasingly come under the spotlight for its treatment of employees, with particular attention to mental health and general wellbeing. Fingers are often pointed to large corporations like Amazon, highlighting harsh working conditions including demanding shift schedules and physically intense tasks – with some warehouse staff reportedly walking over 16 kilometres during a single shift. These issues have led to well-publicised strikes and debates around labour practices.

With Mental Health Awareness Week upon us, it feels prudent to evaluate what shifts have taken place within the industry when it comes to employee wellbeing. Are the perks and initiatives many companies implement actually effective in making a real difference to employees’ lives?

After many years in HR, I’ve gained firsthand insights into the various challenges and potential solutions for promoting better mental health in our industry – and it starts with going right back to basics.

Prioritising meaningful workplace enhancements

Our experience at Huboo has shown that while wellness perks like free exercise classes and healthy snacks are appreciated, they are not a panacea. We offer activities such as yoga and sports clubs, which are popular for team bonding and relaxation, yet these benefits only touch on broader issues if a company’s foundational work conditions remain unaddressed.

The crux of improving employee wellbeing lies in enhancing the actual work conditions themselves. A significant emphasis on bettering these conditions is crucial, as it not only elevates the immediate work environment but also serves as a prerequisite for other wellness initiatives to succeed. In environments that are safe, supportive, and respectful, employees are more likely to engage with additional perks, leading to a healthier, more satisfied workforce.

To this end, we have introduced a unique ‘hub’ model within our warehouses, segmenting larger spaces into smaller, more manageable units. This reduces physical strain by organising items efficiently and empowers our hub managers through enhanced technology use. This initiative has proven to reduce the physical demands of our roles significantly, improving job satisfaction and reducing staff turnover.

Listening to What Employees Really Need

Too often, companies adopt the latest HR trends without ensuring longevity or real impact. The key to meaningful change lies in genuine engagement with employees, actively seeking their feedback and involving them in the decision-making process.

At Huboo, we’ve implemented Coffee & Cake sessions, initially in our UK offices with plans to expand these internationally. These sessions provide a relaxed forum for staff to discuss their concerns and suggestions with senior management directly. Such initiatives are not just well-received; they’re crucial for creating an adaptive and responsive work environment.

By aligning employee feedback with our operational policies and decisions, we underscore our commitment to their overall wellbeing and satisfaction. This approach not only addresses potential mental health issues before they escalate but also enhances the collective performance of our workforce.

Looking ahead, the future of workplace wellness in the fulfilment sector hinges on a culture that embraces continuous listening and meaningful action. By prioritising employee feedback and their wellbeing, we can transform the industry into a supportive environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.

read more

Mates in Mind Support Employee Mental Health

 

May 2024

Posted on by David Priestman

The May ’24 issue of Logistics Business magazine: 76 pages of exclusive content spanning the international supply chain and warehousing sector. We have exclusive features on trade routes, road transport, robotic picking, forklift manufacturing, efulfilment, freight forwarding, loading bay energy usage, cloud-based SCN, planning, multimodal 3PLs, TMS, ASRS, hydrogen fuel cells, sortation, warehouse robots, AI, retail distribution centres, drive solutions, drone tech, high-speed doors, RFID, GPS and fit-to-size packaging machines.

Plus hard-hitting interviews, site visits and case studies with Ocado, Bobcat, the UK Department for Transport, Blue Yonder, Koerber, Kinaxis, Sennder, Bowe, Fortna, Dematic, Beumer, TGW, Clark, RightHand Robotics, Distrisort, Transdek, Fronius, Bonfiglioli, Gather AI and Efaflex.

Our digital issues can be read in any language, or listened to. Simply click on the ‘Freeflow reader’ graphic near the top right corner of each editorial page.

To browse all our recent issues click here.

May 2024

Posted on by David Priestman

The May ’24 issue of Logistics Business magazine: 76 pages of exclusive content spanning the international supply chain and warehousing sector. We have exclusive features on trade routes, road transport, robotic picking, forklift manufacturing, efulfilment, freight forwarding, loading bay energy usage, cloud-based SCN, planning, multimodal 3PLs, TMS, ASRS, hydrogen fuel cells, sortation, warehouse robots, AI, retail distribution centres, drive solutions, drone tech, high-speed doors, RFID, GPS and fit-to-size packaging machines.

Plus hard-hitting interviews, site visits and case studies with Ocado, Bobcat, the UK Department for Transport, Blue Yonder, Koerber, Kinaxis, Sennder, Bowe, Fortna, Dematic, Beumer, TGW, Clark, RightHand Robotics, Distrisort, Transdek, Fronius, Bonfiglioli, Gather AI and Efaflex.

Our digital issues can be read in any language, or listened to. Simply click on the ‘Freeflow reader’ graphic near the top right corner of each editorial page.

To browse all our recent issues click here.

Disruptions in the Supply Chain Affect the Automotive Industry

Posted on by David Priestman

The automotive industry’s reliance on its supply chain running smoothly is important to ensure the consistent production of vehicles for consumer and corporate demand, especially considering that most vehicles can contain between 15,000 and 25,000 component parts.

Chris Thompson, Operations Director at Electrix International, a global supplier of stainless steel electrical enclosures, has offered some expert insight into the supply chain issues facing the automotive industry, including the impacts it has and posing some potential solutions.

Reduction in workforce

One significant concern in the automotive industry is the significant shortage of laborers and workforce. In fact, an ABB survey of around 600 global industry experts found that skills shortages of talented laborers were of the greatest concern in North America, with 56% of experts outlining it as a problem. 48% also stated that new skills were required to adjust to the fast-changing landscape of the industry, with more needing to be done to attract people to join the industry.

Technology shortage

One significant issue within the automotive supply chain is the shortage of key technological components, like semiconductors, that go into vehicle production. These inventory shortages increase delivery lead times, and the scarcity of parts has forced manufacturers to raise costs, meaning final prices for consumers are even higher than before.

In fact, the cost of a new car in 2024 is now an average of $48,759, which could increase further should these delays increase. Not only does this have an impact on new car purchases but also on the aftermarket industry, as it affects repair and maintenance services being unable to work on vehicles with replacement parts.

Geopolitical and naturally occurring phenomena

It’s not just physical issues that can affect the supply chain, as the wider landscape of the world can have a huge impact on the automotive industry. Geopolitical developments that automotive manufacturers have no control over can cause interruptions in the flow of goods and materials. For instance, Volvo and Tesla had to suspend manufacturing due to the conflict in the Red Sea in early 2024. Conflicts and tensions between countries affect trade and tariffs placed on materials like steel and aluminum, which in turn raises costs for manufacturers. The knock-on effects can have huge implications in the long term.

In addition to geopolitical situations, naturally occurring phenomena and disasters can also contribute to production and supply chain issues for the industry. Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, or earthquakes, they’re unpredictable in their very nature and can be hugely disruptive to production facilities and transport networks. The knock-on effect leads directly to supply shortages and delays in production.

How does the industry respond to these challenges?

The automotive industry has been forced to create and implement strategies to deal with these challenges, with one solution being to diversify supply chains, which involves reducing their reliance on single-source suppliers. This means establishing strategic partnerships with multiple suppliers, as well as investing in localized production facilities, and making the most of emerging technologies to streamline and optimize operations.

This creates more flexibility in managing the supply chain to react quickly to the impact of disruptions and continuing with processes despite unforeseen circumstances. The market and industry are constantly evolving, so staying on the cusp of new strategies can avoid major disruptions.

Disruptions within the supply chain have emerged as a significant challenge for the automotive industry, whether it’s geopolitical tensions or natural disasters. The challenges posed to the market have impacted everything from the production of new vehicles to increased costs of units to materials and affecting consumer demand. This is why it’s so crucial for the industry to explore proactive solutions to mitigate these risks and build a stronger risk management strategy.

read more

Transportation costs drive regional divide

 

Disruptions in the Supply Chain Affect the Automotive Industry

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The automotive industry’s reliance on its supply chain running smoothly is important to ensure the consistent production of vehicles for consumer and corporate demand, especially considering that most vehicles can contain between 15,000 and 25,000 component parts.

Chris Thompson, Operations Director at Electrix International, a global supplier of stainless steel electrical enclosures, has offered some expert insight into the supply chain issues facing the automotive industry, including the impacts it has and posing some potential solutions.

Reduction in workforce

One significant concern in the automotive industry is the significant shortage of laborers and workforce. In fact, an ABB survey of around 600 global industry experts found that skills shortages of talented laborers were of the greatest concern in North America, with 56% of experts outlining it as a problem. 48% also stated that new skills were required to adjust to the fast-changing landscape of the industry, with more needing to be done to attract people to join the industry.

Technology shortage

One significant issue within the automotive supply chain is the shortage of key technological components, like semiconductors, that go into vehicle production. These inventory shortages increase delivery lead times, and the scarcity of parts has forced manufacturers to raise costs, meaning final prices for consumers are even higher than before.

In fact, the cost of a new car in 2024 is now an average of $48,759, which could increase further should these delays increase. Not only does this have an impact on new car purchases but also on the aftermarket industry, as it affects repair and maintenance services being unable to work on vehicles with replacement parts.

Geopolitical and naturally occurring phenomena

It’s not just physical issues that can affect the supply chain, as the wider landscape of the world can have a huge impact on the automotive industry. Geopolitical developments that automotive manufacturers have no control over can cause interruptions in the flow of goods and materials. For instance, Volvo and Tesla had to suspend manufacturing due to the conflict in the Red Sea in early 2024. Conflicts and tensions between countries affect trade and tariffs placed on materials like steel and aluminum, which in turn raises costs for manufacturers. The knock-on effects can have huge implications in the long term.

In addition to geopolitical situations, naturally occurring phenomena and disasters can also contribute to production and supply chain issues for the industry. Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, or earthquakes, they’re unpredictable in their very nature and can be hugely disruptive to production facilities and transport networks. The knock-on effect leads directly to supply shortages and delays in production.

How does the industry respond to these challenges?

The automotive industry has been forced to create and implement strategies to deal with these challenges, with one solution being to diversify supply chains, which involves reducing their reliance on single-source suppliers. This means establishing strategic partnerships with multiple suppliers, as well as investing in localized production facilities, and making the most of emerging technologies to streamline and optimize operations.

This creates more flexibility in managing the supply chain to react quickly to the impact of disruptions and continuing with processes despite unforeseen circumstances. The market and industry are constantly evolving, so staying on the cusp of new strategies can avoid major disruptions.

Disruptions within the supply chain have emerged as a significant challenge for the automotive industry, whether it’s geopolitical tensions or natural disasters. The challenges posed to the market have impacted everything from the production of new vehicles to increased costs of units to materials and affecting consumer demand. This is why it’s so crucial for the industry to explore proactive solutions to mitigate these risks and build a stronger risk management strategy.

read more

Transportation costs drive regional divide

 

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