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Month: June 2024

AI and IoT are Redefining the future of Supply Chains

Posted on by David Priestman

AI and IoT are redefining the future of supply chains and revolutionising logistics, writes Adrian Negoita (pictured below), CTO and Co-Founder of Dexory.

In the warehousing industry, every detail matters and precision is paramount. Any business involved in the selling of physical goods needs efficient supply chain management. However, the dynamic nature of the business environment, currently characterised by geopolitical tensions, fierce competition, and increasing costs, has meant supply chain disruptions have become a major obstacle.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and The Internet of Things (IoT) brings about a paradigm shift, providing real-time insights and revolutionising the way businesses manage their logistics. Thanks to these technologies, businesses can better react to challenges, improving their resilience and streamlining operations like never before.

What distinguishes AI from the Internet of Things?

AI and IoT work harmoniously but have unique functions and capabilities. AI is a machine’s capability to emulate the intelligence we typically associate with human minds. In the context of logistics, algorithms analyse vast data sets, garner insights, predict outcomes and make informed decisions based on the collected data. This process happens continuously, meaning performance can be enhanced over time. For instance, AI-powered solutions enhance operational efficiency through improved inventory management, space optimisation and forward planning. Businesses that can rapidly learn from previous operation patterns up to the present can make adjustments simultaneously, improving their resilience.

The Internet of Things describes when objects are fitted with sensors, software and other technologies to connect and exchange data over the Internet. In warehousing, IoT sensors and radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags can be used to provide insights into the supply chain’s inventory, assets and environmental conditions.

The advantages of AI and IoT in collaboration

Ultimately, the integration of AI and IoT results in warehouse systems that are more agile, responsive, and efficient. An essential advantage is the provision of real-time data insights. IoT devices consistently transmit data, offering insights into inventory levels, asset performance, and environmental conditions of the warehouse. Following this, AI algorithms analyse the data, providing logistics managers with actionable insights that facilitate prompt and effective decision-making.

AI is capable of processing and anticipating future fluctuations in demand using historical IoT data. This helps to identify any potential constraints and disruptions. All this means warehouses can adapt quickly to overcome obstacles.

IoT and AI also enhance traceability and transparency. Tracking devices powered by IoT illustrate the movement of products throughout the supply chain. AI compiles and then uses this data to adjust inventory levels appropriately, monitor goods, and enhance delivery precision. It also can monitor the whereabouts of shipments, thereby enabling logistics firms to provide the best possible customer service, giving accurate information and comprehensive delivery predictions to customers.

Optimising visibility

The lack of visibility in supply chains is a critical factor impeding operational efficiency, exposing organisations to potential risks and inefficiencies. An over-reliance on outdated data means warehouses respond too slowly to challenges. To attain true resilience, supply chains require the availability of dependable information.

The implementation of autonomous mobile robotics substantially increases productivity. Enhanced sensors and digital twin technology, which simulates the physical environment, in conjunction with industry-leading robotics, provide unprecedented visibility and control. Technological innovations have brought about a paradigm shift in warehouse operations by enhancing problem identification and resolution, in addition to environmental monitoring. The faster a problem or technical issue can be identified and resolved, the higher all-around efficiency is in response to complex and ever changing demands placed on the warehouse industry.

Conventional systems fail to adequately handle the volume and speed of data, resulting in decisions made from outdated or incomplete information. Nevertheless, by integrating AI-powered analytics and IoT real-time data, organisations can enhance operational resilience, predict results, and make well-informed decisions. As these technologies continue to advance, warehousing will evolve alongside them.

read more

The future of warehousing: automation, robotics and energy efficiency

 

BIFA Takes Centre Stage at Multimodal 2024

Posted on by David Priestman

For the fourth year running, the British International Freight Association (BIFA) will be centre stage in more ways than one at the forthcoming Multimodal Exhibition and Conference at Birmingham NEC.

With 42 bespoke Logistics Services Provider Pods (Logpods), as well as BIFA’s own exhibition stand (2060), BIFA’s Forwarder Village will provide a networking marketplace for BIFA members and associate members to showcase the products and services they offer.

On Wednesday, BIFA launches its annual and highly acclaimed Freight Service Awards competition, for the 36th year running, and staff will be on hand to provide further information about the entry process and the benefits of entering. BIFA’s Forwarder Village will also allow visitors to learn more about the workings of the trade association, and the benefits of being a member, whilst discussing their day-to-day freight forwarding requirements with the businesses that have booked a Logpod.

The trade association’s stand focuses on BIFA’s training, membership, policy and compliance, and member engagement work, with staff on hand each day that are specifically involved in those activities. Those staff will be answering visitors’ questions and delivering guidance on the issues facing the freight and logistics sector.

The trade association’s training team will also be on hand to demonstrate its ever-increasing portfolio of training services, and there will be an exclusive Multimodal2024 discount for anybody who books a training course at the stand. Visitors will also be able to find out more about the benefits of membership, as well as what BIFA is doing to engage with its members via such initiatives as its Young Forwarder Network, regional meetings, and annual hallmark events.

BIFA’s Young Forwarder Network (YFN) has become an integral and much-loved part of BIFA’s attempts to improve the promotion of the sector, making it more attractive to younger people and providing forums from which to learn. BIFA will host official Young Forwarder Network meet-ups on Tuesday and Wednesday at 14:00, and Thursday at 11:00.

Steve Parker, BIFA director general says: “BIFA arrives at Multimodal 2024 in good shape with significant momentum, a clear strategy, and a record number of members. Our presence at the heart of the BIFA Forwarder Village gives us a further opportunity to support and engage with our members and others on all sides of supply chains.

“It also enables us to showcase what the trade association is doing to address the current challenges facing our members, and the supply chain and logistics community they serve. Since I became Director General on 1st January 2023, from a policy and compliance perspective, there has been a continued focus on Customs-related issues and an ongoing review of all frontier policies as well as the introduction of new policies applicable to all of the UK’s international trade.

“So, it will not be surprising if conversations about Customs affairs occupy a good deal of BIFA’s time during the three days at Multimodal 2024, which gives us the opportunity to provide some useful insight and advice on the current state of a play. BIFA will also be using the event to showcase some of the work that it is doing in other areas, such as training and recruitment, as well as sustainability, so I welcome all attendees that are looking for advice designed to help deal with the big issues, to visit our stand in the BIFA Forwarder Village. Whilst the international freight industry is devising methods of coping with the changing logistics demands of the global village often at a distance, the BIFA Forwarder Village will give participants the opportunity for close range networking with existing and potential customers in a more personal environment.”

read more

BIFA Takes Aim at Felixstowe Following TOS Delays

 

BIFA Takes Centre Stage at Multimodal 2024

Posted on by Keith McKinley

For the fourth year running, the British International Freight Association (BIFA) will be centre stage in more ways than one at the forthcoming Multimodal Exhibition and Conference at Birmingham NEC.

With 42 bespoke Logistics Services Provider Pods (Logpods), as well as BIFA’s own exhibition stand (2060), BIFA’s Forwarder Village will provide a networking marketplace for BIFA members and associate members to showcase the products and services they offer.

On Wednesday, BIFA launches its annual and highly acclaimed Freight Service Awards competition, for the 36th year running, and staff will be on hand to provide further information about the entry process and the benefits of entering. BIFA’s Forwarder Village will also allow visitors to learn more about the workings of the trade association, and the benefits of being a member, whilst discussing their day-to-day freight forwarding requirements with the businesses that have booked a Logpod.

The trade association’s stand focuses on BIFA’s training, membership, policy and compliance, and member engagement work, with staff on hand each day that are specifically involved in those activities. Those staff will be answering visitors’ questions and delivering guidance on the issues facing the freight and logistics sector.

The trade association’s training team will also be on hand to demonstrate its ever-increasing portfolio of training services, and there will be an exclusive Multimodal2024 discount for anybody who books a training course at the stand. Visitors will also be able to find out more about the benefits of membership, as well as what BIFA is doing to engage with its members via such initiatives as its Young Forwarder Network, regional meetings, and annual hallmark events.

BIFA’s Young Forwarder Network (YFN) has become an integral and much-loved part of BIFA’s attempts to improve the promotion of the sector, making it more attractive to younger people and providing forums from which to learn. BIFA will host official Young Forwarder Network meet-ups on Tuesday and Wednesday at 14:00, and Thursday at 11:00.

Steve Parker, BIFA director general says: “BIFA arrives at Multimodal 2024 in good shape with significant momentum, a clear strategy, and a record number of members. Our presence at the heart of the BIFA Forwarder Village gives us a further opportunity to support and engage with our members and others on all sides of supply chains.

“It also enables us to showcase what the trade association is doing to address the current challenges facing our members, and the supply chain and logistics community they serve. Since I became Director General on 1st January 2023, from a policy and compliance perspective, there has been a continued focus on Customs-related issues and an ongoing review of all frontier policies as well as the introduction of new policies applicable to all of the UK’s international trade.

“So, it will not be surprising if conversations about Customs affairs occupy a good deal of BIFA’s time during the three days at Multimodal 2024, which gives us the opportunity to provide some useful insight and advice on the current state of a play. BIFA will also be using the event to showcase some of the work that it is doing in other areas, such as training and recruitment, as well as sustainability, so I welcome all attendees that are looking for advice designed to help deal with the big issues, to visit our stand in the BIFA Forwarder Village. Whilst the international freight industry is devising methods of coping with the changing logistics demands of the global village often at a distance, the BIFA Forwarder Village will give participants the opportunity for close range networking with existing and potential customers in a more personal environment.”

read more

BIFA Takes Aim at Felixstowe Following TOS Delays

 

Registration Now Open for AntwerpXL 2024

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Easyfairs has officially opened registration for this year’s exclusive AntwerpXL (AXL) event at the Antwerp Expo in Belgium, taking place from 8 October to 10th 2024. This year is expected to be bigger and better than ever, with over 80% of the exhibition space already sold and over 94% of last year’s attendees expressing their intent to return. The premier conference and exhibition is a key maritime and logistics event dedicated exclusively to the breakbulk, project cargo, heavy lift and Ro-Ro sectors. Responding to our attendees’ survey last year, we have extended the opening hours and added a closing party for even more networking opportunities.

Last year, AXL attracted over 3,800 members of the breakbulk community from 66 countries. This event provides a unique opportunity for attendees to showcase innovative technology, overcome industry challenges and build relationships based on trust. Participants have the chance to network, create valuable connections and learn from industry leaders, making it a vital event for those involved in the breakbulk, project cargo and heavy lift sectors.

This year’s exhibition will welcome several industry giants, including S&P Global, Rebel Group and Hitachi Energy, who will drive the main deck conference stage programme. The panels will delve into critical sectoral issues and key topics, including decarbonisation, fuels of the future, market updates, trends and strategies for attracting the next generation of professionals. These sessions are key for anyone looking to drive progress and innovation within their business.

The 2024 edition will also focus more on the RoRo market. “With the industry facing multiple challenges, including port congestion, fire hazards surrounding electric vehicles, and permitting challenges, AXL is the perfect opportunity for the sector to come together to try and address these,” explains Margaret Dunn, AXL’s portfolio director.

“We look forward to welcoming car, high and heavy and other vehicle manufacturers to the show. Across the three days, they will have the time they need to discuss their current environmental, geopolitical and regulatory concerns and build relationships with RoRocarriers and ports across the globe.”

A special drinks reception will also be hosted at the event for the AXL 40 Under 40 campaign winners, celebrating their significant contributions and underscoring AXL commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry innovators and leaders. The AXL 40 under 40 accolade honours the best, brightest, and bravest young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional potential or achieved remarkable success, positioning them as the rising stars of the breakbulk and heavy lift industry.

This year, attendees can also participate in the 54th Business Run, a unique event that combines running, networking, and charity. Participants can choose between a 4K or 9K run around the beautiful city of Antwerp, making it an excellent opportunity to give back while forging valuable connections.

The logistics manager from ArcelorMittal commented on AXL success in 2023: “We met all the right people at the right time; it was great quality, and we will definitely be attending this year’s event.” The logistics manager from Ferrum NV agreed, “We enjoyed attending AXL and will definitely be coming back this year; it was a great networking event.”

Register here for more information and to visit or Exhibit at AXL 2024

AXL was first held in 2019 and quickly became a key event in the maritime and logistics calendar. After its successful inaugural edition, the exhibition continued to grow despite interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, returning stronger in subsequent years. The event is strategically located in Antwerp, home to one of the largest ports in Europe, making it an ideal venue for an exhibition focused on breakbulk and project cargo. AXL returns in 2024 to bring the breakbulk community together again to showcase innovative technology, overcome industry challenges, and build trust-based relationships.

Venue Antwerp expo Opening times:

08 October 2024 16:00 – 20:00
09 October 2024 10:00 – 20:00
10 October 2024 10:00 – 16:00

read more

Bigger & Better: AntwerpXL ’23

 

Registration Now Open for AntwerpXL 2024

Posted on by David Priestman

Easyfairs has officially opened registration for this year’s exclusive AntwerpXL (AXL) event at the Antwerp Expo in Belgium, taking place from 8 October to 10th 2024. This year is expected to be bigger and better than ever, with over 80% of the exhibition space already sold and over 94% of last year’s attendees expressing their intent to return. The premier conference and exhibition is a key maritime and logistics event dedicated exclusively to the breakbulk, project cargo, heavy lift and Ro-Ro sectors. Responding to our attendees’ survey last year, we have extended the opening hours and added a closing party for even more networking opportunities.

Last year, AXL attracted over 3,800 members of the breakbulk community from 66 countries. This event provides a unique opportunity for attendees to showcase innovative technology, overcome industry challenges and build relationships based on trust. Participants have the chance to network, create valuable connections and learn from industry leaders, making it a vital event for those involved in the breakbulk, project cargo and heavy lift sectors.

This year’s exhibition will welcome several industry giants, including S&P Global, Rebel Group and Hitachi Energy, who will drive the main deck conference stage programme. The panels will delve into critical sectoral issues and key topics, including decarbonisation, fuels of the future, market updates, trends and strategies for attracting the next generation of professionals. These sessions are key for anyone looking to drive progress and innovation within their business.

The 2024 edition will also focus more on the RoRo market. “With the industry facing multiple challenges, including port congestion, fire hazards surrounding electric vehicles, and permitting challenges, AXL is the perfect opportunity for the sector to come together to try and address these,” explains Margaret Dunn, AXL’s portfolio director.

“We look forward to welcoming car, high and heavy and other vehicle manufacturers to the show. Across the three days, they will have the time they need to discuss their current environmental, geopolitical and regulatory concerns and build relationships with RoRocarriers and ports across the globe.”

A special drinks reception will also be hosted at the event for the AXL 40 Under 40 campaign winners, celebrating their significant contributions and underscoring AXL commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry innovators and leaders. The AXL 40 under 40 accolade honours the best, brightest, and bravest young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional potential or achieved remarkable success, positioning them as the rising stars of the breakbulk and heavy lift industry.

This year, attendees can also participate in the 54th Business Run, a unique event that combines running, networking, and charity. Participants can choose between a 4K or 9K run around the beautiful city of Antwerp, making it an excellent opportunity to give back while forging valuable connections.

The logistics manager from ArcelorMittal commented on AXL success in 2023: “We met all the right people at the right time; it was great quality, and we will definitely be attending this year’s event.” The logistics manager from Ferrum NV agreed, “We enjoyed attending AXL and will definitely be coming back this year; it was a great networking event.”

Register here for more information and to visit or Exhibit at AXL 2024

AXL was first held in 2019 and quickly became a key event in the maritime and logistics calendar. After its successful inaugural edition, the exhibition continued to grow despite interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, returning stronger in subsequent years. The event is strategically located in Antwerp, home to one of the largest ports in Europe, making it an ideal venue for an exhibition focused on breakbulk and project cargo. AXL returns in 2024 to bring the breakbulk community together again to showcase innovative technology, overcome industry challenges, and build trust-based relationships.

Venue Antwerp expo Opening times:

08 October 2024 16:00 – 20:00
09 October 2024 10:00 – 20:00
10 October 2024 10:00 – 16:00

read more

Bigger & Better: AntwerpXL ’23

 

Addressing the Shortfall of Adequate Truck Stops in Europe

Posted on by David Priestman

Road transportation is a key part of how goods and essential items move around Europe. But there is a rising concern: the transportation sector is running out of truck drivers. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) reports that we are short of over 233,000 professional truck drivers. This issue is compounded by the fact that 1.3 million drivers are expected to retire soon, and fewer young people are stepping up to take their place.

The key question here is – why is there a lack of interest in truck driving among younger people? Could poor working conditions, including inadequate parking facilities, be part of the problem? How do these conditions affect the appeal of truck driving as a career?

First-hand Experience

Mindaugas Paulauskas, the CEO of Girteka Transport, recently completed an eye-opening two-week trip in the role of a truck driver, covering 7,600 km on key European routes.

This journey, part of the “Mindaugas on the Road” project, was undertaken to identify and understand the challenges truck drivers experience every day. Paulauskas, who made the trip together with a professional driver, Sergei Kovalev, shared their observations and experiences from the road.

As it turns out, inadequate parking facilities is a major concern for truck drivers across the continent. The availability and quality of parking facilities for truck drivers vary significantly from country to country, impacting both the efficiency of logistics operations and the well-being of the drivers.

On the Road with Nowhere to Stop

In Sweden, truck drivers benefit from well-managed parking facilities, known for their secure and well-fenced areas ideal for transporting high-value cargo. This sets a strong example in parking facility management, reflecting a level of security and organization to aspire to.

Conversely, Denmark offers a contrasting scenario; despite having an adequate number of parking spaces to accommodate the many trucks on its roads, restrictions on long-term parking pose significant challenges.
“Sometimes you cannot take a long rest there, as parking spaces have limitations in terms of time, staying there for up to 9 hours. This is causes some issues for us,” explains Kovalev. Enhancing the flexibility of these facilities could significantly improve operational efficiency and driver satisfaction.

The Case of Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium

Germany faces a critical situation with its parking infrastructure, which is overwhelmed by approximately 800,000 trucks. “Overcrowded parking areas lead to substantial stress and logistical delays, as securing a parking spot by mid-afternoon becomes an almost impossible task for us,” summarizes Paulauskas.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands and Belgium offer better conditions with their secure paid parking facilities. “Nonetheless, the high demand near major urban centres quickly outstrips supply, highlighting the need for expanded capacity,” Paulauskas concludes.

The Experiences in France and Spain

France showcases excellent parking facilities along major highways, providing safe and comfortable stops for drivers. However, there is a notable inconsistency on national and local roads, where parking spaces are scarce and lack basic amenities, necessitating uniform quality across all road types.

“In Spain, while the availability of paid parking generally meets the needs of drivers, striving for consistent quality across all regions would further enhance the driving experience and ensure the safety and comfort of all drivers,” explained Paulauskas.

Support for Drivers and the Industry

These observations underscore the urgent need across Europe to address disparities in parking infrastructure and support the continent’s logistics needs by improving conditions for truck drivers, as Paulauskas’s experience shows.

The current state of parking infrastructure across Europe clearly falls short of what is needed to support the demands of the industry, particularly under the new constraints of the mobility package, which necessitates longer rest periods for drivers.

Paulauskas emphasizes: “The mismatch between the available parking infrastructure and the requirements set by legislation is not just inconvenient; it directly affects the bottom line for logistics companies through increased costs and delayed shipments.”

Truck Stops in Europe

Addressing the parking issue is critical, especially if the industry hopes to attract a new generation of drivers. “Better parking facilities are not just about compliance with regulations; they are about respecting and valuing the hard work of our drivers,” Paulauskas points out.

By investing in a more robust and driver-friendly parking infrastructure, the sector can enhance the overall appeal of truck driving as a profession. This investment is a long-term strategy to ensure that truck driving becomes a more attractive and sustainable career choice for young individuals entering the workforce. Such improvements could significantly impact the quality of working conditions for truck drivers and, by extension, enhance the attractiveness of the profession.

read more

DKV Euro Service partners with Girteka Logistics

 

Addressing the Shortfall of Adequate Truck Stops in Europe

Posted on by David Priestman

Road transportation is a key part of how goods and essential items move around Europe. But there is a rising concern: the transportation sector is running out of truck drivers. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) reports that we are short of over 233,000 professional truck drivers. This issue is compounded by the fact that 1.3 million drivers are expected to retire soon, and fewer young people are stepping up to take their place.

The key question here is – why is there a lack of interest in truck driving among younger people? Could poor working conditions, including inadequate parking facilities, be part of the problem? How do these conditions affect the appeal of truck driving as a career?

First-hand Experience

Mindaugas Paulauskas, the CEO of Girteka Transport, recently completed an eye-opening two-week trip in the role of a truck driver, covering 7,600 km on key European routes.

This journey, part of the “Mindaugas on the Road” project, was undertaken to identify and understand the challenges truck drivers experience every day. Paulauskas, who made the trip together with a professional driver, Sergei Kovalev, shared their observations and experiences from the road.

As it turns out, inadequate parking facilities is a major concern for truck drivers across the continent. The availability and quality of parking facilities for truck drivers vary significantly from country to country, impacting both the efficiency of logistics operations and the well-being of the drivers.

On the Road with Nowhere to Stop

In Sweden, truck drivers benefit from well-managed parking facilities, known for their secure and well-fenced areas ideal for transporting high-value cargo. This sets a strong example in parking facility management, reflecting a level of security and organization to aspire to.

Conversely, Denmark offers a contrasting scenario; despite having an adequate number of parking spaces to accommodate the many trucks on its roads, restrictions on long-term parking pose significant challenges.
“Sometimes you cannot take a long rest there, as parking spaces have limitations in terms of time, staying there for up to 9 hours. This is causes some issues for us,” explains Kovalev. Enhancing the flexibility of these facilities could significantly improve operational efficiency and driver satisfaction.

The Case of Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium

Germany faces a critical situation with its parking infrastructure, which is overwhelmed by approximately 800,000 trucks. “Overcrowded parking areas lead to substantial stress and logistical delays, as securing a parking spot by mid-afternoon becomes an almost impossible task for us,” summarizes Paulauskas.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands and Belgium offer better conditions with their secure paid parking facilities. “Nonetheless, the high demand near major urban centres quickly outstrips supply, highlighting the need for expanded capacity,” Paulauskas concludes.

The Experiences in France and Spain

France showcases excellent parking facilities along major highways, providing safe and comfortable stops for drivers. However, there is a notable inconsistency on national and local roads, where parking spaces are scarce and lack basic amenities, necessitating uniform quality across all road types.

“In Spain, while the availability of paid parking generally meets the needs of drivers, striving for consistent quality across all regions would further enhance the driving experience and ensure the safety and comfort of all drivers,” explained Paulauskas.

Support for Drivers and the Industry

These observations underscore the urgent need across Europe to address disparities in parking infrastructure and support the continent’s logistics needs by improving conditions for truck drivers, as Paulauskas’s experience shows.

The current state of parking infrastructure across Europe clearly falls short of what is needed to support the demands of the industry, particularly under the new constraints of the mobility package, which necessitates longer rest periods for drivers.

Paulauskas emphasizes: “The mismatch between the available parking infrastructure and the requirements set by legislation is not just inconvenient; it directly affects the bottom line for logistics companies through increased costs and delayed shipments.”

Truck Stops in Europe

Addressing the parking issue is critical, especially if the industry hopes to attract a new generation of drivers. “Better parking facilities are not just about compliance with regulations; they are about respecting and valuing the hard work of our drivers,” Paulauskas points out.

By investing in a more robust and driver-friendly parking infrastructure, the sector can enhance the overall appeal of truck driving as a profession. This investment is a long-term strategy to ensure that truck driving becomes a more attractive and sustainable career choice for young individuals entering the workforce. Such improvements could significantly impact the quality of working conditions for truck drivers and, by extension, enhance the attractiveness of the profession.

read more

DKV Euro Service partners with Girteka Logistics

 

4-way Forklift for HMS Victory Conservation Project

Posted on by David Priestman

A combination of over 250 years of naval heritage and 25 years of forklift technology in the form of a Combilift multidirectional truck is ensuring the smooth running of the HMS Victory Conservation Project by The National Museum of the Royal Navy at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

After over 250 years of service in the Royal Navy, HMS Victory is undergoing the most comprehensive conservation project in her recent history to ensure that she is fit to fulfil her duties as flagship of the First Sea Lord, a unique historical asset as an exemplar of the First-Rate warships from the Age of Sail and a world-class visitor attraction for decades to come. The work presents a once in a lifetime opportunity for visitors to see the National Museum’s skilled workforce undertaking the tasks involved in replacing decayed planking and frames, and stabilising the historical timbers as the ship remains open to the public throughout the project.

The vast amount of required material is stored in what were the old ropeworks, and includes 6.5 – 7m long packs of timber for making customised laminated slabs, steel mast sections that can be as long as 23m, as well as pallets of miscellaneous items such as ropes. Lead Rigger Stuart Sheldon and Rigger Ben Gillett knew that it was going to take a pretty special piece of equipment to handle these extreme loads around some very confined spaces.

“We are now at a stage where we are re-organising various storage areas within our Grade II* listed building. As we began planning how to reorganise the existing racking and install new, we realised that we could only manoeuvre safely and efficiently using the multidirectional capability of the Combilift, which was recommended by our handling consultants Locators. We therefore centred the racking re-design around the specifications of the truck and are now moving almost 5t of materials every day,” said Sheldon. “As we are handling very valuable items such as historical artefacts which are often large and fragile, we need to be vigilant to avoid any damage. The truck’s design – resting loads on the low platform as well as visibility from the cab – keeps our loads safe.”

Locators provided an interim truck and training on it whilst the new unit was in production at Combilift’s factory. Customised specifications included a quad mast with a closed height of 2835mm to enable the truck to (just) pass under a low internal doorway and a lift height of 7600mm to access the top level of racking. A 6m spreader bar is also on hand, which is quick and easy to install when required, and ensures utmost stability when handling the very long steel replica mast sections which weigh up to 3.5t.

One of the biggest challenges is moving masts from the storage area to an inspection and maintenance workshop which involves travelling in and out of narrow doorways, along a road and around parked vehicles. Sheldon and Gillett have this down to a fine art now, but again it is a manoeuvre that would be nigh on impossible with any other type of forklift. Sheldon sums up: “Compared to the original shipbuilders we have been fortunate to benefit from modern technology and the Combilift has been absolutely integral to the project, and will continue to be so for its duration.”

read more

DHL Delivers Black Rhino to Africa

 

Automation Lifecycle Management

Posted on by David Priestman

Joe Morris (pictured) played a pivotal role in the success of TJ Morris, trading as Home Bargains. In this interview, by Kirsty Adams, he discusses his new company, ARMS Innovations, which is revolutionising the approach to asset lifecycle management. We also cover important trends impacting UK retail.

Where did the idea for ARMS Innovations come from?

Joe Morris (JM): “TJ Morris was an early adopter of automation. I’m an engineer who came from a robotics background and was eager to introduce automation when I joined my brother’s business as Operations Director in 2000. To me, ‘owning’ the automation — managing the engineers who maintained the equipment ourselves — was crucial. It meant that we, rather than the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), had full visibility of the system data. This ethos has heavily influenced the ARMS Innovations approach.

“The ARMS Innovations story begins with the software —a task management system—developed by Jonathan Lane, who, at the time, was the Engineering Manager at the Amesbury TJ Morris site.
Jonathan created software solutions and a system that, instead of sending errors to a control room, triaged them automatically, directly to the engineers. Once digitised, a new engineer, via mobile handset, has all the information required to carry out their job, as efficiently as an engineer that has worked with the equipment for 10 years or more.”

And how did it help improve the TJ Morris Operation?

JM: “Digitising tasks enables efficiency improvements of 10-20% in automation, control room, facilities, cleaning, contractor, and operational functions. The total labour saving for TJ Morris was £1,800,000 per annum, per site. The continuous improvement journey, over time, brings a 5-10% improvement in system availability. For TJ Morris the 5% improvement achieved equated to £170 million per year in extra capacity. Fully digitising these tasks is a big job, but there is big payback and benefits. Following the success of the system at TJ Morris, we launched ARMS Innovations in 2022. Now, the system is being rolled out to warehouse operators, including major UK retailers. We also provide the onsite engineering teams for customers.”

What trends are significantly impacting the UK retail sector?

JM: “E-commerce has added instability to retail operations. It demands perfection, which adds a lot of pressure to the operation and demands very high system availability. You need to have the people and systems in place to get it right the first time. That’s why you automate, that’s why you have no option but to digitise. A second trend is the loss of ready and keen labour. Prior to Brexit the retail industry became complacent, the abundant supply of labour made it much easier. But many of those people have now left the UK, labour costs are rising rapidly, driven by double digit minimum wage inflation, so the only way to get the product out of the door is to automate.”

Ok, what about the early adopters who are eager to extend the life of their assets?

JM: “The typical life of an automated distribution centre is 15-20 years. If you can extend this by 5-10 years, you can achieve a 30-50% extra return on investment. Early adopters of automation are facing this challenge now. Current investors in automation will face this challenge in the future. They need to think about it now. As well as its software, ARMS has developed a documented process for asset lifecycle management, the ARMS QMS (Quality Management System), to cover all of the process required to design, build and operate a highly automated distribution system.”

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Witron to Design and Build DC for Fast-Growing UK Retailer

 

Automation Lifecycle Management

Posted on by David Priestman

Joe Morris (pictured) played a pivotal role in the success of TJ Morris, trading as Home Bargains. In this interview, by Kirsty Adams, he discusses his new company, ARMS Innovations, which is revolutionising the approach to asset lifecycle management. We also cover important trends impacting UK retail.

Where did the idea for ARMS Innovations come from?

Joe Morris (JM): “TJ Morris was an early adopter of automation. I’m an engineer who came from a robotics background and was eager to introduce automation when I joined my brother’s business as Operations Director in 2000. To me, ‘owning’ the automation — managing the engineers who maintained the equipment ourselves — was crucial. It meant that we, rather than the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), had full visibility of the system data. This ethos has heavily influenced the ARMS Innovations approach.

“The ARMS Innovations story begins with the software —a task management system—developed by Jonathan Lane, who, at the time, was the Engineering Manager at the Amesbury TJ Morris site.
Jonathan created software solutions and a system that, instead of sending errors to a control room, triaged them automatically, directly to the engineers. Once digitised, a new engineer, via mobile handset, has all the information required to carry out their job, as efficiently as an engineer that has worked with the equipment for 10 years or more.”

And how did it help improve the TJ Morris Operation?

JM: “Digitising tasks enables efficiency improvements of 10-20% in automation, control room, facilities, cleaning, contractor, and operational functions. The total labour saving for TJ Morris was £1,800,000 per annum, per site. The continuous improvement journey, over time, brings a 5-10% improvement in system availability. For TJ Morris the 5% improvement achieved equated to £170 million per year in extra capacity. Fully digitising these tasks is a big job, but there is big payback and benefits. Following the success of the system at TJ Morris, we launched ARMS Innovations in 2022. Now, the system is being rolled out to warehouse operators, including major UK retailers. We also provide the onsite engineering teams for customers.”

What trends are significantly impacting the UK retail sector?

JM: “E-commerce has added instability to retail operations. It demands perfection, which adds a lot of pressure to the operation and demands very high system availability. You need to have the people and systems in place to get it right the first time. That’s why you automate, that’s why you have no option but to digitise. A second trend is the loss of ready and keen labour. Prior to Brexit the retail industry became complacent, the abundant supply of labour made it much easier. But many of those people have now left the UK, labour costs are rising rapidly, driven by double digit minimum wage inflation, so the only way to get the product out of the door is to automate.”

Ok, what about the early adopters who are eager to extend the life of their assets?

JM: “The typical life of an automated distribution centre is 15-20 years. If you can extend this by 5-10 years, you can achieve a 30-50% extra return on investment. Early adopters of automation are facing this challenge now. Current investors in automation will face this challenge in the future. They need to think about it now. As well as its software, ARMS has developed a documented process for asset lifecycle management, the ARMS QMS (Quality Management System), to cover all of the process required to design, build and operate a highly automated distribution system.”

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Witron to Design and Build DC for Fast-Growing UK Retailer

 

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