Subscribe

Day: 17 September 2025

Online Roundtable: Last-Mile Logistics Technology

Posted on by David Priestman

The last mile is often the most complex — and costly — part of the delivery journey. Manual processes and outdated systems slow down performance, create errors, and leave customers frustrated.
It’s time to transform the last mile with intelligent automation.

Join a panel moderated by our Editor Peter MacLeod and guests from Aptean on Thursday 2nd October at 12.00 BST (UK) / 13.00 CET for an exclusive online roundtable, where industry experts and logistics leaders will explore how automated platforms are driving a technology revolution in last-mile delivery.

This online roundtable, in partnership with Logistics Business, brings together industry experts and logistics leaders to explore how automated platforms are driving a technology revolution in last-mile delivery. From reduced miles and cost savings to customer satisfaction and ROI, the shift from paper to digital platform is reshaping the future of logistics.

Key Takeaways

Understand the risks and limitations of paper-based and manual delivery processes
Learn how advanced technology improves efficiency, visibility, and accountability
Discover the strategic business value of digitising the last mile
Hear real-world insights from organisations leading the digital shift

Register Now

Who Should Attend?

Logistics & Supply Chain Executives
Operations Directors & Managers
Technology Leaders driving digital transformation
Anyone looking to strengthen last-mile delivery performance

Don’t miss out! Register now and discover how automated route optimisation and ePOD is redefining last-mile logistics, unlocking visibility, and turning delivery fulfilment into a source of strategic advantage.

You’ll gain insights into:
• The rising challenges of last-mile logistics and how automation solves them
• Key technologies powering modern delivery systems
• How automation reduces costs, increases accuracy, and speeds up fulfilment
• The strategic value of digitisation: customer satisfafction, cost savings, and ROI
• Real-world success stories of last-mile transformation

Register now and discover how automated last-mile systems are reshaping logistics and unlocking more opportunities for efficiency, visibility, customer loyalty and cost savings!

User-Friendly Manual Vehicle Restraint

Posted on by David Priestman

Rite-Hite, one of the leading manufacturers of loading bay and health and safety equipment, has expanded its range of vehicle restraint systems with the launch of a new Manual Ergonomic ‘Wheel-Lok’, providing a robust, intuitive and cost-effective solution for safe loading and unloading operations.

The new Manual Ergonomic Wheel-Lok minimises the risk of unintended trailer departures and enhances safety at the loading bay. Its intuitive design enables drivers to secure their vehicles independently without additional assistance. An ergonomic handle, comparable to that of a pallet truck, allows for effortless operation without bending or kneeling while integrated signal lights clearly indicate when the restraint can be engaged or released and the dock safely accessed.

Engineered for maximum durability and reliability, the Manual Ergonomic Wheel-Lok features galvanised steel and a durable powder coating to protect it from challenging weather conditions. The elevated design keeps locking mechanisms clear of standing water, snow, leaves and other debris, ensuring consistent performance all year-round. With no sensitive electronic components and very few moving parts, the system operates reliably in all weather conditions and requires minimal maintenance, helping to keep operating costs low.

“Keeping people safe at the loading bay is a top priority for both Rite-Hite and our customers. With the new Manual Ergonomic Wheel-Lok, we are offering a practical and highly reliable solution that combines ease of use with cost efficiency,” says Thorsten Mauritz, Director of Marketing and Product Management for Rite-Hite Europe. “It provides dependable protection against unintended trailer movements and addresses the need for a more economical alternative to our fully automatic Global Wheel-Lok system without compromising on safety.”

The new Wheel-Lok is available in a range of sizes and configurations to suit different site requirements and loading bay layouts. It combines high safety standards with maximum flexibility.

Leadership Webinar: Harnessing Data and AI for CV Fleets

Posted on by David Priestman

AI and connected data are no longer future-state technologies — they’re critical to staying competitive in today’s high-stakes operational environment. Leading organisations are already leveraging these tools to reduce risk, improve compliance, and unlock frontline efficiency at scale. Join Peter MacLeod (Editor), Aaron Peters, Head of Technical, Engineering & Policy of the Road Haulage Association and Tony Draper, Director of Health, Safety, Environment & Quality for Brandon Hire Station on this new, free, informative 40 minute CV fleets webinar (no registration required).

Watch it now free here

This webinar explores how top leaders are applying data and AI to drive safer, smarter commercial vehicle fleet operations — and achieve real business outcomes. Hear directly from customers and experts about what’s working today and what’s next for operational transformation.

CV Fleets Webinar

You’ll walk away with:

Proactive strategies to prevent costly incidents before they happen – on the road, on-site, or across your operations.
A roadmap to saying ahead of compliance and risk using real-time, connected data.
Ways to optimise your workforce and assets to reduce downtime and control spend.
Real-world applications of AI that improve safety, productivity, and retention – all while delivering measurable ROI.

Watch the webinar now by clicking here (YouTube link).

Packaging Automation Sustainability Report

Posted on by David Priestman

CMC Packaging Automation, a global supplier of fully automated right-sized packaging solutions, has announced the publication of its FY2024 Sustainability Report, marking a significant step forward in the company’s journey toward responsible growth and long-term value creation.

The report highlights CMC’s integrated approach to sustainability, where competitiveness, innovation, and market leadership are inseparable from climate action and social responsibility.

Key 2024 Achievements

• 11% reduction in total GHG emissions, including a 72% year-on-year reduction in Scope 2 emissions, aligning with the company’s newly approved targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

• Full activation of the CMC Tech Centre in Atlanta, a global hub for training, R&D, and co-engineering, reinforcing CMC’s role as the partner of choice for clients seeking both innovation and sustainability.

• Client-enabled environmental impact, including the avoidance of 36 million cubic meters of plastic filler, prevention of 936 K tons of CO₂eq emissions, and conservation of 451 K tons of cardboard through the adoption of CMC’s solutions.

Looking Ahead

As CMC moves into FY2025, its priorities are clear: scaling innovation, embedding ESG into governance, and strengthening cross-functional integration to deliver market-relevant, resilient, and environmentally responsible solutions.


“Our mission is to transform the packaging industry from within,” said Francesco Ponti, CEO and Chairman of CMC Packaging Automation “In 2024, we not only delivered innovative solutions but also measurable environmental and social impact across our value chain. With SBTi-approved targets guiding our decarbonization journey, we are scaling innovation and embedding sustainability into every part of our business. Together with our clients, employees, and partners, we are setting a new standard for responsible automation.”

Pallets Supplier Strengthens Logistics Offer

Posted on by David Priestman

Scott Pallets is continuing to drive innovation in the supply chain through a series of strategic logistics initiatives, implemented in conjunction with parent company BSW Group.

By working closely with haulage providers and internal partners, such as sister businesses BSW Timber and Tilhill Forestry, the company is reducing empty miles, improving asset utilisation, and cutting carbon emissions.

A key development this year has been the reloading of vehicles, with those that have completed pallet deliveries for Scott Pallets now often being backloaded with BSW Timber sawn products. By strategically coordinating these return journeys, Scott Pallets is reducing empty miles, cutting unnecessary fuel use, and lowering its carbon footprint, helping to improve operational efficiency across both the pallet and timber supply chains.

As of August, around 300 deliveries have already been backloaded, with most of these trips involving the Scott Pallets fleet at its Barry site. These vehicles have been used to deliver pallets to customers as normal, before collecting material from BSW Timber’s Newbridge-on-Wye sawmill for the return leg. These backhauls are a prime example of sustainability delivering commercial value.

Through this close collaboration with BSW, Scott Pallets has also strengthened relationships with key haulage partners, including H&R Gray and Johnsons Haulage, who have also supported the initiative. This strategic partnership has enabled Scott Pallets to reconfigure loads for improved presentation at customer sites and redeploy trailers across the network.

In a further step towards sustainable operations, Scott Pallets at Ellesmere Port has also introduced a walking floor vehicle to streamline the management of on-site wood waste. This means that as well as carrying out standard pallet deliveries, the vehicle will also collect scrap wood for biomass use. In another key partnership, Scott Pallets is now working with fellow BSW Group member Tilhill Forestry to supply this biomass material to Shotton Mill in Deeside.

These initiatives highlight the value of internal collaboration, forward-planning and fleet optimisation in delivering environmental gains. With a strong focus on reducing waste, cutting carbon, the company continues to lead by example in the timber and pallet industry.

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.