Search Results for: flexi

Specialist vehicle graphics company Spedian, which supplies a reusable graphics system, has launched a lighter version which, it says, is “a world first”.

The company claims it is the world’s lightest truck frame system, and says it bears “all the same quality hallmarks as the original Spedian™ system in terms of robustness and longevity”, but it is the reduced weight which Spedian is confident will be a bit hit with operators.

Typically a 3.5m box van system will weigh just 340g or 15g per linear metre whereas equivalent weight for other systems available in the market are over 19kg.

The Spedian SuperLite System is adaptable to all shapes and sizes of vehicle and is the only patented and tested ‘invisible’ vehicle graphics frame system available with no bolts, rivets, screws or aluminium or plastic frame required to fix the advertising panel to the vehicle.

The company also went on to say: “Totally user-friendly the Spedian SuperLite System provides total flexibility. Not only is it quick and easy to install – less than one hour – it can also be easily removed with no damage to the vehicle substrate which is an added benefit for leased vehicles. It can also be used with all other systems easily allowing systems to be easily interchanged. Further if required the panels can be de-installed and re-used or simply recycled.”

The Spedian SuperLite system has undergone rigorous testing and as such is guaranteed for the lifetime of the vehicle. Spedian is also maintenance free and its HD product is guaranteed to stay colourfast from 12 months – always staying as clean as the vehicle.

Uncategorised - May 23, 2016;

Logistics BusinessSpecialist vehicle graphics company Spedian, which supplies a reusable graphics system, has launched a lighter version which, it says, is “a world first”. <br src=

In the field of industrial automation, progress is constant and inexorable. Technologies and management systems are improving, and new automated systems are being developed. Alvey Group has long participated in this process and the company says its motto “We Help You Adapt and Evolve” is not just a slogan but a commitment.

The company has announced a technological innovation that is says “may fundamentally change the way of supplying and installing conveyor systems and cut installation time by as much as 50%”. The new technology is named EvoLink.

The Evolink solution consists of programmable boards and supervisory software, which are designed to pilot components such as conveyors.

Says Alvey: “The advantages of Evolink include much faster installation, flexibility for later changes, simplicity of the programs, enhanced programming possibilities and current consumption measurement, to name but a few. If an Evolink board should fail, it can be easily replaced by a spare one which will program itself automatically upon connection.”

Inherent in the design of Evolink is safety, featuring a dual safety circuit allowing a safety stop to be connected to any board in seconds. When a safety stop is actuated, the precise location of this event is visible on the supervisory screen.

Evolink will be used for Alvey systems, but will also be commercially available for other system integrators.

Alvey will officially introduce EvoLink at this year’s CeMAT in Hannover from May 31 to June 3, 2016. Visit them there at Hall 27, stand F26.

Uncategorised - May 23, 2016;

Logistics BusinessIn the field of industrial automation, progress is constant and inexorable. Technologies and management systems are improving, and new automated systems are being developed. Alvey Group has long participated in this process and the company says its motto <i src=

The GEFCO group, now a global player in industrial logistics and a European leader in automotive logistics, generated a turnover of € 4.2 billion in 2015, up 3% compared to 2014. Luc Nadal, Chairman of the Management Board of GEFCO Group, said: “GEFCO achieved good results in 2015 in an unsteady global economic context and succeeded in further enhancing its position of global logistics solutions provider. The Group expanded its international footprint by opening new countries and acquiring the Dutch company IJS Global, whilst broadening its offering in freight forwarding and customer portfolio. I see the Group’s performance as a tangible proof of our customers trust in GEFCO’s expertise: they know how much GEFCO’s teams are committed to adding value at every stage of their logistics chain.”

In 2015, the GEFCO group achieved a turnover of € 4.2 billion, up 3% compared to 2014. The Group produced a free cash flow of € 173 million over three years, with very little debt, which demonstrates its sound financial situation. The performance plan initiated mid-2014 to increase its cost flexibility, alongside with the Group’s “asset-light” business model, contributed to an efficient cost management by the company. In the meantime, the Group kept on expanding its customer portfolio and achieved an increase by 9.5% of its revenue with international industrial customers.

The EBITDA is lower than in the previous year (-18%). A decline in oil prices, the economic crisis hitting hard countries such as Russia and Brazil, and difficulties experienced by car makers in Latin America and Russia are the key reasons of this setback.

Finally, unrelenting efforts of GEFCO’s teams have laid solid foundation for the future and enabled the GEFCO group to maintain its position among the top ten European logistic integrators, and its number one status in Europe for Finished Vehicle Logistics.

The Group’s activity growth demonstrates the relevance of its diversification strategy and its successful implementation.

Created in 1949 to meet the logistical challenges of the automotive industry, GEFCO partners with main car makers and automotive suppliers in the world to manage and optimize their complex supply chains. The fruitful collaboration with DACIA – leading to 600,000 vehicles delivered in 10 years – and the 7-year contract signed with PSA Peugeot Citroën to manage their car compound in France – constitute as many prove, gained in 2015, of the quality and the recognition of such expertise.

In the meantime, GEFCO has been successfully rolling out a diversification strategy to enhance its future and profitable growth, supporting the development of its industrial customers worldwide with global logistics solutions. Among 2015 highlights we can mention successful multimodal transport plans designed and operated by GEFCO for Schneider Electric in Europe and the Balkans, for Alstom Transport between France and Kazakhstan, as well as for Eska Graphic Board, a Dutch manufacturer and exporter of high-end graphic cardboard, from the Netherlands to the rest of the world.

Uncategorised - May 17, 2016;

Logistics BusinessThe GEFCO group, now a global player in industrial logistics and a European leader in automotive logistics, generated a turnover of € 4.2 billion in 2015, up 3% compared to 2014. Luc Nadal, Chairman of the Management Board of GEFCO Group, said: <i src=

Seegrid, the pioneer and leader in vision-based autonomous industrial vehicles, has added the Subway Platform displays to its Supervisor product. The displays are designed to reduce downtime in the supply chain by providing subway-style estimated-time-of-arrival (ETA) projections and data collection capabilities at each station where Seegrid’s vision guided vehicles (VGVs) retrieve or deliver materials. The new feature is part of Seegrid Supervisor, the fleet management tool that enables users to remotely connect, monitor, and control their fleet of VGVs.

The Subway Platform concept was developed in coordination with Whirlpool Corporation, which uses Seegrid’s vision guided pallet trucks and tow tractors to help improve safety and efficiency in its manufacturing operations. Supervisor’s ETA projections improve communication and coordination between en route VGVs and their human coworkers.

“Subway Platform allows me to track our automated operations at a glance, wherever I am, without having to run a report. It displays VGV status, so assembly operators know when their materials will arrive,” says Brad St. Louis, senior engineer of the materials department at Whirlpool Corporation’s Clyde division. “Seegrid’s commitment to partnering with Whirlpool to create this valuable solution underscores a dedication to customers and automated solutions that work collaboratively alongside humans.”

Seegrid Supervisor uses web technology inside customer facilities to fill the communication gaps created from machine automation by establishing two-way dialogue between humans and their robotic coworkers. The expansion of Supervisor with Subway Platform is the latest result of Seegrid’s collaboration with customers to develop solutions that ensure flexibility, efficiency, and safety throughout the supply chain.

“Whirlpool Corporation is one of the most respected appliance manufacturers in the world, and we could not be more excited that our VGVs are operating in its manufacturing operations helping complete more orders on a daily basis,” said Jim Rock, CEO of Seegrid. “By using our vision guided vehicles and new tools like Subway Platform, Whirlpool is able to provide efficient deliverables to its customers while reducing overhead costs.”

Seegrid has more than doubled its workforce since 2014, as more companies turn to vision-based technology to replace legacy automation that relies on lasers.

Uncategorised - May 17, 2016;

Logistics BusinessSeegrid, the pioneer and leader in vision-based autonomous industrial vehicles, has added the Subway Platform displays to its Supervisor product. The displays are designed to reduce downtime in the supply chain by providing subway-style estimated-time-of-arrival (ETA) projections and data collection capabilities at each station where Seegrid’s vision guided vehicles (VGVs) retrieve or deliver materials. The new feature is part of Seegrid Supervisor, the fleet management tool that enables users to remotely connect, monitor, and control their fleet of VGVs. <br src=

The SPE120XR, SPE120XRD and SWE120XR have joined the BT Staxio P- and W-series from Toyota Material Handling Europe. Equipped with retractable masts, a compact chassis and the ability to handle different types of pallets, the Japanese giant says these models are designed to save space and increase efficiency.

This unique range combines the compactness of a stacker with the flexibility of a reach truck. This results in a versatile solution that can handle any pallet type up to a height of 4.8 metres. The range consists of a pedestrian stacker (SWE120XR), a platform stacker (SPE120XR) and a double pallet handler (SPE120XRD). The short turning radius and the retractable mast make this solution ideal for working in narrow aisles, tight spaces and adaptable to a wide variety of environments, including cold store. The models can also be optionally fitted with a side-shift or fork positioner to increase productivity.

With all driver functions integrated in the handle (driving, lifting, lowering, reaching, tilting, side-shifting and fork positioning) the new models are very easy to operate. Optimised Truck Performance adjusts speed when cornering and the Totalview concept allows for excellent visibility through the mast to the fork tips at any height, offering safe driving conditions. The platform SPE-version with ‘one-touch’ foldable gates and in-height adjustable steering arm further improves driver ergonomics and productivity.

The new stacker range is also highly energy-efficient and available with Lithium-ion battery as an option. This battery technology is ideal for intensive operations thanks to a reduced energy consumption of up to 30%. Furthermore, Lithium-ion provides an exceptional battery life and the option for quick charging at any time – eliminating the need for battery change in multi-shift applications.

“Especially in narrow areas you will benefit from the flexibility, energy efficiency, user-friendliness and high vertical and horizontal performance of the new BT Staxio W- and P- models. These stacker trucks with retractable mast will help you save storage space and increase efficiency”, says Martin Mimer, Product Management Warehouse Trucks at Toyota Material Handling Europe.

The new BT Staxio SPE120XR(D) and SWE120XR will be one of the many products, solutions and technologies that Toyota Material Handling will be presenting during CeMAT 2016 (May 30th to June 3rd). Come and see us in Hanover at Pavilion 32.

Uncategorised - May 17, 2016;

Logistics BusinessThe SPE120XR, SPE120XRD and SWE120XR have joined the BT Staxio P- and W-series from Toyota Material Handling Europe. Equipped with retractable masts, a compact chassis and the ability to handle different types of pallets, the Japanese giant says these models are designed to save space and increase efficiency. <br src=

Temporary building specialist Smart-Space has provided Marshall Motor Group with a new commercial vehicle showroom in the form of a re-locatable interim building at its Ford Commercial Vehicles site in Cambridge.

Marshall Motor Group is a top 10 UK motor dealer group founded in 1909 in Cambridge. Marshall Motor Group operates a total of 73 franchises covering 23 brands, operating from 88 sites across 19 counties in England.

Marshall is planning to redevelop its Ford Commercial Vehicles showroom in the next few years. In the meantime, it wished to upgrade its current facilities and needed a cost-effective interim solution that had the look, feel and properties of a permanent building without the associated costs.

Smart-Space provided Marshall with a 15m x 25m bespoke semi-permanent building. The structure features windows, lighting, office space, a high roof and bi-fold doors to enable easy vehicle access.

Heat loss concerns were alleviated with the Smart-Space solution as the 40mm insulated steel roof and 40mm steel wall cladding, retains substantially more heat compared to other temporary buildings with PVC fabric roofs.

Marshall chose Smart-Space because of the durability, flexibility and variety of its product options, and because it needed a bespoke solution delivered within a tight timescale. The entire project took just a week to complete from start to finish.

“Smart-Space provided an outstanding service and an excellent product that met our requirements, and was virtually indistinguishable from a bricks and mortar showroom,” said Terry Moore, projects facility manager at Marshall Motor Group.

“I wouldn’t hesitate in using them again as the team provided an exceptional service with excellent communication throughout the build and a quick turnaround. Their expertise and knowledge shone through during the project and I couldn’t have asked for better service.”

Uncategorised - May 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessTemporary building specialist Smart-Space has provided Marshall Motor Group with a new commercial vehicle showroom in the form of a re-locatable interim building at its Ford Commercial Vehicles site in Cambridge. <br src=

Cimcorp, the international group that specializes in robotic material handling, will present its innovative order-picking solution at CeMAT that is the embodiment of the exhibition’s theme this year of Smart Supply Chain Solutions. Based on Cimcorp’s proven, gantry-based robotic technology, the unique system is ideal for order fulfilment and storage in the food & beverage, retail, e-commerce and distribution sectors. Through extremely rapid order picking, the solution shortens lead times to enable more sales – potentially twice as many – and enhance customer service. With Cimcorp’s automation being based on a simple, scalable and movable robotic concept that is easy to install and maintain, the result is a rapid return on investment (ROI). The technology can also be used as an ‘island’ of automation that is integrated with surrounding manual operations.

Cimcorp’s solutions will be demonstrated to CeMAT visitors on Stand H26 in Hall 27 of the show, which takes place in Hannover from 31 May to 3 June.

Fast fulfilment
By shortening the order-processing window, robotic handling enables improved customer service and more sales through later order cut-off times, greater geographical reach via earlier dispatch, same-day deliveries and longer shelf life for fresh products. Faster order processing can also cut the cost of delivery – especially via third-party couriers – while more frequent fulfilment also reduces inventory levels and thereby the amount of capital tied up in stock.

Rapid ROI
“Our robotic systems are designed for fast manufacture, installation and start-up,” explains Kai Tuomisaari, Cimcorp’s Vice President of Sales and Projects. “Being modular, they are scalable to provide flexibility for the future, so can be expanded – or even moved – quite easily. Importantly in the food sector, they are also easy to clean, with the system able to clear the entire storage floor. Short timescales for projects – from initial enquiry to final handover – combine with highly efficient operation to deliver a rapid return on investment for clients.”

Cimcorp’s robotic order fulfilment solution in use at The Kroger Co., a dairy business in Denver, USA

More out of less
With stock accessed via linear robots on overhead gantries, Cimcorp’s solution requires no racking or sprinkler systems, providing further cost savings. As there is no need for conventional warehouse aisles, storage density is maximized. Rapid retrieval and accurate order picking are taken care of by one simple and energy-efficient technology.

Proven performance
Cimcorp’s order fulfilment solution has secured tangible benefits for a number of clients in the retail, e-commerce and food distribution sectors. The leading Spanish supermarket group, Mercadona, has invested in a robotic system from Cimcorp for the picking of full crates of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as meat products, at its distribution centre in Guadix. This is an ‘island’ of automation that is integrated with Mercadona’s manual operations at the facility. The Finnish company, Tuko Logistics, uses Cimcorp automation to distribute groceries to its clients. The automatic goods-to-person storage and retrieval system at the company’s warehouse in Kerava is used to pick some 70% of orders. Another customer reaping the benefits of Cimcorp automation is The Kroger Co., a dairy business in Denver, USA. The automated system is used by Kroger to store up to 36,000 crates of plastic milk containers and to process over 30,000 crates per day.

Uncategorised - May 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessCimcorp, the international group that specializes in robotic material handling, will present its innovative order-picking solution at CeMAT that is the embodiment of the exhibition’s theme this year of Smart Supply Chain Solutions. Based on Cimcorp’s proven, gantry-based robotic technology, the unique system is ideal for order fulfilment and storage in the food & beverage, retail, e-commerce and distribution sectors. Through extremely rapid order picking, the solution shortens lead times to enable more sales – potentially twice as many – and enhance customer service. With Cimcorp’s automation being based on a simple, scalable and movable robotic concept that is easy to install and maintain, the result is a rapid return on investment (ROI). The technology can also be used as an ‘island’ of automation that is integrated with surrounding manual operations. <br src=

XPO Logistics has finalised a long-term agreement with leading global lifestyle brand Ted Baker to manage its new pan-European distribution centre. The agreement covers Ted Baker’s retail, wholesale and e-commerce operations across the Continent.

Ted Baker has expanded rapidly since its beginnings as a menswear brand in Glasgow, Scotland in 1988. Today, the Company offers a wide range of collections for men and women, and has a portfolio of over 400 stores and in-store concessions worldwide.

As Ted Baker embarks on the next stage of its global development, the Company is consolidating its existing distribution sites into a single ‘super distribution centre’ near Derby. The facility will operate 24/7 and will provide sufficient capacity to support Ted Baker’s growth initiatives, while creating approximately 250 new jobs in the region.

The contract for warehousing, order preparation and e-fulfilment was awarded to XPO Logistics following an intensive tendering process. XPO successfully demonstrated a flexible approach, relevant expertise in the fashion retail sector, competence in multi-channel solutions, and a willingness to engage in a collaborative relationship.

Chris Byrne, head of global logistics for Ted Baker, said: “We selected XPO Logistics because the Company has the capacity and expertise to provide a reliable, single-site solution from which to manage all of our sales channels. Our agreement with XPO will effectively support our long-term growth plans.”

Richard Cawston, managing director of supply chain – UK and Ireland, for XPO Logistics, commented: “We are delighted to provide the prestigious Ted Baker brand with comprehensive logistics solutions. Our two companies share the same focus – that is, to deliver a premier customer experience with every transaction.”

Uncategorised - May 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessXPO Logistics has finalised a long-term agreement with leading global lifestyle brand Ted Baker to manage its new pan-European distribution centre. The agreement covers Ted Baker’s retail, wholesale and e-commerce operations across the Continent. <br src=

ACE Exports Ltd, a UK company that has been supplying a range of personal care, grocery and household products to retailers throughout the Caribbean Islands for over 25 years, has outsourced its supply chain process to Midlands-based DK Fufilment Ltd (DKF).

Under the terms of the two year agreement, DKF will be responsible for receiving palletised loads of goods from ACE Exports’ global suppliers and storing the stock at its 165,000 sq ft shared user facility in Coventry.

Orders will be picked and assembled in to containers for onward delivery to the Caribbean on a weekly basis and, at peak times, five container loads a week will be dispatched.

Prior to outsourcing to DKF, ACE Exports had operated three warehouse units in the Black Country region but, by appointing DKF as its logistics partner, ACE has been able to remove this costly fixed overhead from its business model.

“One of the attractions of outsourcing to a third party supply chain solutions specialist like DKF is the flexibility it brings to our business,” says ACE Export’s Consultant, Steve Tandy.

He adds: “Our Black Country warehouses had to be staffed to a level appropriate to cope with our busiest periods and this meant that when things were less hectic we were paying for personnel that were under utilised. It was a fixed cost that we wanted to lose and outsourcing has allowed us to do so.”

DKF opened its Coventry facility in December 2015.
The site offers three storage chambers and features a combination of wide and narrow aisle pallet racking as well as small parts storage bays and a dedicated pick, pack and re-work area as well as modern office accommodation.

The building is served by a new fleet of Toyota materials handling equipment, including counterbalanced and reach trucks, very narrow aisle trucks and man-aloft high level order pickers.

DKF Fulfilment Ltd’s managing director, Mark Elward, commented: “We are delighted ACE Exports chose to award this business to DKF. DKF will bring industry leading standards and operational excellence to the contract and we look forward to a successful partnership.”

Uncategorised - April 20, 2016;

Logistics BusinessACE Exports Ltd, a UK company that has been supplying a range of personal care, grocery and household products to retailers throughout the Caribbean Islands for over 25 years, has outsourced its supply chain process to Midlands-based DK Fufilment Ltd (DKF). <br src=

Port operator Euroports is set to invest €10 million euro at quay 850, in the port of Ghent. The investment includes a state-of-the-art 85,000-ton warehouse, with value-added service equipment. Construction is scheduled to start this summer and the new facilities will be commissioned at the end of this year.

‘Ghent is key in our European network of bulk terminals. In 2015, we invested in strengthening our crane capacity in Ghent. This investment is the next step in offering strong supply chain solutions to our customers. We will be able to store extra volumes of dry bulk and offer additional flexibility in the handling of existing flows via a strong value added service offering. The unique location of the port of Ghent offers advantageous hinterland connectivity and supply chain cost savings to our clients. New business opportunities have led to the decision to increase the storage capacity and this investment will help us to achieve our growth targets in the bulk sector. ’ says Rudi Hanot, Business Transformation Director at Euroports.

At quay 850 in Ghent, Euroports handles fertilizers and minerals. In addition to the wide range of operational services, Euroports Ghent will offer value-added services which include screening and bagging. Over the years, Euroports has become an industry leader in the handling and logistics of minerals and fertilizers.

Euroports is one of Europe’s largest port operators and handles around 50 million tonnes annually of general cargo and dry bulk. It has 22 port terminals in Europe and 3 in China.

Uncategorised - April 18, 2016;

Logistics BusinessPort operator Euroports is set to invest €10 million euro at quay 850, in the port of Ghent. The investment includes a state-of-the-art 85,000-ton warehouse, with value-added service equipment. Construction is scheduled to start this summer and the new facilities will be commissioned at the end of this year. <br src=

Cold Chain Storage Network (CCN) – one of Asia’s leading temperature controlled storage and distribution specialists – has replaced the existing articulated lift truck fleet at its Malaysia facility with 8 new Flexi AC CS articulated forklifts designed and built by Narrow Aisle Ltd.

The fleet of Flexi AC Cold Store (CS) articulated trucks will operate at CNN’s 200,000 square foot multi temperature-controlled warehouse which is located in the Malaysian state of Selangor.

The facility offers chilled, frozen, deep frozen and ambient storage facilities to a host of customers and is one of the largest temperature-controlled storage sites in the region.

The Flexi AC CS fleet will be supplied and maintained by Prestar Marketing, part of Narrow Aisle’s global distributor network.

The truck’s ability to increase conventional pallet storage space by up to 30 per cent compared with reach trucks, combined with its VNA aisle performance in modern power mobile rack systems, has dramatically reduced cold store warehouse logistics costs for many users.

Despite its ultra-compact dimensions, the Flexi AC CS has capacity for loads of up to 2000kg and can lift to over 12 metres, while the truck’s specially designed and conditioned electrical and hydraulic system allows constant change of use between cold and ambient environments.

The Flexi AC CS can also operate continuously at temperatures as low as minus 28°C and only needs to leave the cold store for a battery change as battery charging can take place in the cold store itself if this is what the design of the store dictates.

A fully insulated and heated cab system is available to operators who need high volume pallet throughput.

John Maguire, sales and marketing director Narrow Aisle (pictured, with clients), commented: “This is an important contract from a part of the world that has embraced Flexi articulated forklift truck technology with enthusiasm.

“The trucks will be manufactured by Narrow Aisle and supplied to Prestar – our distribution and service partner – for onward delivery to CCN.

“CCN is one of Malaysia’s largest provider of cold chain, multi-temperature logistics and warehousing and has long been an advocate of the articulated truck concept but was moved to seek a higher quality articulated forklift supplier after experiencing a number of operational problems with a US-sourced articulated lift truck brand that the company had been using.”

Uncategorised - April 18, 2016;

Logistics BusinessCold Chain Storage Network (CCN) – one of Asia’s leading temperature controlled storage and distribution specialists – has replaced the existing articulated lift truck fleet at its Malaysia facility with 8 new Flexi AC CS articulated forklifts designed and built by Narrow Aisle Ltd. <br src=

UK-based materials handling technology specialist, Narrow Aisle Ltd, will highlight its extensive range of intralogistics solutions when it exhibits alongside other logistics and supply chain specialists on the UKWA Pavilion at this year’s Multimodal.

Visitors will be able to discuss the FlexiPiCK – a layer quantity customer order picking system that typically allows over 1100 cases per hour to be mechanically picked by one operator.

The FlexiPiCK allows users to take advantage of the increasingly popular layer quantity order picking concept pioneered in the USA – but without the need to invest in high fixed cost guided or automated handling technology that previous layer picking systems have relied upon.

The Flexi StorMAX system, yet another new concept in space saving storage solutions from Narrow Aisle, will also be highlighted.

The StorMAX is a warehouse management system-based (WMS) storage solution that, in comparison with storage systems served by conventional reach trucks, allows an amazing 50 per cent more pallet locations to be achieved within the dimensions of a store.

A company synonymous with high quality, ultra-efficient products, Narrow Aisle has earned a reputation for exceptional build reliability and customer service across the world and visitors to Multimodal can find out more by making their way to the Narrow Aisle stand.

www.flexi.co.uk

Uncategorised - April 15, 2016;

Logistics BusinessUK-based materials handling technology specialist, Narrow Aisle Ltd, will highlight its extensive range of intralogistics solutions when it exhibits alongside other logistics and supply chain specialists on the UKWA Pavilion at this year’s Multimodal. <br src=

Advanced logistics operator, Arcese, has chosen a tailor made loading bay solution, designed and installed by industry leader Thorworld Industries, for its new facility in Daventry (UK).

The Arcese Group, one of the leading private logistics operators in Europe, runs hubs throughout the UK and has recently expanded its operation with the acquisition of its new depot. The sizeable new premises, with its impressive specification of both yard and office space, was considered an ideal hub for Arcese, being in close proximity to three of its major clients. However the building, in its existing form, lacked a suitable loading ramp facility.

Keen to address the situation at speed Keith Luetchford, Director at Arcese, was integral to the decision-making process that would guarantee the installation of high quality loading bay equipment, expertly designed for the most effective performance. Keith wanted to make use of the premise’s existing external canopies, but preferred to avoid the cost of installing a permanent solution within a leased building. He was also looking for high quality and specific size specifications, as he goes on to explain:
“We knew we needed a loading bay of considerable quality, as any equipment installed would be in continuous use, facilitating extremely heavy loads for up to 18 hours a day. Precise size was also a key factor, as our requirements were for a loading system designed to fit within the existing external canopies. This, we understood, would necessitate a bespoke construction.

“To achieve this we had to find an expert manufacturer, so after conducting initial internet searches to explore the possibilities available to us, we invited Thorworld to visit our new premises and discuss the best options,” he adds.

The nature of Arcese’s business and the design of its building meant that any bespoke loading equipment needed to be semi-permanent to deliver the best overall solution. Planning permission was not necessary for the installation of this equipment, so Keith and the team agreed that ‘the right semi-permanent solution’ would enable Arcese’s new operation to be up and running in a relatively short time-frame.

Furthermore, by choosing a Thorworld’s modular solution, there was the flexibility to dismantle and relocate the equipment at the end of the building’s eight year lease, if necessary.

“A semi-permanent solution was entirely correct for our needs, furthering our positive opinion of Thorworld’s sales and engineering teams, whom we found extremely knowledgeable and professional,” confirms Keith.

“They listened to our needs and designed a solution, which not only provides the same service as a permanent/concrete loading bay, but is more cost effective. We were extremely impressed with Thorworld’s initial designs, with only a couple of tweaks needing to be made to create our perfect loading solution.”

Keith gave Thorworld the green light to proceed with manufacture; creating finished apparatus that features three dock levellers with a double width ramp for use on one side of Arcese’s premises, and a single dock leveller and single ramp for use on the other. With operator welfare a priority, the equipment also accommodates rear loading, considered safer than side loading, and features anti-slip surfaces for additional safety.

“We’ve been truly impressed with the design and quality of the loading solution. Thorworld’s entire approach, from design to implementation has been smooth, considerate, and professional,” concludes Keith.

Responding to Keith’s comments about his positive experience, John Meale, Managing Director at Thorworld Industries said: “A modular loading dock solution can deliver the exact function a business is looking for, but with the additional attributes of cost-effectiveness and flexibility, all without compromising on quality or safety standards.

“We’re delighted to hear that everything has gone to plan with the Arcese installation and that the project was achieved in time, and on budget,” adds John.

Uncategorised - April 14, 2016;

Logistics BusinessAdvanced logistics operator, Arcese, has chosen a tailor made loading bay solution, designed and installed by industry leader Thorworld Industries, for its new facility in Daventry (UK). <br src=

CEVA Logistics, one of the world’s leading supply chain companies, and Marangoni Commercial & Industrial Tyres, an Italian company specialising in the retreading of industrial, truck and earthmover tyres, have announced a contract spanning more than three years for the transport and distribution of products throughout the country.

Each year the contract runs, CEVA will collect all Marangoni tyres for retreading. These tyres have been pre-selected by Marangoni’s qualified staff from sites around Italy and will be brought to the tyre manufacturer’s northern Italian warehouse in Rovereto. CEVA will distribute both new and regenerated tyres to both retailers and distributors around the country.

“The decision to outsource transport to an external partner is the natural consequence of further developing our company. By appointing CEVA, Marangoni can focus its own resources on the selection of tyres and the sale of its products and services. Logistics is an essential part of our business and we believe CEVA will provide the high level of service we require,” says Brenno Benolglia, Commercial Director of Marangoni Commercial and Industrial Tyres. “CEVA’s reputation for operational excellence and flexibility gives us confidence that we can increase the quality of service to our customers and improve our reliability and speed.”

Adds CEVA’s Vice President Business Development Italy, Gioachino Figlia: “We are honored to count Marangoni among our clients and we are proud to strengthen our presence in the automotive sector following the inauguration of TyreCity. Marangoni will be better able to integrate its transport flows with its production by having reliable and guaranteed service levels combined with full traceability for both its reverse flow logistics and distribution. Our ability to offer agile and creative solutions which match the needs of this important customer will be key to this partnership.”

Uncategorised - April 14, 2016;

Logistics BusinessCEVA Logistics, one of the world’s leading supply chain companies, and Marangoni Commercial & Industrial Tyres, an Italian company specialising in the retreading of industrial, truck and earthmover tyres, have announced a contract spanning more than three years for the transport and distribution of products throughout the country. <br src=

Stena has signed a contract, subject to Board approval by the end of April, for an order of four new RoPax ferries with planned delivery during 2019 and 2020, with an option for another four vessels. The vessels will be optimised for efficiency and flexibility and will be built by AVIC Shipyard in China. The intention is that the four initial vessels will be used within Stena Lines route network in Northern Europe.

“We are very pleased that Stena have signed a contract for four vessels with an option for another four. During the course of the past 24 months our engineering staff has managed to develop a design that is not only 50% larger than today’s standard RoPax vessels, but more importantly, incorporates the emission reduction and efficiency initiatives that have been developed throughout the Stena Group during the past years. These ships will be the most fuel efficient ferries in the world and will set a new industry standard when it comes to operational performance, emissions and cost competitiveness, positioning Stena Line to support its customers in the next decades”, says Carl-Johan Hagman, Managing Director of Stena Line.

The vessels will have a capacity of more than 3 000 lane meters in a drive-through configuration. The main engines will be “gas ready”, prepared to be fueled by either methanol or LNG.

“With this investment we are building on our successful RoPax concept mixing freight and passengers. Through standardization we secure a reliable operation and through flexibility we can provide an even better support to our customers and help them to grow”, says Carl-Johan Hagman.

“We foresee a continued demand growth for short sea services in Northern Europe and in many other parts of the world. Ferry transportation will play an essential part in shaping tomorrow’s logistics infrastructure if we are to have sustainable societies. Not only is transportation on sea the most environmentally efficient way of moving goods, it is also infrastructure that provides reliable and speedy logistics with very limited public cost. Through this investment we prepare Stena Line for further growth”, says Dan Sten Olsson, Chairman in Stena Line.

Uncategorised - April 6, 2016;

Logistics BusinessStena has signed a contract, subject to Board approval by the end of April, for an order of four new RoPax ferries with planned delivery during 2019 and 2020, with an option for another four vessels. The vessels will be optimised for efficiency and flexibility and will be built by AVIC Shipyard in China. The intention is that the four initial vessels will be used within Stena Lines route network in Northern Europe. <br src=

Qimarox has extended its range of material handling components with the Prorunner mk10, a product lift for pallets up to 2,000 kg. The company says the The Prorunner mk10 allows companies to transport up to sixty pallets per hour, ten metres upwards. Qimarox will talk about this product lift at Modex, the popular international trade fair, taking place from today in Atlanta (USA).

This year, Modex says it is responding to the ever-changing market, which requires flexible and innovative logistics processes. “To survive these days, companies need to continuously monitor and optimise their processes. The trick is to choose exactly those products and systems that offer your organisation the most added value from the overwhelming range on offer today,” said the company in a statement.

An example is the Qimarox Prorunner mk10, which is based on the design of the successful Prorunner mk9 pallet lift. The most important difference is that the new Prorunner mk10 features four instead of two columns, which allows “this very robust lift to effortlessly lift loads of up to 2,000kg”.

The Prorunner mk10 can easily bridge any difference in height between 0.40 and 10 metres. Even at a height difference of 10 metres, the lift can still easily transport sixty pallets per hour “with ease”. The Prorunner mk10 is equipped with a lifting platform of 1200 x 1200 mm as standard, so that it can handle not only euro pallets, but also product carriers of different sizes such as block pallets.

The Prorunner mk5 is described as “literally and figuratively the highlight of the fair”. This elegant product lift works according to the time-honoured paternoster principle, which results in a versatile vertical transport system with a capacity of 2,000 products per hour. Because a single elevator system can be used for both upward and downward product flows, the Prorunner mk5 is ideal for vertical sorting, or as a component in storage and order picking systems.

The standard model of this maintenance friendly and sophisticated product elevator is available for the fixed price of only $ 9,250 including infeed and outfeed conveyors.

Besides product and pallet lifts, Qimarox also develops and supplies components for packaging systems. The Highrunner mk7 is an innovative palletiser, which is capable of quickly and efficiently processing products of different shapes and sizes into stable pallets. Qimarox also supplies standardised, modular components for wrapping pallets in foil. New in this range is a machine for wrapping pallets in stretch wraps.

All components are installed, integrated and maintained by trained system partners, so you are assured of a local specialist who speaks your language and may already be familiar with your organisation and processes.

Uncategorised - April 4, 2016;

Logistics BusinessQimarox has extended its range of material handling components with the Prorunner mk10, a product lift for pallets up to 2,000 kg. The company says the The Prorunner mk10 allows companies to transport up to sixty pallets per hour, ten metres upwards. Qimarox will talk about this product lift at Modex, the popular international trade fair, taking place from today in Atlanta (USA). <br src=