The Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) is proud to announce the return of its annual RMI Education Summit, taking place September 16–17, 2025, at the MHI headquarters in Charlotte, NC. This long-standing event continues to serve as a vital platform for education, collaboration, and professional development within the rack manufacturing industry.The RMI Education Summit serves as a cornerstone for knowledge-sharing and industry engagement, offering a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip attendees with essential insights and technical expertise. This year’s agenda includes a robust lineup of topics: RMI Basics, Resources, and Opportunities for Involvement Engineering Specifics and Fundamentals Calculations Rack Testing Basics Rack Design Considerations for ASRS Technologies Cantilever Code Storage Rack DeckingAs a member of the RMI Education Committee, I’m excited to see our plans for this summit come together. We’re aiming to give attendees practical tools and a deeper understanding of our industry’s best practices. This is a great opportunity to learn, connect, and build confidence in the work we do." - Nancy Fateen, Seizmic Inc.Whether you're new to the industry or looking to deepen your technical understanding, the RMI Education Summit offers valuable insights and practical takeaways that can be applied immediately in the field.Registration details and the full agenda will be announced soon. For more information, please visit the RMI Education Summit website.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about RMI, please visit mhi.org/rmi or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.About RMIRMI – Rack Manufacturers Institute Formed in 1958, the Rack Manufacturers Institute, Inc. (RMI) consists of members are the industry’s leading suppliers of Industrial Steel Storage Racks and Related Structural Systems. They supply industrial rack solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Member companies aim to promote the safe and effective use of industrial steel storage racks and related storage and handling systems. About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

At the 2025 MHI Spring Meeting, the Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Industry Group proudly introduced its latest initiative: the ASRS Roadmap — a dynamic, user-focused resource designed to guide organizations through the journey of evaluating and implementing ASRS solutions.The ASRS Roadmap is a comprehensive, evolving tool that supports users at every stage of their decision-making process — from initial discovery to building a business case. It consolidates years of ASRS expertise and content into one accessible platform, featuring: Whitepapers – In-depth insight Blogs – Trends and use cases Guides – Planning and ROI strategies Presentations – Ready-to-share resources Videos – Visual learning toolsWhy does it matter? Well, the ASRS Roadmap cuts through the noise with credible, unbiased information that empowers both operators and executives to make faster, better-informed decisions, promote best practices across the industry, and stay aligned with evolving market needs.“We are excited to bring this to the market, and the help it will provide companies. This is a tool that will help people independently research ASRS solutions so when they determine this kind of technology could be right for their operations, they will be more empowered when they engage with suppliers.” - Rebecca Lennartz, Hai Robotics, member company of MHI and ASRS Industry Group.The ASRS Roadmap is available now on the ASRS microsite at www.mhi.org/asrsroadmap.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ASRS, please visit mhi.org/asrs or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.About ASRSASRS (Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Mobile Automation Group (MAG) and The Robotics Group (TRG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Durable Surfaces’ application to join TRG at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/MAG or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org. To learn more about TRG, please visit mhi.org/TRG or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About MAG Mobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Both Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are computer-controlled wheel-based load carriers (normally battery-powered) that run on a plant or warehouse floor (or, if outdoors, on a paved surface). The main difference between AGVs and AMRs is how the path they follow is determined: (1) Most AGVs follow predefined paths, although there may be areas of the plant or warehouse where they have more freedom. (2)AMRs can determine their own path, although they will attempt to follow suggested paths if they exist. This difference leads to differing methodologies for ensuring safe operation for the two types of vehicles: AGVs follow the ANSI B56.5 Safety Guidelines and there is a standard under development for AMRs.About TRG The Robotics Group (TRG) are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications.Traditionally, industrial robots in material handling applications have been limited to palletizing/depalletizing, conveyor picking, or other highly repetitive tasks. Technology advancements are creating opportunities for robots and automated machinery in a wider variety of applications, including warehousing and distribution center activities.TRG conducts education and outreach with the goal of fostering technology adoption in this rapidly changing industry sector.About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Conveyors & Sortation Systems (CSS) and Solutions Community (SoCO) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Itoh Denki’s application to join CSS at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about CSS, please visit mhi.org/CSS or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org. To learn more about Solutions Community, please visit mhi.org/solutionscommunity or contact Christian Dowd at cdowd@mhi.org.About CSS Trusted since 1971 as Leaders in the design, manufacturing, and supply Conveyor and Sortation Systems Equipment, Components, and Technology. CSS aims to promote market growth, awareness, and effective use of traditional and emerging conveyor/sortation technologies in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. Member companies can provide end users with access to a wide range of perspectives and solutions, and, as a collective of manufacturers, are genuinely invested in customer success.About Solutions Community Solutions Community members are the industry’s thought leaders on automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. This includes suppliers, integrators, consultants, media, academia and users. They collaborate on solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. All participants adhere to a safe harbor no-buy, no-sell environment to openly discuss topics of mutual interest, including best practices, lessons learned and other information.About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Automated Storage Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of UMH’s application to join ASRS at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 6 in Houston, TX. UMH is a full-service material handling partner specializing in manufacturing RMI-certified racking, advanced automation systems, and turnkey storage solutions - manufactured, stocked, and supported in-house to help businesses scale efficiently and operate with confidence.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ASRS, please visit mhi.org/asrs or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.About ASRS – Automated Storage & Retrieval SystemsASRS members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently.About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Robotics Group (TRG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of AWL Automation’s application to join TRG at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about TRG, please visit mhi.org/TRG or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About TRGThe Robotics Group (TRG) are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications.Traditionally, industrial robots in material handling applications have been limited to palletizing/depalletizing, conveyor picking, or other highly repetitive tasks. Technology advancements are creating opportunities for robots and automated machinery in a wider variety of applications, including warehousing and distribution center activities.TRG conducts education and outreach with the goal of fostering technology adoption in this rapidly changing industry sector.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) released its 2025 DC Measures Report today at the WERC Annual Conference in New Orleans. This year’s report stresses the importance of vigilance and vision in the warehousing and distribution industry, stating, “vision and vigilance matter, as the market can quickly change and leave the firm behind.”Benchmarking Insights from Across the IndustryThe report, an essential industry tool for benchmarking, was based on the findings from surveys of distribution professionals in 2025 and 2024. Respondents represented such industries as manufacturing, retail, wholesale/distributor, third-party warehouses, and life sciences.The report tracks 30+ metrics that are key to distribution professionals. The top five most popular metrics for this year’s report were: On-time shipments Average warehouse capacity used Peak Warehouse Capacity Used Order-picking accuracy (percent by order) Dock-to-stock cycle time (in hours)The report also contains such demographic information as company size, facility type, and location. To benchmark operational performance, industry professionals can use this report to compare their internal key performance indicators against a broad range of facilities.Updated Online Benchmarking ToolIn addition to the DC Measures report, WERC has also updated its Online Benchmarking Tool, which includes more than a decade of DC Measures data. This dynamic digital platform helps practitioners, 3PLs, and consultants customize benchmarking data to quickly meet internal evaluation needs.The Online Benchmarking Tool is included with WERC Team Memberships or individuals can purchase a 1-year subscription. Visit werc.org/metrics to learn more about the Online Benchmarking Tool and the 2025 DC Measures Report.The 2025 report was developed in partnership with DC Velocity and generously sponsored by Kenco and Yale Lift Truck Technologies.For more information about the DC Measures report and Online Benchmarking Tool, contact JoAnna Leon at jleon@werc.org.About WERCWERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Advanced Energy Council (AEC) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Big Joe Forklifts’ application to join TRG at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.“Big Joe Forklifts is excited to be accepted into MHI’s Advanced Energy Council (AEC).  Our leadership in driving the ‘IC to E’ electrification movement with Big Joe’s purpose-built, integrated lithium-ion forklifts will most certainly contribute to AEC’s vision in advancing sustainable motive material handling energy solutions,” said Martin Boyd, Chief Marketing Officer.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about AEC, please visit mhi.org/AEC or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About AEC – Advanced Energy CouncilFounded in 2023, the Advanced Energy Council was established to represent the companies that produce, implement, and support advanced energy technologies and accessories. The group was formed with the intention of being inclusive of current and future motive energy storage technologies. AEC aims to serve as the collective voice in the industry to promote innovative energy solutions and education for the market, colleagues, and end users.AEC aims to serve as the collective voice in the industry to promote innovative energy solutions and education for the market, colleagues, and end users.About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA), an MHI Industry Group, is proud to announce the launch of its new logo, officially selected during the 2025 MHI Spring Meeting. This refreshed visual identity marks a bold step forward in the organization’s evolution and its continued mission to promote safety, security, and guarding for people, products, and facilities.ProGMA members are the industry’s leading suppliers of fixed protective guarding products—solutions designed to protect personnel, equipment, and inventory in industrial environments. The new logo reflects the strength, reliability, and forward-thinking approach that define ProGMA’s leadership in the material handling industry.“This new logo is more than a design—it’s a reflection of our mission and vision,” said Ken Parrott - Chair for the ProGMA Industry Group. “It symbolizes our role as the authoritative resource for best practices, standards, and applications of protective barrier and guarding solutions.”ProGMA’s mission is to promote safety, security, and guarding for people, products, and facilities by educating the industry on protective barrier and guarding solutions through standards and best practices. Its vision is to be the go-to resource for the latest in protective technologies and applications for industrial facilities.The updated logo will be rolled out across all ProGMA platforms and materials in the coming weeks.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ProGMA, please visit mhi.org/progma or contact Doug Marrelli at dmarrelli@mhi.org.About ProGMAThe Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of fixed protective guarding products designed to protect personnel, equipment, and inventory in industrial facilities. Member companies meet regularly to review, discuss, and revise the standards for design and performance of protective guarding products used in the material handling industry. ProGMA member companies are committed to the development, maintenance, and publishing of industry standard specifications for these systems.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

To explore breakthroughs in the supply chain, MHI will host the Tech Talk, “Game Changers: Inside the Minds of MHI Innovation Award Winners.” This free, live webinar airs on June 13 at 1:30 pm ET.Featured speakers for this MHI Tech Talk include: Jeff Cole, National Sales Manager, GRI Torsten Schreiber, VP of Product Marketing, Anyware Robotics TJ Shelters, Senior Vice President of Motive Power, Concentric Manish Surati, SVP, Software Engineering, Fidus GlobalThese leaders represent the companies who won MHI Innovation Awards at ProMat 2025 for one of the following categories: Best New Innovation, Best Innovation of an Existing Product, Best IT Innovation, and Best Innovation in Sustainability.Join us to hear firsthand how these award-winning solutions were developed, why innovation matters, and what’s next for their technologies. Attendees can also engage in a live Q&A with the panel. Register now to attend the June 13 Tech Talk.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

The Automated Storage Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of LTW’s application to join ASRS at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 6 in Houston, TX.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ASRS, please visit mhi.org/asrs or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.About ASRS – Automated Storage & Retrieval SystemsASRS members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently.About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,00 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Rack Manufacturers Institute Inc. (RMI) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Nilkamal’s application to join RMI at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 7 in Houston, TX.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about RMI, please visit mhi.org/rmi or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.About RMI – Rack Manufacturers InstituteFormed in 1958, the Rack Manufacturers Institute, Inc. (RMI) consists of members are the industry’s leading suppliers of Industrial Steel Storage Racks and Related Structural Systems. They supply industrial rack solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Member companies aim to promote the safe and effective use of industrial steel storage racks and related storage and handling systems.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,00 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Rack Manufacturers Institute Inc. (RMI) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Stakkd Rack’s application to join RMI at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 7 in Houston, TX.Stakkd Rack designs, engineers, manufactures, and installs high-performance racking systems purpose-built for automated storage and retrieval applications, with a focus on palletized and mini-load solutions.  Stakkd Rack professionals have over a combined 50 years’ experience in material handling, racking, and ASRS.By owning and operating our U.S.-based manufacturing facility, we maintain full control over production—delivering faster lead times, greater flexibility, and superior reliability, while avoiding the delays and risks of offshore supply chains.Our mission is to become North America’s leading domestic manufacturer and most trusted partner for racking systems that maximizes square footage and enables automation in warehouses, distribution centers, and cold storage facilities.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about RMI, please visit mhi.org/rmi or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.About RMI – Rack Manufacturers InstituteFormed in 1958, the Rack Manufacturers Institute, Inc. (RMI) consists of members are the industry’s leading suppliers of Industrial Steel Storage Racks and Related Structural Systems. They supply industrial rack solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Member companies aim to promote the safe and effective use of industrial steel storage racks and related storage and handling systems.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,00 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Conveyors & Sortation Systems (CSS) and Scan, Label, Apply, Manifest (SLAM) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Engineering Innovation’s application to join CSS at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about CSS, please visit mhi.org/CSS or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org. To learn more about SLAM, please visit mhi.org/SLAM or contact Christian Dowd at cdowd@mhi.org.About CSSTrusted since 1971 as Leaders in the design, manufacturing, and supply Conveyor and Sortation Systems Equipment, Components, and Technology. CSS aims to promote market growth, awareness, and effective use of traditional and emerging conveyor/sortation technologies in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. Member companies can provide end users with access to a wide range of perspectives and solutions, and, as a collective of manufacturers, are genuinely invested in customer success.About SLAM SLAM members meet regularly to discuss the industry and promote the best and largest possible market for end-of-line technologies and systems, emphasizing the best interest of the user. Member companies aim to be the authoritative resource for transforming today’s end of line fulfillment operations to address tomorrow’s challenges by defining and evaluating best practices for the marketplace.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Robotics Group (TRG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Slip Robotics’ application to join TRG at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about TRG, please visit mhi.org/TRG or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About TRGThe Robotics Group (TRG) are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications.Traditionally, industrial robots in material handling applications have been limited to palletizing/depalletizing, conveyor picking, or other highly repetitive tasks. Technology advancements are creating opportunities for robots and automated machinery in a wider variety of applications, including warehousing and distribution center activities.TRG conducts education and outreach with the goal of fostering technology adoption in this rapidly changing industry sector.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Robotics Group (TRG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of NūMove Robotics & Vision’s application to join TRG at the 2025 Spring Meeting held May 4-6 in Houston, Texas.‘’We’re honored to join The Robotics Group and to contribute alongside some of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies in our industry. We look forward to collaborating more deeply with peers, sharing insights, and staying ahead of trends that are reshaping the way robotics is applied in warehousing and distribution.‘’-Robert Battaglia, Director of Sales and Business Development at NūMoveMHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about TRG, please visit mhi.org/TRG or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About NūMove Robotics & VisionNūMove specializes in material handling solutions for manufacturers, warehouses, and distribution centers. This company designs and develops flexible technologies for palletizing, depalletizing, automated storage, and case packing; leveraging a deep expertise in design, programming, software integration, and industrial vision. From initial design to final implementation, NūMove's team works closely with clients at every stage, ensuring that each solution is tailored to meet specific needs.Learn more about NūMove.Believing in the potential of warehouse automation, NūMove also created a Center of Excellence dedicated to this industry. The technologies on display aim to replicate the journey of products in distribution centers: from robotic depalletizing of full pallets, to automated storage and retrieval of products, and finally to the mixed palletizing of orders ready for shipment. This investment reflects their commitment to driving innovation in the fields of automation and robotics.Discover NūMove’s Center of Excellence.About TRGThe Robotics Group (TRG) are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications.Traditionally, industrial robots in material handling applications have been limited to palletizing/depalletizing, conveyor picking, or other highly repetitive tasks. Technology advancements are creating opportunities for robots and automated machinery in a wider variety of applications, including warehousing and distribution center activities.TRG conducts education and outreach with the goal of fostering technology adoption in this rapidly changing industry sector.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

During the recent MHI Spring Meeting in Houston, Texas, MHI helped raise $5,000 for the charity One Generation Away while also promoting environmental sustainability.The funds were raised through Fill it Forward, a sustainability initiative that encouraged attendees to use reusable water bottles instead of single-use plastics. For each bottle refilled, a donation is generated for charity. This impactful program was generously sponsored by MHI member company Designed Conveyor Systems (DCS).MHI’s total involvement with the Fill it Forward Initiative has had measurable environmental impacts, including: 33.4 pounds of waste diverted 630.5 kWh power saved 6.9 pounds of ocean pollution prevented 1,080.6 emissions savedThanks to this collective effort, MHI donated $5,000 to One Generation Away. With a mission “to share hope, honor, and dignity through food,” this nonprofit rescues high-quality surplus food from such sources as grocery stores and restaurants and redistributes it to people experiencing food insecurity. Looking ahead, MHI will continue its commitment to sustainability and social impact at the upcoming WERC Annual Conference, taking place June 8-11 in New Orleans. Proceeds from that Fill it Forward Initiative will be donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is proud to announce it has awarded an unprecedented $278,000 in scholarships to 71 exceptional students for the 2025/2026 academic year. This milestone marks the largest total in MHEFI’s history and underscores its commitment to supporting the next generation of material handling professionals.Scholarships were awarded to full-time undergraduate students pursuing studies in material handling, logistics, and/or supply chain management. To qualify, recipients were required to maintain at least a “B” average in their major. Awards ranged from $1,500 to $6,000 and must be applied toward tuition, fees, or textbooks related to the students’ academic programs.MHEFI would like to congratulate the following scholarship recipients: Colleen Andrews, Michigan State University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Aaron Ayodeji, Washington and Lee, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Erin Barker, Louisiana State University, Rack Manufacturers Institute Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG Services, $5,000 Hunter Bent, Bradley University, Hanel Storage Systems Honor Scholarship, $2,000 Baker Bertrand, University of Kearney, Liz Richards Honor Scholarship Sponsored by MHEDA , $5,000 Griffin Bittel, Auburn University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Jonanthan Blatt, Oklahoma State University, Rack Manufacturers Institute Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG Services, $5,000 Ethan Blesie, North Dakota State University, Lift Honor Scholarship, $2,850 Blake Bollow, University of Wisconsin - Platteville, Hoist Manufacturers Institute/Monorail Manufacturers of America Honor Scholarship, $2,300 Kasey Boukhong, Virginia Tech, Frazier Industrial Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Mason Bowers, Ohio State University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Lilly Chado, University of Maryland, The Mike Laurent Honor Scholarship Sponsored by The Donald Revels Memorial Fund, $2,000 Boutaina Charrat, Western Illinois University, Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems Honor Scholarship, $5,500 Cammy DeFeo, Virginia Tech, The Donna Varner Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Alexis Denny, Michigan State University, Scan Label Apply Manifest (SLAM) Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Luke Diener, Oklahoma State University, Expert Crane Honor Scholarship, $2,250 Rachel Endsley, University of Tennessee, Mobile Automation Group Honor Scholarship, $4,400 Clarissa Escobar, Texas A&M University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Aleia Frye, University of Pittsburgh, Gorbel, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $3,000 Davis Gillen, Texas A&M University, Southworth International Group, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $2,500 Kai Halpin, UC Irvine, Seizmic, Inc./LAMHMS Honor Scholarship - CA School, $2,000 Sophia Han, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Rack Manufacturers Institute Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG Services, $5,000 Sofie Hancock, Auburn University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Adam Hartman, Oklahoma State University, Automation Controls Electrification (ACE) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 Aliona Heitz, Stevens Institute of Technology, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Jackson Hill, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Bastian Family Scholarship, $2,500 Joan Jaiyeoba, Texas Tech University, Ergonomic Assist Systems & Equipment Honor Scholarship, $3,300 Jacob James, Purdue University, James Galante Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by Southworth International Group, $1,500 Augusta Jones, Auburn University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Ayla Julien-Vinuela, University of South Florida, The Robotics Group Honor Scholarship, $4,400 Viraj Kothari, University of North Carolina - Asheville, The Dan Quinn Honor Scholarship Sponsored by The Donald Revels Memorial Fund, $2,000 Alexandra Laskonis, Miami University, Willard P. Heddles Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 Chloe Lin, University of Pennsylvania, The George W. Prest Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Emmett Looman, University of Cincinnati, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 William Lovell, University of Arkansas, Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association Honor Scholarship, $3,000 Michael Macharia, Wright State, Automation Controls Electrification (ACE) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 Toju Maku, Penn State University, Loading Dock Equipment Manufacturers Honor Scholarship, $3,100 Youssef Mansour, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Elliott Mascena, University of Tennessee, The Bill Capps Honor Scholarship Sponsored by The Donald Revels Memorial Fund, $2,000 Dayton McCall, Oklahoma State University, The Robotics Group Honor Scholarship, $4,400 Elanor Mehen, Oklahoma State University, Brian McNamara Honor Scholarship Sponsored by Southworth International Group, $1,500 Tienna Mensah, Purdue University, Crane Manufacturers Association of America Honor Scholarship, $6,000 Theodore Miller, Oregon State University, Steel King Industries Honor Scholarship, $2,000 Chibuzor Nwaeme, Widener University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Zachary Orvis, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, The John Nofsinger Honor Scholarship Sponsored by The Donald Revels Memorial Fund, $2,000 Parshv Patel, Stanford University, Conveyor & Sortation Systems Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Rushang Patel, Texas A&M University, UNEX Manufacturing Honor Scholarship, $2,250 Mira Patel, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Ridg-U-Rak Honor Scholarship, $2,000 Jacob Plotts, Sam Houston State University, Richard Dilling Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 Cole Pollard, Texas A&M University, Liz Richards Honor Scholarship Sponsored by MHEDA, $5,000 Rajnish Poudel, Mississippi State University, Al Wurz Scholarship $5,000 Lynnlin Qiao, University of Washington, The Tom Carbott Honor Scholarship Sponsored by The Donald Revels Memorial Fund, $2,000 Nicole Quiram, Virginia Tech, Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association Honor Scholarship, $3,600 Grace Renk, University of Minnesota, Al Wurz Scholarship), $5,000 Grant Robertson, Virginia Tech, Rack Manufacturers Institute Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG Services, $5,000 Hailey Ruddick, Michigan State University, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Rahul Sah, Mississippi State University, Conveyor & Sortation Systems Honor Scholarship, $3,250 Esteban Salas Serrano, University of Michigan, Richard Dilling Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 Jude Sanborn, Virginia Tech, Daniel Clapp Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by RMI, $5,000 Nathan Schlegel, West Virginia University, Bastian Family Scholarship, $2,500 Sophia Schneider, Iowa State University, Solutions Community Honor Scholarship, $2,750 Andrew Schultz, University of Tennessee, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Riley Scott, Texas A&M University, Liz Richards Honor Scholarship Sponsored by MHEDA, $5,000 Jackson Shellhaas, Wright State, Crane Manufacturers Association of America Honor Scholarship, $4,600 Anna Sidoti, University of Tennessee, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Maaya Tsukada, University of South Florida, Storage Manufacturers Association Honor Scholarship, $3,300 Beverly Ukoha, University of New Haven, Crane Manufacturers Association of America Honor Scholarship, $6,000 Satchel Vaughn, University of Tennessee, Material Handling Education Foundation Honor Scholarship, $5,000 Ella Webb, University of Tennessee, St. Onge Company Honor Scholarship, $2,500 Sarah Witte, University of Arizona, Irving M. Footlik, PE Memorial Scholarship, $3,000 Aaron Zapolin, University of South Carolina, Solutions Community Honor Scholarship, $2,750Thank you to the generous companies and donors who support MHEFI’s vision to empower the future generation of supply chain leaders and have made these scholarships possible. For more information about the scholarships, contact Mary Alyson Ammons, MHEFI Executive Director, at mammons@mhi.org.About MHEFIThe Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, our programs have supported over 1,000 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at mhi.org/mhefi.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI is proud to announce that MODEX 2024, an international supply chain exhibition, has earned recognition for its tremendous growth. At its recent award summit in Orlando, Trade Show Executive awarded MODEX as “The Fastest-Growing Non-Annual Show by Percentage of Growth in Net Square Feet in 2024.”Held in Atlanta this past March, MODEX 2024 expanded its show floor by an impressive 42.2%, illustrating the industry’s rising demand for innovative supply chain solutions.“This award reflects the commitment of our exhibiting companies, whose investments are driving the continued success of MODEX,” said Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI. “In today’s rapidly changing economic climate, MODEX provides a vital platform for companies to showcase innovation and forge the partnerships that shape the future of the supply chain.”Looking ahead, MHI is excited to continue this trajectory of growth and innovation with MODEX 2026, taking place April 13-16, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. The upcoming event will feature 1,100+ exhibitors, 180+ education sessions, and will attract thousands of domestic and global attendees from the supply chain and manufacturing industry.MODEX delivers unmatched value by connecting industry professionals with the people, technologies, and insights that are transforming supply chains worldwide. To learn more, visit modexshow.com.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI is pleased to announce the launch of its new workshop, Future-Proofing Your Workforce: Effective Succession Planning. Taking place between June 25 to October 22, 2025, this virtual workshop equips leaders with the tools to develop and retain talent and create an actionable succession plan.Build a Future-Ready Talent PipelineSuccession planning is key to embedding leadership development and workforce agility into an organization’s culture. This virtual experience, delivered in four 120-minute sessions, provides a step-by-step framework for assessing talent needs, addressing skills gaps, and preparing internal candidates for evolving roles.Participants will learn to: Understand succession planning fundamentals Develop a retention-focused approach Implement reskilling and upskilling strategies Plan for employee retirement and knowledge transfer Build a sustainable internal talent pipeline Create an actionable succession plan Measure and improve the succession planning processPractical Outcomes for Long-Term ImpactBy the end of the workshop, each participant will walk away with a tangible succession plan ready for implementation. The program is relevant for all companies – large or small, for-profit or nonprofit – that want to reduce disruption during staffing changes and create a strong foundation for leadership continuity.To download the program guide or register for the workshop, visit mhi.org/successionworkshop. Questions can be directed to Rebecca Woods, Director of Talent and Professional Development at education@mhi.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

To support the development of future leaders, MHI is now accepting registrations for its 2025 Industry Leadership Program, available in both in-person and virtual formats. Designed for emerging leaders in material handling and supply chain organizations, the program offers opportunities to build critical leadership skills while forming lasting industry connections.Two High-Impact Program OptionsParticipants in both the virtual and in-person cohorts will grow their knowledge through team-based simulations, assessments and progress tracking, and online resources. They will also benefit from the coaching and mentoring sessions offered by seasoned leaders in the material handling industry. The Virtual Leadership Program will be held on Thursday afternoons from August 7 to November 6, featuring eight sessions and three interactive power hours. Registration for the virtual program closes on August 20, 2025. The In-Person Program takes place Sept. 16-18 at MHI’s headquarters in Charlotte, NC. It will offer the same core content in a face-to-face setting, along with enhanced networking opportunities. Registration for this option closes on September 5, 2025.To ensure a collaborative experience, each cohort is limited to 20 participants. MHI and WERC members receive a discounted tuition rate. To view the brochure and enroll in the program, please visit mhi.org/leadership program. For more information, please contact Director of Talent and Development Rebecca Woods at education@mhi.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI is pleased to recognize the member companies that have reached significant milestone anniversaries this year. During ProMat 2025 in Chicago, John Paxton, MHI CEO, and Christy Dula, MHI Chief Experience Officer and Digital Technology Officer, presented commemorative plaques to honor these supply chain organizations for their leadership and resilience.“These companies have shown what it means to lead with purpose and evolve with the industry,” said Christy Dula. “Their long-standing commitment to excellence and innovation continues to move our entire community forward. We’re proud to recognize their achievements and grateful for their partnership.”Congratulations to the following members: Cimcorp Automation Ltd. (50 years) OPEX Corporation (50 years) Muratec America, Inc. (51 years) Alba Manufacturing (50+ years) Sitma USA (60 years) Inventus Power (65 years) Avery Dennison (90 years) Carron Net Company, Inc. (91 years) Nashville Wire Products (91 years) Cotterman Company (100 years) Swisslog (125 years) Columbus McKinnon (150 years)Reaching a milestone anniversary is a testament to the lasting impact of these supply chain organizations. MHI is proud to celebrate their achievements and honored by their continued membership.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI reinforced its commitment to STEM education by pledging $25,000 to support five youth robotic teams in North Carolina. The donation follows the organization’s participation in the 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition North Carolina Mecklenburg County District Event, where several MHI employees served as judges and volunteers. This event celebrates STEM, innovation, and teamwork, inspiring the next generation of engineers and problem-solvers.The competition’s ocean theme—REEFSCAPE℠—encouraged teams to design and build pioneering robotic solutions that promote marine conservation and advance undersea exploration. By integrating science, technology, and engineering principles, students were tasked with tackling complex real-world problems, pushing the boundaries of their imagination and technical expertise.Moved by the ingenuity and dedication of these young innovators, MHI committed a $25,000 donation to support five talented teams, each receiving $5,000: Team 9005, Avian Robotics – Sponsored by East Mecklenburg Senior High School, Charlotte, NC Team 9298, Greenies – Sponsored by Christ School, Arden, NC Team 9559, EagleTron – Sponsored by SHIELD Mentor Program, High Point, NC Team 10077, The H.E.I.S.T – Sponsored by their families and community, Huntersville, NC Team 10107, ThunderBirdz – Sponsored by Google & Cox Mill High School, Concord, NCCongratulations to all participants in the 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition North Carolina Mecklenburg District Event. MHI is proud to support the future of STEM and looks forward to seeing these bright minds continue to innovate.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole, through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment community.––MHI team members who served as judges and volunteers at the 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition North Carolina Mecklenburg County District Event, held March 21-23, 2025. Pictured (left to right): John Paxton, Linda Lasure, Angela Jenkins, Patrick Davison, Jayesh Mehta, and Christian Dow. Not pictured: Elisa Musser.

The manufacturing and supply chain community came together for a record-setting ProMat exhibition, according to show producer MHI. With an overall registration count of 52,223 and 1,160 exhibitors, ProMat included 659,000 net square feet of exhibit solutions and 215 educational sessions across three show halls at Chicago’s McCormick Place.This was the largest ProMat to date for MHI, with 3% more registered attendees than the last ProMat. Attendees came from the United States and 143 countries across the globe.“ProMat brings this industry together to connect and share the best equipment and technology, the leading trends, and the latest innovations. The success of ProMat 2025 is proof of the central role the supply chain plays across industries,” says John Paxton, CEO, MHI. “No other event offers this broad range of technology and end-to-end solutions, ProMat’s unparalleled solution-sourcing, educational, and experiential offerings provide attendees with a one-stop shop for the information and connections they need to thrive in this constantly changing marketplace.”“The energy on the show floor was very high! Attendees not only viewed the latest innovation this industry has to offer, but they also learned about them in educational sessions and connected with each other to move their companies and this powerful industry forward.,” added Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI. “Attendees representing the Fortune 500, the top 100 retailers, and consumer goods firms brought large teams to ProMat to source the latest technologies and to learn about the leading trends impacting supply chains. They came to ProMat with plans in hand and budgets in place to improve their operations and build resilient supply chain operations for future success.”The dominant trends at ProMat were automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence and their impact on end-to-end transparency and resiliency.  These new technologies work seamlessly in conjunction with traditional material handling solutions that were also on display to make efficient and orchestrated operations possible.“We’re seeing a big acceleration in the adoption of these technologies in manufacturing and supply chain operations,” said Paxton. “The variety of solutions on display this year were evidence of this trend.”ProMat Supply Chain ConferenceThe tech trend was also evident in ProMat Supply Chain Conference sessions which included 215 educational seminars and four keynotes. On March 17, Paul Zikopoulos, VP of Technology Unit Skills & Enablement at IBM gave a talk on “The Data Effect: The Price of Not Knowing.” Azeem Azhar, host of Bloomberg’s “Exponentially” followed on March 18 with a keynote on “The AI Opportunity for Supply Chains.”On March 19, the ProMat audience enjoyed an inspirational keynote with Deion Sanders discussing his journey from Prime Time to Coach Prime. Also on March 19, MHI’s John Paxton and Deloitte’s Wanda Johnson released the findings of the 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report: “The Digital Supply Chain Ecosystem: Orchestrating End-to-End Solutions.” during a panel discussion with four industry thought leaders. The report details the revolutionary adoption of supply chain technology that is predicted to make operations more responsive, agile, and responsible. The report can be downloaded here.MHI Industry Night with comedian Jay Pharoah, who was a regular on Saturday Night Live, provided fun and laughs. During this entertaining evening, $60,000 in proceeds from the event ticket sales was donated to the Material Handling Education Foundation (MHEFI.org) to fund scholarships and programs for students in our industry. MHI also announced a $5,000 donation to Fight2Feed to support the local community. Additionally, Katara Moore from Moen won the event door prize of a Trip of a Lifetime.2025 MHI Innovation AwardsMHI announced the winners of the 2025 MHI Innovation Awards during MHI Industry Night. The MHI Innovation Awards serve to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain innovative products and services. The awards had 234 submissions from ProMat 2025 exhibitors, and the winners were:•  Best New Innovation - Anyware Robotics•  Best Innovation of an Existing Product – Concentric, LLC•  Best IT Innovation – Fidus Global•  Best Innovation in Sustainability – GRI Inc.In addition to these awards, the MHI StartUp Award was also announced at Industry Night. This winner was selected from the trailblazing companies who were featured in the ProMat 2025 StartUp Pavilion, a specialized area on the ProMat show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech. This year’s StartUp Award winner was Freespace Robotics and they received $10,000 check to help fund their growth.Student Day at ProMatStudent Day at ProMat introduced over 400 high school and university students to career opportunities in material handling, supply chain and logistics through hands-on learning and networking with industry professionals. This year’s Student Day combined an interactive educational session, featuring Destin Sandlin, YouTube sensation of Smarter Every Day, with a dynamic guided tour of the ProMat expo.Women in Supply Chain ConferenceProMat also included a Women in Supply Chain Conference on March 17. Nearly 200 supply chain professionals attended this event to connect and learn from Taylor Elyse Morrison as she discussed the early signs of workplace burnout, how to develop a burnout prevention toolkit and critical skills to bounce back from burnout.ProMat Digital EntryOn-demand content from the event, including keynote sessions, educational sessions and video presentations will soon be available online at promatshow.com via ProMat Digital Entry.The next MHI-sponsored trade event will be MODEX 2026 held April 13-16 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. For more information on exhibiting at MODEX, or to register as an attendee, visit modexshow.com. The next ProMat will be held at Chicago’s McCormick Place in 2027.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole, through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment community.Contact: For more information on MHI or ProMat contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

MHI is proud to unveil the winners of the 2025 MHI Innovation and Startup Awards, celebrating the groundbreaking solutions shaping the future of the material handling and supply chain industry.A judging panel comprised of industry professionals evaluated 234 submissions from ProMat 2025 attendees to identify three finalists in each of the following categories: Best New Innovation, Best Innovation of an Existing Product, Best IT Innovation, and Best Innovation in Sustainability. After an additional vetting process, the award winners were selected and announced on March 19 at MHI’s Industry Night at ProMat 2025.The 2025 MHI Innovation Award winners are:•  Best New Innovation - Anyware Robotics•  Best Innovation of an Existing Product – Concentric, LLC•  Best IT Innovation – Fidus Global•  Best Innovation in Sustainability – GRI Inc.In addition to these awards, the MHI StartUp Award was also announced at Industry Night. This winner was selected from the trailblazing companies who were featured in the ProMat 2025 StartUp Pavilion, a specialized area on the ProMat show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech. This year’s StartUp Award winner was Freespace Robotics.MHI congratulates all of the finalists and winners and extends its gratitude to the industry professionals who generously volunteered their time as judges.About ProMat 2025ProMat 2025 is taking place March 17-20, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. As the industry’s leading supply chain event, ProMat 2025 featured over 1,200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge solutions and hosted 200+ educational sessions.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community. 

55% say they are increasing their investment in supply chain tech and innovation and 60% are planning to invest over $1 millionChicago, IL – A new report released today by MHI and Deloitte finds that 55% of supply chain leaders are increasing their supply chain technology and innovation investments with 60% saying they are planning to spend over $1 million. Nineteen percent plan to spend over $10 million.This investment includes solutions for orchestrated, end-to-end solutions between tech and human workers, according to the 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report, “The Digital Supply Chain Ecosystem: Orchestrating End-to-End Solutions.” The report provides new insights into trends and technologies that are transforming supply chains and the priorities of the people who run them.As a result of these increased investments, adoption of the 11 categories of technology covered in the report is predicted to rise over the next five years.• Inventory and Network Optimization – 92%• Cloud Computing and Storage – 91%• Sensors and Automatic Identification – 88%• Predictive Analytics – 87%• Robotics and Automation – 83%• Artificial Intelligence – 82%• Internet of Things – 77%• Wearable and Mobile Technology – 72%• Autonomous Vehicles and Drones – 64%• 3D Printing – 57%• Blockchain – 54%The 2025 report, the twelfth in a series of annual industry reports published by MHI and Deloitte, provides updates on the innovative technologies that have the most potential to transform supply chains in an orchestrated way that maximizes performance gains while also empowering workers.Today’s business environment is increasingly complex and volatile requiring a more integrated and agile approach to supply chain management. End-to-end supply chain orchestration, which seamlessly connects every stage of the supply chain, has emerged as a critical strategy for organizations to remain competitive.“These are exciting times for the supply chain industry as we see the orchestration of technology and talent coming to the forefront,” said John Paxton, CEO of MHI. “The future of supply chains will center around striking the right combination of human talent and technology to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability.”AI Adoption is SurgingAdoption of artificial intelligence is expected to rise dramatically, with 28% reporting that it's in use today, and another 54% reporting that they plan to have it in use within 5 years, making the 5-year total nearly triple that of today at 82% by 2029.AI is already adding value in a wide range of supply chain processes, from inventory management to demand planning to logistics. Moving forward, supply chain organizations will be increasingly leveraging AI to enhance all aspects of their operations. Agentic AI—which can operate independently without human guidance or oversight—specifically has the potential to quickly and proactively address disruptions, enhance forecasting precision, and improve overall visibility within the supply chain.“As the promise of agentic AI for warehouse process automation, real-time inventory visibility, predictive maintenance, and demand forecasting grows, high-quality data will be essential to utilizing this technology to drive efficiency and agility. Additionally, predictable and ethical behavior from AI solutions will be a focus.” said Paxton.Inflation and Economic Uncertainty Top the List of Key Trends Impacting Supply Chains in 2025 According to this year’s respondents, the top five most impactful supply chain trends are: inflation (38%); economic uncertainty (37%); workforce and talent shortages (35%); supply chain agility and resiliency (28%); and inventory challenges (25%).1. InflationDespite concerns about inflation, interest rate policies and economic uncertainty, the foundation of the US economy remains robust and current data suggests that year-on-year inflation will ease in 2025, although the evolving tariff policies could alter the outlook. The bottom line is that while inflation is a headwind against investment in new supply chain capabilities, those headwinds will likely be more than offset by the resulting efficiency gains and reducing the reliance on scarce talent.2. Economic UncertaintyOngoing geopolitical tensions and recent political shocks, both domestically and globally, have increased uncertainty for global trade. Trade restrictions will require policy revisions that contribute to economic uncertainty and will have an impact on supply chains.3. Workforce and Talent ShortageA major impetus for companies to automate and implement AI is the ongoing decline in supply chain labor force participation—a trend that seems likely to continue for the foreseeable future. Also, automated facilities with end-to-end orchestration requires worker reskilling for work in digital supply chain environments.4. Supply Chain Agility and ResiliencyContinued expansion of product portfolios and supplier networks across manufacturers is making supply chains more complex and more vulnerable than ever, creating more potential points of failure and ripple effects across the supply network. This has made supply chain resiliency and agility a top priority that will likely remain for years to come. Technology is driving this resiliency by providing real-time visibility and actionable data for operations.5. Inventory ChallengesGiven all these other challenges, companies are holding more inventory (and paying more to hold it). Also, economic uncertainty is making demand forecasting even trickier.As supply chain organizations wrestle with these forces—and work to embrace and integrate new technologies—they continue to broadly focus on strengthening their operations to withstand future challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities, both of which are crucial for maintaining a competitive advantage in a dynamic global marketplace.The Next Five Tech-Specific Trends Shaping Supply ChainsIn addition to the five trends noted above, this year’s survey identified five additional tech-specific trends that are having a major impact on supply chain strategy and operations.These key tech trends are:6. Cybersecurity and Data SecurityFor many businesses, the supply chain is a leading source of cybersecurity risk—and with supply chains’ growing reliance on technology and digitization, data security is sure to become an increasingly vital issue. Powered by the rise of AI, it seems likely that attacks such as phishing, deepfakes, and ransomware will only grow in volume and sophistication in the years ahead.7. Demand for Real-Time DataLack of access to accurate, real-time data is an ongoing barrier to achieving the vision and benefits of supply chain digitization and end-to-end orchestration. Without real-time data visibility, it is difficult or impossible to make informed, data-driven decisions that enable a supply chain to optimize inventory, react to changing demands and risks, and improve efficiency.8. Digitization and the Pace of Technology AdoptionThe dizzying pace of technological change in supply chains can be daunting for supply chain leaders and professionals alike. Yet, the pace will likely only accelerate as supply chain operations embrace AI in the pursuit of improved visibility, transparency and efficiency. This will make keeping up with the latest developments in digital technology even more challenging, but also even more important.9. Ecommerce GrowthEcommerce grew by leaps and bounds during the pandemic, and that growth is showing no signs of slowing. This is driving companies to find new and better ways to anticipate changes in demand and fulfill orders more quickly and accurately. To that end, supply chains are looking for ways to harness the power of technology— especially AI—to more accurately anticipate customer needs, manage inventories, and accelerate delivery.10. SustainabilityAlthough sustainability is not strictly a technical issue, it remains a high priority and strategic differentiator for many firms—with technology being both a critical enabler and potential source of new problems. Technology advances are helping operations around the world become more sustainable; however, many firms are still wrestling with data issues that make it hard for them to accurately report Scope 3 emissions. AI and machine learning algorithms can help; however, the irony is that AI systems use tremendous amounts of energy. Bottom line is that sustainability goals need to be rooted in the overall business plan.“Leaders must ensure seamless integration of all supply chain components to enhance efficiency and meet customer expectations to further drive innovation, reduce redundancies, and deliver superior value,” said Wanda Johnson, Supply Chain Technology Fellow, Deloitte Consulting.The report also provides real-world case studies of digital supply chain technologies and recommendations for leaders to develop strategies to implement these innovations.The findings of the 2025 report are based on survey responses from over 700 manufacturing and supply chain industry leaders from a wide range of industries at the end of 2024. Eighty-three percent of respondents hold executive-level positions such as CEO, Vice President, General Manager, Department Head, or Engineering Management. Participating companies range in size from small to large, with 53% reporting annual sales of more than $50 million, and 21% reporting $1 billion or more.Download the complete report here.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking, and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics communityProMat 2025 is being held at Chicago’s McCormick Place from March 17-20.About DeloitteDeloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world’s most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500® and more than 8,500 U.S.-based private companies. At Deloitte, we strive to live our purpose of making an impact that matters by creating trust and confidence in a more equitable society. We leverage our unique blend of business acumen, command of technology, and strategic technology alliances to advise our clients across industries as they build their future. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Bringing more than 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte’s approximately 460,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com.

The Material Handling Industry (MHI) and the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) are proud to announce the launch of SupplyChainCareers.org, a comprehensive career portal designed to connect supply chain and logistics companies with skilled professionals.As the supply chain sector continues to evolve, the demand for qualified talent is increasing. SupplyChainCareers.org serves as a centralized hub where employers can post job openings, and candidates can explore a diverse range of opportunities across warehousing, distribution, transportation, procurement, and the supply chain industry.Beyond job listings, the portal features a career planning center with resume writing assistance, personalized coaching, and insights into industry trends. Job applicants can leverage the platform to secure the right opportunity.As a benefit of membership, MHI and WERC members receive free 30-day job postings. For inquiries about posting jobs, contact membership@mhi.org or membership@werc.org.SupplyChainCareers.org is live for both employers and job seekers. To explore career opportunities or post job listings, visit supplychaincareers.org.About WERCWERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The MHI Solutions Community is pleased to announce the approval of several new members to join the Solutions Community, since the 2024 Annual Conference held on October 14th. These new members include:BlueSkye Automation, E Tech Group, Integrated Systems Design, LogistiQ Integration Solutions, LogistiVIEW, Matthews Automation Solutions, Packsize, Reflex Robotics, Rehrig Pacific Company, Roach Conveyors, Roboteon Inc., Stoecklin Logistics, Inc., Systems in Motion, Tompkins Solutions.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MHI Solutions Community, please Visit mhi.org/solutionscommunity or contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org.About Solutions CommunitySolutions Community members are Industry’s thought leaders on automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. This includes suppliers, integrators, consultants, media, academia and users. They collaborate on solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.The philosophy of the Solutions Community is to support MHI’s mission of providing a unique venue where suppliers of material handling equipment and technology can collaboratively work with the user community to improve the marketplace for all.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI has revealed the three finalists who will participate in the ProMat 2025 StartUp Pitch Competition on Tuesday, March 18. The three companies, selected by an independent panel of supply chain professionals, include:• Cartken• Freespace Robotics
• WareBeeThese innovative companies were also chosen to exhibit in the ProMat StartUp Pavilion, which will be located in the Lakeside Ballroom of McCormick Place.Competition OverviewDuring the StartUp Pitch Competition, each finalist will have exactly 8 minutes to present their cutting-edge supply chain solution. Following their presentations, they will participate in a 7-minute Q&A session with a judging panel comprised of supply chain experts. The winner will be awarded a $10,000 check, which will be presented during MHI Industry Night at ProMat on March 19.The StartUp Pitch Competition will be held at the ProMat StartUp Theater in the Lakeside Ballroom from 3-4 pm on Tuesday, March 18.ProMat 2025ProMat 2025 will be held March 17-20, 2025 at the McCormick Place in Chicago. As the largest international manufacturing and supply chain exhibition held in the United States, the event offers attendees free access to groundbreaking innovation. Learn more and register for free at promatshow.com.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The SLAM Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Paccurate and Packsize to join SLAM at the 2024 Annual Conference held virtually on October 15, 2024.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about SLAM, please visit mhi.org/slam or contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org.About SLAMSLAM members meet regularly to discuss the industry and promote the best and largest possible market for end-of-line technologies and systems, emphasizing the best interest of the user. Member companies aim to be the authoritative resource for transforming today’s end-of-line fulfillment operations to address tomorrow’s challenges by defining and evaluating best practices for the marketplace.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI is proud to announce that MODEX, a premier supply chain exhibition, has been named to the Trade Show Executive’s (TSE) “Fastest 50 Class.” MODEX 2024 earned recognition for its remarkable growth in three key categories: total attendance, net square feet of exhibit space, and the number of exhibiting companies.TSE will celebrate this achievement at the Fastest 50 Awards & Summit, taking place April 30 – May 2 in Orlando, Florida. In its announcement, TSE highlighted the strength of the exhibition industry, noting that overall trade show growth from 2023 to 2024 reached double digits.“MODEX’s recognition on the Fastest 50 list is a testament to the growing demand for world-class exhibitions that connect buyers and suppliers in meaningful ways,” said MHI Executive Vice President of Exhibitions Daniel McKinnon. “Exhibiting companies continue to invest in MODEX because they see the value of face-to-face engagement with decision-makers actively seeking supply chain innovations.”MHI looks forward to building on this momentum at its upcoming ProMat exhibition, which will take place March 17-20, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. As the industry’s leading supply chain event, ProMat will feature over 1,200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge solutions.MODEX 2026, the largest international supply chain expo, will be on held April 13-16, 2026 at the World Congress Center in Atlanta. The event will feature more than 1,000 exhibitors, 150+ education sessions, and thousands of domestic and global attendees from the supply chain and manufacturing industry. To learn more, visit modexshow.com.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI just released the list of finalists for the 2025 MHI Innovation Awards. After receiving 234 submissions for this year’s awards, nine independent judges comprised of professionals from the material handling and supply chain logistics industry completed the initial review process. Three finalists were chosen as the most innovative products in each category based on concept, value, and impact. Here are the finalists by category in alphabetical order:Best New Innovation:• Anyware Robotics Inc. | Product: Pixmo: Mobile Robot for Truck Unloading & Palletization | Booth #: E11513• Packsize International LLC | Product: X6® | Booth #: S4153• Reflex Robotics | Product: Reflex Robotics Humanoid Robot |  Booth #: S5112Best Innovation of an Existing Product:• Agility Robotics | Product: Digit | Booth #: N7568• Concentric, LLC | Product: PowerHIVE forklift battery reload system by Concentric | Booth #: E11102• Verity | Product: AI-Assisted Counting | Booth #: N6344Best IT Innovation:Fidus Global | Product: Pontem Warehouse Control System by Fidus Global | Booth #: N6323LaborAI | Product: LaborAI | Booth #: E12330Yard Management Solutions | Product: YMS AI-Powered Gate Automation | Booth #: N6327Best Innovation in Sustainability:GRI Inc. | Product: Sustainable Material Handling Solid Tire | Booth #: S1480Ranpak Automation | Product: DecisionTower™ with FillPak Trident™ by Ranpak | Booth #: E10702WP Innova | Product: Precisionrap DK Stretch Film | Booth #: S3818The MHI Innovation Award serves to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain products and services to ProMat attendees.  ProMat 2025 exhibitors were called to submit a new product, product line, technology or service or new application of existing products or technology that create quantifiable and sustainable results in terms of ROI, cost savings, customer satisfaction, etc.On Monday, March 17, 2025, finalists move onto the next round of judging and will present their unique solutions to a panel of independent judges on the show floor at ProMat 2025. The winners in each category will be announced at ProMat 2025 on March 19th during MHI Industry Night with Jay Pharoah.MHI would like to thank the nine industry professionals for graciously volunteering their time as Innovation Award judges.To see more information and learn more about all the 2025 MHI Innovation Award entries, visit ProMat 2025 Innovation Awards.About ProMatProMat 2025 will be held March 17-20 in Chicago’s McCormick Place. Over 1200 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on ProMat’s show floor totaling over 660,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems, e-comm fulfillment and last mile logistics. ProMat 2025 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including four keynotes and over 200 show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and its Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX trade events.For more information on exhibiting or attending ProMat, visit promatshow.com.Contact: For more information on the MHI Innovation Awards or ProMat, contact Greg Baer at gbaer@mhi.org or 704-676-1190.

MHI is set to host a special Supply Chain Tech Talk on February 5 at 1:00 pm ET. This free webinar will offer a preview of ProMat 2025, the largest supply chain and manufacturing event of the year, happening March 17-20 at the McCormick Place in Chicago.Join MHI CEO John Paxton, VP of Sales Greg Baer, Chief Exhibitions Officer Daniel McKinnon, and Exhibit Sales Manager Paul Trainor as they discuss the cutting-edge technologies, educational sessions, and industry events awaiting attendees at ProMat 2025. The Tech Talk will also feature a live Q&A session, providing valuable tips for attendees to maximize their ProMat experience.Explore ProMat 2025As the premier supply chain event, ProMat 2025 will bring together over 1,100 exhibitors and thousands of industry professionals looking to discover the latest in automation, robotics, AI, and other emerging technologies that drive supply chain efficiency. With hands-on demonstrations and expert-led education sessions, ProMat is the ultimate destination for those looking to stay competitive in the industry.Register now to join this Tech Talk conversation on February 5 at 1:00 pm ET and get an inside look at what’s in store for ProMat 2025.To learn more about ProMat and register for free, visit promatshow.com.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, invites logistics professionals to register for the WERC Annual Conference on June 8-11, 2025, at the New Orleans Sheraton Hotel. This event provides industry leaders with practical insights to enhance operational efficiencies and maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment landscape.By providing keynote and educational sessions that address emerging technologies and operational best practices, this premier conference is designed to inspire professionals to lead their organizations with vision.Captivating Keynote PresentationsThe WERC Annual Conference will host two impactful keynote speakers who will engage and challenge attendees: Destin Sandlin, Monday, June 9, "The ‘Smarter Every Day’ Perspective: Embracing Change and Breaking Barriers"Engineer and YouTube creator of the popular series Smarter Every Day, Destin Sandlin, will challenge attendees to rethink old habits and embrace change to drive innovation. Drawing on his scientific storytelling and viral experiments like the “Backwards Bicycle,” Sandlin will motivate warehousing and distribution leaders to approach obstacles with adaptability and fresh perspectives. Sugar Ray Leonard, Tuesday, June 10, "The Power to Win!"Boxing legend and Olympic gold medalist Sugar Ray Leonard will share how discipline and resilience have shaped his career, making compelling parallels to the logistics industry. Through his dynamic storytelling, Leonard will inspire attendees perform under pressure and strive for championship-level success in their careers.Networking OpportunitiesIn addition to the keynote presentations, attendees will benefit from an array of educational sessions, facility tours, and networking events designed to foster collaboration and share practical strategies.“At WERC, we believe in equipping logistics professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to excel,” stated Michael Mikitika, Executive Vice President of WERC. “This Annual Conference will bring together a wealth of operational expertise, making it an invaluable experience for professionals to learn, connect, and grow.” Registration is now open at werc.org/conference. Join WERC as an individual or team member to take advantage of discounted conference rates.About WERCWERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. 

With ProMat 2025 just two months away, new data on registering attendees indicates that they are looking towards automation, robotics, and AI to move their supply chains into the future. ProMat 2025 will be the largest display of what’s new and what’s next when it comes to supply chain trends, equipment and technology. As the largest supply chain event of the year, it’s the equivalent of a four-day accelerator program for supply chain innovation.The ProMat theme of “where supply chain pros come together to find solutions” is ringing true with a large number of the Fortune 1000 and top 100 retailers and consumer goods firms registering to attend as teams to connect, learn and source solutions for their operational challenges.When attendees register for ProMat, they are asked to answer several demographic questions about their industry, product interest, buying authority, and spending plans. Below are some highlights from current ProMat 2025 attendee demographics.–88% have buying power–80% are coming to see new products and innovations–69% are coming to network and learn–38% plan on spending over $1 million over the next 18 months–50% are corporate or senior management–34% are middle management or IT/Engineering–68% are looking for solutions for distribution centers or warehouses supporting manufacturing–25% are looking for solutions for manufacturing facilitiesWhen it comes to product interest, ProMat 2025 attendees are looking for a broad range of equipment and technologies. However, there is a heightened interest in AI, automation, robotics, and autonomous vehicles as firms are looking to build resiliency and visibility into their operations. Looking at the current product interest from ProMat attendee registrations, we see several key themes emerging for this event:The Power of Data and AI for Supply ChainsAttendees are demonstrating an increased interest in using data and artificial intelligence AI to optimize order picking routes, demand forecasting, and to identify bottlenecks. Machine learning algorithms can improve operational efficiency by continuously learning from data patterns. Leveraging this data with AI drives faster decision-making and more accurate operations by providing real-time information and actionable intelligence on operations. These important trends are of keen interest for attendees and will be big news on the ProMat show floor and are also the focus of the event’s March 17 and March 18 keynotes.Utilizing Automation for Connected, Scalable Warehouse and DC OperationsWarehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Autonomous Forklifts, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) are now seen as interconnected solutions for facilities. Attendees are interested to see how these solutions can work together to build smarter, scalable, and more agile warehouse and DC operations.Collaborative and Humanoid RobotsHumanoid and collaborative robots (Cobots) are of keen interest due to their enhanced precision and adaptability. The ability of these solutions to collaborate safely and efficiently with human workers as they provide real-time operational data has the attention of ProMat attendees.Wearable TechnologyFrom smart glasses to headsets and advanced gloves and wrist wearables, these solutions are enhancing worker efficiency and safety. Wearables streamline warehouse workflows by removing manual steps from day-to-day processes. They also improve worker satisfaction by empowering workers with real-time information and feedback. Wearables also work to reduce worker strain as they monitor physical activity, location, and health.In addition to ProMat’s 1,200 exhibits, the event includes a conference with four keynotes and over 200 educational sessions. This powerful combination of exhibits, education, and networking makes ProMat an event like no other, one that will give you the tools and knowledge you need to sharpen your competitive edge and take your operations to the next level of excellence in 2025 and beyond. Visit promatshow.com to learn about all the ProMat has to offer and access free registration for you and your team.ProMat is Powered by MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and its Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX trade events.Contact: For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2023-2024 Material Handling Capstone Design competition organized by the Material Handling Industry (MHI) and the College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE). The winning undergraduate teams are:First Place Winner ($2000):  Virginia Tech & 2C Innovation Commons - Pizza Crust Loading and Unloading Student Team Members:  Aziz Malouche, CJ Girts, Janay Williams, Charles Taylor Faculty Advisors:  Dr. Natalie CherbakaSecond Place Winner ($2000):  Rochester Institute of Technology & PGM - Process Improvement For Packaging Materials at a Manufacturing Facility Student Team Members: Alisson Davila Prado, Andrew Morris, Mouad Maarouf, Orapun Chayasathit Faculty Advisors: Dr. Jennifer EnglertThird Place Winner ($500):  California Polytechnic State University - Cal Poly Mailroom Layout Design - Team 1 Student Team Members: Tillman Erb, Owen Lassa, Jonathan Lee, Aidan Ng, Dylan Souttaphonh Faculty Advisor: Dr. Mohamed AwwadHonorable Mention:   University of Minnesota Twin Cities & Andersen Windows - Andersen Windows Shop Efficiency and Layout1 Student Team Members: Nick Reynolds, Connor Salsbury, Madelyn Gibbs, Jacob Voorhees, Samiksha Kanukunta Faculty Advisors: Dr. Kathryn Wust, Dr. Lisa Miller, Dr. Jean-Philippe RichardsThanks to generous MHI sponsors, including the MHI Solutions Community, Knapp, Swisslog, Fives, Autostore, SRSI, and UNEX, the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winning teams will receive $2000; $1000; and $500, respectively, to be shared among the students on the team.This year, the Material Handling Capstone Design competition received 16 submissions from 9 different schools. Each submission was reviewed by a set of industry and academic judges, including Drew Pope (Nautique Boat Company), Alan Marsh (RF-SMART), Michael Shannon (SRSI), Steve Hopper (Inviscid Consulting), Glen Wegel (Kitchen Cabinet Distributors), Derek Westfall (The Westfall Consulting Group), Eddie Murphy (Spaceguard Products), Jason Looman (Scanreco), Christine Nguyen (Northern Illinois University) and James Kong (Virginia Tech). These submissions were evaluated based on their project complexity and outcome success, the creativity in addressing the problem, the potential Impact/Contribution to the Material Handling Industry, the Quality of the Deliverables, and the Effective communication of the problem, approach, design, and results.We are excited to announce the 2024-2025 MHI and CICMHE Senior Design Competition, which will again include monetary prizes for first, second, and third places and recognition at MHI events. The application process is specifically designed to accommodate differences in capstone deliverables. Please encourage your capstone design teams to submit their material handling and supply chain projects. The deadline for submission is May 2025. More information can be found at mhi.org/cicmhe. Questions can be sent to cicmhe@mhi.org or the chair of the competition Dr. Christine Ngyuen at cnguyen@niu.edu.Congratulations to all the winning teams, their industry clients, and their faculty advisors.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

As the supply chain industry evolves to meet global demands, the need to attract and cultivate top talent is critical. Recognizing this, the MHI Board of Governors has approved a $250,000 contribution to the Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI). This one-time gift underscores MHI’s commitment to building a robust talent pipeline for the material handling and supply chain industry.Of this significant contribution, $50,000 will establish “The Donna Varner Honor Scholarship” to celebrate the impactful career of Donna Varner, MHI’s retiring Director of Events and Administration and MHEFI Executive Director. This scholarship will award $5,000 annually to an eligible student for a minimum of 10 years.Mary Alyson Ammons, the incoming Executive Director of MHEFI, welcomed this contribution, noting, “This generous donation is a game-changer for MHEFI and the students we support. It enables us to reach future innovators and leaders, strengthening the workforce that drives the material handling and supply chain industries forward.”For the 2024/2025 academic year, MHEFI awarded a total of $231,700 in scholarships to students. With the call for 2025/2026 scholarships now open, aspiring students are encouraged to learn more and apply at mhefi.smapply.org.About MHEFIThe Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, our programs have supported over 1,500 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at mhi.org/mhefi.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics. 

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is proud to honor Donna Varner, a cornerstone of the supply chain industry, with the 2025 MHEFI Exceptional Contribution Award. Donna, affectionately known as “the heart and soul” of MHI and MHEFI, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to advancing education in the material handling and supply chain fields.During her distinguished career as MHI’s Director of Events and Administration and MHEFI Executive Director, Donna’s dedication has shaped the success of both organizations and created opportunities for the next generation of supply chain professionals.“She’s touched every part of MHI. She’s touched our MHI team, our members, and our board. She also had a major impact on the students in our industry,” said John Paxton, MHI CEO. “Donna has single-handedly provided scholarships for 579 students."Donna’s reputation for exceptional service has also been noted by several members of MHI's Board of Governors. Bryan Jensen, Chair of the MHI Board of Governors and Executive Vice President of St. Onge Company, praised her profound impact: “One big reason why MHI has created the momentum it has, grown the way it has, and has been able to serve the supply chain industry the way it has, is ultimately the ripple effect that Donna’s involvement in the organization has had on the entire supply chain.”As Donna prepares to retire at the end of 2024, to ensure that her legacy will endure, MHI has established “The Donna Varner Honor Scholarship” for $50,000. Scholarships of $5,000 will be awarded annually for a minimum of 10 years and they will support students pursuing careers in the material handling and supply chain industry – a fitting tribute to Donna's unparalleled commitment to education.MHEFI’s call for scholarships is currently open for the 2025/2026 academic year. Eligible undergraduates are encouraged to learn more and apply at mhefi.smapply.org.About MHEFIThe Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, our programs have supported over 1,500 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at mhi.org/mhefi.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

MODEX 2024 was awarded the B2B Show of the Year at the Trade Show News Network (TSNN) annual awards celebration on December 16, 2024, at The Novo in Los Angeles.  TSNN is an online resource and authority for the trade show, exhibition and event industry.This award honors the best B2B trade show that set a new standard for excellence in the industry. MODEX 2024 won the award for its demonstrated exceptional attendee engagement, exhibitor satisfaction, and operational execution. Considerations for this award were growth in attendance and exhibitor participation, overall experience, innovation in programming, measurable business outcomes, and feedback from stakeholders.“Being recognized for such a prestigious award is not only a great accomplishment for MHI and MODEX, but a great reminder of the importance of convening the supply chain industry to showcase the solutions our vibrant industry offers. We’re thrilled to be included and look forward to successful ProMat and MODEX events in 2025 and 2026,” said Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer, MHI.MODEX, and its sister ProMat event, are the largest international supply chain trade shows, bringing together the industry’s leading solution providers to demonstrate their equipment, technology, systems and services for manufacturing, supply chain and transportation operations. The events also offer industry-leading educational, networking and experiential opportunities.ProMat 2025 will be held March 17-20, 2025, at Chicago’s McCormick Place. MODEX 2026 will be held April 13-16, 2026, at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. For more event information, visit promatshow.com and modexshow.com.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and its Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is proud to introduce the release of the Labor Management & Leadership course, the sixth and final installment in its Distribution Logistics Education Program. This course is designed to help logistics professionals build and maintain a strong, adaptable workforce to meet the demands of modern distribution and fulfillment operations.Offered in an online format, the Labor Management & Leadership course empowers learners to master workforce strategies at their own pace. Key topics of the course include: Evaluating the benefits and challenges of the different sources and types of labor. Leveraging labor management systems, strategic scheduling, and workforce leveling to optimize efficiency and productivity. Attracting and retaining talent in a competitive market through talent acquisition best practices. Designing effective onboarding and training programs for new hires. Reducing workforce turnover to maintain operational stability.Participants who complete the Labor Management & Leadership course will earn a social media badge to showcase their skills.  Additionally, participants who complete all six courses in the Distribution Logistics Education Program will earn a WERC certificate for education, recognizing their proficiency in warehouse and distribution center operations.To learn more about the Labor Management & Leadership course and WERC’s Distribution Logistics Education Program, visit werc.org/getcertified. Companies of all sizes can access the entire program through WERC Team Membership plans, making it simple to onboard new employees and upskill existing team members.About WERCWERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

ShowPro Live, an MHI Show & Marketing Professionals Conference, brought together supply chain professionals to explore the latest industry-specific strategies for impactful marketing. This year’s program featured expert-led sessions on optimizing trade show impact, integrating artificial intelligence into campaigns, and creating engaging content across different formats. A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the 2024 Outstanding Marketer award, given by MHI’s Marketing Professionals Community (Mpro). This year’s recipient was Allison Myers, Director of Marketing and Communication for Fives. Candidates for the Outstanding Marketing Award are nominated by their industry peers. One of Myers’ nominators described her as an exceptional brand ambassador who leads with positivity. Another highlighted Myers unique blend of creativity and innovation, crediting her with making a significant impact on Fives' marketing. Held from October 28-30 at the McCormick Place in Chicago, SHOWpro is an annual benefit offered free to MHI members and ProMat 2025 exhibitors. The event focuses on emerging marketing trends that drive success in the supply chain industry. ProMat 2025 ProMat 2025 will be held March 17-20, 2025 at the McCormick Place. As the largest international manufacturing and supply chain exhibition held in the United States, the event offers attendees free access to groundbreaking innovation. Learn more at promatshow.com. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) proudly announces $80,253 raised during its annual fundraiser at the MHI Annual Conference. These funds will enable MHEFI to provide scholarships to students and educators pursuing material handling and supply chain fields, helping to build a skilled workforce for this vital industry. Through the generosity of its donors, MHEFI was able to fund scholarships for 61 students for the 2024/2025 academic year.  One recent recipient, Samantha Chiang, shared her appreciation for the support she received: "People would congratulate me on the scholarship for the next couple of months, which has been an exhilarating experience, and I am forever grateful for that boost in my reputation…I'm a second-generation Asian American on both sides of my family, so I really do want to highlight how much this scholarship means to me, as it helps my financial situation a lot." Chiang is pursuing a bachelor’s in science and engineering with a concentration in mechatronics at Kettering University. MHEFI would like to thank the MHI Industry Groups for making a generous $49,700 contribution, further empowering MHEFI to support the next generation of industry leaders.  The MHI Industry Groups foster a collaborative environment to address common challenges and opportunities in material handling and supply chains, and they are a big supporter of the work of the Foundation and educating the future workforce Additionally, MHEFI would like to recognize the commitment of the 2024 MHEFI’s Donor Club, which is comprised of the generous companies and individuals that have supported our educational mission.   2024 MHEFI Donor’s Club   President’s Club: ACE ASG Services AS/RS William A. Bastian II CMAA CSS Annette Danek-Akey Christian Dow Frazier Industrial Family of James (Jim) Indelicato Bryan & Lisa Jensen MHEDA MHI John & Kathleen Paxton ProGMA Brian Reh Revels Charitable Fund RMI St. Onge Company Seizmic, Inc. Solutions Community Southworth International Group Steel King Industries TRG Mr. & Mrs. Ron Wurz   Silver Club: Bastian Solutions Cornerstone Specialty Wood Products Christy Dula EASE Expert Crane Gorbel Inc. Hoist & Crane Service Group, Inc. LIFT Dave Lippert LODEM MAG Karen Norheim SLAM SMA SpaceGuard Products UNEX Manufacturing, Inc.   Bronze Club: Hanel Storage Systems John Hill HMI Ridg-U-Rak Ashley Rhodes Simon's Family   Patron: Vija Brookshire Andrew Burer DCS Del Sole Cavanaugh Stroyd LLC Steve Diebold ELOKON Inc. G.W. Becker, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Frank Kamian Markus Keller KPI Solutions Matthew Kulp Michael Mikitka Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. MMA Noblelift North America David Porter Mary Prough Sue Reh Jason Schenker Jeff Stowe Sebastian Titze Donna Varner Xerox   If you would like to donate to MHEFI, please visit mhi.org/mhefi/donors. For any questions about the organization, contact MHEFI Executive Director Donna Varner at dvarner@mhi.org.   About MHEFI The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, our programs have supported over 1,500 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at www.mhefi.org. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.        

During the 2024 MHI Annual Conference, MHI celebrated individuals who are making significant contributions to the supply chain industry. MHI’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) awarded Kaushal Shah the Outstanding YPN Mentor award for consistently offering guidance and nurturing upcoming talent in our industry. Shah serves as a Global Engineering Manager with Intralox. The organization also recognized this year’s YPN Outstanding Young Professional Award recipient Bethany Patterson, Marketing Manager at Viastore, for her impactful work in our industry.  The Material Handling Education Foundation (MHEFI), a nonprofit that provides financial support to engage and retain talent in the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry, also awarded an impressive professional.  Jim Crews, Vice President of Engineering at UNARCO, received the MHEFI Exceptional Contribution Award. In addition to serving at UNARCO for over 30 years, Crews also served as Chair of the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) Engineering Committee, as well as Chair of the AISI CF022 Stability and Combined Actions Committee on Specifications. Crew’s recent contributions to RMI include incorporating Direct Analysis Method into the RMI Specification, tailoring redundancy and overstrength factors to storage rack applications, and application of test data to model cold formed bracing connections to posts in response to seismic forces. Additionally, Jim has prepared storage rack calculation examples based on the latest code provisions, which will be made publicly available for aspiring rack engineers. Commenting on the achievements of the awardees, John Paxton, CEO of MHI, stated, “Strong leadership is essential to the supply chain’s success. The dedication and expertise of our award recipients set a standard for all professionals in our industry. MHI is proud to recognize their leadership and commitment to excellence.” MHI’s thoughts are with those affected by the recent hurricanes. The association recently made a $200,000 donation to the American Logistics Aid Network to support relief efforts. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

MHI & the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) are pleased to sponsor recent research by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) aimed at addressing the urgent challenges of supply chain electrification. Titled, “The Supply Chain Risks of the Energy Transition: A Blueprint for US Action,” this program empowers industry leaders with tools to adapt to the changing energy paradigm and future-proof their operations. Recognizing the profound impact this energy shift will have on the supply chain, MHI CEO John Paxton stated that MHI and WERC are honored to support this forward-thinking research: “To build resilient supply chains for the future, industry must deepen its expertise in electrification and regulatory frameworks, while also leading on sustainability efforts and next-generation technologies.” Paxton recently participated in an October 2nd keynote at CSCMP’s Edge Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition. The panel explored how a rising demand for energy, coupled with the drive to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, is reshaping the electrical ecosystem. Key Highlights of CSCMP’s "The Supply Chain Risks of the Energy Transition" include in-depth analyses of the implications of electrification, renewable energy integration, and energy storage on supply chain operations. Additionally, the program offers practical recommendations for optimizing supply chain networks, enhancing last-mile delivery capabilities, and leveraging innovative technologies to align with the energy transition objectives. The full report, "The Supply Chain Risks of the Energy Transition," is available now for download. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org. 

The sights of Hurricane Helene's flooding, debris, and destruction are incredibly saddening, particularly when we consider the lives lost and those who are still missing or awaiting help. The road to recovery will be long and arduous, with an overwhelming amount of work ahead.   The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) is actively responding to these needs as it has for over 19 years. To help support the relief efforts, the MHI Board of Governors has approved a resolution to provide a $200,000 donation to ALAN.   “It is hard to know where to even begin in the face of such massive devastation,” said John Paxton, MHI CEO. “We are confident that the donation to ALAN will get relief to those who need it as swiftly as possible.”   MHI encourages you to check in frequently for the latest updates and needs with ALAN. Or if you’d prefer, you can also make a donation to support our ongoing humanitarian efforts. Every dollar truly helps. You can also support by providing specifically requested material handling equipment. Please be on the lookout for additional material handling equipment donation needs that will come from the ALAN network.   In addition to ALAN, these organizations are also assisting with Helene victims.  American Red Cross World Central Kitchen United Way The Salvation Army   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and its Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.  

When the premier manufacturing and supply chain trade event of 2025, ProMat, returns to Chicago on March 17 it will include over 1,100 exhibits from leading solution providers and a comprehensive Educational Conference of nearly 200 sessions focusing on best-in-class solutions for manufacturing and supply chain operations. ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, logistics and transportation industry, from traditional, manual equipment to automated systems and smart, connected supply chain technologies.   “ProMat offers manufacturing and supply chain professionals the unique opportunity to witness in person, in action the vast array of technology and innovations impacting this industry,” says John Paxton, CEO, MHI. “We are thrilled to offer the supply chain community this chance to come together and experience all that ProMat has to offer.”   “From hands-on demonstrations to unparalleled education experiences, attending ProMat is your best opportunity in 2025 to gain the tools you need to innovate your supply chain operations for the next level of success,” adds Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer, MHI. “If it's your job to innovate your manufacturing and supply chain operations, you can't afford to miss ProMat.”   ProMat 2025 Conference  In addition to the exhibits, the ProMat Conference will include four keynotes and nearly 200 educational seminars covering leading trends, best practices and state-of-the-art equipment and technology solutions that can make manufacturing and the entire supply chain work more resiliently, efficiently and profitably.    • March 17 Keynote: The Data Effect: The Price of Not Knowing Paul Zikopoulos, VP of Technology Unit Skills & Enablement at IBM   • March 18 Keynote: The AI Opportunity for Supply Chains Azeem Azhar, host of Bloomberg’s “Exponentially”   • March 19 Keynote: From Prime Time to Coach Prime A Conversation with Dion Sanders   • March 19 Keynote Panel: Preview of MHI 2025 Annual Industry Report John Paxton, CEO, MHI and Wanda Johnson, Deloitte Consulting LLP   • March 19: MHI Industry Night with Jay Pharoah ProMat will feature the announcement of the 2025 MHI Innovation Award winners during an evening of food, drinks and entertainment from comedian Jay Pharoah on Wednesday, March 19. Tickets to this event are $50. The door prize for this event will be a trip of a lifetime vacation. Trip Value: $30,000. See official rules.   • Women in the Supply Chain Industry Forum on March 17 at ProMat MHI has partnered with Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) and the Warehousing, Education and Research Council (WERC) to bring an afternoon of discussion, education and networking for women in our industry. The event includes a keynote by Taylor Elyse Morrison.     • MHI Young Professionals Network Reception on March 17 at ProMat This event provides attendees to network and connect with young professionals in the handling and supply chain industry.   • ProMat Student Day on March 19 MHI in partnership with WERC, MHEDA, College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE), and the Material Handling Education Foundation (MHEFI) presents Student Day at ProMat 2025. This event features guided show floor tours to attract the future talent to our industry.   ProMat is the largest manufacturing and supply chain expo held in North America and South America. The event will be held March 17-20, 2025 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. For more information and for complimentary registration for ProMat, visit promatshow.com.   ProMat is Powered by MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and its Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.   Contact For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

MHI’s ProMat, a premier manufacturing and supply chain exhibition, has been honored with a prestigious Gold 100 Grand Award by Trade Show Executive (TSE). At an awards ceremony in Santa Barbara, California, in September 2024, TSE recognized ProMat as the “Overall Show with the Greatest Ascent,” acknowledging the event's remarkable growth and success. ProMat 2023 was a record-setting event with over 50,924 attendees registered and 1,051 exhibitors, further cementing its reputation as a must-attend event for the supply chain industry. In response to this award, John Paxton, CEO of MHI, stated, “We are thrilled to see ProMat’s continued success, which reflects MHI’s commitment to ensuring that ProMat remains the leading event for supply chain innovation. ProMat 2025 will be our largest event yet, with over 1,100 exhibitors covering more than 700,000 square feet, all focused on delivering the cutting-edge supply chain solutions that drive the industry forward." Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer for MHI, highlighted how ProMat’s rise is tied to the creativity within the supply chain industry: "The ingenuity and commitment of our exhibitors are at the heart of ProMat’s success. We are grateful to our exhibitors and MHI members for their continued support. ProMat 2025 will unite over 50,000 manufacturing and supply chain buyers, offering a unique platform for learning, networking, and experiencing the most advanced solutions in the industry. ProMat 2025 ProMat 2025 will be held March 17-20, 2025 at the McCormick Place in Chicago. As the largest international manufacturing and supply chain exhibition held in the United States, the event offers attendees free access to groundbreaking innovation. Learn more at promatshow.com. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The AUTOMATION CONTROLS ELECTRIFICATION (ACE) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Banner’s application to join ACE.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ACE, please visit mhi.org/ace or contact Rose Haire at rhaire@mhi.org.   About ACE – AUTOMATION CONTROLS ELECTRIFICATION ACE members are the industry’s leading suppliers of electrification and controlling devices. They supply solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Their mission is to bring together the leading suppliers and component manufacturers to educate, promote, specify and properly apply safe and reliable solutions for an automated world and aim to be recognized as the guiding authority of electrical control systems in automated solutions.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) has released the fifth course in its Distribution Logistics Education Program. The Performance & Metrics course is designed for logistics professionals responsible for performance management and strategic decision making within a distribution facility.   The Performance & Metrics course is available online, enabling learners to complete the course at their own pace. Highlights of the course include:   • Metric-Driven Performance Management: Learners will gain a deep understanding of metric-driven performance management programs, including the creation of a metrics scorecard. • Financial Analysis: The course teaches essential skills for analyzing financial data and applying it to assess the impact of logistics decisions. • Benchmarking and Continuous Improvement: Participants will learn benchmarking techniques and continuous improvement methodologies, utilizing KPI dashboards to drive improved facility performance.   Upon completing the Performance & Metrics course, participants earn a digital badge to display on their LinkedIn profiles and email signatures. Completion of the entire six-course Distribution Logistics Education Program results in a WERC certificate for education. The program offers critical skills and knowledge for efficient warehouse and distribution center operations.   For more information about the Performance & Metrics course and the WERC Distribution Logistics Education Program, visit werc.org/getcertified. Access to all six courses is included with a WERC Team Membership plan, enabling companies to quickly train new hires and upskill existing teammates.   About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.    About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The AUTOMATION CONTROLS ELECTRIFICATION (ACE) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Kuebler’s application to join ACE.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ACE, please visit mhi.org/ace or contact Rose Haire at rhaire@mhi.org.   About ACE – AUTOMATION CONTROLS ELECTRIFICATION ACE members are the industry’s leading suppliers of electrification and controlling devices. They supply solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Their mission is to bring together the leading suppliers and component manufacturers to educate, promote, specify and properly apply safe and reliable solutions for an automated world and aim to be recognized as the guiding authority of electrical control systems in automated solutions.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

MODEX 2026 will be held April 13-16 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. MODEX is the largest international supply chain trade show, bringing together the industry’s leading solution providers who will demonstrate their equipment, technology, systems and services for manufacturing, supply chain and transportation operations.    In April 2026, over 1,200 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on the MODEX show floor totaling 600,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions.    MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of material handling, transportation and supply chain solutions, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems. MODEX 2026 exhibits will fill all three halls of the Georgia World Congress Center including solutions for: - Automation & Robotics - Fulfillment, Workforce & Labor - Manufacturing, Planning & Sourcing - Emerging Supply Chain Technology - Data Capture, Analytics & Information Management - Transportation, Distribution & Warehousing - Last Mile Logistics - Sustainability & Risk Management   MODEX 2026 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities.   Deadline for the Exhibit Space Draw is November 7, 2024 The deadline to participate in the MODEX Exhibit Space Draw is November 7, 2024. The Space Draw will be the first opportunity for organizations to secure exhibit space at this event.    For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit modexshow.com.   MODEX is Powered by MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and its Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.  

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, has announced the launch of new team membership options for warehousing and distribution center professionals.   WERC provides members with the tools they need to learn the latest trends and technologies, assess their operations, identify areas for improvement, and run a more efficient warehouse and distribution center.    Membership also offers a unique collaborative community where professionals can prosper, providing value for your business as well as the individual. In addition to the benefits of WERC individual membership, the new team memberships provide extra value by including the following resources with membership:   • The six-course Distribution Logistics Education Program which is a gold standard for online education and training warehouse and DC professionals    • WERC’s DC Measures Report and Online Benchmarking Tool recognized as the state-of-the-art for benchmarking and operational improvement   Team memberships are offered at three levels and WERC also offers membership options for individuals, educators, and students. Learn more about WERC membership and the new team options at werc.org/join.   WERC Announces New Web Experience    WERC is also excited to announce the launch of its newly designed website at werc.org The website features a fresh look, user-friendly navigation, and informative content to help WERC members and other warehousing, and DC professionals find the news, tools, and resources they need to make professional connections and improve operational performance.   “We are excited to introduce our revamped website to the industry,” said Michael Mikitka, Executive Vice President of MHI Knowledge Center and WERC Division. “This new online platform aligns with our mission to help our members succeed by offering access to unparalleled learning experiences, networking opportunities research-driven industry resources and information.”   Visitors are encouraged to explore the website to learn more about WERC. As the only professional association dedicated to improving the practical skills and operational performance of warehousing and distribution centers, WERC provides the knowledge, tools, and connections to help take warehousing and distribution center professionals to the next level of performance and success– today and in the future.   View the new WERC site at werc.org.   About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.    About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking, and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS delivers reliable, high efficiency automation solutions to a wide range of industries. Their modular product portfolio of over 20,000,000 standard components includes gear units, electric motors, and electronic control products that offer versatility and flexibility for easy adaptation to application requirements.   NORD supports the post and parcel industry with high-efficiency drive solutions optimized for reliable, low-maintenance operation. Standardized LogiDrive complete drive solutions are often selected for these applications as they provide a gear unit, motor, and variable frequency drive that can be configured to meet precise specifications. Their modular design incorporates Plug-and-Play technology for easy installation and enables all components of the drive to be individually serviced, minimizing maintenance, downtime, and repair costs. Sorters, belt conveyors, curved conveyors, and lifters employ two-stage NORDBLOC.1 helical bevel gear units paired with IE4 or IE5+ permanent magnet synchronous motors and NORDAC LINK variable frequency drives, while merger applications use UNICASE helical inline gear units to accommodate their particularly high dynamics and speeds. Both compact solutions provide high-efficiency, fast ramp times, smooth automation, long service life, and quiet operation.   Baggage handling systems often incorporate hundreds of gear motors that work together to efficiently move baggage from one end of the airport to the other. They must be precise, reliable, and customizable with sophisticated electronic controls to ensure the highest level of performance and energy efficiency. With high quality drive systems that combine gear motors with integrated distributed controls, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS provides both a reliable and cost-effective solution that meets the special requirements of the industry. These solutions typically consist of UNICASE helical bevel gear units or two-stage NORDBLOC.1 helical bevel gear units paired with high efficiency IE3 or IE5+ motors and NORDAC FLEX variable frequency drives. The decentralized modular design is beneficial for maintenance while M12 quick disconnect receptables simplify the installation process and cut down on complicated wiring systems. Each NORD motor frame size has several available brake sizes, a multitude of options, and integrated dynamic brake control for rapid starting and stopping of the conveyors as baggage travels through the system. Additionally, their brake motors with distributed control AC drives have the brake rectifier integrated directly into the drive, eliminating the need for standard brake rectifiers and associated brake control relay circuits.   When it comes to the packaging industry, continuous running of automation systems is a high priority. All technology and drives must be well-balanced and have a high level of stability to meet production goals. For bottling plants that require multiple systems for preparation, filling, and packaging, NORD offers UNICASE worm gear units, UNIVERSAL SI worm gear units, and UNIVERSAL SMI worm gear units paired with NORDAC PRO SK 500P variable frequency drives. These centralized VFDs enable precise adjustment of speeds to avoid faults from bottles falling over during conveyance. They also deliver the high speeds and precision control required during the sealing process. An integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface allows for remote maintenance tools, control, and online inspection of the entire system to check for faults and evaluate data from all drives in the plant.   The food and beverage industry has a wide range of machines that perform specific automated tasks such as food separators, belt coating systems, and pipes that pump liquid pastes into mixers. NORD delivers robust drive technology for these specialized systems and adheres to strict hygiene standards with options including food-grade lubrication, stainless steel shafts, IP69K-rated washdown protection, and more. Their UNICASE helical bevel gear motors deliver efficient, reliable automation for separators and belt systems with durable, wear-free gear teeth, high axial and radial load capacities, and low maintenance for reduced downtime. NORDBLOC.1 helical inline gear units are an ideal solution when it comes to pump applications thanks to their large bearings that provide exceptional strength, durability, and minimal wear from radial and axial forces. For food and beverage applications that require electronic controls, NORD offers NORDAC ON/ON+ variable frequency drives with integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface for easy integration into modern automation systems. Their housings are made from robust aluminum alloy with an IP protection class up to IP66, making it suitable for harsh environmental conditions. These drives can additionally be operated in temperature ranges from -22°F (-30°C) to +104°F (+40°C), making them ideal for both deepfreeze and high-heat applications.   With their widespread industry knowledge, application expertise, and global sales and technical support, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS delivers complete drive solutions from a single source configured to meet the most specialized of automation system needs. Visit www.nord.com to learn more.   About NORD DRIVESYSTEMS® With more than 4,000 employees, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been developing, producing and selling drive technology for more than 50 years, and is one of the global leaders of full-service providers in the industry. In addition to standard drives, NORD delivers application-specific concepts and solutions for special requirements such as energy-saving drives or explosion-protected systems. In financial year 2017, annual sales amounted to $781 million. NORD now has subsidiaries and sales partners in 98 countries worldwide. The dense sales and service network guarantees optimal availability, enabling short delivery times and customer-oriented service. NORD produces a very diverse range of drives for torques from 88 to more than 2.2 million lb-in, provides electric motors in the power range of 0.16 to 1,341 HP, and manufactures frequency inverters with the required power electronics of up to 215 HP. Inverter solutions are available for conventional control cabinet installations as well as for decentralized, fully-integrated drive units.   Contact Arielle Spotts 608-850-1444 Arielle.Spotts@nord.com

enVista is pleased to announce the recent approval of their applications to join The Robotics Group of MHI (TRG) at their latest meeting, held May 20, 2024, at the 2024 Spring Meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   TRG members are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications. TRG member companies meet regularly to identify methods of promoting adoption of robotic and automated solutions in material handling applications. We identify barriers to adoption and understand the voice of the customer while creating opportunities to encourage the transition of automated technologies to promote supply chain efficiency.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/TRG.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

Hamilton Caster is pleased to announce the recent approval of their applications to join the Mobile Automation Group of MHI (MAG) at their latest meeting, held May 22, 2024, at the 2024 Spring Meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   Mobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.   MAG programs include: 1. The development of educational and training materials. 2. A voice in the development and maintenance of national standards. 3. The confidential exchange of market statistics and publication of industry data to the public. 4. The communication of the benefits of MAG solutions via trade shows, educational forums, and other national and regional seminars.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/MAG.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

Big Joe Forklift is pleased to announce the recent approval of their applications to join the Mobile Automation Group of MHI (MAG) at their latest meeting, held May 22, 2024, at the 2024 Spring Meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   Mobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.   MAG programs include: 1. The development of educational and training materials. 2. A voice in the development and maintenance of national standards. 3. The confidential exchange of market statistics and publication of industry data to the public. 4. The communication of the benefits of MAG solutions via trade shows, educational forums, and other national and regional seminars.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/MAG.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

Seegrid is pleased to announce the recent approval of their applications to join the Mobile Automation Group of MHI (MAG) at their latest meeting, held May 22, 2024, at the 2024 Spring Meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   Mobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.   MAG programs include: 1. The development of educational and training materials. 2. A voice in the development and maintenance of national standards. 3. The confidential exchange of market statistics and publication of industry data to the public. 4. The communication of the benefits of MAG solutions via trade shows, educational forums, and other national and regional seminars.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/MAG.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.    

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, has announced that its 23rd Annual Texas Warehousing Resource Conference will take place on October 22, 2024. The event will be held at the Grapevine Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.   This regional conference, appealing to all sectors of the supply chain industry, offers a unique opportunity for professional development. The agenda features educational sessions on the latest logistics trends, providing attendees with strategies for achieving profitable growth in today’s competitive market. Additionally, there will be ample opportunities to network with key equipment suppliers.   Registration is open for attendees with warehouse operations titles in the following categories: practitioner/end-user, 3PL operations, full time educator, full time students ages 16+. WERC Members with operation titles can register for $25.00; while non-members can register for $50. Registration is complimentary for students and educators who sign up by September 30. Several prizes will be raffled off to qualified attendees at the event’s conclusion.   For those in business development or sales, registration will open after September 1 and will be subject to availability.   Companies are invited to exhibit at the Texas Warehousing Conference, providing a prime opportunity to interact with logistics professionals. For more information, view the exhibitor information.   To learn more about this event and register, visit the event’s homepage.   About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.    About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

Murrplastik is pleased to announce the recent approval of their applications to join The Robotics Group of MHI (TRG) at their latest meeting, held May 20, 2024, at the 2024 Spring Meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   TRG members are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications. TRG member companies meet regularly to identify methods of promoting adoption of robotic and automated solutions in material handling applications. We identify barriers to adoption and understand the voice of the customer while creating opportunities to encourage the transition of automated technologies to promote supply chain efficiency.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/TRG.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

Encoder Products Company, EPC, is pleased to announce the recent approval of their applications to join the Mobile Automation Group of MHI (MAG) at their latest meeting, held May 22, 2024, at the 2024 Spring Meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   Mobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.   MAG programs include: 1. The development of educational and training materials. 2. A voice in the development and maintenance of national standards. 3. The confidential exchange of market statistics and publication of industry data to the public. 4. The communication of the benefits of MAG solutions via trade shows, educational forums, and other national and regional seminars.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/MAG.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.   About EPC Encoder Products Company (EPC) is a leading designer and world-wide manufacturer of motion sensing devices. EPC began operations in 1969, producing a line of custom encoders (the original Cube series) from a small, home-based shop. Today, EPC is one of the largest privately-held encoder manufacturers in North America, producing the most complete line of incremental and absolute rotary encoders in the industry. Meeting the diverse needs of a wide range of global customers, EPC’s core philosophy is that each and every customer deserves quality products, superior customer service, and expert support. Adherence to these principals has enabled EPC to achieve its goal of maintaining long-lasting customer relationships.

The Automated Storage Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Eurofork’s application to join ASRS at the 2024 Spring Meeting held May 21 in Charlotte, NC.   Eurofork is recognized worldwide as a solution provider for system integrators, offering a complete range of automatic handling solutions for automated warehouses.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ASRS, please visit mhi.org/asrs or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.   About ASRS ASRS (Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Automated Storage Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Georg Utz, Inc.’s application to join ASRS at the 2024 Spring Meeting held May 21 in Charlotte, NC. Georg Utz, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high-quality, reusable plastic containers and trays, specializing in innovative and sustainable solutions for material handling and storage.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ASRS, please visit mhi.org/asrs or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.   About ASRS ASRS (Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

The Rack Manufacturers Institute Inc. (RMI) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Rafturk’s application to join RMI at the 2024 Spring Meeting held May 22 in Charlotte, NC. Rafturk is a company that manufactures racks, operating from a production facility spanning 270,000 square feet. Established in 1980, they have been in the industry for over four decades.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about RMI, please visit mhi.org/rmi or contact Anna Teter at ateter@mhi.org.   About RMI RMI – Rack Manufacturers Institute Formed in 1958, the Rack Manufacturers Institute, Inc. (RMI) consists of members are the industry’s leading suppliers of Industrial Steel Storage Racks and Related Structural Systems. They supply industrial rack solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Member companies aim to promote the safe and effective use of industrial steel storage racks and related storage and handling systems.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.    

Växjö, Sweden, 13 June 2024 – JLT Mobile Computers, a leading supplier of rugged computers for demanding environments, announces the launch of its upgraded VERSO™ Series rugged computers. The upgraded series of vehicle-mount computers delivers the highest performance on the market thanks to a powerful combination of 11th-gen Intel® Core™ i7 processor, disc memory and storage capacity, thereby taking vehicle-mount computing to the next level.   Leveraging 30 years of rugged computing innovation With three decades of relentless customer focus, JLT leverages its experience in the rugged computing industry to deliver the most appreciated rugged computers on the market. Throughout its extensive presence in the industry, JLT has continuously refined their engineering processes and made design enhancements based on customer and industry feedback. With its own engineering, test center and production facilities in Sweden, JLT controls every aspect of production with high precision. The computers are built from the ground up with the use-case in mind. The result is unprecedented quality and reliability, and most recently – the upgraded VERSO Series.   Key features of the VERSO Series rugged computers include: • 11th-gen Intel® Core™ i7-1185GRE processor • Standard 16GB configuration of fast, efficient DDR4 memory (optional up to 32GB) • Wi-Fi 6E for enhanced security, improved connectivity, and better coverage • Future proof – runs both Windows 11 and Windows 10 • Virtually unbreakable capacitive touch with JLT PowerTouch™ and sunlight readable display • Docking-free solution – eliminates unnecessary downtime from unreliable cradle connections   The upgrade enables fast real-time processing of large amounts of data. Ideal for advanced applications such as HD-video streaming, GEO calculations, 3D mapping, image processing, and more.   Upgraded with 11th generation Intel Core i7 processor for faster data processing and with latest technology including Wi-Fi 6E and Windows 11 With their upgraded VERSO Series rugged computers, JLT cements its leadership position by offering the most powerful rugged vehicle-mount computers in the industry. The upgraded high-performance VERSO Series is designed for companies that typically run thick client applications with high demands on computing power as well as the need for reliable, trouble-free operation in challenging environments. Suitable for companies within industry segments such as mining, agriculture, defense, forestry and ports.   VERSO Series rugged computers speeds up 3D-mapping, simulations, image processing, and other complex tasks with high requirements on CPU power Customers with maximum performance requirements will benefit from higher CPU and graphical performance. Furthermore, the standard 16GB configuration of fast, efficient DDR4 memory can be extended to 32GB to enable processing large amounts of data in real-time. With this massive performance boost, customers can now run advanced tasks at a higher pace. Tasks include: • Real-time monitoring and control of equipment • 3D-mapping and visualization of terrain, structures, or other geographical features to help operators navigate and avoid hazards • Image processing for tasks such as object detection or terrain analysis • Statistical analysis or simulations of large amounts of data from sensors, drones, or cameras to support decision making • Real-time video analysis • High-resolution graphical animations • Running simulation algorithms and optimization models for mine planning • GPS-guided planting, crop health monitoring, and irrigation systems management in precision agriculture • Interfaces with the drill or shovel providing critical data such as oil pressure, positioning, performance and more in the mining industry   Furthermore, the VERSO Series rugged computers are Navis Ready validated, ensuring trouble-free device integration with the Navis N4 terminal operating system (TOS) environment at the hardware and software level.   Future proof – ready for Windows 11 The VERSO Series with Intel Core i7 processor is ready for Windows 11 which brings many benefits, such as enhanced security features including hardware-based isolation, secure boot, and improved encryption to protect sensitive data. Furthermore, it comes with an improved user interface and is designed to utilize hardware resources more efficiently, such as better power and memory management as well as improved task scheduling algorithms to ensure CPU capabilities are allocated efficiently, thereby unlocking performance improvements compared to Windows 10.   Wi-Fi 6E for enhanced security, improved connectivity and better coverage The upgraded rugged computer also features integrated dual-band 802.11ax, known as Wi-Fi 6E, thereby further improving security as well as performance. By incorporating the latest security protocols including support for WPA3 encryption, Wi-Fi 6E improves data privacy and protection from cyber threats. Lastly, Wi-Fi 6E has higher capacity that allows more simultaneous connections and offers higher data transfer speeds compared to previous Wi-Fi standards.   “JLT is all about boosting customers’ business by enabling hassle-free data communication even in the most remote and challenging environments,” says Per Holmberg, CEO at JLT Mobile Computers. “That’s why we developed the highest performance and most reliable rugged vehicle-mount computers in the world. The new VERSO Series rugged computers delivers enough performance to handle very advanced applications within mining, energy, agriculture and similar industries.”   About JLT Mobile Computers Reliable performance, less hassle. JLT Mobile Computers is a leading supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for demanding environments. In three decades of relentless customer focus, we’ve built a global presence, deployed tens of thousands of devices, and earned the trust of many Fortune 500 companies. Our many years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled us to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support and solutions to ensure trouble-free business operations for customers in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, mining, ports and agriculture. We have our own R&D and production facilities in Sweden, enabling us to control every aspect of quality for ultimate performance in the toughest environments. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France, and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994, and the share has been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at jltmobile.com.   Contact Per Holmberg, CEO +46 70 361 3934 per.holmberg@jltmobile.com www.jltmobile.com

In recognition of the growing importance of cybersecurity for the supply chain, MHI is hosting a one-day Cybersecurity Workshop on September 17 at its office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Due to the supply chain’s centrality to national infrastructure, the industry’s ability to adapt and strengthen defenses against cyber threats is critical. The MHI Cybersecurity Workshop will impart insights into the challenges posed by today's complex cyber environment, covering topics from cutting-edge threat intelligence to effective incident response. The training will be facilitated by the following leading cybersecurity strategists: Chris Finan: A Cybersecurity Entrepreneur and former White House Cybersecurity Official, Finan has founded, advised, and served in executive leadership positions in a variety of early-stage and growth-stage cybersecurity companies. While previously serving as the Director for Cybersecurity Legislation and Policy on the National Security Council, Finan spearheaded the Executive Order that directed the development of the NIST cybersecurity framework. He began his career as a Pilot and Intelligence Officer for the U.S. Air Force. Robert Knake: is the Principal at Orkestrel, LLC, a boutique cybersecurity firm. He previously served as Deputy National Cyber Director at the White House’s Office of the National Cyber Director. In that role, he led the development of the National Cybersecurity Strategy and oversaw federal cybersecurity spending. Earlier in his career, Knake served as a Director on the National Security Council.  In addition to his government service, Knake has worked as a cybersecurity consultant and advisor to enterprises, startups, and cybersecurity firms. He has also published best-selling books about cyber threats. The workshop will include a simulated cyber-attack and response. Additionally, attendees will receive a takeaway Executive Guide to Cybersecurity to help them craft a comprehensive cybersecurity program for their company. The MHI Cybersecurity Workshop will run from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm ET on September 17. Space is limited to 40 participants. A discounted price is available for MHI and WERC members. Teams of two or more will save 20% off their registration fees. Attendees can register at mhi.org/cybersecurityworkshop. Questions about the program can be directed to Rebecca Woods, Director of Talent and Development at education@mhi.org. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI is pleased to announce the promotion of Daniel McKinnon from Executive Vice President of Exhibitions to Chief Exhibitions Officer. Daniel joined MHI in 2019 and has over 32 years of experience in the exhibitions industry.    Throughout his time at MHI, Daniel has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence and a proven track record of delivering successful  experiences for both exhibitors and attendees that have led to substantial growth for both MHI’s ProMat and MODEX events.   As Chief Exhibitions Officer, Daniel will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans for MODEX and ProMat as well as managing relationships with exhibitors, overseeing exhibition sales, show operations, and ensuring that MHI exhibitions are positioned for future growth.     "We are excited to promote Daniel to the role of Chief Exhibitions Officer," said John Paxton, CEO of MHI. "His deep experience, strategic vision, and exceptional leadership skills are key to delivering outstanding  exhibition experiences for our members and the supply chain industry as a whole."   "I am honored and excited to take on the role of Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI," said McKinnon. "I look forward to working with our talented team to continue delivering innovative and engaging trade show experiences that support our mission and drive success for our members.”   Please join us in congratulating Daniel on his well-deserved promotion to Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI. We are confident that he will excel in his new role and continue to make significant contributions to the success of MHI and our exhibitions.   MHI produces ProMat and MODEX. The two shows are both focused on supply chain solutions, held biennially in alternating years, and are both ranked among the top 15 U.S. Trade Shows by Trade Show News Network and Trade Show Executive.    About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking, and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) has proudly announced the distribution of $231,700 in scholarships to 61 material handling, supply chain, and logistics students for the 2024/2025 academic year. This marks the highest amount ever awarded by MHEFI, reflecting its commitment to supporting education in material handling, logistics, and supply chain management. The scholarships, ranging from $1,500 to $6,000, were granted to undergraduate students who demonstrated outstanding academic performance, maintaining a "B" grade point average or higher in their major. Recipients were selected based on their dedication to these fields of study and their potential to make a positive impact in the industry. In response to this record-breaking scholarship amount, Brian Neuwirth, MHEFI President, stated: "We are immensely grateful to our sponsors whose generous contributions make these scholarships possible. These students show incredible potential and dedication, and we are honored to support their journey into the material handling and supply chain industry.” MHEFI would like to congratulate the following scholarship recipients: • William Fish, North Dakota State University, Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA) Honor Scholarship, $6,000 • Sarosh Ahmed, University of Toledo, Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA) Honor Scholarship, $6,000 • Ethan O'Connor, Oklahoma State University, Al Wurz Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 • Rahul Sah, Mississippi State University, Al Wurz Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 • Kayleigh Bednar, Kansas State University, Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Seth Thibodeau, Oklahoma State University, Conveyor & Sortation Systems (CSS) Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Daniela Elenes, California Polytechnic, Dan Clapp Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI), $5,000 • Meredith DePuy, Virginia Tech, Frazier Industrial Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Kyra Glenn, University of NorthTexas George W. Prest Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Rushang Patel, Texas A&M University, Liz Richards Honor Scholarship Sponsored by MHEDA, $5,000 • Meher Syed, Texas A&M University, Liz Richards Honor Scholarship Sponsored by MHEDA, $5,000 • Justin Anetone, University of Nebraska, Kearney Liz Richards Honor Scholarship Sponsored by MHEDA, $5,000 • Addison Kiteley, Michigan State University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Chase Hakerem, North Carolina State University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Maleigha Long, Iowa State University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Thomas Dean Mount, North Dakota State University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 •Joan Jaiyeoba, Texas Tech University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Matthew Offerman, Bradley University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Katherine Maciejewski, Maine Maritime Academy, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Daniel Dandreo, Kansas State University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Vinithra Seshan, California Polytechnic San Luis, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Bretton Hall, Oklahoma State University, Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. Honor Scholarship, $5,000 • Christopher Bohm, Lake Superior State University, Richard Dilling Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 • Withanage Praveen Perera, University of Florida, Richard Dilling Memorial Scholarship, $5,000 • Emma Grace Woolsey, Virginia Tech, Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG, $5,000 • Rae Williamson, Oklahoma State University, Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG, $5,000 • Matthew Moore, University of Texas Arlington, Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG, $5,000 • Genevieve Rasmussen, Bradley University, Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) Honor Scholarship Sponsored by ASG, $5,000 • Stephen Farley, Penn State University, Willard P. Heddles Memorial Scholarship, $4,800 • Abbey Kirk, Oklahoma State University, Mobile Automation Group (MAG) Honor Scholarship, $4,000 • Austin Yarbrough, University of Missouri-Columbia, The Robotics Group (TRG) Honor Scholarship, $4,000 • Samantha Chiang, Kettering University, The Robotics Group (TRG) Honor Scholarship, $4,000 • Peter Kronebusch, University of Illinois Urbana Champagne, Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA) Honor Scholarship, $3,100 • Elijah Griego, New Mexico State University, Automation Controls Electrification (ACE) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Garrett Dickinson, University of Maine, Automation Controls Electrification (ACE) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Sydney Herring, Michigan State University, Ergonomics Assist Systems Equipment (EASE) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Gabriela McSwieney, Clarkson University, Gorbel Inc. Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Samuel Sweat, Kansas State University, Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Asif Ahmed, Texas Tech University, Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Rashed Amad, Virginia Tech, Scan Label Apply Manifest (SLAM) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Matthew Carlesi, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA) Honor Scholarship, $3,000 • Madison Harmon, Virginia Tech, Irving M. Footlik, PE Memorial Scholarship, $2,850 • Mollie McKee, Virginia Tech, Loading Dock Equipment Manufacturers (LODEM) Honor Scholarship, $2,850 • Evan Bennett, University of Wisconsin-Superior, LIFT Manufacturers Honor Scholarship, $2,600 • Margaret Stoving, Michigan State University, Bastian Family Scholarship, $2,500 • Ulises Navarro-Luviano, North Carolina State University, Bastian Family Scholarship, $2,500 • Matthew Wells, University of Arkansas, Conveyor & Sortation Systems (CSS) Honor Scholarship, $2,500 • Anna Sidoti, University of Tennessee, Solutions Community Honor Scholarship, $2,500 • Ivan Latinovic, Purdue University, Solutions Community Honor Scholarship, $2,500 • Carolina Remond, University of Arkansas, Southworth International Group Honor Scholarship, $2,500 • Philip Klim, North Carolina State University, St. Onge Company Honor Scholarship, $2,500 • Elan Preis, California Polytechnic San Luis, Seizmic, Inc./LAMHMS Honor Scholarship, $2,300 • Lucas Greazel, University of Mississippi, Expert Crane Honor Scholarship, $2,250 • Kush Patel, University of Tennessee Knoxville, UNEX Manufacturing Honor Scholarship, $2,250 • Blake Bollow, University of Wisconsin, Platteville, Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI)/Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA) Honor Scholarship, $2,100 • Eamon Walsh, George Washington University, Hanel Storage Systems Honor Scholarship, $2,000 • Joel Chon, Rutgers University, Ridg-U-Rak Honor Scholarship, $2,000 • Alexis Denny, Michigan State University, Steel King Industries Honor Scholarship, $2,000 • Julia Fitzgerald, University of Pittsburgh, Brian McNamara Honor Scholarship Sponsored by Southworth International Group, $1,800 • Bryce Bullard, Oklahoma State University, James Galante Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by Southworth International Group, $1,800 • Ashton Parkey, Oklahoma State University, James Indelicato Material Handling Scholarship, $1,500 If you would like to support MHEFI’s mission to provide financial support for educational programs to engage and retain talent for the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry, please donate here: mhi.org/mhefi/donors. For more information, contact Donna Varner at dvarner@mhi.org. About MHEFI The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, our programs have supported over 1,500 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at mhefi.org.

The Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) has introduced a fourth course in the Distribution Logistics Education Program. The Distribution Logistics Operations Course is tailored to give employees in-depth knowledge of the various aspects of managing warehouses and distribution center operations. Key topics covered in the Distribution Logistics Operations Course include: •  An overview of the differences between warehouses and distribution centers in terms of their operations • The elements of inbound and outbound processes within a facility • Quality Control and Inspection procedures • Inventory analysis and management strategies • The purpose, usage, and selection of a Warehouse Management System • Building effective internal and external operational partnerships This course builds on valuable insights from the first three courses in the series: Distribution Logistics Fundamentals, Distribution Logistics Equipment, and Safety & Compliance. It includes engaging learning modules, interactive knowledge checks, and testimonials from industry leaders. Like all courses in the series, Distribution Logistics Operations is a remote learning course that participants can do at their own pace. Upon completing this Distribution Logistics Operations Course, students will earn a certificate and a digital badge to display on their LinkedIn profiles and email signatures. Completion of all six courses in the Distribution Logistics Education Program culminates in a WERC certificate for warehousing education. MHI and WERC members receive a discounted rate on the courses. To learn more and enroll in the WERC Distribution Logistics Education Program courses, visit werc.org/getcertified. About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.  About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

After 36 years of dedicated service, MHI announces the retirement of Vice President of Finance, Mike Laurent.    Throughout his tenure, Mike led the finance department at MHI. His work ethic and dedication to his colleagues have left a lasting impact on all those he has worked with. His financial acumen has been instrumental in the growth and success of MHI.   Under Mike's guidance, MHI has seen consistent financial growth and stability, even during challenging economic times. His expertise and guidance have been invaluable in navigating complex financial landscapes and ensuring the continued success of the association.   “As Mike transitions into retirement, we would like to express our gratitude for his many years of service and wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life,” said John Paxton, CEO of MHI. “We will miss his leadership, wisdom, and presence within the company, but are confident that the foundation he has helped to build will continue to thrive in the years to come.”   Gray Murray Joins MHI Team   MHI is excited to announce the appointment of Gray Murray as the association’s new Vice President of Finance. Gray brings a wealth of experience to MHI, with a strong financial background including experience in non-profit finance and auditing. He holds a CPA certification, an MS in Management from Wake Forest University, and an MS in Accounting from Appalachian State University.   "We are thrilled to welcome Gray to our team," said Paxton. “His expertise in non-profit finance and auditing will be invaluable as we continue to grow and serve our members."   Before joining MHI, Mr.  Murray held senior finance roles in various organizations, where he successfully managed budgets, financial reporting, and audits. “His strong financial acumen and strategic mindset will play a key role in guiding the association's financial strategy and ensuring its long-term financial stability,” added Paxton.   "I am honored to join MHI and look forward to contributing to its mission of creating member value every day,” said Murray. "I am excited to work with the MHI team and our members to help drive the organization's financial success."   Please join MHI in welcoming Gray to the MHI team and congratulating Mike on his well-deserved retirement.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking, and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

MHI, the leading international trade association representing the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry is proud to announce a milestone in its journey. For the first time in history, we have surpassed 1,000 members, marking a significant achievement in our dedication to advancing the supply chain and supporting our members.    The material handling industry has experienced unprecedented growth and transformation in recent years, driven by technological advancements, globalization, and evolving consumer demands. As a result, material handling, logistics, and supply chain solutions have become increasingly vital across various sectors, including manufacturing, e-commerce, and retail.    MHI CEO John Paxton stated, “Our surge in membership is a testament to MHI’s commitment to providing industry leadership, mutually beneficial connections, and unique knowledge. With the record-setting growth of our MODEX and ProMat exhibitions, MHI continues to offer its members unrivaled business opportunities.”   With a diverse community comprising manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, integrators, consultants, educators, and practitioners. MHI serves as a collaborative platform for all of our industry stakeholders.  As we celebrate this historic milestone, we remain steadfast in our goal of delivering member value and advancing the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry.   For more information about MHI and its membership benefits, please visit mhi.org.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 1,000 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

Austin, TX - (March 19, 2024) – Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, discusses with Joe Rule on a Bold Visions podcast, current warehouse trends, and Keith’s entrepreneurial journey. Joe interviews people who work with disruptive technology and how they use the power of storytelling to turn vision into reality.   "Logistics technology has gotten extremely popular since COVID," says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “It has moved from a cost center to a boardroom conversation.”   A summary of the podcast discussion follows: • There is much automation out there, and executives must discern which is best for their business. Robotics are being deployed everywhere, but not to replace people. Instead, companies can’t hire the people they need to do a specific job, so robots are helping fill the gap. • Many legacy systems exist in companies, especially for mission-critical operations like the supply chain. Nobody's willing to put the legacy system on hold for six months to install a new solution. Most companies may try to do this, but it's like trying to change your tire while driving down the freeway. It is more valuable to be complementary to the existing systems. • Replacing systems lengthens the sales cycle. The best way to sell a supply chain solution is "in addition to." People replace their systems once every 5 – 10 years; some don't even upgrade their software. • When starting a company, it is hard to get your share of voice, but if you work with an industry analyst group, people will listen to them. Ensure you understand where companies get their information from and ensure the information is messaged appropriately through these sources. When these sources start writing about you, you become a trusted voice, and you can start building trust with everybody. • Hire an industry-specific, outside PR firm. These agencies understand your industry, know the analysts and editors, and work closely to get your company in the stories that target your audience and make you a thought leader. • New sales are great, but supporting current customers is better. AutoScheduler's business mentality is to lose a sale to ensure an existing customer is supported and successful. • Invest in partnerships to help your business grow. • Based on how the warehousing landscape runs, every unique site has its own WMS. So, if a company has 250 sites, each site will have its own WMS with five to ten people per shift, ensuring the system is running and doing what it should. AutoScheduler's objective is to centralize the planning and optimization of all the different sites in one location, with a team of 5 to 10 people managing all 250 sites.   Keith's entrepreneurial journey started while he was in college when he would buy a $5 pizza and sell it for $1/slice. He always knew he wanted to work for a startup, so he got a degree in Engineering. While working at National Instruments, he created a company in fantasy soccer. The company was growing but was shut down by the Attorney General for gambling. He then worked for Spark Cognition as a product manager, focusing on data analytics and machine learning.   Then his dad, Tom Moore, CEO and Founder of ProvisionAi, told him about a tool he built while consulting for P&G. Tom said, "We've built this tool called AutoScheduler. Does it have any value? Is it something that could be used elsewhere?" So, Keith obtained the technology and decided to launch AutoScheduler.AI.   AutoScheduler, a warehouse resource optimization platform, manages all the work coming in and out of the warehouse to streamline operations and improve efficiencies. It answers questions like, "What work must I do? How many people do we have to do it? How much space do you have? What inventory do you already have? What are the time-critical components, meaning what do I need to ship outbound to a Walmart now? AutoScheduler acts as the brain of the operation, which says, “Here’s exactly how you need to distribute all of your people at every point in time and exactly what they need to work on.”   Keith uses a "Keith Moore Bar Test" to measure awareness. When he first started the company, if he went into a bar and people asked him where he worked, no one would know of AutoScheduler. Today, he can walk into a bar, and people will have heard of AutoScheduler.   About AutoScheduler.AI  AutoScheduler.AI creates dynamic warehouse plans directly injected into the WMS to optimize activities based on constraints, ensuring sites run optimally at peak performance. Our intuitive AI and Machine Learning platform, developed with P&G and implemented at P&G, Unilever, General Mills, and others, streamlines operations by seamlessly integrating with existing WMS and ERP. We provide dynamic dock scheduling, labor level-loading, inventory balancing, proactive cross-docking, redundant workforce elimination, and more. Clients benefit from prescriptive analytics to drive efficiencies and create value in the supply chain. For more information, email info@autoscheduler.ai.

MHI's MODEX 2024 saw a record-shattering number of registered manufacturing and supply chain professionals, reaching a total of 48,733. The event, held March 11-14 in Atlanta, saw attendees engaged with 1,200 exhibitors showcasing the latest supply chain technology and innovation across three halls and 580,000 net square feet at the Georgia World Congress Center. This was the largest MODEX event to date for MHI, with 32% more registered visitors than MODEX 2022.    “From attendance to exhibition space and educational sessions, MODEX 2024 exceeded all expectations, delivering our largest and most comprehensive supply chain event to date,” said John Paxton, CEO, “The success of this event is a testament to the industry's ongoing vitality, dedication to innovation, and delivering world-class solutions for supply chain operations. It was a massive win for the entire industry.”   “The excitement on the show floor and the engagement in educational sessions is a sign of the overall power of the supply chain industry and the demand for the latest solutions and technologies in the space,” added Daniel McKinnon, EVP of Exhibitions at MHI. “Attendees representing the Fortune 500, the top 100 retailers, and top 100 consumer goods firms brought large teams to MODEX with plans in hand and budgets in place to make large supply chain investments.”   The biggest trends at MODEX surrounded digital supply chain solutions including automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, augmented reality, the Internet of Things, and data analytics.   “We’re seeing a big acceleration in the adoption of these technologies to build resilience, sustainability and real-time responsiveness into operations,” said Paxton. “The solutions on display and the education offered this year reflected this trend.”    The MODEX Supply Chain Conference sessions which included 200 educational seminars and five keynotes. On March 11, Bill Seward, President, UPS Supply Chain Solutions, spoke on the lessons he has learned at the front lines of UPS’s supply chain efforts. The March 11 afternoon keynote tackled the future of smart ports with representatives from the Ports of Rotterdam, Long Beach, and Virginia. Futurist Gerd Leonhard discussed the exponential change we will see in the coming age of AI in his March 12 keynote.    The March 13 keynote featured Coach Nick Saban who delighted and inspired the audience with tales leadership from his storied football career.   During the March 13 afternoon keynote, MHI’s John Paxton and Deloitte’s Wanda Johnson released the findings of the 2024 MHI Annual Industry Report: “The Collaborative Supply Chain – Tech-Driven and Human-Centric.” during a panel discussion with four industry thought leaders. The report includes new insights into trends and technologies that are transforming supply chains and the priorities of the people who run them. The report can be downloaded here.   MHI Industry Night with comedian Colin Jost was an exciting and entertaining evening. Five thousand dollars in proceeds from the event were donated to Atlanta’s Chattahoochee Riverkeeper and $63,200 was donated to the Material Handling Education Foundation to fund scholarships and programs for students and educators in our industry.    Gig and Take was awarded the 2024 MHI StartUp Award at Industry Night. The StartUp Pavilion is a specialized area on the MODEX show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech and innovation. This award was chosen by supply chain professionals at the MODEX event. Gig and Take impressed the judges with their software solution, showcasing a user-friendly interface and the capability to offer flexible, accessible schedules to workers, effectively mitigating concerns related to labor shortages.   During this event, MHI announced the winners of the 2024 MHI Innovation Awards during MODEX. The MHI Innovation Awards serve to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain innovative products and services. The awards had 193 submissions from MODEX 2024 exhibitors, and the winners were:   •      Best Innovation of an Existing Product - ForwardX Robotics •      Best IT Innovation - Configura, Inc. •      Best New Innovation - Slip Robotics •      Best New Innovation in Sustainability - Avery Dennison   Student Day at MODEX introduced 367 high school and university students and educators to career opportunities in material handling, supply chain and logistics through hands-on learning and networking with industry professionals. This year’s Student Day combined an interactive educational session with a dynamic guided tour of the MODEX show floors.   On-demand content from the event, including keynote sessions, educational sessions and video presentations will soon be available online at modexshow.com via MODEX Digital Entry.   The next MHI-sponsored trade event will be ProMat 2025 held March 17-20 in Chicago’s McCormick Place. For more information on exhibiting at ProMat, or to register as an attendee, visit promatshow.com. The next MODEX will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in 2026.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.   Contact: For more information on MHI or MODEX contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

MHI is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 MHI Innovation and Startup Awards.    After receiving 193 submissions for this years’ awards, judges comprised of professionals from the material handling and supply chain industry completed the initial vetting process.    Three finalists were previously chosen and announced as the most innovative products in each category - Best Innovation of an Existing Product, Best IT Innovation, Best New Innovation, and Best New Innovation in Sustainability based on concept, value, and impact. The winners were announced on March 13 at MHI Industry Night at MODEX 2024.   The 2024 MHI Innovation Award winners are:   • Best Innovation of an Existing Product - ForwardX Robotics • Best IT Innovation - Configura, Inc. • Best New Innovation - Slip Robotics • Best New Innovation in Sustainability - Avery Dennison   The MHI Innovation Award serves to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain products and services to MODEX attendees. MODEX 2024 exhibitors were called to submit a new product, product line, technology or service or new application of existing products or technology that create quantifiable and sustainable results in terms of ROI, cost savings, customer satisfaction, etc.    MHI would like to thank the individuals who graciously volunteered their time as Innovation Award judges.    To see more information and learn more about all of the Innovation Award submissions, click here to see all Innovation Award nominees.   Gig and Take Wins 2024 MHI StartUp Award Gig and Take was the winner of the 2024 MHI StartUp Award. The StartUp Pavilion is a specialized area on the MODEX show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech and innovation. This award was chosen by supply chain professionals at the MODEX event. Gig and Take impressed the judges with their software solution, showcasing a user-friendly interface and the capability to offer flexible, accessible schedules to workers, effectively mitigating concerns related to labor shortages.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.   About MODEX MODEX 2024 will be held March 11-14 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Over 1,175 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on MODEX’s show floor totaling over 579,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems, e-comm fulfillment and last mile logistics. MODEX 2024 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities. For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit www.modexshow.com.  

Atlanta, GA – A new report released today by MHI and Deloitte finds that 55% of supply chain leaders are increasing their supply chain technology and innovation investments with 88% saying they are planning to spend over $1 million. Forty-two percent plan to spend over $10 million.   This investment includes solutions for improved collaboration between tech and human workers, according to the 2024 MHI Annual Industry Report, “The Collaborative Supply Chain: Tech-forward and Human-Centric.” The report provides new insights into trends and technologies that are transforming supply chains and the priorities of the people who run them.    As a result of these increased investments, adoption of the 11 categories of technology covered in the report is predicted to rise dramatically over the next five years.   • Inventory and Network Optimization – 85% • Internet of Things – 85% • Artificial Intelligence – 84% • Sensors and Automatic Identification – 83% • Robotics and Automation – 82% • Cloud Computing and Storage – 82% • 3D Printing – 81% • Advanced Analytics – 78% • Blockchain – 77% • Autonomous Vehicles and Drones – 76% • Wearable and Mobile Technology – 75%   The 2024 report, the eleventh in a series of annual industry reports published by MHI and Deloitte, provides updates on the innovative technologies that have the most potential to transform supply chains in a human-centric and collaborative way that maximizes performance gains while at the same time empowering workers. Supply chain leaders play a pivotal role in creating and enhancing this balance between technology-driven and human-centric approaches.   “The focus on technology in supply chains is undeniable. But supply chains are run by people, and human-centricity is the key,” said John Paxton, CEO of MHI. “A human focus on technology implementation encourages the kind of creativity and innovation that builds stronger, more streamlined operations. It also attracts new hires, retains current workers, and empowers team members to higher levels of safety and performance.”   Price increases top the list of supply chain challenges, talent shortage, customer demands, and disruption are close behind   Price increases due to inflation are the biggest supply chain challenge cited by survey respondents at 53%. However, this was followed closely by the talent shortage (52%), customer demands (51%), insight into customer behavior (50%), and supply chain disruptions/shortages (50%).    These challenges are spurring companies to leverage digital technologies to make their supply chains more responsive and resilient, helping them adapt to changing market conditions, anticipate disruptions, and seize new opportunities.   The survey found that firms are using technology to enable human workers. Forty-five percent are using technology as an enabler for human decision-making, to improve sustainability/ visibility 42%, and to empower human workers (40%).    “Successful firms are dedicating training resources to build the bridge between supply chain technology and the human workers,” said Wanda Johnson Technology Fellow at Deloitte Consulting LLP.   AI on the Rise AI adoption and interest are at historic levels, with 84% of survey respondents now reporting plans to adopt artificial intelligence technologies within the next five years. One of the key challenges is to understand and plan how to benefit from AI tools (and how quickly to implement them).   AI has the potential to be a powerful tool for improving supply chain resiliency and enhancing worker productivity, satisfaction, and retention. It can be used to rapidly adjust training methods; empower teams to develop new skills; and increase the capabilities, and performance of individual workers through collaboration with a suite of AI helpers. AI can also help leaders make dramatically better, faster, and more confident decisions by rapidly gathering and analyzing diverse data sets and then generating advice that is highly relevant and actionable.   Adopting an approach to AI that is technology-driven, human-centric, and collaborative is crucial to long-term supply chain success—boosting productivity and empowering workers to achieve higher levels of performance and innovation than ever before.   “AI has the potential to create more resilient supply chains and transform the role of human workers in the space - creating a variety of new jobs and improving real-time decision-making and efficiency,” said Paxton.   Leading Trends Impacting Supply Chains in 2024 and Beyond This year’s survey reveals five key trends impacting supply chains were identified that will dictate the course of actions and focus for industry leaders moving forward. These key trends impacting supply chains are: 1. Supply Chain Agility as geopolitical concerns and ongoing risks are impacting operations. Organizations need to ensure their supply chains center on flexibility and adaptability in the face of dynamic market conditions, geopolitical risk, and growing reshoring initiatives. 2. Rising Costs including inflation and cost of capital. While inflation is easing in the U.S. firms will need to monitor and strategically manage rising costs globally, particularly in Europe. 3. Supply Chain Workforce including the talent shortage and changing skill sets. Automation is increasing overall worker satisfaction by making jobs better and more tech-forward. However, culture and flexibility are key in recruiting, retaining, and re-skilling a high-achieving workforce. 4. Sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) measurement and reporting regulations are on the near horizon and organizations working with their suppliers to meet coming Net Zero goals and responding to risks associated with climate-related disruptions. 5. Visibility and Transparency goals are compelling leaders to prioritize technology-driven investments and supplier collaboration   The report also provides real-world case studies of digital supply chain technologies and recommendations for leaders to develop strategies to implement these innovations.   The findings of the 2024 report are based on survey responses from over 1,700 manufacturing and supply chain industry leaders from a wide range of industries at the end of 2023. Eighty-one percent of respondents hold executive-level positions such as CEO, Vice President, General Manager, Department Head, or Engineering Management. Participating companies range in size from small to large, with 75% reporting annual sales of more than $50 million, and 17% reporting $1 billion or more.   Download the complete report here.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking, and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community   MODEX 2024 is being held at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center from March 11-14.   About Deloitte Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services to many of the world’s most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500® and more than 5,000 private and middle market companies. Our people work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today’s marketplace — delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthy society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Now celebrating 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte’s more than 312,000 people worldwide make an impact that matters at www.deloitte.com.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, March 11, 2024 —– Dot Ai, a leading asset management and IoT tracking start up, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Bob Reny as its new Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the executive team, poised to drive strategic growth and revenue acceleration initiatives for the company.   Bob Reny joins Dot Ai with 29 years of proven leadership in the IT security space. He has an impressive track record of driving revenue growth, building high-performance teams, and fostering strategic partnerships. With his deep understanding of market dynamics and customer needs, Reny is primed to play a pivotal role in shaping the future success of Dot Ai.    “We are delighted to welcome Bob Reny to our executive team,” said Ed Nabrotzky, CEO at Dot Ai. “With his remarkable experience and vision, Bob will lead our revenue generation efforts, driving sustainable growth and creating value for our customers and stakeholders.”   Reny expressed his enthusiasm about joining the executive team stating, “Dot Ai is an exciting start up with patented technology that is going to revolutionize the industry.” He added, “I’m looking forward to bringing my expertise to such an innovative team and company.”   Prior to joining Dot Ai, Reny held key leadership positions at Exabeam and ForeScout  Technologies, where he spent 9 years as field CTO and spearheaded successful revenue generation strategies and delivered impactful results.   Reny’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Dot Ai as the innovative start up continues to grow. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the company’s growth trajectory and cementing its position as a leader in the track and trace logistics market.   For more information, please visit www.daic.ai or contact Emily Parish at emily.parish@seeidinc.com or 925-482-7065.   About Bob Reny Bob Reny brings 29 years of IT experience, starting in IS security in the US Air Force. He comes to Dot Ai from the IT and security space where he was a field CTO for 9 years. His diverse clientele includes the US government, state governments, educational institutions, and global fortune 1000 corporations. Bob played an instrumental role at his in closing some of the largest deals with fortune 1000 companies in his prior organization’s history. A CISSP for 24 years, Bob guides organizations in optimizing asset intelligence, logistics, and risk assessment to better serve their own customer's needs. With expertise in IoT and asset intelligence, Bob aids organizations in leveraging 5th generation IoT radio technology to enhance their digital thread with greater intelligence, assurance and safety.  His goal is to leverage Artificial Intelligence and real-time data to streamline solutions, reduce complexity, and mitigate risks while improving operational efficiency and revenue.   Contact Emily Parish 925-482-7065 emily.parish@seeidinc.com    

Dan Hasley - Regional Sales Director, NA at Robotize stated: "During my previous roles in the industry, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of automation in manufacturing. Reshape Automation's platform is a remarkable step forward in this evolution. Their AI-driven marketplace is not just innovative; it's a practical solution that meets the real-world needs of manufacturers. This collaboration between Robotize and Reshape Automation represents a synergy of cutting-edge technology and market know-how, poised to make a significant impact in the industry.  Robotize's expertise in developing advanced and easy-to-use AMRs for internal logistics complements Reshape's vision of making automation simpler, more accessible, and beneficial for all kinds of manufacturers and warehouse operators."   Anders Pjetursson, CEO at Robotize, said: “We are really excited to add Reshape Automation to our excellent team of global Partners and appreciate their exciting new platform which will feature our GoPal AMR system.”   CEO & Co-founder of Reshape Automation, Juan Aparicio added, "I'm thrilled to announce our collaboration with Robotize. This partnership accelerates our mission to revolutionize manufacturing automation, especially for SMEs. Robotize's expertise in crafting AMRs for efficient internal logistics aligns perfectly with our drive to streamline automation. Their GoPal series, known for its safety, scalability, and versatility, aligns perfectly with our mission to offer simple yet powerful automation solutions. This partnership is a stride towards simplifying complex automation challenges, ensuring that the highest standards of efficiency and safety are accessible to those who need them most."   About Reshape Automation Reshape Automation is a newly launched robotic and automation company specializing in the needs of small and mid-sized manufacturers. The team brings decades of experience deploying robots in manufacturing across the United States. Reshape provides an end-to-end platform for manufacturers to deploy critical automation in their factories. Manufacturers can discover, design, purchase, and get support for their automation projects, all in one place. As part of the platform, Reshape operates a dual-purpose marketplace, powered by an AI assistant, connecting manufacturers seeking automation with automation companies, including system integrators and automation solutions vendors. Reshape Automation specializes in an array of tasks including machine tending, palletizing, packing, boxing, trimming, and quality inspection. Catering to the manufacturing and logistics industries, the company is set to become the go-to place for comprehensive automation solutions.   Learn more about Reshape Automation by visiting www.reshapeautomation.com.

San Jose CA & Atlanta GA, March 11, 2024 – DT Research, a leading designer and manufacturer of purpose-built computing solutions for vertical markets, today announced the company’s DT362DN (6-inch) and DT382DN (8-inch) rugged tablets for ultra mobile computing in the office, warehouse, and field. The DT362DN and DT382DN handhelds run the Microsoft® Windows® 11 IoT Enterprise operating system for flexible integration with existing applications and systems. The powerful Intel® Core® i3-N300 8-Core processor (up to 3.80 GHz) and 16GB of RAM provide ample workload support. With features and options such as RFID and NFC readers, barcode scanners, GPS, Smartcard/CAC reader, and cameras, these tablets streamline data collection for asset and inventory management and mission-critical projects.    “By focusing on our customer’s exact needs we are able to deliver the products they need to be successful. This commitment to continuous improvement based on customer feedback and the latest technology enables DT Research to offer the best value and targeted products for focused needs.”  said Daw Tsai, President of DT Research.     The DT362DN and DT382DN have SD card slots for quick access to camera and drone data retrieval, dual-frequency RFID/NFC for reading tags, and NIST compliant bios. With antireflective capacitive touch screens, and hot-swappable batteries for ease of use and continuous operation. Built-in WiFi and optional long range wireless communications keep staff connected to their networks.   Long Range Scanning With optional long range barcode scanners, the DT362DN and DT382DN can read 1D and 2D barcodes up to 60 feet away improving inventory productivity and staff safety. The optional integrated UHF (Ultra High Frequency) RFID reader on the DT382DN and in the trigger grip for the DT362DN streamlines reading asset tags up to 30 feet away.     Data Capture Options The 8MP camera with auto focus provides project status verification and scan QR codes. The Smart Card/ Common Access Card (CAC) reader gives instant access to protected data based on clearance level and processes other forms of ID. The GNSS module offers concurrent reception of GPS for tracking and location mapping needs.   Military-grade Durability and Reliability The DT362DN and DT382DN fanless handhelds are IP65-rated for water and dust resistance, MIL-STD- 810H certified for shock and vibration protection. FCC Class B, and RoHS certified.   DT362DN The DT362DN packs a powerful Intel processor into a compact ultra-portable handheld. With built in microphone and speaker, VOIP can be used with a wireless network for two-way communications. The removable NVMe SSD improves read and write transfer speed, and provides the ability to remove, store and secure the drive.   DT382DN The DT382DN has an 8-inch high-bright touchscreen for improved outdoor viewing, and SIM card slot for flexible data retrieval and communications. With dual charging through the DC jack and type C USB (for data or charging), the DT382DN also offers a variety of accessories for ease of use and placement, such as cradles for desktop, mounting in vehicles, on forklifts, and on poles, and a trigger grip with UHF RFID.    These TAA Compliant rugged handheld tablets offer seamless information capture and transmission in both secure and non-secure environments. By offering targeted data capture choices, users can reduce time and errors when managing assets, inventory, and projects.    DT Research will showcase these and other rugged tablets and laptops at the MODEX 2024 show in Atlanta March 12-14 in booth C8171.   Availability  The DT362DN and DT382DN rugged handheld tablets will be available Q2 from DT Research’s authorized distributors and resellers.    About DT Research DT Research™, an early Mobile Tablet pioneer and leading designer and manufacturer of purpose-built computing systems for vertical markets, delivers the world’s most comprehensive line of Rugged and GNSS Tablets, Tactical Tablets, Convertible Laptops and Medical Computing Solutions. DT Research products are uniquely designed with customizable built-in options assembled in California, providing customers with rapid time-to-market solutions that are TAA compliant. The DT Research family of products is based on embedded computing platforms that power secure, reliable and cost-effective computing. DT Research systems offer computing mobility within industrial and harsh environments through durable solutions with wireless connectivity, high-quality touch displays, and Windows® operating systems. More than 200 organizations across the globe rely on DT Research solutions in industries such as government, healthcare, hospitality, logistics, military, retail and warehousing. DT Research is headquartered in Silicon Valley, California. For more information, visit www.dtresearch.com and follow @dtresearch, #MilitaryTablets, #RuggedTablets and #GNSSTablets.    DT Research and WebDT are trademarks of DT Research, Inc. All other brands and product names may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.    Contact Gabrielle Marshall  DT Research gmarshall@dtri.com 408-934-6192

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES, March 7, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Reshape Automation, founded by industry veterans Juan Aparicio and Carlos Vanegas, announces the preview release of its AI-powered platform, aimed at streamlining the automation journey for manufacturers of all sizes. The platform bridges the gap between workforce needs and automation adoption, igniting a transformation in the industrial automation landscape and helping US manufacturers and warehouses in deploying more robots.   American factories should be booming. After years of reshoring trends fueled by supply chain snags, geopolitical instability and a global pandemic, we should be in the new golden age of manufacturing. But the reality is far from the expectation, and manufacturers all over the country are feeling the pain of an inescapable trend: we’re running out of people to keep the machines running and the lights on at American factories. There are currently 800,000 job openings in manufacturing. By 2030 the number is expected to reach 2 million.   For decades, we've put our hopes in robotic automation to be the hero that manufacturing needs, solving our worker shortage. With only 30,000 robots rolling out annually to North American companies, the current adoption rate is barely a drop in a growing bucket. This shortfall in automation is putting our manufacturers in a tough spot, making it harder to compete, costing us business to other countries, and increasing the cost of goods right here at home.   Reshape's Platform guides manufacturers through a curated marketplace of top automation brands, products, and turnkey solutions, eliminating the need for extensive research and vendor vetting. AI agents are readily available to address questions and provide guidance. Complementing the catalog of solutions, Reshape and its network of integration partners offer a range of comprehensive integration services, allowing manufacturers to choose the right level of assistance in deploying the robotic solution based on their needs and budget. From DIY projects to fully managed experiences, the platform facilitates communication, information exchange, and project management, streamlining the automation process from start to finish.   This effort is being fueled by a $1.7M pre-seed round, also unveiled today, led by Schematic Ventures, with participation from Bee Partners, and a contribution from Oliver Cameron.   “We were excited to lead Reshape Automation's pre-seed round last year and support their mission to solve automation challenges faced by small and medium-sized manufacturers. Reshape will make the U.S. manufacturing landscape more efficient, cost-effective, and competitive on a global scale” - Julian Counihan, General Partner @ Schematic Ventures   “I believe Reshape is in an exciting position to own a brand new category of automation: manufacturers need an automation partner from concept design, to deployment, to ongoing dedicated Support” - Kira Noodleman, Partner @ Bee Partners   E-commerce meets industrial automation solutions The platform launches with a diverse marketplace featuring robot arms, autonomous mobile robots (AMR), turnkey solutions and components from leading brands such as Fanuc, Robotize, Peer Robotics, Item, Nova Automation, Genba, OnRobot, Fairino, and more. Users can directly purchase equipment like a robot on a stand. However, its key feature lies in the selection of fully configurable turnkey solutions, all with transparent pricing. Manufacturers can use their smartphones to visualize the robotic workcells in Augmented Reality directly at their facility, enhancing both the experience and decision-making process   "We don’t sell and deploy enough robots in this country. There is no human contingency to the need to reshore manufacturing in the short term, and the stakes are high. If we are successful, there won't be 30,000 robots deployed a year, but millions, creating a more resilient and dynamic American industry.” - Juan Aparicio, Co-Founder and CEO   The other side of the coin. Overcoming System Integrators and Automation vendors' Hurdles System integrators and robotic OEM companies often face lengthy sales cycles, costly customer acquisition, and the need for a consultative approach before making a final sale. This, in turn, makes it difficult to serve the SME market. The Reshape Platform streamlines the pre-sales processes, significantly cutting the time and cost of deploying automation solutions to small and mid-sized businesses.   "Manufacturers in the US are fighting an uphill battle with labor shortages. We owe it to them to put the latest advances in AI to their service so that they can adopt automation as a low-risk and trustworthy ally to win that battle. Our AI agents act as a navigational aid throughout the manufacturer's automation journey, starting from the initial discovery and design phases” - Carlos Vanegas, Co-Founder and CTO   Platform Highlights Effortless Automation Discovery: curated catalog of leading automation brands, products, and turnkey solutions; powered by a 24/7 AI agent that is trained with the world’s knowledge in automation.   Seamless vendor matching: manufacturer matching with the most suitable system integrators for their needs. Also, a project management tool enables real-time communication and information sharing.   Flexible Deployment Options: Manufacturers can purchase pre-configured solutions or request custom modifications. Yearly support plans are also available.   About Reshape Automation Reshape Automation is a robotic and automation company specializing in the needs of small and mid-sized manufacturers. The team brings decades of experience deploying robots across the United States. Reshape provides an end-to-end platform for manufacturers to deploy critical automation in their factories. Manufacturers can discover, design, purchase, and get support for their automation projects, all in one place. Reshape specializes in an array of tasks including machine tending, palletizing, packing, boxing, trimming, and quality inspection. Catering to the manufacturing and logistics industries, the company is set to become the go-to place for comprehensive automation solutions.   Reshape Platform access will be available on March 11th for selected users, coinciding with the kick of Modex, where the team will be presenting. Request Access here!   Read the Reshape Manifesto   Contact Juan Aparicio Reshape Automation +1 510-570-7293 juan@reshapeautomation.com

BOSTON, March 11, 2024  –  Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF), a leader in smart following technology and subsidiary of the Piaggio Group, announces the launch of PFF kilo™, the newest addition to their portfolio of mobile technology solutions for businesses. kilo is a 4-wheeled robotic flat bed with hands-free human following capabilities. With a payload of up to 300 lbs and a maximum speed of 3 mph, kilo is designed to work alongside humans, enabling users to move materials more naturally and without the risk of repetitive motion injuries. kilo marks the first introduction of PFF’s proprietary Travel on Known Paths autonomous behavior, allowing users to train robots on paths up to 100 meters in length and store up to 100 trips per fleet for future use.    PFF kilo can be optionally outfitted with industry or facility specific carts or shelving, ensuring the right platform configuration for any job. It operates out of the box, without the need for costly infrastructure requirements or advanced training for operators. kilo is also equipped with PFF pro™ tools web portal and mobile applications, allowing for fleet management and regular software improvements.    “Our robotics technology is augmenting workforces around the world and PFF kilo is the newest model offering customizable options with the ability to utilize our latest software tools and data to manage the human-robot relationship,” said CEO Greg Lynn. “From manufacturing to any industry that relies on the repetitive movement of goods across campuses and facilities, PFF’s autonomous technology allows our robots to safely move with and around workers in complex environments and to help individuals in the workplace, streamlining workflows and increasing productivity.”   kilo is operated using a single intuitive button which indicates the functionality status and features of the robot through color, brightness, and light patterns. The robot uses proprietary human etiquette algorithms, depth cam¬eras, and 4D radar and is optimized for detecting and predicting human behavior while operating at pedestrian speeds. The hands-free following allows for both indoors and outdoors use for a wide variety of environments and applications. Intuitive, easy to use, and developed with worker safety in mind, kilo is designed to augment workers with valuable efficiency and safety, enhancing rather than replacing workers and jobs.    kilo is equipped with PFF pro™ tools fleet management software. The cloud-based and proprietary software tool is a next-generation fleet management solution built to optimize and augment the working relationship between humans and their robotic counterparts. PFF’s next generation of robots provides integration and orchestration features allowing teams to achieve more while collaborating with their robot partners.    PFF will be introducing kilo at the MODEX Show, March 11-14, 2024. For a demo, visit booth #A10907 at MODEX or email business@piaggiofastforward.com to schedule an appointment.   About Piaggio Fast Forward Smart following technology leader Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF) is a Boston-based company founded in 2015 and funded by the Piaggio Group, the Italian manufacturer and creator of the iconic Vespa scooter. PFF has an extensive knowledge of pedestrian mobility and uses this knowledge to create innovative mobile tech solutions that move the way people move. PFF's vision is to bring intuitive, efficient, and sustainable robotics solutions into the entire human-built environment while supporting the local mobility needs of businesses, communities, and individuals. The gitamini and gitaplus robots are sold directly to consumers as well as to businesses that use them to augment their labor force and delight their customers in select industries including travel, hospitality, real estate, retail, delivery and more. For business inquiries please visit piaggiofastforward.com/business.   About Piaggio Group Established in 1884, Piaggio Group is the largest scooter and motorcycle manufacturer in Europe and one of the global leaders in the sector. The Piaggio Group has been listed on the Italian stock exchange since 2006 and has three main business lines: 2 and 3 wheelers (scooters and motorcycles), light commercial vehicles and robotics (PFF). The Group's portfolio includes some of the most iconic and famous brands in the light mobility industry, such as: Piaggio, Vespa, Moto Guzzi, Gilera, Derbi, Ape and Piaggio Commercial. Piaggio Group counts more than 6.600 employees, it has a distribution in more than 100 countries and six industrial plants (in Italy, India, China and Vietnam). The Group also has four research and development centers, which employ approximately 1,000 people.

San Francisco, CA — Praxie Inc. announced today that it has joined the Google Cloud Partner Advantage program as a Global Google Cloud Build Partner giving Google Cloud customers the ability to achieve rapid business transformation with our AI-powered manufacturing processes and workflows.   Praxie’s Software-As-A-Service Platform contains a Digital Manufacturing Suite of applications and a globally scalable no-code platform for custom digital business transformation.  Praxie’s technology powers manufacturing digital transformation, helping manufacturers create and implement strategy and operations 10x faster with 10x impact compared to other systems.    Designed by top manufacturing, Lean, and Six Sigma experts, Praxie’s AI-powered platform provides breakthroughs for implementing: • Toyota Kata • Lean Manufacturing • Six Sigma  • Lean + Six Sigma • Manufacturing Execution functionality   Manufacturers can build their own manufacturing operating system using apps that are integrated in workflows and data, while digitally connecting existing systems of record, or with batch ETL.   As a Google Cloud partner, Praxie offers customers dozens of integrated, out of the box applications from Generative AI Co-pilot, Executive Dashboards & Key Performance Indicators, Kaizen Six Sigma Manufacturing Software, Huddle Boards, Maintenance Manager, PFMEA Manufacturing Software and more. Key features include: • Digital Order Transformation - Available-to-Promise Transparency - End-to-End Order Orchestration - Dynamic Downstream Integration and Enterprise Visibility - Globally Transparent Inventory Insight • Manufacturing, Innovation and Change Transformation - Proposes design variations using machine learning - Create KPI dashboards for plants, areas, lines, cells, & more as easy as PowerPoint - Manage and track your project portfolio - Enables simultaneous updates and viewing for real-time collaboration - Offers adjustable software application templates for diverse manufacturing needs - Strategic Projects Management functionality - Incident Tracking and customizable incident report templates - Work Instructions that enable real-time operator feedback for continuous improvement - Logs detailed maintenance history for trend analysis and audit compliance - Ranks failure modes by impact and likelihood to focus on critical issues - Drive Intelligent Digital Transformation with software emulating the most popular transformation models (OEE, GR&R, SQDC, SOP, 5S, QFD, OKRs, OGSM, VSM, RACI, BMM, KANO, and Catch Ball - Hoshin)   Praxie's software transformed our operations, enabling data-driven decisions and streamlining our manufacturing process. Dylan Hoback, Program Manager at Accu-Tube   SETUP PRAXIE DEMO   About Praxie Praxie Inc.’s founders and team include serial entrepreneurs and industry experts with deep understanding of the challenges that organizations face in today’s disruptive world. With subject matter expertise in the fields of strategy, innovation, business process management, and technology, Praxie team has secured numerous Fortune 1000 clients as part of its beta launch.   The company is currently privately held. For more information and to setup a demo, visit www.praxie.com.   Contact Soren Kaplan Praxie, Inc. Soren.Kaplan@praxie.com  

Atlanta, GA - March 7, 2024 – BlueFletch, a leader in frontline mobile device security solutions, today launched its innovative communication tool, BlueFletch Enterprise Chat, designed for frontline workers in warehouses, distribution centers, and logistics hubs at MODEX 2024, the premier event for the supply chain industry, taking place on March 11th-14th in Atlanta, Georgia. Attendees are invited to visit booth A12809 to see how this innovative tool simplifies frontline communications.   Empowering Frontline Workers with Advanced Communication Tools BlueFletch Enterprise Chat improves communication on workforce devices with features such as device-to-device video calls, configurable group messaging, single sign-on (SSO), automatic site awareness, text chat, push-to-talk with replay, and voice calls. These functionalities support better coordination, secure information exchange, and improved response times across various frontline activities.   Key Features and Benefits: • Enhanced Communication: Instant video calls, group chats, and push-to-talk messaging improve coordination and response times. • Improved Security: Secure and encrypted messaging ensures that sensitive information remains protected. • Increased Efficiency: Automatic site awareness and presence information help users know who is active and available, reducing downtime and improving task allocation. • Shared Device Model: Tailored for frontline workers using shared devices, ensuring communication between drivers, dispatch, distribution, inventory specialists, and warehouses is seamless, secure, and efficient.   Lightweight Solution for Mobile Devices BlueFletch Enterprise Chat is designed to be lightweight, allowing quick communication without needing a heavy software client installed on mobile devices. This approach ensures that frontline workers can stay connected and informed without impacting the performance of their devices.   "We understand the critical role that effective communication plays in the success of any operation, especially in high-paced environments like warehouses and distribution centers," said Richard Makerson, CEO of BlueFletch. "With BlueFletch Enterprise Chat, we're not just offering a tool; we're providing a solution that bridges the gap between technology and practical, everyday needs without burdening the devices our frontline workers rely on."   Availability BlueFletch Enterprise Chat is now available as part of BlueFletch Enterprise for organizations looking to empower their frontline workers with cutting-edge communication tools. For more information, visit www.bluefletch.com or contact us at info@bluefletch.com.   About BlueFletch Based in Atlanta, BlueFletch is an award-winning innovator in the mobility industry, focused on helping enterprises secure, manage, and support their shared workforce mobile devices. The flagship product BlueFletch Enterprise is trusted by the Fortune 1000 in retail, transportation, logistics, and warehousing worldwide. Providing a customized Android launcher, mobile SSO, support and analytics, and device tracking and management for workforce devices, BlueFletch Enterprise helps ensure an organization’s mobility initiatives are effective and secure.  Learn more at www.bluefletch.com.   Contact Fred Go Director of Marketing BlueFletch info@bluefletch.com (855) 529-6349  

BEDFORD, PA (March 11, 2024) — Bedford Reinforced Plastics — a full-service supplier offering an extensive line of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) products and services — will showcase its ReadySeries lineup in booth A10005 at the MODEX trade show. This will be Bedford’s inaugural appearance at MODEX, held March 11-14, 2024, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.   The Bedford ReadySeries lineup is the broadest FRP modular solution to meet access and safety structure needs of those in the manufacturing and supply chain industries. The ReadySeries system includes industrial platforms, mezzanines, walkways, catwalks, fixed ladders, handrails, guardrails, stairs, stair towers, pedestrian bridges and more for nearly limitless configurations. Each easy-to-install modular product can be used independently or combined with other products in the series.   An ideal solution for meeting industrial safety needs quickly and affordably, ReadySeries structures are OSHA-compliant. Unlike wood and metal, ReadySeries FRP is fire-retardant, corrosion-resistant and non-conductive. Anti-slip coatings minimize slip and fall risks, while Bedford's proprietary ReadyShield UV coating protects against ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, harsh weather, extreme heat and humidity without changes to the structural integrity or surface appearance. Safety yellow coloring is available in all ReadySeries structures.    “ReadySeries modular products can help those in the manufacturing and supply chain industry enhance productivity and efficiency while increasing facility safety,” said Eric Kidd, marketing director for Bedford Reinforced Plastics. “Our ReadySeries products create affordable, customized solutions for a warehouse by offering multiple configurations that are ready to ship and designed for easy installation.”   ReadySeries products include:  • ReadyPlatform solutions are ideal for industrial access platforms, walkways, mezzanines and catwalk applications that don’t require a custom build. ReadyPlatform materials are available in 3x3' increments and heights of 1-1/2', 3', 4-1/2' and 6'. Customers can also add ReadyStair, ReadyLadder or ReadyRail components to get their ideal configuration. • ReadyLadder solutions let customers quickly combine sections available in 10' and 15' increments to get the desired ladder height. If needed, customers can quickly trim one section with ordinary tools to get an exact fit or add a walk-through for a complete system. • ReadyRail guardrail and handrail materials are perfect for both new structures and repairs. They are stocked in 3' sections, and you can also specify the length of your railing run and Bedford will package all components into a handy kit. Materials can be used on their own or to complement ReadyPlatform products for a complete safety solution.  • ReadyStair stair towers adapt easily to almost any configuration. They fit in a 7-1/2' by 12' nominal footprint, rising in 6' increments between landings. When needed, a short stretch of up or down stairs is provided for the final transition at the top. ReadyStair sections are also used in conjunction with ReadyPlatform materials to meet any configuration needed.   For more information, visit ready-series.com, or call (814) 623-8125.    About Bedford Reinforced Plastics Bedford Reinforced Plastics is a privately owned American manufacturer and supplier of fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP) structural elements and supporting services, including ReadySeries pre-engineered modular products, PROSeries structural shapes and grating as well as custom-engineered FRP solutions. Bedford helps customers solve building and manufacturing challenges quickly and cost-effectively through an innovative array of design, engineering, fabrication, assembly and logistics services.   To learn more about Bedford, visit bedfordreinforced.com.

[Be’er Sheva, March 4th, 2024] – CaPow, a provider of power-in-motion solutions for mobile robots, today announced that it will be hosting a live demonstration of its solution, Genesis, at MODEX 2024. With CaPow’s patented system, mobile robot fleets can remain operational 100% of the time with zero throughput losses, enabling warehouses and manufacturing facilities to operate at optimal levels of efficiency.   As part of the demonstratachieve and Genesis system will power two mobile robots of different makes and models while in motion, refuting the claim that minimal downtime is the best-case scenario that robots can achieve, and proving that it can be eliminated entirely.   The logistics industry is projected to be valued at 18.23 trillion USD by 2030. Despite this, the industry is still struggling with inefficiencies that until now have been unavoidable, namely charging downtime and the cost of additional robots to enable seamless 24/7 operations. The dependency on static charging, even when optimized, comes at an operational and financial cost. Deploying CaPow’s solution can reduce the total cost of ownership by an average of 32% while decreasing operational losses related to automation by more than 50%.   CaPow’s Genesis solution ensures 100% operational uptime for an entire fleet of robots, by providing energy while en-route. CaPow not only eliminates the need for extra robots to compensate for charging periods but also frees up valuable operational space previously occupied by charging stations, enabling better usage of available facility space for revenue generation.   "We are excited to showcase what we have achieved at MODEX, to enable people who have long believed the vision of eliminating charging downtime to be a dream to see that it is becoming a reality,” said Professor Mor Peretz, CEO and Co-Founder of CaPow. “Genesis introduces a new operational efficiency equation, redefining the industry standard to be 100% uptime for 100% of your fleet. With the demand for robot-fueled operations growing across all industries, from logistics to manufacturing to retail and more, the costs of not having the robots you paid for available for you when you want them has never been greater.”   Fully scalable, Genesis seamlessly integrates into both existing and newly designed mobile robots. With a hassle-free transition for warehouse operators CaPow dramatically reduces upfront costs by removing the need to invest in additional fleets, charging stations, or third-party logistics providers. With constant energy delivery in place, CaPow provides the flexibility to optimize not just robots, but the entire operational area.   The live demonstration at MODEX will be at booth A12320, and it can be seen in action here.   About CaPow CaPow is a pioneer in the field of power delivery for robots in-motion. Facilitating a revolutionary perpetual power solution, CaPow changes the way automated solutions are designed and deployed, allowing automated robotic fleets to reach constant 100% throughput by eliminating downtime. A leader in the field of warehouse and fulfillment automation, CaPow is revolutionizing the logistics industry with 24/7 operational efficiency. Based on decades of research backed up by an extensive patent portfolio and a team of scientists, CaPow’s technology redefines automated fleets’ power delivery strategy, simplifies infrastructure installation, and establishes headache-free deployments.   Contact Mushkie Meyer Headline Media mushkie@headline.media  IL:+972 53 612 1118 US:+1 914 336 4035  

Charlotte, NC – March 4, 2024 –MODEX 2024, the premier event for the full spectrum supply chain, is honored to host renowned football coach Nick Saban as a keynote. Speaking at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Saban will participate in a conversation, titled "Tales of Leadership from The Gridiron," on Wednesday, March 13 at 9 AM. Coach Saban, known for his unparalleled success in college football, will share the inspiring story of how he led The University of Alabama to the pinnacle of college football and maintained its position at the top. MODEX 2024 attendees will gain insight into Coach Saban's winning process, which emphasizes discipline and consistency. A man of vision, Coach Saban has a proven record of championship success. In his 28 seasons as a collegiate head coach, Saban compiled a 297-71-1 record.  In 2021, he passed Paul “Bear” Bryant to become the only coach to win seven national titles in the poll era of college football. In addition to his coaching achievements, Coach Saban and his wife, Terry, have been dedicated philanthropists. They started Nick’s Kids Foundation in 1998 to promote and support children, families, and teachers. They also recently established the Saban Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, a first-of-its-kind STEAM campus that serves as a hub for education training, arts participation, and academic support. Saban is one of five dynamic keynotes who will take the stage at MODEX. For more information about Saban and the other keynote sessions, please visit modexshow.com/education. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community. About MODEX MODEX 2024 will be held March 11-14 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Over 1,175 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on MODEX’s show floor totaling over 579,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems, e-comm fulfillment and last mile logistics. MODEX 2024 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities. For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit www.modexshow.com.   

The Solutions Community Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the recent approval of applications to join the MHI Solutions Community for Designed Conveyor Systems, IMA S.p.A., PFlow Industries, Inc., SDI Element Logic, Trew, and Yard Management Solutions LLC.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about the Solutions Community, please visit mhi.org/solutions-community or contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org.    About Solutions Community Solutions Community members are the industry’s thought leaders on automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. This includes suppliers, integrators, consultants, media, academia and users. They collaborate on solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. All participants adhere to a safe harbor no-buy, no-sell environment to openly discuss topics of mutual interest, including best practices, lessons learned and other information.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

San Francisco, CA – March 1, 2024 – Praxie, a leading innovator in AI-powered business process software, today announced a groundbreaking lean manufacturing solution designed to revolutionize the manufacturing industry. Praxie’s platform leverages the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) to digitize and streamline many manual processes, propelling manufacturers towards unprecedented levels of efficiency, agility, and data integration with visibility.   Recognizing the limitations of traditional methods like physical huddle boards and Excel files, Praxie equips manufacturers with a comprehensive suite of tools to embrace and optimize lean principles while integrating data from across the manufacturing plant. This empowers manufacturers to: • Elevate SQDC (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost): Praxie's platform facilitates real-time data collection and analysis, enabling proactive identification and resolution of quality issues, improved safety protocols, and optimized production processes for enhanced cost-effectiveness. All SQDC processes and data can now be instantly accessed, from the shop floor to the top floor. • Embrace 5S (Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, Sustain): Praxie digitalizes visual management tools, fostering a culture of continuous improvement by providing real-time data and clear processes with AI support to promote organization, cleanliness, and standardized practices across the shop floor. • Supercharge Gemba Walks: Empower managers with mobile access to critical data and insights, enabling them to conduct more frequent and insightful Gemba walks, directly observing operations and identifying opportunities for improvement. Walk data is instantly summarized and turn into A3 action plans. • Simplify Kata (Patterned Practice): Praxie streamlines the implementation and tracking of Kata cycles, allowing teams to practice, experiment, and refine their processes in a structured and data-driven environment, accelerating learning and improvement. • Empower Kaizen (Continuous Improvement): Praxie facilitates the continuous improvement process by providing best practice Kaizen innovation tools for AI-powered ideation and idea prioritization and execution, enabling teams to identify and address inefficiencies, experiment with solutions, and track progress towards improvement goals.   "The manufacturing landscape is rapidly evolving, and traditional approaches are falling short," states Michael Lynch, CEO of Praxie. "Our lean manufacturing solution empowers manufacturers to harness the potential of Industry 4.0, enabling them to streamline workflows, eliminate waste, and make data-driven decisions with unparalleled speed and accuracy."   Praxie's AI-powered solution unlocks a multitude of benefits for manufacturers including increased efficiency, enhanced quality, improved agility, and empowered workforce and cost management, and topline growth. Praxie’s partnerships with Google, SAP, and others provide an unparalled ability to leverage data and work processes across the plant and overall enterprise. "We are witnessing a new era in manufacturing, powered by the transformative potential of AI and lean principles," concludes Lynch. "Praxie is proud to be at the forefront of this revolution. By equipping manufacturers with intelligent tools and solutions, we are partnering with them to shape a more efficient, innovative, and sustainable future for their industry."   Contact Soren Kaplan Praxie, Inc. Soren.Kaplan@praxie.com www.praxie.com   

Chicago — February 27, 2024 — Mid America Paper Recycling (MAPR), one of the largest independent brokers, processors and exporters of recovered paper in the Central United Sates, will exhibit at MODEX 2024, March 11-14, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, in booth B7054. Mid America will highlight its first-of-its-kind Waste Audit, an initiative focused on tracking and increasing the value of the recycling waste streams generated by logistics firms, commercial printers and paperboard converters.    Hosted by The Material Handling Industry of America, the MODEX show/conference will feature advancements in supply chain solutions, materials handling equipment, services, technology and logistics and smart systems.   “MODEX 2024 will allow us to educate our customers and attendees about the hidden benefits of their recyclable waste,” explains Don Gaines, CEO of Mid America Paper Recycling. “We plan to do the same with visitors to our booth and explain the tremendous value in adopting a continuous improvement plan for their waste streams.”   Mid America works closely with many operations creating a customized, continuous improvement process that identifies where their waste is generated, establishes key collection procedures, and sets objectives that continually improve their waste stream’s revenue contribution to their business. “No other company offers as comprehensive and value-added a solution,” Gaines said.   Mid America exhibit staff will be available to fully describe the recycling program, explain its many benefits, how it works, and illustrate why it is a key component for all types of companies, from small and newer businesses to the well-established Fortune 500. The innovative recycling management program helps producers build a scorecard process by benchmarking, monitoring, and continuously upgrading their recycling operations to help them achieve their sustainability goals and grow the financial worth of their waste.   “Recyclable materials can be wasted, which doesn’t meet anyone’s environmental goals,” Gaines notes. “But we show companies how their waste can be a significant, value-added contributor to their profitability if professionally managed. We target hidden savings opportunities in an operation’s indirect costs using our innovative Waste Audit process. When we introduce and outline the Audit with plant operations personnel, it gets them thinking, triggering discussion and raising questions.”   Mid America shows producers how they can grow the worth of the recyclable waste produced. Gaines says it is an important and detailed process that begins with how the waste is generated and where it flows through a plant, to how loads of the recyclable waste materials are shipped and how all of the steps within the recycling process can be improved to accrue more revenue per ton.   Taking Mid America’s free Waste Audit Survey is the first step on the path to recycling improvement. Easy to use, the survey takes only 10 minutes to fill out, but is comprehensive in scope.    Because manufacturing operations often create tons of waste each year, – ranging from pre-consumer, high-grade recyclable paper to production trim and paperboard – Mid America’s Audit Process can help these operations realize significant revenues.   “Continuous Improvement is so important today in many areas of an operation,” Gaines said. “We designed the Audit to bring this same strategic process to a recycler's current waste handling practices and build a smart program that continuously improves the worth of their waste.”    To learn more about Mid America’s continuous improvement initiative and the Audit, stop by booth B7054 and take the Waste Audit survey or go online to visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/MAPRAudit.    About Mid America Paper Recycling Founded in 1926, Mid America Paper Recycling is a fourth-generation leader in the recycling industry, and provides solutions for partners ranging from small businesses to large multinational corporations. Its robust program features a new benchmarking audit, consultation services, documentation, quantification and presentation of the specific and overall values that can be realized from customer waste streams. To learn more about the free waste audit and Mid America’s other environmental initiatives, call 773-890-5454 or visit www.midamericapaper.com.

MHI’s Board of Governors and Roundtable Advisory Committee recently released their top business trends impacting the supply chain industry. In an age marked by persistent disruptions, swift digitization, and escalating consumer expectations, traditional approaches to supply chain management may fall significantly short. From leveraging the potential of data and AI to constructing agile and resilient networks, these 11 trends will impact operational performance for years to come.   Supply Chain Resiliency As disruption becomes the norm, supply chains must anticipate, prepare for, and adapt to risk, uncertainty, disruption, and changing customer demands. Supply chain resiliency will require simplification and near shoring, and a variety of new capabilities and digital technologies including software, automation, robotics, AI, IoT, and advanced analytics. Additionally, a skilled workforce is essential as human workers collaborate and work alongside automation and digital technologies. A diversified and collaborative supplier base is also essential to build the visibility and redundancies necessary to quickly adapt to disruption.   Geopolitical Risks and Reshoring Ongoing geopolitical tensions such as the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine conflicts will persist in causing disruptions to supply chains. Consequently, an increasing number of organizations will adopt streamlined networks through practices like nearshoring and friend-shoring. Today’s political landscape can be complex and polarizing, and business leaders should carefully approach the topics when interacting with customers and employees in addition to monitoring impacts on product sourcing, delivery times, and shipping costs.    Supply Chain Workforce Developing and maintaining a desirable workplace culture continues to be important to supply chain leaders while navigating remote work, workplace flexibility, and constant change in the workplace environment.  The workforce shortage has made hiring, retaining, and managing supply chain talent a key priority.  The shift in demographics, aging workforce, worker wealth creation, remote work opportunities, perception issues, near shoring, and other drivers of this shortage are driving the importance of succession planning at all levels of the organization to minimize negative impacts to customer relationships and financial results.  Organizations must put their human workers at the center of their supply chain operations and any new technology implementation. Investments in people through new talent pools, training and development on the latest technologies will be essential and will create a culture of innovation for future success.   Sustainability  Sustainability is beyond the inflection point and large multi-nationals, Europe, and California are leading the demand for compliance from suppliers and could implement non-compliance fines and penalties in the future. Major organizations have set Net Zero goals and are asking their suppliers to help them in these efforts. This, along with mounting environmental expectations from consumers, employees, investors, governments, and regulators is prompting a growing emphasis on sustainability. This necessitates collaboration with suppliers and partners, the adoption of new technologies, employee education, Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG measurement and target setting, identifying areas for improvement, and reporting. As the focus is turning toward compliance, companies need to have sustainability plans in place.    Transparency and Visibility The lack of transparency across the tiers of a supply chain is a significant challenge for organizations, especially in meeting visibility and regulatory standards, and in managing supply chain risks. Gaining visibility beyond Tier 1 empowers organizations to look across the entire ecosystem to build deeper insights into root causes of disruption and identify risks further down the chain. This also advances ESG goals and customer concerns regarding traceability and transparency.   Pace of Automation & Robotics Adoption The convergence of workforce shortages, reshoring trends, efficiency improvements , and AI advancements have driven the adoption of automation and robotics and put it as a focus of the C-suite agendas. Robotics adoption is also creating opportunities for upskilling technical talent and fueling the advancement of collaborative robots (cobots) in the workplace.  Supply chain leaders can no longer afford to overlook the potential of these solutions to enhance operational productivity, reduce costs, and foster innovation.   Advanced Analytics  An ongoing challenge for supply chains is managing data effectively. Every day, numerous data records are generated from various systems throughout a company’s supply chain, thanks to the widespread use of digital technologies, sensors, IoT devices, and advanced tracking systems. This abundance of data has contributed to the emergence of isolated data silos within organizations, resulting in disconnected datasets and unactionable data. Without actionable data, organizations lack the comprehensive view of their operations that is necessary to quickly respond to disruptions, mitigate risk, and improve performance.   Artificial Intelligence and Simulation Generative AI (GenAI) is capable of fundamentally transforming supply chains. Applications driven by GenAI can handle significantly larger datasets compared to earlier machine learning models, enabling the analysis of intricately complex variables. Additionally, GenAI can autonomously learn and adapt to the specific nuances of a company's supply chain ecosystem, continuously refining and enhancing its analytical capabilities and performance. Organizations should learn how AI can be properly implemented to improve their operations. Paired with advancements in AI, Digital Twins produce evolving profiles of an asset or process and capture insights on performance across the facility lifecycle (process design, operations, and maintenance). The use of digital twins is becoming more prevalent and a necessary customer expectation to optimize processes mitigate costs, scenario planning, and increase throughput modeling. Protecting intellectual property is important with Digital Twin modeling and can result in better collaboration between customers and suppliers   Cybersecurity The alarming increase in cybercrime is leading to more data breaches, delays and shortages, reputational damage, compliance issues, safety risks, and financial loss. Cybercrime is now being perpetrated by very sophisticated criminal organizations. Cybercriminals can target any entry or access point in the supply chain, driving the need for cybersecurity to be a concern for organizations and supply chains of all sizes. Organizations must safeguard their operations by staying current on best practices while investing in cybersecurity solutions and training.   Impact of E-commerce on Transportation and Last Mile Logistics With the convenience and popularity of online ordering, consumers of all ages continue to fuel the growth  of e-commerce, especially in the categories of grocery, healthcare, and pharmaceutical. The resulting impact on distribution centers, fulfillment facilities, and equipment, labor, technology, final mile, reverse logistics and the environment is driving the adoption of automation, robotics, and digital technologies to meet the need for speed and accuracy for e-commerce deliveries and reverse logistics. Optimizing new developments in last mile logistics solutions offer  variable delivery and pickup options for e-commerce orders.   Economy Economic and inflationary pressures on goods and services are impacting the supply chain, increasing pressure on margins, impacting product costs, timeline of PO to delivery, reimagining contracts, and negotiation practices.  Leaders will need more macro data with deeper layers to see how the economy is impacting their businesses, by creating forecasting and outlook reports for strategic decisions.  Expertise to provide forecasting tools and techniques will be in demand.     To learn more about MHI Leadership, visit mhi.org/leadership. To learn more about the trends impacting supply chains, make plans to attend MODEX, March 11-14 in Atlanta, GA. Complimentary registration is available at modexshow.com.    About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community   About MODEX MODEX 2024 will be held March 11-14 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Over 1,200 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on MODEX’s show floor totaling over 579,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems, e-comm fulfillment and last mile logistics. MODEX 2024 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities. For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit www.modexshow.com.

Charlotte, NC – Feb 26 – In recognition of the growing importance of cybersecurity for the supply chain, MHI is hosting a one-day Cybersecurity Workshop on June 11 at its office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Due to the supply chain’s centrality to national infrastructure, the industry’s ability to adapt and strengthen defenses against cyber threats is critical. The MHI Cybersecurity Workshop will impart insights into the challenges posed by today's complex cyber environment, covering topics from cutting-edge threat intelligence to effective incident response. The training will be facilitated by the following leading cybersecurity strategists: Chris Finan: A Cybersecurity Entrepreneur and former White House Cybersecurity Official, Finan has founded, advised, and served in executive leadership positions in a variety of early-stage and growth-stage cybersecurity companies. While previously serving as the Director for Cybersecurity Legislation and Policy on the National Security Council, Finan spearheaded the Executive Order that directed the development of the NIST cybersecurity framework. He began his career as a Pilot and Intelligence Officer for the U.S. Air Force. Robert Knake: is the Principal at Orkestrel, LLC, a boutique cybersecurity firm. He previously served as Deputy National Cyber Director at the White House’s Office of the National Cyber Director. In that role, he led the development of the National Cybersecurity Strategy and oversaw federal cybersecurity spending. Earlier in his career, Knake served as a Director on the National Security Council.  In addition to his government service, Knake has worked as a cybersecurity consultant and advisor to enterprises, startups, and cybersecurity firms. He has also published best-selling books about cyber threats. The workshop will include a simulated cyber-attack and response. Additionally, attendees will receive a takeaway Executive Guide to Cybersecurity to help them craft a comprehensive cybersecurity program for their company. The MHI Security Workshop will run from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm ET on June 11. Space is limited to 40 participants, and a discounted price is available for MHI and WERC members. Attendees can register at mhi.org/cybersecurityworkshop. Questions about the program can be directed to Rebecca Woods, Director of Talent and Development at education@mhi.org. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

Charlotte NC – February 23, 2024 – With a mission to inspire action among logistics professionals, the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) has released the full program of educational sessions and networking events for the WERC Annual Conference. The conference will take place at the Hilton, Anatole in Dallas, Texas on June 2-5.The conference’s educational sessions, which focus on the essential areas of people, processes, and technology, enable attendees to expand their operational knowledge and accelerate their professional development.“The WERC Annual Conference is a hub for learning and growth where professionals at any stage of their career can expand their logistics skillset,” stated Michael Mikitka, EVP for MHI Knowledge Center and WERC. “Our 2024 program has been crafted to deliver actionable intelligence to the industry’s most pressing challenges and to foster collaboration between attendees.”Below is a sample of a few sessions that will be offered at the 2024 WERC Annual Conference:What Younger Workers Look for in a Job: This session explores the latest research on those aged 18-34 without college degrees. Participants will gain a better understand of this job candidate demographic, which they can apply toward talent and retention tactics.Forecasting with AI and Machine Learning (ML):  For supply chain leaders, ML has the potential to drive business success when applied to forecasting. In plain English, this session will explain how and why ML applies to forecasting and how it compares to non-ML forecasting techniques.Case Study: Executing a Total Operational Network Transformation: This session details how the total transformation of an entire operational network resulted in inventory accuracy improving from 55% to 99.2%, late orders reduced by 95%, and cost-per-unit dropped by 20%. The presentation will also share how a multi-site digital implementation laid the groundwork for the organization's future.In addition to Thought Leader sessions listed above, WERC 2024 features the always popular Peer-to-Peer discussion sessions. These small-group gatherings provide attendees the opportunity to talk with peers about crucial issues and to share their insights and solutions. Beyond the comprehensive lineup of educational sessions, WERC 2024 will also host three inspiring keynotes.Attendees can also broaden their operational perspective by registering for a facility tour on June 5. Hosted by Edward Don & Company, Henry Schein, Inc., Lennox International, the Mariner, and Northern Tool Equipment, the tours will showcase cutting-edge distribution technology and processes.To attend this premier event for warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment professionals,  register now at werc.org/2024. Companies interested in hosting an informative conference session about their products and services are invited to learn more about the WERC 2024 sponsorship opportunities.About WERCWERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

Charlotte, NC – February 14, 2024 – MHI has revealed the three finalists who will participate in the MODEX 2024 StartUp Pitch Competition on Tuesday, March 12. The three companies, selected by an independent panel of supply chain professionals, include:• Gig and Take• Paccurate• Two BoxesThese innovative companies were also chosen to exhibit in the MODEX StartUp Pavillion, which will be located in Hall A of the Georgia World Congress Center.Competition OverviewDuring the StartUp Pitch Competition, each finalist will have exactly 8 minutes to present their cutting-edge supply chain solution. Following their presentations, they will participate in a 7-minute Q&A session with a judging panel comprised of supply chain experts. The winner will be awarded a $10,000 check, which will be presented during MHI Industry Night at MODEX on March 13.The StartUp Pitch Competition will be held at the MODEX StartUp Theater from 3-4 PM on Tuesday, March 12.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.About MODEXMODEX 2024 will be held March 11-14 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Over 1200 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on MODEX’s show floor totaling over 579,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems, e-comm fulfillment and last mile logistics. MODEX 2024 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities. For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit www.modexshow.com.

MHI has released the list of finalists for the 2024 MHI Innovation Awards. After receiving 192 submissions for this year’s awards, seven independent judges comprised of professionals from the material handling and supply chain industry completed the initial review process. Three finalists were chosen as the most innovative products in each category based on concept, value, and impact, including the inaugural Best Innovation in Sustainability category. Here are the finalists in no particular order.BEST NEW INNOVATIONDexoryProduct: DexoryView | Booth Number: B708Slip RoboticsProduct: Automated Loading Robots (ALRs) for 5-minute truck loading/unloading | Booth Number: A11318Geekplus America, Inc.Product: Pallet-to-Person | Booth Number: C6076BEST INNOVATION OF AN EXISTING PRODUCTVerity AGProduct: Autonomous inventory drones featuring coexistence | Booth Number: C3692Schneider ElectricProduct: Ecostruxure Expert Twin for Logistics | Booth Number: B7232ForwardX RoboticsProduct: Apex C1500-L | Booth Number: B3209BEST IT INNOVATIONOptimal Discovery, LLCProduct: Optimal Slotting | Booth Number: B8056Configura, Inc.Product: CET Material Handling | Booth Number: B7853ExotecProduct: Deepsky from Exotec® | Booth Number: B4202BEST INNOVATION IN SUSTAINABILITYPAC MachineryProduct: PAC FW 650SI INVERTED FLOW WRAPPER | Booth Number: C4488WAGNER Fire SafetyProduct: OxyReduct Fire Prevention System | Booth Number: B7845Avery DennisonProduct: Logistics Grade Linerless | Booth Number: A10123The MHI Innovation Award serves to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain products and services to MODEX attendees.  MODEX 2024 exhibitors were called to submit a new product, product line, technology or service or new application of existing products or technology that create quantifiable and sustainable results in terms of ROI, cost savings, customer satisfaction, etc.On Monday, March 11, 2024, finalists move onto the next round of judging and will present their unique solutions to a panel of independent judges on the show floor at MODEX 2024. The winners in each category will be announced at MODEX 2024 on March 13th during MHI Industry Night with Colin Jost.MHI would like to thank the seven industry professionals for graciously volunteering their time as Innovation Award judges.To see more information and learn more about all the Innovation Award entries, visit modexshow.com/innovation-awards. For questions, contact Greg Baer at 704-714-8725.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics communityAbout MODEXMODEX 2024 will be held March 11-14 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Over 1200 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on MODEX’s show floor totaling over 579,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems, e-comm fulfillment and last mile logistics. MODEX 2024 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities. For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit www.modexshow.com.

The SLAM Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Weber Packaging Solutions, Inc.’s application to join SLAM at the 2023 Annual Conference held October 3rd in Fort Lauderdale, FL.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about SLAM, please visit mhi.org/slam or contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org.    About SLAM SLAM members meet regularly to discuss the industry and promote the best and largest possible market for end-of-line technologies and systems, emphasizing the best interest of the user. Member companies aim to be the authoritative resource for transforming today’s end of line fulfillment operations to address tomorrow’s challenges by defining and evaluating best practices for the marketplace.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

Attendees are looking to invest in automation, robotics, and tech solutions to improve the speed and resiliency of their supply chain operationsWith MODEX 2024 just over one month away, attendee registrations are tracking well above the last in-person MODEX event. Looking at attendees that have registered to date, they are high in quality as well and represent the majority of the Fortune 1000, top 100 retailers, and top 100 consumer goods firms. We are also seeing record numbers of buying teams from these firms planning to attend.When attendees register, they are asked to answer a variety of demographic questions indicating their industry, product interest, buying authority and spending plans. Below are some highlights from current MODEX attendee demographics. 85% have buying power 81% are coming to see new products and innovations 62% are coming to network and learn 35% plan on spending over $1 million over the next 18 months 47% are corporate or senior management 32% are middle management or IT/Engineering 69% are looking for solutions for distribution centers or warehouses supporting manufacturing 23% are looking for solutions for manufacturing facilitiesWhen it comes to the solutions, MODEX 2024 attendees are looking for a wide range of equipment and technologies for their supply chain operations. However, there is a heightened interest in automation, robotics, autonomous vehicles, and emerging technologies. The top product interest categories for attendees currently are: Automatic Guided Vehicle Systems Artificial Intelligence/Machin Learning Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems Autonomous Fork Trucks Conveyors Robotics Autonomous Mobile Robots Forklift Trucks Distribution & Warehousing Software Sustainability and Alternative Energy Solutions including Batteries Racks Pallets and Palletizers Order Picking and E-commerce Fulfillment Packaging and Parcel Shipping SolutionsThese statistics are an early indication of growth of the MODEX event and the high interest attendees in investing in the manufacturing and supply chain equipment and systems that will be showcased at MODEX.MODEX will be held March 11-14 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center and will be the most important week in 2024 for the manufacturing and supply chain industry. The event will feature over 1,175 exhibits, 200 educational seminars and 5 keynotes.For more information and to register for free admission to attend MODEX, visit modexshow.com.

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, is excited to announce the keynote sessions for its highly anticipated WERC Annual Conference scheduled from June 2-5, 2024, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas. With the intention of encouraging warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment professionals to step away from the day-to-day and refocus, these sessions focus on both professional and personal growth. Meet the Keynotes On Monday, June 3, Sterling Hawkins will deliver his keynote “Embrace, Adapt, Inspire | Nurturing a Growth Mindset #NoMatterWhat.” Hawkins is an author, entrepreneur, and founder of the #NoMatterWhat movement. His session will delve into the importance of embracing a growth mindset in an ever-changing world. Attendees will explore tangible methods to move beyond a mere growth mindset, developing a profound belief in their capacity for personal and professional advancement. A panel will take the stage on Tuesday, June 4 to deliver the keynote “Workforce Toolbox: Gather Actionable Insights, Practical Solutions, and Compelling Techniques that Address Labor Challenges.” Comprised of human resource leaders from the logistics industry, the panel will impart strategies for creating a workplace environment that not only retains top-tier talent, but also propels teams toward enduring success. Prioritizing workforce health and safety will be another focal point of this dynamic conversation. On Wednesday, June 5, attendees can hear Sean Bott’s “Survive to Thrive” keynote. Drawing from psychology, empathy, and humor, Bott empowers leaders to create a healthy organizational culture, mitigate burnout, and pivot from survival to thriving. From entry level to C-suite, attendees will gain tools to tackle the undercurrent of employee erosion that negatively affects company productivity, undermines change management, and leads to quiet quitting. Register to Attend the WERC Annual Conference In addition to the keynote presentations, the WERC Annual Conference provides educational sessions and facility tours that help logistics professionals improve operational efficiencies and solve workforce challenges. The conference also features numerous networking opportunities where attendees can forge important industry connections. To learn more about WERC 2024 and register, visit werc.org/2024.  A discount is available on registration fees when you become a WERC member. About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.  About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

MHI has launched a new website at MHI.org, marking a significant milestone in advancing its digital presence. The redesigned website delivers MHI members and all users an enhanced and responsive experience across all platforms and devices. Commenting on the launch, MHI Chief Technology and Digital Experience Officer Christy Dula said, “MHI’s new website reflects our commitment to providing a seamless experience. With improved navigation and modern design, we have enabled MHI members to better showcase their innovative supply chain solutions. Additionally, we have made it easier for practitioners to access the latest supply chain news and information as well as MHI’s vast library of material handling and technical and educational resources.” MHI is excited about the impact that this improved digital resource will have on the supply chain industry. It envisions the website as a dynamic tool that helps foster solution sourcing, collaboration, and knowledge sharing for the broader community. To explore the enhanced features and discover the latest in material handling and supply chain solutions, please visit MHI.org About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Robotics Group (TRG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Rapid Robotics’ application to join TRG at the 2023 Annual Conference held October 2nd in Fort Lauderdale, FL.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about TRG, please visit mhi.org/robotics or contact Jayesh Mehta, Managing Executive, at jmehta@mhi.org.About TRGThe Robotics Group (TRG) membership consists of leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications. TRG member companies meet regularly to identify methods of promoting adoption of robotic and automated solutions in material handling applications. We identify barriers to adoption and understand the voice of the customer while creating opportunities to encourage the transition of automated technologies to promote supply chain efficiency.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Mobile Automation Group (MAG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Align Production Systems’, Dematic’s, and UgoWork’s applications to join MAG at the 2023 Annual Conference held October 4th in Fort Lauderdale, FL.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/mag or contact Jayesh Mehta, Managing Executive, at jmehta@mhi.org.About MAGMobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. MAG member companies meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and safe operation of automatic guided vehicle systems. MAG members are committed to the development, maintenance and publishing of industry standard specifications for these systems.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Advanced Energy Council (AEC) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Stanbury EE’s, UniCarriers/Rocrich’s, and Huizhou Roypow’s applications to join AEC at the 2023 Annual Conference held October 2nd in Fort Lauderdale, FL.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about AEC, please visit mhi.org/aec or contact Jayesh Mehta, Managing Executive, at jmehta@mhi.org.About AECFounded in 2023, the Advanced Energy Council was established to represent the companies that produce, implement, and support advanced energy technologies and accessories. The group was formed with the intention of being inclusive of current and future motive energy storage technologies. AEC aims to serve as the collective voice in the industry to promote innovative energy solutions and education for the market, colleagues, and end users.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

MHI recently announced their 2024 Board of Governors and Roundtable Advisory Committee. The Board of Governors consists of the Officers and Board Governors of MHI plus the Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel of the corporation. The Board of Governors serves as the Board of Directors for MHI. 2024 MHI Board of Governors: Bryan Jensen, MHI Chair, Executive Vice President, St. Onge Company Inc. Brian Reh, MHI President, CEO, Gorbel Inc. Eddie Murphy, MHI Vice President, Owner/President, SpaceGuard Products, Inc. Chris Becker, President, G.W. Becker, Inc. Annette Danek-Akey, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Penguin Random House Rick Fox, President, FOX IV Technologies Jason Minghini, Senior Vice President Operations, Kenco Logistics Service Brian C. Neuwirth, President, UNEX Manufacturing, Inc. Karen Norheim, President & CEO, American Crane & Equipment Kevin O’Neill, CEO, Steele Solutions, Inc. John Paxton, CEO, MHI Brett Wood, President & CEO, Toyota Material Handling, North America Arthur H. Stroyd, Jr., MHI General Counsel, Del Sole Cavanaugh Stroyd LLC Members of the MHI Roundtable Advisory Committee include: James Cabot, President & CEO, Southworth International Group, Inc. Chad Claude, WERC Liaison, Principal, CLEAR Plan Consulting Brian Cohen, Chief Executive Officer, Hanel Storage Systems Brian Devine, President, Ignite Industrial Professionals Steve Diebold, Chairman, WireCrafters, LLC Mike Drolet, YPN Liaison, Global Director of Industry Development, Murrelektronik Sal Fateen, CEO, Seizmic, Inc. John Fluker, President & CEO, Grenzebach Corporation Gregg Goodner, Board Member, Hytrol John M. Hill, Emeritus, Director, St. Onge Company John Krummell, President & CEO, Advance Storage Products Jason Looman, President, Scanreco, Inc. Randy Neilson, President, CubiScan Crystal Parrott, Chief Operating Officer, Plus One Robotics Steve Pickfield, Co-CEO, PSI Engineering Brian Pfannes, President, Steel King Industries, Inc. David Porter, CICMHE Liaison, Oregon State University Dan Quinn, Emeritus, Strategic Advisor, PSI Engineering Kevin Reader, Vice President of Marketing, KNAPP Volker Schmitz, President & CEO, Schmalz, Inc Bill Schneider, Jr., President, SISSCO Material Handling Equipment Larry Strayhorn, CEO, KPI Solutions Scott Summerville, President & CEO, Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Conveyor and Sortation Solutions (CSS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Alstef Group’s, Euchner-USA’s, and Tension Packaging & Automation’s applications to join CSS at the 2023 Annual Conference held October 3rd in Fort Lauderdale, FL.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about CSS, please visit mhi.org/conv or contact Jayesh Mehta, Managing Executive, at jmehta@mhi.org.About CSSCSS aims to promote market growth, awareness, and effective use of traditional and emerging conveyor/sortation technologies in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. Member companies can provide end users with access to a wide range of perspectives and solutions, and, as a collective of manufacturers, are genuinely invested in customer success.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The MHI Industry Leadership program is pleased to announce the opening of registration for its in-person cohort in Charlotte, NC. Held September 10-12, 2024, the program is dedicated to nurturing emerging and evolving leaders.A team-building session is scheduled for the week preceding the program, setting the stage for collaborative learning. During the three-day boot camp in Charlotte, the cohort will participate in assessments, peer mentoring, meals, and networking opportunities with senior industry leaders. Following the in-person session, participants will continue their growth through mentorship for 8-12 weeks.Limited to a maximum of 30 participants, interested leaders are invited to learn more and register at mhi.org/leadershipprogram. A discounted rate is available for MHI and WERC members. For inquiries, please contact Rebecca Woods at education@mhi.org.In the fall of 2024, the MHI Industry Leadership will also offer a virtual cohort running from August to November.About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Warehousing Education & Research Council (WERC) is pleased to announce the release of an online Safety & Compliance course. This course follows the successful launch of the Distribution Logistics Fundamentals and Equipment modules earlier this year. These three courses are part of a series of six that lead to a WERC certificate for warehousing education.The new Safety & Compliance course is tailored to train employees on distribution logistics regulations and US compliance, along with an overview of important compliance requirements from OSHA, EPA, DOT, and FDA. Participants will gain a deep understanding of how different types of compliance are required in warehouses and distribution centers, which contribute to the overall safety of distribution logistics operations.Key topics covered in the Safety & Compliance course include:• Overview of fire safety programs, HAZMAT safety training, personnel safety training, and other safety measures• Requirements and standards for good housekeeping practices, accident responses, risk assessments, and regular self-auditsThe content of this virtual course includes interactive activities and learning content for review. It also builds on valuable insights from the previous courses, Distribution Logistics Fundamentals and Distribution Logistics Equipment.Upon completing this Safety & Compliance course, participants will earn a certificate and a digital badge to display on their LinkedIn profiles and email signatures. The six-part series culminates in a WERC certificate for education.To learn more and enroll in the WERC Distribution Logistics Leader Mico-Credential and Certification Program, visit werc.org/getcertified.About WERCWERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

When the largest manufacturing and supply chain trade event of 2024, MODEX, returns to Atlanta on March 11 it will include over 1,000 exhibitors from leading solution providers and a comprehensive Educational Conference focusing on best-in-class solutions for manufacturing and supply chain operations.MODEX 2024 exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, logistics and transportation industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems and smart, connected supply chain technologies and last mile logistics. In addition to the exhibits, the MODEX Conference will include five keynotes and over 165 show floor educational sessions covering leading trends, best practices and state-of-the-art equipment and technology solutions that can make manufacturing and the entire supply chain work more resiliently, efficiently and profitably.MODEX 2024 Keynotes March 11 Keynote: Lessons Learned from the Supply Chain Front LineBill Seward, President, UPS Supply Chain SolutionsMarch 11 Keynote Panel: Charting the Course for Smarter PortsModerator: Mitch Mac Donald, Founder and Board Director, AGiLE Business MediaPanelists:--Stacy Watson, Director, Economic & Industrial Development at Georgia Ports Authority--Rob Tonissen, Director Supply, Port of RotterdamMarch 12 Keynote: Exponential Change in the Age of AI: Digitization, Decarbonization and ReformationGerd Leonhard, CEO, The Futures Agency and Founder, The Good Future ProjectMarch 13 Keynote: A Conversation with Jeremy RennerThe Heart of An AvengerMarch 30 Keynote Panel: Preview of MHI 2024 Annual Industry ReportJohn Paxton, CEO, MHI and Wanda Johnson, Supply Chain Specialist Leader, Deloitte Consulting LLP“Only at MODEX, can you engage in face-to-face business interactions and gain immersive firsthand experiences with cutting-edge supply chain equipment, technology, and solutions,” says John Paxton, CEO, MHI. “The value of witnessing these solutions in-person, in-action on the exhibition floor, participating in informative educational sessions, and connecting with industry leaders and innovators all in one place is invaluable to taking your operations to the next level of excellence. MHI is excited to offer this market access and knowledge-sharing opportunity to their entire industry.”“Supply chains are essential to the health of the overall global economy.” says Daniel McKinnon, EVP of Exhibitions, MHI. “By exploring the diverse range of solutions, engaging with industry-leading suppliers, and networking with peers, manufacturing and supply chain professionals can unlock opportunities to identify essential solutions that will pave the way for their future success.”MODEX is the largest manufacturing and supply chain expo held in North America and South America. The event will be held March 11-14, 2024 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center.For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit modexshow.com.MODEX is Powered by MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.Contact: For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Dec. 7, 2023 – Mark Ruberg, Packaging Industry Manager at Beckhoff USA, will serve another four-year term on the PMMI Industry Relations Committee. As an experienced packaging industry expert, Ruberg has been active throughout his career with various committees and work groups at PMMI – The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.   The Industry Relations Committee consists of more than 20 members from technology providers, machine builder OEMs and industry groups. They work together to identify issues critical to the industry and develop best-practice programs and policies designed to benefit PMMI members, their customers and the industry as a whole.   “Working with PMMI is always time well spent, and this reappointment will allow me to continue the important work of the Industry Relations Committee,” Ruberg said. “PMMI provides a unique, independent forum for OEMs, system integrators, co-packers, end users and technology providers to give voice to critical topics facing packaging and processing. It’s impressive to see this group collaborate in an environment that rises above the typical competitiveness of the business world to solve pressing problems for the benefit of all.”   The PMMI Board of Directors recently announced Ruberg’s reappointment, which will run through the end of 2027. The group will gather next at the Joint Committee Meeting in February 2024 in Orlando, Florida.   “We are very pleased to have Mr. Ruberg serve another term on the PMMI Industry Relations Committee,” said Andrew Dougherty, Vice President, Member Services at PMMI. “This committee offers crucial guidance to the members of our organization and their customers in many areas. As such, we rely on people like Mark who are longstanding, respected figures in this community and who also possess expertise in the leading-edge technologies needed to drive it forward.”   Ruberg joined Beckhoff in his current role in 2019 after holding numerous roles at packaging and plastics machine builders, including ProMach and Milacron. He has been tireless in his efforts to advocate for the packaging industry, according to David Emory, Director of Strategic Sales at Beckhoff USA.   “Mark’s work in the packaging industry is more than a job to him – it’s a calling,” Emory said. “He has participated on the PMMI Global Marketing Committee and several OpX work groups, as well as serving on the Organization for Machine Automation and Control (OMAC) global board of directors and promoting the PackML standard. Beckhoff is glad to count him as part of our team, and we know PMMI will be thrilled with the thoughtfulness and capabilities he continues to bring to the Industry Relations Committee.”   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

GREENVILLE, N.C. (Dec. 5, 2023) – Yale Lift Truck Technologies announces Yale Reliant™, a first-of-its-kind operator assist technology, has earned an honorable mention in the Fast Company Innovation by Design Awards. The solution, which automatically intervenes to help lift truck operators avoid potential hazards, was recognized in the enterprise category as an innovative approach to B2B products and services.   “Whether it’s a pedestrian unexpectedly walking in front of a lift truck, or an operator taking a turn too quickly, accidents can happen in today’s warehouses. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has even launched a national program to help curb injury and illness rates in the warehousing industry, which are considerably higher than those of other industries,” says Joe Koch, Sales Manager – Emerging Technology, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “This latest accolade from Fast Company is further recognition of the real-world value of this technology, helping warehouses tackle one of their greatest challenges – supporting proper operating habits.”   Yale Reliant keeps the operator in ultimate control of the lift truck, but automatically applies interventions in response to compromised stability, when obstacles are detected in the path of travel or in close proximity, and even based on rules customers specify for certain areas of their warehouse. Adjustments, such as a reduction to travel speed or a smoothing of fork lift or tilt movement, are carefully measured to avoid abrupt shifts or jerks that can upset stability. The changes remain noticeable enough for operators to feel, and the system also communicates the cause through a display screen, providing an additional layer of feedback to help reinforce proper operation established during training.   Other companies recognized in this year’s Innovation by Design program include Microsoft, IBM, Mailchimp, Canva, The North Face, Estée Lauder, Capital One, Yeti, Squarespace and more.   Yale Reliant is currently available on 18 models and is already commercially deployed on more than 7,800 lift truck units. The technology, which has previously been recognized with a Silver Edison Award, was developed to help support a customer’s warehouse lift truck safety initiative and is the result of an investment of more than 40,000 hours of research and development.   About the Award The Innovation by Design Awards honor the designers and businesses solving the most crucial problems of today and anticipating the pressing issues of tomorrow. The competition, now in its 12th year, features a range of blue-chip companies, emerging startups, and hungry young talents. It is one of the most sought-after design awards in the industry.   The judges include renowned designers from a variety of disciplines, business leaders from some of the most innovative companies in the world, and Fast Company’s own writers and editors. Entries are judged on the key ingredients of innovation: functionality, originality, beauty, sustainability, user insight, cultural impact, and business impact.   About Yale Lift Truck Technologies  Yale Lift Truck Technologies leverages over a century of material handling experience and substantial investment in innovation to bring the most advanced technology-driven lift truck solutions to market. The company offers a full line of award-winning lift trucks, including reach trucks, order pickers, turret trucks, pallet jacks and trucks, pallet stackers, tow tractors and counterbalanced forklifts, as well as powerful operator assist solutions, proven robotics and a wide range of power sources to help customers adapt to today’s demanding supply chain. Yale and its independent dealer network support these solutions with comprehensive after-sales service, parts, financing and training.   Hyster-Yale Group, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. (NYSE:HY) which is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio and operates globally.    Contact Jennifer Timblin Yale Lift Truck Technologies 252-412-4322 jennifer.timblin@hyster-yale.com  

ALBION, Mich., Dec. 4, 2023 - Caster Concepts and Ergonauts Performance Technologies are partnering to host a Webinar entitled "Ergo Solutions – Casters as a Material Handling Solution" on Thursday, December 14 at 8:00 pm Eastern Time (6 pm Mountain Time). The educational session will be presented by Douglas Backinger, Vice President of Sales for Caster Concepts, with support from Dr. Mike Gladden Sr, Dr Greg Pitts and Zach Gerlach from Ergonauts.   "During this session, we will outline how choosing the right caster solution can significantly improve safety in material handling facilities," Backinger said. "And we will have a little fun at the same time. Join us and learn why not all caster wheels are created equal."   Topics that will be covered on the webinar include how the correct wheel choice reduces stress injuries, when using motorized casters makes sense, and use cases highlighting how both safety and productivity can be improved simultaneously.   Backinger has been helping companies choose the right caster solution for more than 15 years. To register for the event or to learn more, register on Zoom. To view a recording of the session, follow Caster Concepts on LinkedIn.   About Caster Concepts Based in Albion, MI, Caster Concepts designs and builds industrial heavy-duty casters and wheels for virtually any application. Companies rely on Caster Concepts to increase productivity and reduce the risk of worker injury in heavy-duty material handling applications. Our high-capacity casters feature load ratings that range from below 3,000 pounds to over 100,000 pounds. Caster Concepts is ISO 9001-2015 certified and offers one of the industry's shortest lead times, making it the premier choice for many industries. The company was awarded the 2022 Corporate Impact Award by the state of Michigan. Visit CasterConcepts.com

[Hinwil, 01.12.2023] - Ferag, a leading name in the world of intralogistics, has announced a further development of its ferag.denisort system. The latest improvements make it possible to convey and sort weights of up to 30 kg and offer quieter operation thanks to the design of the trays with plastic flaps.   The principle of a tilt tray sorter is, as the name suggests, to transport and sort products in trays. This method minimizes the risk of damage to sensitive or fragile items and ensures that they reach their destination in perfect condition. Clever functions from Ferag, such as the tray carpet function for items of different dimensions and a gentle tilting function, which prevents products from sliding unchecked, also guarantee even gentler handling of the products. Shapeless, light, round or sensitive products and even polybags are no problem thanks to the sophisticated design.   The ferag.denisort tilt-tray sorter is designed to move three-dimensionally through buildings and on multiple levels. This makes it possible to overcome even complex intralogistics challenges, as it can be effortlessly integrated into vertical structures and thus overcome different floors.   If a sorter is run on two levels and the trays are refilled before the chutes onto which the two sorter lines can be discharged, amazingly high throughput rates of up to 15,000 items per hour can be achieved.   The solution impresses with its scalability. With a high degree of modularity and an extensive catalog of modules, the system can be used to initially introduce manual processes and then gradually automate them, for example by retrofitting the induction belt to an automatic conveyor belt or expanding the sorting destinations. The system grows with the customer's success and even seasonal fluctuations such as Black Friday can be handled effortlessly. Customers can optimize their investments and reduce their operating costs without compromising on performance and quality.   Outbound applications are supported with the ferag.denisort. With different (standard) sorting destination variants, including a 30 kg chute that brakes heavy parcels to protect smaller parcels or a double-decker chute, the system adapts flexibly to customer requirements. Thanks to its extensive expertise, Ferag is also able to design and manufacture customized sorting destinations according to the individual needs of its customers.   In addition, the system can be seamlessly combined with other products such as ferag.skyfall or a pick tower to ensure even greater versatility and efficiency in material handling.   "The further development of ferag.denisort marks a milestone in conveyor technology," says Roberto Fenile, Head of Technologies at Ferag. "Our customers can now benefit from even higher weight capacities, quieter operation and unsurpassed flexibility. This innovation will significantly increase efficiency and productivity in their operations."   For more information about ferag.denisort and the integration into your processes, please contact our experts. Visit our website ferag.com/en/tilt-tray-sorter/denisort/ or contact us for more information.   About Ferag Ferag specializes in the development of complete intralogistics solutions in the areas of production, e-commerce and omnichannel for a wide range of industries as well as for postal and 3PL automation. The Swiss family business, which has been on the market for over 65 years, is also one of the global market leaders in the development, design and sale of material flow systems for a wide range of industrial applications. Innovative conveying and sorting solutions for intralogistics are also a consistent and sustainable further development of the Ferag processing systems developed for print media production. Software and automation solutions are developed in-house and implemented by Ferag's own teams. Headquartered in Hinwil/Zurich, the Group is represented in 19 countries by its own sales and service companies and employs around 650 people worldwide.  

Chandler, Arizona, US, December 1, 2023— JLT Mobile Computers, Inc., a leading developer of rugged computing solutions for demanding environments, announces it will be launching JLT Insights™ warehouse productivity software as well as presenting a selection of rugged solutions including the JLT6012A with Android™ operating system at MODEX 2024 in Atlanta Georgia, March 11-14, Booth A13111.   One of the main highlights will be the launch of the company’s innovative monitoring and analysis software solution, JLT Insights, which is designed to boost productivity in warehouse logistics in a new, unparalleled way. Different to other similar software solutions on the market, JLT Insights monitors vehicles, access points and workforce productivity, in addition to device monitoring.   Also on display will be the industry-leading JLT6012™ Series of rugged forklift-mounted computers, including an updated Android™ model featuring Android 12. The model is also Google Mobile Services (GMS) certified and SOTI Mobile Device Management certified.   JLT Insights: Unparalleled focus on critical warehousing operational data   JLT Insights is a unique monitoring and analysis software solution that optimizes productivity in warehouse operations. Using an unprecedented combination of real-time data from the sensors embedded in the JLT6012 Series of rugged computers, the solution shows what’s really happening in the warehouse. JLT Insights tracks and monitors the performance of deployed devices, forklifts, and access points helping customers to boost operational efficiency, while other similar solutions on the market only monitor devices.   With JLT Insights it’s easy to capture real-time operational dynamics and compare, contextualize, display, and share this data via an intuitive dashboard on a laptop, mobile phone or other device. Thanks to this, the software from JLT makes it possible to eliminate problems before they even occur.   Key benefits: Reduced downtime Increased workforce productivity and wellbeing Improved forklift and computer visibility and utilization Effortless computer deployment, integration, and management Increased computer lifetime Eric Miller, CEO of JLT Inc., said: “We are extremely proud to be launching JLT Insights in the US – the one and only warehouse productivity software that monitors key pain points in a warehouse operation, like workforce productivity, workflow conformity and asset visibility and utilization. We’ve consulted closely with industry customers in developing this solution, and I’m certain it will make a significant contribution to warehouse productivity. JLT is dedicated to supporting customers’ business, and this solution will enable us to deliver even greater value.”   JLT6012: the gold standard for warehouse computers   Productivity is a defining concept for the JLT6012™ Series of rugged vehicle-mount computers, which comprises dedicated Android™ and Windows® versions, allowing customers to choose the operating system that best suits their needs. The latest Android version (JLT6012A), featuring Android 12, will be available to demo at MODEX 2024.   The Series features an innovative architecture that makes it easy to integrate new technology, ensuring a solution that keeps pace with new developments and changing needs.   For more information about JLT Mobile Computers, its products, and solutions, visit jltmobile.com/our-approach.   About JLT Mobile Computers JLT Mobile Computers, Inc., based in Chandler, Arizona, is a leading producer and reseller of rugged forklift computer solutions that enhance warehousing productivity. In three decades of relentless customer focus, we’ve built a global presence, deployed tens of thousands of devices, and earned the trust of many Fortune 500 companies.   Our rugged solutions are acknowledged as the best in the world and are backed by the industry's longest warranties. We have our own R&D and production facilities in Sweden, enabling us to control every aspect of quality for ultimate performance in the toughest environments.   JLT Inc. is part of JLT Mobile Computers AB, a Nasdaq Sweden-listed company with offices in Europe and Australia. Discover more at jltmobile.com/us.   Contact Eric Miller, CEO +1 480 705 4200 x215 eric.miller@jltmobile.com www.jltmobile.com/us      

 ROSELLE, IL, Issued November 30, 2023… Cherry's Industrial Equipment, an engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to solving workflow and safety issues in the workplace, recently received commendations from the Illinois legislature and the Roselle, IL Mayor’s office on the occasion of its 40th anniversary.   State Senator Seth Lewis, representing the Illinois 24th district, and State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro, representing the Illinois 48th district, both presented proclamations of congratulations to the 40-year old company on its successes and longevity, and also had the opportunity to tour the Roselle, IL facility.   The company celebrated the anniversary with a day-long Open House themed “What Does 2024 and Beyond Look Like?”  The Open House celebrated the past 40 years and brought together leading Material Handling experts to look at what the future holds. Presentations included: “IoT and Predictive Maintenance,”; “Sustainability and Energy Efficiency,”; “Warehouse Automation Adoption,”; “Labor Savings and Efficiency with Safety Improvements,” and a panel discussion, “Emerging Technology in Material Handling for 2024 and Beyond.” Guests also saw live demonstrations of cutting-edge technologies, and toured the facility.   State Senator Seth Lewis and State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro were given a tour of the facility and also each presented proclamations from the Illinois legislature congratulating Cherry’s on its milestone anniversary. In addition, Roselle, IL Mayor David Pileski’s office presented a citation of congratulations from the Village of Roselle on the company’s anniversary.   John Costello , CEO of Cherry’s Industrial Equipment, said, “We were delighted to welcome Senator Lewis and Representative Sanalitro to our company. We greatly appreciate their interest in our story and our work, and we are also grateful to Mayor Pileski and his team for their kind words as well.”   Mr. Costello reflected on how much thing have changed since Cherry’s first opened its doors in 1983 under the leadership of founder Bud Cherry. A gallon of gasoline cost $1.23, Ronald Reagan was the U.S. President, and an average home in Illinois sold for $69,000. “As much as our world has changed, though, the changes in our industry have been phenomenal.” He noted the market innovations, the increased use of automation, and breakthroughs in equipment that provides greater workplace safety.   John Costello has been an owner of the company since 2006 and the sole owner since 2014. The company expanded from its original location in Bensenville, IL to Elk Grove Village and now to Roselle, which has twice the space of its previous location. Cherry’s has placed nearly 4000 machines worldwide and continues to produce new product lines with an eye toward the future.   One of the accomplishments that Mr. Costello is especially proud of is the company’s adoption of the Open Book Management style of business, where the company shares financials with employees and gives employees a stake in the outcome of the company. Recognized by The Great Game of Business as an All Star Company in 2022, Cherry’s went on to win Best Places to Work in IL in 2023, a statewide competition promoted by the Daily Herald.   He added, “We’re excited for the future. New technology allows us to remotely monitor the performance of the machines that we place in service at our clients’ locations. With this technology, the machines can communicate with us and their operators and tell us what they need in the way of maintenance, parts replacement, and repairs to reduce equipment down time. This will revolutionize the way we support our clients through the life cycle of the machine. We can only imagine what other innovations will take place in the next 40 years!”   About Cherry’s Industrial Equipment Cherry's Industrial Equipment Corp is an engineering company that solves workflow problems and safety issues and creates ergonomic solutions across a wide range of industries. Founded in 1983, the company’s product lineup, all #madeinamerica, has expanded to include Pallet inverters, Plastic pallets, 90° tippers, Roller skids, Pallet dispensers, Lifting tables, and Pallet washers.  Industries include automotive, food, agriculture, defense, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, printing, distribution, beverage, and more. Headquartered in Roselle, IL, Cherry’s Industrial Equipment serves the needs of businesses throughout the United States and beyond. John Costello is the company’s Chief Executive Officer.   Contact Michelle Clewer, Marketing Manager mclewer@cherrysind.com 847-354-6140

OCONOMOWOC, Wis. — November 28, 2023 — ORBIS® Corporation, an international leader in reusable packaging, and its facilities spanning across the world, demonstrated its pledge to give back to local communities and charitable organizations in 2023. From hosting a Walk to End Alzheimer’s summer event at its global headquarters in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, to gifting charitable donations and sponsoring events with impactful organizations such as local police departments, humane societies, veterans’ groups and more, the ORBIS team supported a number of charitable causes.   As a subsidiary of Menasha Corporation, which was founded in 1849, ORBIS has a rich history in packaging – and giving back to support the local communities in which it operates. With funding made available through the Menasha Corporation Foundation, the charitable arm of ORBIS’ parent company, each ORBIS facility has a team that collaborates with nonprofits, coordinates fundraisers and provides volunteers in the local area.   “Every year, the ORBIS Community Action team hosts a Giving Reception to celebrate the services nonprofit organizations provide to our communities. Approximately 50 organizations and 80 individuals attended this year’s event,” said Jo Anne Behling, Community Action Team leader at ORBIS Corporation’s Oconomowoc headquarters. “In addition to the donations we make, we work with our nonprofit partners to provide volunteers to help support their great work. I am honored to be a part of the Community Action Team.”   ORBIS team members are dedicated to giving back to organizations that are working to make the world a better place for individuals and families in need.   “At ORBIS, we firmly believe in making a positive impact in our communities. We aspire to make a difference, enrich lives, foster growth and build a legacy that extends into the community,” said Norm Kukuk, president of ORBIS Corporation. “There is such warmth and kindness that emanates from our beneficiaries; we are grateful to help, and it is an honor to give back to those in need to support their missions.”   ORBIS supports a wide variety of organizations throughout southeastern Wisconsin. These organizations are focused on safe and healthy citizens, community betterment, education and environmental sustainability. In addition to financial donations made possible by the Menasha Corporation Foundation, ORBIS was also able to help in additional ways throughout 2023. Here are some highlights from special events where ORBIS impacted the local community:   Walk to End Alzheimer’s and Summer Employee Event – Held at the ORBIS Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, location, this event raised nearly $5,000 in 2023 in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Activities included lunch, an auction and dunk tank contest, with all proceeds benefiting the Wisconsin Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Shorehaven Memory Care provided resources to employees, and fellow ORBIS employee, Linda Patel and her dog, Louie, were on-site as well. Linda and Louie serve as a volunteer therapy team in the memory care unit at Shorehaven Memory Hospital. ORBIS teams were organized in both Waukesha and Madison, Wisconsin.   Bread & Roses – ORBIS employees volunteer and donate food two to three times a year at Bread & Roses, helping to provide meals to those in need. During each event, up to 250 dinners are packaged and served for takeout for families in need.   Make-A-Wish America Gold Star Donation – As part of ORBIS’ Make-a-Wish America Gold Star donation in 2023, the organization and team made a wish come true for a 16-year-old boy from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, who is living with a nervous system disease. With an MLB-wish theme, ORBIS hosted a wish party in late October. The Milwaukee Brewers “pitched” in as well, donating ice cream helmets and other gifts as part of his wish.   ORBIS Christmas Family Fundraiser – Supporting 30 children in Wisconsin’s Waukesha and Jefferson counties each year, the ORBIS Christmas Family Fundraiser is brought to life as employees fulfill children’s wish lists. These gifts are purchased, wrapped and delivered before Christmas – making the holidays brighter for families in need. Generosity runs deep within ORBIS; the Christmas Family Fundraiser is fully funded by ORBIS employees.    Blessings in a Backpack – For 10 years, ORBIS has supported the Waukesha County Chapter of Blessings in a Backpack. In 2023, about 30 children attending Magee Elementary School in Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, received backpacks filled with nutritious food for each weekend for the entire school year, with support from ORBIS. ORBIS volunteers participate in bag fills and distribution.   Rainbow Hospice Care – ORBIS organized a brat fry and donated all proceeds to Rainbow Hospice Care, a local nonprofit providing supportive care management, hospice care, community bereavement support and community health ministry.   Police Competition – Now in its third year, the police competition is among three local police departments that compete to be the first to push a squad car to the finish line. In 2023, the Watertown Police Department came in first, Oconomowoc Police Department took 2nd and the Summit Police Department earned 3rd place, with each awarded funds to support their departments.   Heroes for Heroes – Heroes for Heroes is a nonprofit advocating for PTSD awareness and support, fundraising for service dogs, and promoting more opportunities for veterans. At its annual summer event to raise money for a local veteran’s service dog, ORBIS employees volunteered their time to support the event.   The River Food Pantry – ORBIS volunteers packed lunches and distributed to clients of the River Food Pantry. The River Food Pantry is south-central Wisconsin’s busiest food pantry, providing services that include free groceries and freshly prepared meals for pickup or delivery, online grocery orders, mobile meals and emergency food lockers.    Additional Beneficiaries: Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation – Run, Walk, Roll Event Watertown Police Department – Donut Dash 5k Event National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southeast Wisconsin – NAMIWalks 5k Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin – Walk at Milwaukee County Zoo Lupus Foundation of America – Charitable golf outing Lake Country Shop with a Cops Waukesha County Green Team – Sustainability event Angelman Syndrome Foundation – ASF Walk shirts LifeStriders – Triple Crown Event Creative Community Living Services Guardians of the Children Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County Humane Society of Jefferson County Watertown Humane Society Inc Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin SEA Literacy The Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County American Cancer Society ProHealth Cancer Center in Oconomowoc Personal Essentials Pantry ProHealth AngelsGrace Hospice Shorehaven Memory Care Sojourner Truth House Summit Police Department Western Lakes Fire District Your Choice to Live Brewers Community Foundation Alzheimer’s Association Gala Milwaukee Bucks Foundation Imagine a Day Habitat for Humanity Educational Foundation of Watertown, WI Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund Autism Society of SE Wisconsin Watertown Community Laundry Haus of Peace Hebron House Hope Center Huntington’s Disease Society of America - WI Johnson Creek Helping Hands Food Pantry Wisconsin D.A.R.E. Officers Association Johnson Creek Police Department Kisses from Keegan Lake Area Free Clinic Lake Country Dockhounds Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts Oconomowoc Food Pantry Lake Mills Police Department Lake Mills Food Pantry Pets Helping People Oconomowoc Police Department "Our employees make up the heart and soul of ORBIS; we have a very generous culture that encourages not only giving monetarily but also through hands-on participation, as nonprofits rely so heavily on volunteers, as well as funding,” Kukuk said. “We appreciate how employees of all departments are readily available to aid those who need help. We are truly honored to support these organizations that support so many others in their time of need.”   About ORBIS Corporation With more than 170 years of material handling expertise and 65 years of plastics innovations, ORBIS helps world-class customers move their product faster, safer and more cost-effectively with reusable totes, pallets, containers, dunnage and racks. Using a proven approach, ORBIS experts analyze customers’ systems, design a solution and execute a reusable packaging program for longer-term cost savings and sustainability. Using life-cycle assessments to compare reusable and single-use packaging, ORBIS also helps customers reduce their overall environmental impact. ORBIS is a part of Menasha Corporation, one of the oldest family-owned manufacturers in the United States. As a steward of sustainability, ORBIS is committed to a better world for future generations. Headquartered in Oconomowoc, ORBIS has more than 3,100 employees and 50 locations throughout North America and Europe. For more information, please visit www.orbiscorporation.com/en-us/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, is thrilled to have worked with Duluth Trading Company, a Wisconsin-based lifestyle brand, to design and bring to life their newest distribution and fulfillment facility. The new fulfillment center is in Adairsville, Ga. and is the company's fourth fulfillment center and first to use advanced Autostore automation and robotics.    The Adairsville facility will be the third automated distribution and fulfillment center partnership with Bastian and serves as a major investment to support Duluth Trading’s Big Dam Blueprint. Bastian completed the first automated distribution and fulfillment center with Duluth in 2018 at the company’s Belleville facility. Bastian also recently completed an additional two projects in 2022 at the Midwest retailer’s Belleville and Dubuque facilities. The retailer’s plan is focused on digital growth and expansion that will better serve customers and its nationwide footprint of brick-and-mortar stores.    "Duluth Trading Company is dedicated to providing an outstanding experience for our customers. We are delighted to collaborate with Bastian on our state-of-the-art Adairsville facility," stated Kevin Helmeid, Vice President of Supply Chain & Logistics at Duluth Trading. "This facility will elevate our logistics and shipping capabilities, resulting in swifter, more efficient deliveries. We are grateful for the Bastian team and are confident that our joint efforts will further our commitment to deliver exceptional customer service."    The Adairsville omnichannel facility supports a seamless experience across Duluth Trading’s retail, wholesale and ecommerce channels in the region. Leveraging the AutoStore robotic storage and retrieval system, Exacta Warehouse Execution System and bag sortation, the facility is capable of processing and shipping an impressive 160,000 units per day. The new fulfillment center will allow Duluth Trading to better serve its customers by providing faster shipping times and supporting its footprint of retail stores nationwide, while creating hundreds of new jobs for the Atlanta area.   “This system will be a true testament towards Duluth Trading’s relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction while also supporting their ‘Big Dam Blueprint’. Their automation solution will help in unlocking their full potential for long-term, sustainable growth while also improving order fulfillment and increasing customer satisfaction,” said Aaron Jones, President and CEO of Bastian Solutions.   About Bastian Solutions Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, is a trusted supply chain integration partner committed to providing clients a competitive advantage by designing and delivering world-class distribution and production solutions. By combining data-driven designs, scalable material handling systems, and innovative software, the company helps clients across a broad spectrum of markets become leaders in their industries. For more information, visit bastiansolutions.com.    About Duluth Trading Company Based in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, Duluth Trading Co. and its growing portfolio of brands caters to the lifestyle of the modern, self-reliant American. Duluth Trading's family of brands offer high-quality, solution-based apparel, accessories and gear for men and women to help them take on life with their own two hands. Duluth Trading honors its roots by creating the hardest-working products, backed by the “Superior Standard,” and commits to providing outstanding customer service under the “No Bull Guarantee.” To learn more, visit www.duluthtrading.com or one of the 65 Duluth Trading store locations nationwide. 

COLUMBUS, Ind. (November 27, 2023) – Toyota Material Handling, an industry leader in innovative material handling solutions, congratulates Jeff Rufener, the company’s former president and CEO, on being honored with the 2023 Meritorious Service Award by the Industrial Truck Association (ITA). The 72-year-old association for industrial truck manufacturers in North America has recognized leaders dedicated to serving the organization and advancing the material handling industry with this prominent award since 1992.   “Jeff was an integral part of the material handling industry for over four decades serving in various leadership roles,” said Brett Wood, Toyota Material Handling North America President & CEO. “Not only did he lead Toyota through transformational changes, but with his humble and inspirational leadership, Jeff motivated others to embrace challenges and improve each day. He was always passionate about Toyota’s culture of Kaizen – to continuously improve – and the core purpose of ‘Helping People Carry the Load’.”   Rufener contributed to the ITA for more than 20 years, serving as ITA Chairman from 2009-2011, as well as serving on the Executive Committee and as a Board member. He helped found the inaugural National Forklift Safety Day and acted as the first-ever chairman of the task force, laying the foundation for safer operational practices for years to come. Rufener advocated for increased safety in the material handling industry through operator training, educational programs and product and process efficiency improvements.   He also recognized the necessity of sustainability and energy efficiency within the industry. Under his direction, Toyota launched more than 20 electric forklift models, strengthening the organization’s position as an industry leader.   “I am humbled to receive such a special award from an organization I love so much in the ITA,” Rufener said. “The ITA is so impactful because of its culture, its people and a noble core purpose – the same three tenants that make Toyota great. I’m proud to have been part of both groups and will never forget what we accomplished together.”   Rufener emphasized corporate social responsibility as a hallmark of the Toyota brand. One of Rufener’s philanthropic initiatives included the development of Toyota’s partnership with the American Red Cross. Serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Red Cross’ Southeast Indiana chapter, Rufener established a multifaceted initiative of corporate, dealer and associate support. His leadership led to countless donations from Toyota dealerships throughout the country of rental equipment, time, expertise, money and regular blood drives, as a testament to the relationship of the organizations.    During his tenure at Toyota which began in 2011, Rufener oversaw the company’s headquarters transition from California to Indiana. Then in 2020, he led the integration of Toyota’s two Columbus-based companies, Toyota Material Handling, USA (TMHU) and Toyota Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (TIEM), creating a single company. Since his retirement in 2021, Bill Finerty, Rufener’s successor, has carried the charge of continuing Toyota’s role as the leader within the material handling industry.    Learn more about the leaders serving on Toyota Material Handling’s management team at ToyotaForklift.com.   About Toyota Material Handling  Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in all customer environments and market segments. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com.

Vancouver, WA, November 17th, 2023 — It is with heartfelt appreciation that we announce the retirement of Pat O’Connor after more than 12 years of distinguished service at Columbia Machine, Inc. Pat joined Columbia in August 2011 as the Business Development Manager for the Palletizer Division before being promoted to the role of President in 2014.    Pat has spent his entire career in the conveyor, palletizing and material handling industry. Under Pat's leadership, Columbia’s Palletizer Division has shown sustained growth, developing the broadest and most advanced palletizer product line in the industry. With more than 40 years of experience in engineering, sales, and product development, Pat's expertise has been vital in solidifying our position as the market leader in North America.    "We are grateful for Pat’s exceptional contributions," said Rick Goode, Chairman and CEO of Columbia Machine, Inc. "His profound knowledge and extensive experience have played a pivotal role in the transformation and advancement of Columbia's entire palletizer product line. Pat's visionary leadership has culminated in the formation of an exceptional team, and his unwavering dedication to our customers, our company, and the industry at large will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy for generations to come."    As we approach this transition, we are pleased to announce that Mark MacDonald will take over the role of President of our Palletizer Division. Mark began his career at Columbia in January 2015 as the Applications Engineering Manager and has built a team highly qualified Engineers. Mark has a Mechanical Engineering Degree from the University of Missouri School of Science and Technology and an MBA from St. Louis University. Prior to joining Columbia, Mark has previously held positions as an Applications Engineer (in the Palletizer industry), Sourcing Commodities Manager at GKN Aerospace and Purchasing Manager at Duke Manufacturing. A planned leadership transition has already begun with Pat and will continue over the next few months.    Please join me in thanking Pat for his years of committed service and wishing him all the best in his retirement. Let us also extend a welcome to Mark as he steps into his new role.    About Columbia Machine  Established in 1937, Columbia Machine is a fourth generation, privately held, world-wide leader in the design, manufacturing and support of factory automation equipment solutions for a variety of industries, with customers in over 100 countries around the world. Primary business units include: Batching and Mixing Solutions, Concrete Products Equipment Solutions, Production Equipment Molds, Bag Filling and Handling Technology, Mechanical Palletizing Machines, Robotic Palletizing Solutions, Conveyor System Solutions, Pallet Load Transfer Solutions and Manufacturing Services. The Columbia Group of companies has manufacturing facilities on five continents, with over 1,300 team members worldwide, focused on world-class engineered solutions and customer service.    Columbia manufactures inline high speed, high-level, floor-level and robotic palletizers and load transfer stations. Columbia also provides Complete Systems Integration. Columbia Palletizers feature flexible, upgradeable designs with speeds up to 200 cases per minute. With the broadest and most current product line available, Columbia is the leading palletizing solutions provider in North America. All Columbia palletizers are backed by 24-hour customer support and parts service. 

A fully integrated robotic bin picking solution, developed in close collaboration with Righthand Robotics, Movu eligo can automatically piece-pick from a single-SKU source bin and place the individual items into multiple mixed-SKU destination bins. Developed to close the gap between manual and fully automatic pick operation, Movu eligo provides warehouse operators with a huge step forward in order picking. It also provides a solution for labour shortage issues, with a robot that can work through inconvenient work hours at reduced cost but with higher pick accuracy and quality. Other key benefits include: Reliable and effective robotic picking of up to 600 items per hour at any time; Enabling the picking and placing of a wide variety of SKUs; Providing a unique plug and play sub-system that is integrated with the Movu escala bin shuttle, resulting in an innovative end-to-end automated solution from storage to picking; Easy way to automatically pick SKUs that are suited for robotic picking, store the bins and then finish the order with a manual pick when the time is convenient Reduced cost per pick, resulting in a strong Return on Investment (ROI). Provided with seamless integration as a pick station option for the Movu escala bin shuttle, the Movu eligo combines advanced software with intelligent grippers and machine vision to ensure reliable throughput. Gently grasping an item from a bin retrieved from the escala while picking, the robot then places the item in a delivery bin. Providing feedback on grasp success, the intelligent grippers ensure an accuracy of 100%. In addition to a low gripping failure rate the Movu eligo reduces the number of manual ‘touches’ required for order fulfilment or replenishment and can reach a pick success rate greater than 99%.    Able to achieve 600 picks per hour, depending on the specific implementation, the robot can pick goods up to 2 kg and with dimensions of 1 cm minimum to a maximum of 30 cm. Being completely product agnostic gives it the flexibility to handle changing product mixes.   The robot arm stands 2.2 metres high and has an operating radius of 1.3 metres. A safety interface makes robotic work cells safe when human interaction is required.   Driven by software, the system leverages machine learning to continuously improve picking. Movu eligo runs on a plug-and-play Application Programming Interface (API) which integrates directly with the Movu escala bin storage solution. This user-friendly complete solution allows the seamless integration of robotic and manual picking operation for maximum efficiency. Movu escala interacts with overlying Warehouse Management Software (WMS), Warehouse Control Software (WCS) and Warehouse Execution Software (WES) as needed to mission the piece picking operations. By planning tasks for the robot such as robot arm movements around the source and destination bin exchange phases, the software optimises pick cycle times to maximise throughput.   Real-time operational data is presented to staff stationed away from the active systems to resolve exceptions quickly and efficiently. Performance dashboards enable warehouse operations to visualise current and historical data.   Available with full 24/7 support, the Movu eligo allows customers, particularly those involved in pharmaceuticals, apparel, e-commerce, manufacturing and kitting, to realise the benefits of reliable robotic piece-picking without worrying about integrating all the elements.   Stefan Pieters, CEO of Movu Robotics, commented: “Movu eligo is the next level for Movu Robotics to offer innovative and easier Automation solutions to our customer. It is a data-driven, intelligent piece picking platform unlike any other. Automating the conventionally manual operation or piece picking results in a lower cost per pick, leading to a strong return on investment. Integrated seamlessly as a work station for the Movu escala bin storage system, eligo offers a flexible and scalable automation solution for predictable and accurate order fulfilment, adding value for warehouses pursuing improvements in efficiency, productivity and customer service levels.”   About Movu Robotics Movu Robotics, member of stow Group, is a new warehouse automation brand that stands out by bringing easier logistics automation solutions to the world’s warehouses. Employing more than 300 employees by end of 2023 across Europe and the US, Movu Robotics operates globally and expects order intake of more than €300 million in 2023. Movu Robotics offers a complete portfolio of automated technologies for efficient warehouses. This includes the pallet shuttle "Movu atlas" for multiple deep storage, the AMR solution "Movu ifollow" for collaborative picking or transport of pallets, the robotised 3D storage and fulfilment system "Movu escala" and the integrated picking robot arm "Movu eligo". All Movu systems are controlled and managed via their own warehouse execution software.   Movu Robotics’ headquarters in Lokeren, Belgium, combines a 5,000 square metre large office area with a 10,000 square metre surface for logistics and manufacturing operations under a single roof, next to a state-of-the-art experience centre - one of the biggest in Europe - where the latest technologies are showcased live to customers and partners. For more information: www.movu-robotics.com   Contact Thomas Meyer-Jander Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) stow Group +32 56 48 11 11 thomas.meyer-jander@stow-group.com

Owen (Germany), November 17, 2023 – Duluth in the northeast of Atlanta, Georgia, will in the future be the new Leuze location in the USA. "After careful consideration, we have decided to move our office to a new, more modern and more spacious US location," says Ibrahim Zuva, VP Operations and Technology Americas. This decision is consistent with Leuze's long-term strategic growth targets. "The new location also provides a more favorable environment for cooperation with our customers, distributors and partners," emphasizes Zuva.   Everything Under One Roof A further advantage: Sales, production and development will in future all be under one roof. Leuze will relocate the Sales, Operations and Development departments currently based in New Hudson, Michigan, by the end of 2023. "At the beginning of 2024, US production will also be moved to the new location. The formal opening of the new Leuze location is planned for March 2024," says Zuva.   Extensive Range of High-Tech Sensors Leuze offers its customers in the USA an extensive range of high-tech products, which include a large number of different sensors for automation technology. For example, switching and measuring sensors, identification systems as well as solutions for data transmission and image processing, and everything needed for safety at work: safety components, safety services and safety solutions. The new on-site training center provides the company's employees, customers, and distributors with many possibilities for further training. "We greatly value the good relationship we have with our customers, distributors, and we are convinced that the relocation will further consolidate our cooperation," says Aaron Henry, President Leuze USA. "Local production brings us closer to our customers and will allow us to supply them with products faster and more efficiently," he emphasizes.   New Address of the Leuze US Location 2150 Northmont Parkway  Suite N  Duluth, GA 30096   About Leuze With curiosity and determination, the Sensor People from Leuze have been creating innovations and technological milestones in industrial automation for 60 years. They are driven by the success of their customers. Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. The technology leader’s high-tech product range includes a number of different sensors for the field of automation technology. Among these are switching and measuring sensors, identification systems, and data transmission and image processing solutions. As a Safety Expert, Leuze is also focused on components, services and solutions for safety at work. Leuze concentrates on its core industries, in which the Sensor People have extensive, specific application know-how and many years of experience. These include intralogistics and the packaging industry, machine tools, the automotive industry as well as laboratory automation. Leuze was founded in 1963, headquartered in Owen/Teck in Southern Germany. Today there are about 1600 Sensor People around the world who are working with determination and passion for progress and transformation to make their customers successful in a constantly changing industry. Regardless of whether in the technological competence centers or in one of the 21 sales companies, supported by more than 40 international distributors. To learn more, please visit www.leuze.com.   Contact Jennifer Mass (248)752-6712 jennifer.mass@leuze.com

ATLANTA, November 16, 2023 - Today, Exotec, a global warehouse robotics provider, announced that Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, is now an integrator of the Exotec® technology in the North American market. The agreement will enable Bastian Solutions to sell and install Exotec’s signature Skypod® system in Canada and the U.S.     “Bastian Solutions is widely considered to be a bellwether in the supply chain technology market,” says Exotec CEO and Co-founder Romain Moulin. “This agreement is a further testament that our technological approach resonates with customers in the region and that the market is continuing to shift towards highly performant and flexible warehouse robotics.”   Bastian Solutions and Exotec are already successfully working on a robotic installation for a leading sports equipment company. The site is currently expected to be delivered in 2024.    “Exotec’s scalable and adaptable solutions provide customers with transformative results. Their customer focus and innovation align perfectly with Bastian Solutions,” says Bastian Solutions President and CEO, Aaron Jones.    Since joining the North American market in 2020, Exotec already delivered over 20 customer sites across the U.S. and Canada for leading brands including Gap Inc., Ariat, and Decathlon. This agreement will enable Exotec to further build its presence in the North American market while enabling Bastian Solutions to offer a best-in-class suite of solutions to its customers.   About Bastian Solutions  Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, is a trusted supply chain integration partner committed to providing clients a competitive advantage by designing and delivering world-class distribution and production solutions. By combining data-driven designs, scalable material handling systems and innovative software, the company helps clients across a broad spectrum of markets become leaders in their industries. For more information, visit bastiansolutions.com.   About Exotec Exotec builds elegant goods-to-person warehouse robotic solutions for some of the world's largest brands. The company combines one of the best of hardware and software to offer flexible warehouse systems that drive operational efficiency, add resiliency, and improve working conditions for warehouse operators. 30+ industry-leading brands including Carrefour, Decathlon, Gap, and Uniqlo trust Exotec to improve their operations and profitably navigate rapid shifts in business models and customer expectations. Learn more at Exotec.com.

Since 2021, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been diligently addressing sustainability issues with a dedicated cross-departmental team actively supported by shareholders and management alike. Their Corporate Social Responsibility plan combines economic, profit-oriented development, and environmental protection into one common goal rather than thinking of them as separate initiatives. The plan is driven by NORD’s responsibility to society, their customers, and their employees.   “Our sustainability strategy for 2025 is a promise to ourselves, to our customers, and to the public, to consequently behave in an ecological, economic, and responsible manner. Therefore, our innovations are not only making our products and ways of working better and better, but also more and more sustainable,” says Carolin von Rönne, Controller of Subsidiaries at NORD DRIVESYSTEMS global headquarters in Germany.   NORD is committed to acting with integrity and responsibility for the environment through five main fields of action:   Governance & Processes NORD’s sustainability management team was introduced in 2022 and has already reached important milestones such as successfully implementing a certified environmental management system in Germany and publishing the first sustainability report for their global headquarters in Bargteheide. This team focuses on implementing structures and processes for the entire NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group and plays an important role in ensuring the other fields of action are successful. In the coming years, NORD will strive towards the goal of creating international sustainability reports that integrate key figures from all subsidiaries, appointing sustainability officers worldwide to regularly exchange information, and implementing NORD environmental management standards at their 10 largest subsidiaries.   People The NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group has nearly 5,000 employees worldwide and works with countless more throughout the supply chain. As such, it is important to the company for its employees to act with respect, inclusion, and sustainability. By 2025, NORD aims to make sure all employees are fully informed about CSR activities and receive regular training. They additionally expect to launch a digital Learning Management System (LMS) by 2024 for individual learning opportunities and are preparing to appoint a key figure who will promote diversity throughout the company.   Environment As a manufacturing company, NORD has an impact on global resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. With the goal of reducing their CO2 footprint, they are currently developing an international climate strategy to reduce energy consumption during operations, increasing the use of renewable energies, and reducing the amount of waste each subsidiary produces. Other focal points include increasing the amount of self-produced electric power, expanding biodiversity, and enabling preventative protection against water-polluting substances. NORD’s global headquarters in Bargteheide, Germany has already enacted an environmental program that will soon be enrolled to the rest of the world.   Products NORD products can be found in more than 100 industries across the globe. As many systems consume a significant amount of energy, NORD has begun integrating more sustainable, energy-efficient solutions into their product development process. One such example is their IE5+ permanent magnet synchronous motors. These motors not only operate with high efficiency, saving energy and CO2 emissions, but also require a relatively small number of critical metals to manufacture – further minimizing the environmental impact. Future plans for the NORD product line include increasing the sales quota for energy-efficient solutions, calculating a product carbon footprint for a product series by 2025, and significantly increasing the usage of high-efficiency products within the industries they serve.   In addition to developing more energy efficient products, NORD has also developed the NORD ECO Service to measure energy consumption of systems or individual drives. The ECO BOX is installed between the drive and power supply and provides detailed data for extensive analysis that allows for the identification of patterns, anomalies, and potential savings. Overall, the NORD ECO BOX helps to find the most efficient drive solution for the application to streamline production while reducing energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and operation costs.   Another recent addition to NORD’s portfolio is their Condition Monitoring for Predictive Maintenance solution. In Condition Monitoring, operating and status data are recorded regularly or permanently to optimize the efficiency and operational safety of machines and systems. Important information for Predictive Maintenance can be derived from the data analysis with a goal to proactively maintain the machines and systems, reduce downtimes, and increase overall system effectiveness.   NORD has also developed their LogiDrive Complete Drive Solutions to maximize efficiency and overall savings potential. LogiDrive offers cost-effective, standardized designs including a gear unit, IE3/IE4/IE5+ high-efficiency motor, and variable frequency drive (VFD). The systems provide flexibility and maintain efficient operation at partial load and low speeds, making them an ideal solution for a wide range of automation applications. LogiDrive systems are also designed to reduce system variants and provide reliable use throughout the product service life. These factors combined help to significantly reduce energy consumption and ultimately the Total Cost of Ownership. Supply Chain NORD has suppliers for raw material and components all over the world and holds them to the same standards of respect for human rights and sustainability. While the German Supply Chain Act (LKSG) will not become mandatory until January 1, 2024, NORD has been conforming to the law since January 1, 2023. The act regulates corporate responsibility for human rights compliance in supply chains and requires risk analysis to be carried out, documented, and reported accordingly. They are constantly monitoring legal requirements, identifying risks, and minimizing them through efficient processes. In addition, NORD also is working towards determining the greenhouse gas emissions of 80% of their parts acquired through the supply chain by 2025 and advancing sustainable material compliance in the company with defined teams and responsibilities. As a globally active company, NORD is dedicated to creating a more sustainable future for society, their customers, employees, and sales partners worldwide. They are committed to working diligently and adding additional aspirations as current goals are achieved. Visit their website at www.nord.com to learn more about their initiatives.     About NORD DRIVESYSTEMS® With more than 4,000 employees, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been developing, producing and selling drive technology for more than 50 years, and is one of the global leaders of full-service providers in the industry. In addition to standard drives, NORD delivers application-specific concepts and solutions for special requirements such as energy-saving drives or explosion-protected systems. In financial year 2017, annual sales amounted to $781 million. NORD now has subsidiaries and sales partners in 98 countries worldwide. The dense sales and service network guarantees optimal availability, enabling short delivery times and customer-oriented service. NORD produces a very diverse range of drives for torques from 88 to more than 2.2 million lb-in, provides electric motors in the power range of 0.16 to 1,341 HP, and manufactures frequency inverters with the required power electronics of up to 215 HP. Inverter solutions are available for conventional control cabinet installations as well as for decentralized, fully-integrated drive units.   Contact NORD Gear Corp – United States Member of the NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group Arielle Spotts 608-850-1444 Arielle.Spotts@nord.com

CHARLOTTE, NC: Time for a big announcement! Queen City Robotics Alliance (QCRA) has a new name for Charlotte’s newest Place of Possibilities. Introducing: The Zone! QCRA, the organization that supports 24 area FIRST® Robotics teams with over 300 year-around students, has moved to a new, larger location in Charlotte’s West Ayrsley neighborhood, but with a larger space comes larger maintenance, utility, and construction costs so QCRA could use a little help from area businesses. The new space is located at 2102 Cambridge Beltway Dr., Suite B, near the Whitehall Tech Center on South Tryon.     The Zone was chosen during an online naming contest and fundraising campaign back in October. Camille Kanofsky, President of RS Diversified and Lead Mentor of Team 17346 The Taco Terminators, provided the winning name.   “It has proven extremely beneficial over the years to have a central location where ideas can be exchanged,” said Kanofsky of QCRA’s facility. “Housing multiple age and experience levels under one roof allows these exchanges to happen across all levels of participants … The support system created by QCRA is invaluable as you embark on your robotics journey.”   QCRA President Kaiwen Cheng is also excited about the new space and the possibilities it will provide not only to Charlotte-area FIRST® Robotics teams, but the community.    “I’m thrilled to share that our new location offers not only a fantastic site for our students to meet and build their robots,” said Cheng, “but also has proper spaces for collaboration and brainstorming. What’s even more exciting is that our generous sponsors can also have access to this space for activities such as off-site meetings or team building when our teams are not utilizing it. It’s a win-win for everyone and will help in fostering innovation and strengthening our community partnerships.”   ADOPT-A-ROOM SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE: QCRA supports Charlotte area FIRST® robotics programs where students build robots to compete in team events. Often called a sport “where everyone can turn pro,” each team runs like a business and is designed to inspire, equip, and prepare students for a life beyond robots. QCRA has a mission of “nurturing the future workforce by providing practical hands-on STEM experiences for local youth and bringing STEM opportunities to all students in the greater Charlotte area.”   MHI – The Industry that Makes Supply Chains Work – and CIMTEC Automation are two Adopt-a-Room sponsors. MHI sponsors the FIRST® Lego® League (FLL) room, the area where young students start their robotics journey and gain confidence working with Lego robots. CIMTEC sponsors the FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) field, where students get hands on experience building and programming robots while being part of a team.   " I am immensely proud of our decision to sponsor the Queen City Robotics Alliance (QCRA),” said Christian Dow, EVP Industry Leadership at MHI. “This sponsorship is not just a commitment to a remarkable organization; it's an investment in the future of our industry. Robotics and automation are pivotal elements of modern supply chain and logistics operations, and by supporting QCRA, we are nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.”   The Adopt-a-Room program will help corporations to embrace the spirit of innovation while supporting area students. Corporate room sponsorships will not only cover a part of the operating costs but also empower QCRA to maximize its valuable resources in pursuit of its mission.    All Sponsorships Include:  Honor of naming of the room Signage/banner in adopted room Website recognition as a sponsor Sponsor recognition in the visitor hall Sponsorship mentions in QCRA social media and newsletter Opportunity to use facility classrooms for off-site meetings and team building events   SUPPORT QCRA ON #GIVINGTUESDAYCLT: Tuesday, November 28, is Giving Tuesday CLT, a day devoted to philanthropy and fundraising for Charlotte area nonprofits. Hosted by SHARECharlotte and sponsored by Hendrick Automotive Group and Lowe’s, anyone looking for a nonprofit to support can use QCRA’s landing page to make their donations. Use this link to donate: sharecharlotte.org/nonprofit/queen-city-robotics-alliance   As part of #GivingTuesdayCLT, QCRA will be featured on WBTV’s On Your Side with Jamie Boll in December. Look for the air date announcement soon.    About QCRA What began with a single robotics team in 2010, Queen City Robotics Alliance has grown into a non-profit organization that supports students in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area through participation in FIRST® Robotics events and competitions. QCRA leverages Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) to help youth learn life lessons and workplace skills through teamwork, technology, business, and communication. QCRA provides a common place for 24 (and growing) Charlotte area FIRST® Robotics teams to meet, use tools and equipment, learn STEM skills, work on projects, meet a diversified student body, and have fun while building and working with robots.    Contacts Carrie Dow QCRA media volunteer 303-523-3758 carriedow@queencityrobotics.org    Iaiela Dumitrescu, B.S. QCRA business administrator 704-778-7589 iaieladumitrescu@queencityrobotics.org   

GREENE, N.Y., November 16, 2023 — The season of giving is yearlong at The Raymond Corporation. In 2023, Raymond has supported more than 100 nonprofit and educational organizations in communities throughout New York state, home to its headquarters. The giving extends across North America as the organization and its network of Solutions and Support Centers help numerous charitable efforts and communities. With an altruistic culture spanning over 100 years, Raymond continues to prioritize fundamental company values focused on respect for people and innovation, driving the company and its associates forward to make a positive impact on their local communities.   “Raymond and our entire enterprise of Solutions and Support Centers have always been committed to a pledge of giving back and making a difference in the communities in which we operate and serve,” said Steve VanNostrand, executive vice president at The Raymond Corporation. “Generosity has long been exemplified throughout our operations, and it runs deep in the hearts of our team members. We appreciate our associates, who are absolutely key in helping bring these efforts to fruition.”   Raymond and its Solutions and Support Centers contribute to nonprofit and educational organizations with monetary contributions, forklift donations and voluntary participation spanning from building bicycles to building out warehouse centers for food pantries. Here are some model examples of how Raymond’s Solutions and Support Centers have given back to communities across North America in 2023:    Abel Womack, Inc. — Lawrence, Massachusetts Supporting Filling in the Blanks, Abel Womack donated racking and laid out plans to expand the warehouse storage space by going vertical, allowing the group to accommodate more food for weekend meal bags. Andersen Material Handling — Wixom, Michigan Andersen Material Handling was a Platinum Sponsor for the American Childhood Cancer Organization’s golf outing. Brauer Material Handling Systems, Inc. — Hendersonville, Tennessee Through its employee donation program, Brauer Material Handling Systems offers each team member $200 to donate to a charity or nonprofit of choice. These donations were awarded to organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the local humane society and Boy Scouts of America. Carolina Handling — Charlotte, North Carolina Carolina Handling supports Ronald McDonald House Charities in six Southeastern cities by adopting a room at Ronald McDonald Houses in Atlanta, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; Greenville, South Carolina; Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Durham, North Carolina; and Charlotte, North Carolina. Funds donated to the Adopt-a-Room program help maintain guest rooms with all the comforts of home. Heubel Shaw — Kansas City, Missouri Through various events and internal fundraising, Heubel Shaw donated over $35,000 to the American Cancer Society in 2023. Over the past decade, Heubel Shaw has raised and donated over $350,000 to the organization. Hooper Handling — Hamburg, New York Contributing to a number of healthcare organizations focused on outreach care, research and more, Hooper Handling donated toward the Alzheimer Association of Western New York, Roswell Park Alliance Foundation to support breast cancer research, and Mental Health Advocates of WNY to support mental health in elementary schools. Johnston Equipment ­— Mississauga, Ontario Johnston Equipment has continued its long-standing support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada, including sponsorship of the annual general meeting, charity golf tournament, educational scholarships and annual gala dinner. Malin — Addison, Texas Going on 10 years, Malin has supported Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plano, Texas, this year donating 12,000 cans of corn for the Thanksgiving meal giveaway. Malin also maintained all 11 pieces of the food pantry’s equipment and provided the Safety On The Move® Operator Training Program to its volunteers.  Raymond de Mexico — Querétaro, Mexico Raymond de Mexico actively participates with donations to Casa María Goretti, a home for girls, adolescents and young people with intellectual or developmental disabilities in vulnerable situations, where they receive the necessities, medical care, psychological attention and more. Employees visited the home, gifted jackets and organized an uplifting event that included great food, music, singing and camaraderie. Raymond Storage Concepts, Inc. — Cincinnati, Ohio Raymond Storage Concepts enjoyed a memorable volunteer day at New Life Furniture Bank, sorting and packing houseware items into boxes to disperse to community members in need. New Life Furniture Bank provides gently used furniture and household items throughout greater Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, and northern Kentucky. Raymond West — Santa Fe Springs, California As part of Operation Santa Supply Chain, some 200 bikes were built by Raymond West employees as part of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots® Program. Raymond West “elves” have been busy building bikes to support the 2023 holiday season. Welch Equipment Company — Denver, Colorado The Welch equipment team donated an all-terrain vehicle (valued at $38,000) to the Pueblo YMCA. This ATV will be useful in transporting supplies, as well as children with physical disabilities, to mountainous Camp Jackson — a beloved staple in the community since 1916.  As total intralogistics solutions providers, Raymond Solutions and Support Centers offer a broad range of consulting, connected solutions, technologies, services, material handling equipment and more to support the ever-growing needs of their customers.    To see more examples of how Raymond Solutions and Support Centers are giving back in 2023, visit Raymond’s Facebook or LinkedIn pages at www.facebook.com/TheRaymondCorporation or www.linkedin.com/company/the-raymond-corporation/.   For more information or to locate an authorized Raymond Solutions and Support Center, visit www.raymondcorp.com or call 800-235-7200.   About The Raymond Corporation The Raymond Corporation, a Toyota Industries Company, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Nov. 16, 2023 – Demand for Beckhoff technologies has soared in recent years, with the company’s U.S. revenue growing by 33.4% in 2022 alone. To ensure rapid deliveries, Beckhoff USA completed a major overhaul of our Minneapolis-area warehouse, the main piece being an innovative Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) from OPEX Corp. With this and other strategic investments, we have returned to pre-pandemic lead times, which is a game-changer for customers across industries.   The AS/RS expands our warehouse capacity by 60%, which factors in room to grow. The entire project was implemented without major disruptions of customer shipments. Beckhoff USA President Kevin Barker attributes this success to the strength of the U.S. operations team and hands-on leadership of Wayne Schmeichel, Director of Operations.   “Considering the scope of this project and the pace of our warehouse, we knew we’d be essentially changing a tire at 100 mph. But we pulled it off, and that’s a testament to our amazing team,” Barker said. “The AS/RS helps free up our growing warehouse team from repetitive tasks to tackle more interesting challenges. That’s great for productivity, sure. But more importantly, it offers better job satisfaction and more rewarding work.”   The AS/RS is now fully operational with multiple mobile robots used to pull totes of product and bring them to operators. Additional conveyor systems make it easy to send the components to packing stations before being sent off to customers. Multiple Beckhoff technologies, from EtherCAT and TwinSAFE I/O terminals to a robust operator interface, are used throughout the AS/RS and conveyance solutions.   “Before implementing the OPEX® Infinity™ system, we were running out of room in our warehouse, not to mention personnel bandwidth to meet customer demands,” Schmeichel said. “It’s always refreshing to see technology make people’s jobs easier. By automating processes, we can work smarter instead of harder, and rather than eliminating jobs, we continue to grow our warehouse team headcount to ensure the best possible customer experiences.”   The upgrades at Beckhoff USA coincide with the company’s comprehensive manufacturing and logistics efforts around the globe. Our global headquarters in Germany, for instance, has invested significantly in new production infrastructure and recently announced a new central warehouse. There, Beckhoff will handle shipments for European customers and process orders to Beckhoff subsidiaries worldwide. And with 750,000 square feet, the distribution facility will handle today’s needs and scale for continued, rapid growth into the future.   “We expect to keep growing at the same rapid pace for years to come – at Beckhoff USA and globally,” Barker said. “With our automated warehouse upgrades in Minnesota, we are taking a monumental step forward, but this certainly won’t be the last step in that journey.”   About Beckhoff USA At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

OCONOMOWOC, Wis. — November 15, 2023 — ORBIS® Corporation, an international leader in reusable packaging, and Prairie Farms, a well-known farmer-owned dairy cooperative, were awarded the 2023 QCS Purchasing Cooperative Collaboration Award for their continued collaborative efforts in developing a reusable cheese container and delivery system that prioritizes sustainable practices and product integrity.   The QCS Best Collaboration Award is a prestigious honor that celebrates joint initiatives between a member and a supply partner that have excelled in addressing industry challenges or achieving desired outcomes. The award was presented at the 2023 QCS Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, in October.   Since 1938, Prairie Farms has been committed to producing fresh dairy products of the highest quality and exceeding the expectations of customers, consumers and partners. Recognizing an opportunity to enhance product integrity, reduce waste and prevent contamination in the supply chain, Prairie Farms initiated a collaborative project with long-time collaborator, ORBIS Corporation. The objective was to create a reusable packaging solution for the dairy industry, specifically tailored to maintain product quality and safety. “We do feel we have a true partnership with ORBIS,” said Chris Hackman, chief operating officer at Prairie Farms.   ORBIS Corporation, with its extensive experience serving the dairy industry, has a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and reducing its customers' environmental impact. "This innovative system not only replaces single-use material, but also offers enhancements in efficiency, output capacity and the overall utilization of the production facility,” said Matthew Beeman, VP Sales RSC at ORBIS Corporation. “We are honored this initiative was recognized by QCS. At ORBIS, we remain committed to not only addressing customer challenges but also setting a new standard across industry sectors.”   Through this collaboration, Prairie Farms and ORBIS Corporation have demonstrated the power of partnership in delivering solutions that benefit the entire supply chain. In 2019, ORBIS and Prairie Farms were also nominated and won the QCS Best Collaboration Award for work they did with a leading national grocery retailer to optimize delivery of fluid milk in-store. The solution was the ORBIS XpressBulk™ Milk Dolly & Tray System, a retail-ready fully reusable delivery system.   For more information about ORBIS Corporation and Prairie Farms, or their award-winning reusable cheese container and delivery system, please visit: qcspurchasing.com/conference-information/awards/.   About ORBIS Corporation With more than 170 years of material handling expertise and 65 years of plastics innovations, ORBIS helps world-class customers move their product faster, safer and more cost-effectively with reusable totes, pallets, containers, dunnage and racks. Using a proven approach, ORBIS experts analyze customers’ systems, design a solution and execute a reusable packaging program for longer-term cost savings and sustainability. Using life-cycle assessments to compare reusable and single-use packaging, ORBIS also helps customers reduce their overall environmental impact. ORBIS is a part of Menasha Corporation, one of the oldest family-owned manufacturers in the United States. As a steward of sustainability, ORBIS is committed to a better world for future generations. Headquartered in Oconomowoc, ORBIS has more than 3,100 employees and 50 locations throughout North America and Europe. For more information, please visit www.orbiscorporation.com/en-us/.   About Prairie Farms We are a farmer-owned cooperative. This means we are owned and operated by over 600 farm families who are critical members of society. They have selflessly taken on the tremendous task of producing nutritious, high-quality milk for a growing population, which requires being on the job 24/7, 365 days a year. We have represented American agriculture since our founding in 1938. Many of our dairy farms are operated by several generations of family members with roots dating back to the 1800s.

CHICAGO, Ill., NOV. 14, 2023 —Logiwa Inc., the leading cloud fulfillment platform for high-volume direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses, today announced that Prologis, the global leader in logistics real estate, is now offering the Logiwa warehouse management software (WMS) to its customers on the Prologis Essentials platform which delivers the next generation of solutions to address some of the most critical challenges fulfillment centers face today.   Logiwa WMS offers the necessary capabilities by helping manage the flow of goods in and out of a warehouse. For fulfillment networks and warehouses that serve high-volume, DTC businesses, Logiwa WMS enables them to scale order volume quickly, integrate with other operational systems seamlessly, and fulfill customer orders accurately and on time.   "Our partnership with Prologis underscores our shared belief that innovation and technology are essential to warehouses' ability to scale, grow and thrive in today’s dynamic supply chain," said Erhan Musaoglu, founder and CEO of Logiwa.   The addition of Logiwa WMS to the Prologis Essentials platform makes modern warehousing, operational efficiency, and streamlined fulfillment more accessible to Prologis customers. This partnership reinforces Prologis Essentials as a comprehensive ecosystem, providing next-generation solutions that empower warehouse operators for success.   Logiwa is also a portfolio company of Prologis Ventures, reaffirming its commitment to logistics sector innovation. For more information on Prologis Essentials and the collaboration with Logiwa, please visit www.logiwa.com/company/partners.   About Logiwa Logiwa is one of the leading cloud-based fulfillment management systems for high-volume fulfillment networks, direct-to-consumer brands, and 3PLs. The Logiwa Cloud Fulfillment Platform is an integrated WMS and DTC fulfillment system that makes it easy to run a digital warehouse and scale your high-volume fulfillment operations. Logiwa’s solution excels where traditional warehouse management systems fail: it connects quickly with new online stores and marketplaces, makes it easy to run a digital warehouse, and is easily updated to support dynamic warehouse environments. To learn more about Logiwa, please visit www.logiwa.com.

LIVERMORE, Calif. (Nov. 13, 2023) – In recognition of Veteran’s Day, Toyota Material Handling is highlighting a special story involving one of its dealers – Toyota Material Handling Northern California – and a U.S. military base in Hawaii. Read the full story about a Vietnam veteran who is still finding new ways to support American troops.   Rich Andres knows from experience how important it is for our troops to have the most reliable equipment on the market. Andres, the founder and chairman of Toyota Material Handling Northern California, served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War in the late 1960s.    Recently, Andres and Toyota Material Handling Northern California delivered a Loaded Container Handler to a U.S. military base in Oahu, Hawaii, to support contingency operations, local training and deployments for the Army.   “This truck will help our operations tremendously and ensure we can make all of our large movements much more efficiently, including fully-loaded shipping containers,” said Melvin Wright of U.S. Army Field Support Brigade LRC 402 Hawaii. “This truck will move all of those important containers, place them on the flatbed truck, and then they’ll be transported down to the port at Pearl Harbor. It’s going to make a big difference for us and save a significant amount of time.”   Andres’ story is one centered on family and driven by discipline and sacrifice. His father served in the U.S. Navy before him, and his two sons – Mark and Stephen – now run the successful material handling business he started more than 25 years ago.   That’s what made this deal so special. By providing a quality piece of equipment to support the soldiers at Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield in Hawaii, Andres says he still wants to do whatever he can to support American troops.   “It makes me proud to participate in something with the military,” Andres said. “It’s a great opportunity for us to represent Toyota with the U.S. government. If I was still in the service and I was operating something like this container handler, I would have a high level of confidence in it because of its quality.”   Getting the Loaded Container Handler to the Army base in Hawaii wasn’t easy. The product weighs over 175,000 pounds and features a lift capacity up to 90,000 pounds, so it had to be built, disassembled for shipment, and then reassembled once in Hawaii.    Several members of the Toyota Material Handling Northern California team traveled to East Chicago, Indiana, where Toyota Heavy Duty forklifts are built, to study, learn, and practice everything needed to know about properly taking the product apart and putting it back together again. Those same professionals traveled to Hawaii to not only reassemble the equipment upon arrival, but fully train the customer on how to use the massive unit.    It's that level of commitment and attention to detail Andres learned during his time in the military and carried with him throughout his material handling career. Andres and his sons instill those same principles into every person that comes to work for them at Toyota Material Handling Northern California. In many ways, those principles connect the military way with the Toyota Way.   “There’s definitely an interesting parallel between the two,” Andres said. “They are both driven by processes that have been proven to be successful over a long period of time. In my career, the former military people I’ve hired have had those same values and have been the most successful in the company. The things they brought with them – the things they helped lead with – made the company successful.”   Andres joined the Marine Corps with his three best friends in 1967, initially serving as a motor pool mechanic after completing boot camp. But Andres thought he could do even more to serve his country. He tried multiple times to join the troops in Vietnam, and just four months after joining the Marine Corps, Andres succeeded in that effort.    After completing his infantry training, Andres was a member of a motor transport unit in Vietnam. His unit joined what is known as the ‘Siege of Khe Sanh’ in early 1968, a 77-day battle in Kasan, Vietnam, that claimed the life of Andres’ unit chief. Andres was thrust into a leadership role as the Motor Transport Chief and successfully led his soldiers until he left the Marine Corps in 1969.     Andres initially planned to take some time off after returning from war, but says he wanted to get to work. So Andres started sweeping floors and delivering parts for a local forklift company where he spent five years and worked his way up to a parts manager position.    Andres would end up working for two more forklift companies after that, the second beginning in 1985 for the then-called Perin Company, which was founded in 1921 and was the second-oldest Toyota dealer in the country at the time. In 1997, Andres partnered with Toyota Material Handling to buy Perin Company and renamed it Toyota Material Handling Northern California. The Andres family has successfully grown the business in the 26 years since with existing locations in Livermore, Fresno, West Sacramento and Salinas, California.       “The whole experience of being in the Marine Corps helped me to get where I am,” Andres said. “It taught me about the determination you need to succeed and showed me what it’s like when somebody always has your back. I wasn’t satisfied just working – I wanted to do something bigger.    “I like to lead by example. From being thrust into being the chief of my unit in Vietnam and all throughout my career, I’ve set my sights on specific things and had the determination required to follow through and reach them.”   One example Andres leads by is how he treats days of remembrance, like Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. He doesn’t want the sacrifice of so many men and women to go unnoticed by anyone.    “Every year, I send out messages on these special days to let people know the importance of our troops – those that are still serving, those that didn’t make it back, and those that made it back but are struggling,” Andres said. “We are working to do anything we can to support those people. We are here – we are here to support you, and we always will be.”   About Toyota Material Handling Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in warehousing and distribution. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com.   Contact Justin Albers Toyota Material Handling  812-350-9739  Justin.Albers@toyotatmh.com

This Fall, the American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) presented various awards during the 2023 Fall Technical Meeting (FTM) Awards Luncheon in Detroit, Michigan. Along with the Chairperson’s Award, awards were presented to AGMA technical committee members who have published a document within the last year. Hani Almoghrabi, Product Manager for MAXXDRIVE Industrial Gear Units at NORD DRIVESYSTEMS, was recognized for his contribution toward publishing AGMA 947-A23, Gear Reducers – Thermal Capacity. Ten other members of the AGMA Drives for Industrial Applications Committee also accepted awards for their work on the piece.   “It was a pleasure working alongside my colleagues on the AGMA Enclosed Gear Committee to publish the AGMA 947-A23 Gear Reducers-Thermal Capacity information sheet,” Almoghrabi stated “we hope it will become an informative resource for the gear industry.”   The published document utilizes an analytical heat balance model as a means of calculating the thermal transmittable power of a gear unit lubricated with mineral oil. The calculation is based on the standard conditions of 25°C (77°F) maximum ambient temperature and 95°C (203°F) maximum oil sump temperature in a large indoor space but also includes modifiers for calculation in other conditions. The first draft of AGMA 947-A23 was created in April 2019 and approved by the Technical Division Executive Committee in June 2023.   About NORD DRIVESYSTEMS® With more than 4,000 employees, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been developing, producing and selling drive technology for more than 50 years, and is one of the global leaders of full-service providers in the industry. In addition to standard drives, NORD delivers application-specific concepts and solutions for special requirements such as energy-saving drives or explosion-protected systems. In financial year 2017, annual sales amounted to $781 million. NORD now has subsidiaries and sales partners in 98 countries worldwide. The dense sales and service network guarantees optimal availability, enabling short delivery times and customer-oriented service. NORD produces a very diverse range of drives for torques from 88 to more than 2.2 million lb-in, provides electric motors in the power range of 0.16 to 1,341 HP, and manufactures frequency inverters with the required power electronics of up to 215 HP. Inverter solutions are available for conventional control cabinet installations as well as for decentralized, fully-integrated drive units.  

MILWAUKEE, WI — (November 13, 2023) ­­­– Regal Rexnord Corporation (NYSE: RRX), a global leader in the engineering and manufacturing of electric motors and controls, power generation products and power transmission components, will feature an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) concept controlled by Kollmorgen that is equipped with ModSort® technology at Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day, Booth 224. The show will take place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on November 16, 2023.   Visitors to the company’s booth can view the operational concept AGV, which represents the integration of technologies from across Regal Rexnord's strategic brands. The concept AGV showcases the potential of combining Kollmorgen Corp's advanced control systems with the versatile ModSort® sorter and conveyor platform, illustrating Regal Rexnord's commitment to developing comprehensive intralogistics solutions.   "We're not just creating products; we're engineering the future of material handling and automation," said Zach Hegerty, Product Manager for Intralogistics at Regal Rexnord. "Our concept AGV is a testament to the power of collaboration and technological synergy, offering unprecedented flexibility and scalability for the logistics industry."   Regal Rexnord invites attendees to explore the realm of possibilities with its concept AGV at Pittsburgh Robotics Day. Participation in the event underscores the company's role as a facilitator of innovation, providing the building blocks for integrators to create tailored solutions that can revolutionize warehouse and distribution center operations, delivering safety, efficiency, and adaptability.   For a live demonstration and to learn more about the Kollmorgen controlled concept AGV and ModSort® technology, visit the Regal Rexnord booth at Pittsburgh Robotics Day. Visitors can find additional information about our products at ModSort.com and at Kollmorgen/AGV   About Regal Rexnord Regal Rexnord Corporation is a global leader in the engineering and manufacturing of automation sub-systems, industrial powertrain solutions, automation and power transmission components, electric motors and electronic controls, air moving products, and specialty electrical components and systems, serving customers around the world. Through longstanding technology leadership and an intentional focus on producing more energy-efficient products and systems, Regal Rexnord helps create a better tomorrow – for its customers and for the planet.   Regal Rexnord is comprised of four operating segments: Industrial Powertrain Solutions, Power Efficiency Solutions, Automation & Motion Control and Industrial Systems. Regal Rexnord is headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin and has manufacturing, sales, and service facilities worldwide. For more information, visit RegalRexnord.com.   Contact                                              Kathleen Callahan                                               Regal Rexnord                                                  (414) 345-0268                                                    Kathleen.Callahan@regalrexnord.com    

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, has launched registration for its WERC Annual Conference. This in-person event is scheduled to take place June 2-5, 2024 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas. The conference is designed for leaders in the warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment landscape. With a central mission to inspire action, WERC 2024 encourages attendees to break away from the distractions of their daily work schedule and devote attention to the big picture of logistics. The conference’s educational sessions teach participants innovative strategies to improve their operations, with a focus on the essential areas of people, processes, and systems & data. Michael Mikitka, Executive Vice President for MHI Knowledge Center and WERC, highlights the exceptional learning opportunities presented by the event. “The Annual WERC Conference provides a unique platform to tap into industry expertise,” he said. “In addition to our enriching thought-leader and peer-to-peer sessions and our off-site facility tours, the event provides numerous social opportunities for attendees to make meaningful connections.” Companies are invited to sponsor WERC 2024. To learn more about how to enhance your visibility among logistics professionals, view the sponsorship options and download the prospectus. To learn more about WERC 2024 and register, visit werc.org/2024.  A discount is available on registration fees when you become a WERC member. About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.  About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

London, November 9, 2023 — Movu Robotics, one of the industry-leading warehouse automation and robotics suppliers, proudly announces it was exclusively granted “The Best Use of Robotics” award at the "Supply Chain Excellence Awards 2023". The Awards, recognized as the gold standard for best practices in supply chain management, is bestowed upon organizations that exemplify excellence and innovation in the field. This year, with nearly 300 entries from over 150 unique companies, it had more entrants than ever before. This accolade, presented at the prestigious award ceremony held on November 9th in London, marks Movu's outstanding contributions to supply chain innovation and excellence. Movu's achievement underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of warehouse automation and robotics.   A distinguished jury of internationally renowned experts from the logistics industry awarded Movu for its groundbreaking project for the customer Dematra, a pioneering logistics services company. This visionary project, a shining example of the pinnacle of automated technology in warehousing, showcases a commitment to redefining the future of warehousing and distribution. At the heart of the project stands the awe-inspiring 46-meter-tall stow Silo, a revolutionary fully automated high-bay warehouse. This technological marvel has the capacity to effortlessly house nearly 80,000 pallets and can handle an impressive 12,000 pallet movements within a 24-hour timeframe — an international premiere in warehouse automation. Key to the success of the project are the Movu atlas shuttles, self-powered 2D-pallet carriers ingeniously designed for optimal movement and organization of pallets. These shuttles work seamlessly with the specially designed stow shuttle-rack system and the local controlling system (STC).   Jos De Vuyst, CEO of stow Group, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, "We are truly honored to receive the Supply Chain Excellence Awards 2023. Our collaboration with Dematra and the joint efforts of the stow and Movu teams have resulted in a highly successful project that not only demonstrates the future of warehousing but elevates it to unprecedented heights. The Dematra project exemplifies Movu's vision to upgrade warehouses globally with easier automation, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in the world of warehousing”.   Movu remains at the forefront of innovation, committed to transforming the warehouse landscape with accessible and easier automation through which it sets new standards in automation and robotics.   About Movu Robotics Movu Robotics, part of stow Group, is a global leader in the design, manufacturing and implementation of automated warehouse systems. Founded on a passion for innovation and a commitment to revolutionizing the logistics market, Movu emerges as a trusted partner for industries worldwide, allowing end customers and integrators globally to benefit from a seamless and user-friendly plug and play warehouse automation ecosystem, which streamlines operations, increases efficiency, and creates a competitive edge in an ever-evolving marketplace. Learn more at www.movu-robotics.com.   About stow Group stow Group is headquartered in Belgium and employs more than 2,000 people worldwide. In 2022, the Group generated sales of almost €1 billion. It has an extensive pan-European manufacturing presence with ten production sites and a global distribution network. Stow Group now has two independent brands under its roof: stow Racking and Movu Robotics. While both of these brands retain their independence, they strongly impact each other in terms of expertise, know how, technology, and global resources. Learn more at www.movu-robotics.com.   Contact Thomas Meyer-Jander Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) stow Group and Movu Robotics +32 56 48 11 11 thomas.meyer-jander@stow-group.com

Greenville, N.C. (Nov. 8, 2023) – Coinciding with National STEM Day, Hyster-Yale Group announces several milestones and opportunities for engineering students through its longstanding collaborations with academic and career development programs from coast to coast. The company is sponsoring dozens of senior capstone projects, providing mentorship and internship opportunities, opening a new innovation lab and lending industry perspective to new university engineering programs.    Innovation Lab at the University of Portland   The Hyster-Yale Group Innovation Lab will resume in January 2024 at the new Shiley-Marcos Center for Design and Innovation at the University of Portland. The lab was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic and construction of the new facility. The lab, which has been a model for other industry-university cooperation, immerses student interns in real engineering and product development projects. Four interns have already been hired into development and innovation roles with the company. The lab is led by Chief Technologist of Innovation for Hyster-Yale Group, Ed Stilwell, who created and taught an innovation course for several years at the university.    Internships and Advisory Councils   The company works with other colleges in the communities where it operates to provide internship opportunities, including East Carolina University, Berea College, Eastern Kentucky University and the University of Kentucky. Hyster-Yale Group also serves alongside companies such as Lockheed Martin and Lexmark on the Eastern Kentucky University engineering advisory council. Anthony Wasson, Value Stream Manager, and Ken Deters, Director of Service Operations, are active on the council, which was established to provide industry perspective to the development and operation of the school’s new degree program in manufacturing engineering. At East Carolina University, the Warranty and Quality Improvement Manager for Hyster-Yale Group, John Roberson, also serves on an engineering advisory council.    Hyster-Yale Group’s Counterbalanced Development Center (CBDC) in Oregon is in the planning process for 2024 internships with the Multiple Engineering Co-Operative Program (MECOP), a non-profit that works with member companies and universities in the Pacific Northwest to cultivate the highest level of engineering and business graduates by bridging academic theory with industry reality. Since 2000, more than 95 interns across mechanical, electrical, computer engineering and computer science disciplines have worked at the CBDC supporting various product development projects. At least 15 former MECOP interns are employed across the development team, working in design, validation, program management, software and simulation or virtual testing.    Hyster-Yale Group posts internship opportunities for fall, spring and summer semesters at several locations. To learn more about all available internship opportunities or to apply, visit hyster-yalecareers.com/.    University Capstone Projects   Each year, the CBDC sponsors capstone projects for 35 to 40 seniors from local universities. The students work in teams on eight to 10 real-world and often multi-discipline engineering problems provided by Hyster-Yale Group. In Greenville, North Carolina, the company’s Warehouse Product Development Center and manufacturing facility also host engineering students from East Carolina University completing their capstone projects. In both cases, students are guided through the process of developing viable solutions by mentors from the company, accessing valuable experience and insight to the field and developing relationships in the industry as they progress. Student teams have created specialized test equipment, innovative human-machine interfaces, improvements to forklift operator comfort, new sensing methods and other innovations at the leading edge of the materials handling industry.     About Hyster-Yale Group Hyster-Yale Group, Inc., designs, engineers, manufactures, sells and services a comprehensive line of lift trucks, attachments and aftermarket parts marketed globally primarily under the Hyster® and Yale® brand names. Subsidiaries of Hyster-Yale Group include Bolzoni S.p.A., a leading worldwide producer of attachments, forks and lift tables marketed under the Bolzoni®, Auramo® and Meyer® brand names, and Nuvera Fuel Cells, LLC, an alternative-power technology company focused on fuel cell stacks and engines. Hyster-Yale Group also has an unconsolidated joint venture in Japan (Sumitomo NACCO). Hyster-Yale Group, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. (NYSE:HY). Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. and its subsidiaries, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, employ approximately 8,300 people worldwide. For more information about Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. and its subsidiaries, visit the Company's website at www.hyster-yale.com.    Contact Melissa Cashwell Hyster-Yale Group  252-864-3571 melissa.cashwell@hyster-yale.com  

Creform Corporation, a manufacturer of unique products for the design and building of material handling structures, AGVs and gravity roller conveyors will showcase, in its newly designed exhibit, several of its products in booth B7650, at MODEX 2024, March 11-14, Atlanta, Georgia World Congress Center .   Highlighting the exhibit will be a free navigation AGV which can control up to 50 courses with 128 commands each via HMI touch screen and built-in RFID for traffic control.   The Creform System consists of over 700 components including plastic-coated steel pipe, fittings, and accessories for building AGVs, flow racks, carts, workstations, as well as gravity roller conveyors.   AGVs, from simple bolt-on units to sophisticated low profile tuggers. Systems can be simple loops for kit cart delivery to plant wide material delivery that are managed by Creform’s traffic control system.  Units have a variety of load ratings, configurations, power sources and can be configured with tape, no tape or hybrid.   Flow racks are designed and built as single-lane parts feeders to large supermarket systems for kitting. As with all Creform flow racks, capacity, size, and configurations are all custom designed for the application.    Carts, from small general purpose push carts to model specific kitting carts are Creform specialties. They are built using a system of 28 mm, 32 mm and 42 mm plastic coated steel pipe and metal joints and can be configured for ESD (anti-static) applications.   Creform workstations are built for single person use to multi-person assembly cells. Workstations can be configured for a stand-up or a sit-down position and can be built and designed on wheels or be stationary.    Creform gravity roller conveyors come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be used within a Creform application or the user’s own system for conveyance of product.    The Creform System is a proven component in continuous improvement and Lean Manufacturing programs, and the company partners with customers in developing and implementing these programs.   

CHICAGO, Ill., NOV. 8, 2023 — Logiwa Inc., a leading cloud based fulfillment management system for high-volume direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses, proudly announces its ranking at number 274 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500™, a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 29th year. Logiwa achieved an astounding 492% growth during this period.   Logiwa’s founder and chief executive officer, Erhan Musaoglu, attributes their 492% revenue growth to their commitment to innovative technology solutions and an expanding market reach. He stated, "Our success is a result of our team's dedication to developing state-of-the-art technology that empowers our customers, along with a willingness to embrace agility in the pursuit of innovation."   Overall, the 2023 Technology Fast 500 companies achieved revenue growth ranging from 201% to 222,189% over the three-year time frame from 2019 to 2022, with an average growth rate of 1,934% and a median growth rate of 497%.   For further insights into Logiwa Inc. and its award-winning fulfillment management system, please visit www.logiwa.com.   About the 2023 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Now in its 29th year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies — both public and private — in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2019 to 2022.   In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or technology that is sold to customers in products that contribute to a majority of the company’s operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America.   About Logiwa Logiwa is a leading cloud-based fulfillment management system for high-volume fulfillment networks, direct-to-consumer brands, and 3PLs. The Logiwa Cloud Fulfillment Platform is an integrated WMS and DTC fulfillment system that makes it easy to run a digital warehouse and scale your high-volume fulfillment operations. Logiwa’s solution excels where traditional warehouse management systems fail: it connects quickly with new online stores and marketplaces, makes it easy to run a digital warehouse, and is easily updated to support dynamic warehouse environments. To learn more about Logiwa, please visit www.logiwa.com.   About Deloitte Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world’s most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500® and more than 8,500 U.S.-based private companies. At Deloitte, we strive to live our purpose of making an impact that matters by creating trust and confidence in a more equitable society. We leverage our unique blend of business acumen, command of technology, and strategic technology alliances to advise our clients across industries as they build their future. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Bringing more than 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte’s approximately 457,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com.

Adding to its robust aluminum framing product portfolio metric series, Bosch Rexroth is expanding its offering in North America to include the Inch 10 and 15 series. With 9 strut profiles and over 100 components to choose from, Bosch Rexroth continues its commitment to provide unbeatable flexibility for the design of your assembly line. Our new Inch series is backed by our over 40 years of experience continuously enhancing aluminum extrusion and providing high-quality and versatile final products.    With our new Inch 10 and 15 series, build anything from worktables, machine bases, industrial guarding, and tool racks to robot stands, workstations, carts, display units, and more! When built, the end result is a strong, yet lightweight structure that’s as function as it is attractive. Like our industry-proven metric series, the high-strength aluminum profiles have a natural-color, anodized surface that scratch-and corrosion resistant, never needs panting, and is virtually maintenance free.    Bosch Rexroth’s Inch 10 and 15 series include the following strut profiles:  1“ x 1“ 1“ x 2“ 2“ x 2“ 1.5“ x 1.5“ 1.5“ x 1.5“ LT 1.5“ x 3“ 1.5“ x 3“ LT 3“ x 3“ 3“ x 6“  In addition to the 9 profiles, Bosch Rexroth offers over 100 different supporting accessories, providing everything you need to build almost any application.    Learn more about Bosch Rexroth’s Inch 10 and 15 Series at www.boschrexroth-us.com/inch-series.   About Bosch Rexroth As one of the world’s leading suppliers of drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth ensures efficient, powerful and safe movement in machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile and Industrial Applications as well as Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions, engineering and services, Bosch Rexroth is creating the necessary environment for fully connected applications. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drive and control technology, gear technology and linear motion and assembly technology, including software and interfaces to the Internet of Things. With locations in over 80 countries, more than 32,000 associates generated sales revenue of around 7.0 billion euros in 2022. www.boschrexroth-us.com.    About Bosch The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 421,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2022). The company generated sales of 88.2 billion euros in 2022. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. As a leading IoT provider, Bosch offers innovative solutions for smart homes, Industry 4.0, and connected mobility. Bosch is pursuing a vision of mobility that is sustainable, safe, and exciting. It uses its expertise in sensor technology, software, and services, as well as its own IoT cloud, to offer its customers connected, cross-domain solutions from a single source. The Bosch Group’s strategic objective is to facilitate connected living with products and solutions that either contain artificial intelligence (AI) or have been developed or manufactured with its help. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is “Invented for life.” The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 470 subsidiary and regional companies in over 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch’s global manufacturing, engineering, and sales network covers nearly every country in the world. With its more than 400 locations worldwide, the Bosch Group has been carbon neutral since the first quarter of 2020. The basis for the company’s future growth is its innovative strength. At 136 locations across the globe, Bosch employs some 85,500 associates in research and development, of which nearly 44,000 are software engineers.   Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.iot.bosch.com, www.bosch-presse.de.

Rochester, NY – Gorbel® is pleased to announce that it has earned a spot on thisyear’s list of Top 100 list of fastest-growing, privately owned companies in the Rochester and Finger Lakes region. The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce revealed the 37th annual Top 100 rankings at an awards celebration on November 2,where Gorbel® achieved the 61st spot on the Top 100 list.   In an announcement to the company, CEO Brian Reh said “We have been blessed to make this our 20th time on the list in the 37 years the Top 100 has been around. Just wow!” He went on to say that “This is an awesome accomplishment and a direct result of the great work each of you do day after day. Congratulations to all! You deserve to be proud.”   To be eligible for the Greater Rochester Chamber Top 100 program, companies mustbe privately owned, headquartered in the nine-county Rochester region, and have earned at least $1 million in revenue in each of the three most recent fiscal years.   Greater Rochester Chamber President and CEO Bob Duffy said, “Congratulations to Gorbel® on being named a 2023 Greater Rochester Chamber Top 100 company. Your presence on this esteemed list showcases your role in shaping Greater Rochester as one of the fastest-growing companies in our region. This year’s Greater Rochester Chamber Top 100 highlights the incredible array of companies that collectively define our dynamic ecosystem, employing tens of thousands of people and reporting billions of dollars in revenue in the most recent fiscal year.”   About Gorbel® Gorbel® is a leader in overhead material handling, ergonomic lifting, andindustrial fall protection. Our mission is to “Improve People’s Lives,” and that principle informs our product line-up and dedication to providing world-class service. With over 40 years of experience, Gorbel® has established itself as a key player and innovator in the overhead andwarehouse solutions industries. We offer a wide range of systems, fromlong-standing Work Station Cranes and Cleveland Tramrail® patented track cranes to new age intelligent lifting devices like the G-Force® and Easy Arm® articulating jib. Gorbel® entered the warehousing industry in 2020 with the Destuff-it™ portable ergonomic conveyor system, which assists workers when loading/unloading trailers. No matter the industryor application, Gorbel® is committed to offering the highest quality equipment and providing an extraordinary customer experience.   About the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce “Since 1887, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce has been the trusted partner, resource, and advocate for businesses and non-profits in Greater Rochester, NY. Together, we help the nine-county Finger Lakesregion grow and thrive. Our expert team is plugged into critical resources, people and information in order to lead, support, and monitor key initiatives on behalf of our members and community.”   About the Event Held at the Floreano Convention Center on Thursday, November 2, the 37th Annual Greater Rochester Chamber Top 100 Awards celebrated the fasting growing, privately owned businesses in the area. A reception was followed by a ceremony. The atmosphere was party-like, with many companies bringing confetti and noisemakers.      

The GCCA is fully committed to strengthening food safety and global access to safe, high-quality and accessible food. Through this partnership, AR Racking is committed to promoting cold chain logistics in Latin America and helping to strengthen food safety in the region. AR Racking, one of the leading companies in the industrial storage solutions sector, has joined the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) as a partner. This strategic collaboration seeks to transform the cold chain logistics arena in Latin America.   The Global Cold Chain Alliance, with representation in more than 90 countries, brings together over 1,100 companies worldwide, dedicated to providing logistics services and essential supplies for the food industry. In Latin America, the GCCA encompasses 85 member countries distributed across 13 countries, operating an impressive total of 5.9 billion cubic feet of temperature-controlled storage space.   The membership associated with GCCA represents a significant milestone for AR Racking, giving it a privileged platform to build credibility and recognition in the cold chain industry, establishing itself as a leading player committed to the highest food quality and safety standards. By joining this global network, the company is broadening its scope and access to a diverse and passionate community, which promises to open new avenues of growth and collaboration internationally. This collaboration also gives AR Racking the opportunity to optimise its operations and expand its business through access to technical resources, training and international opportunities.    About AR Racking AR Racking is part of Grupo Arania, an industrial group of companies with extensive experience and scope, and with a multi-sectoral activity based on the transformation of steel that dates back more than 80 years. AR Racking provides the market with a wide range of solutions with high certified quality standards and a comprehensive project management service. AR Racking’s industrial storage systems stand out for their innovation, reliability and optimum efficiency. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – In line with the industry's push for heightened accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, Pacline is proud to introduce its robotic carton-loading solution, seamlessly integrating Pacline overhead conveyor systems with robotics.   For distributors and integrators this new solution promises a cutting-edge technology to introduce to customers. The loading of empty cartons or totes to moving monorail conveyors automates a task that is traditionally repetitive, labor intensive and prone to inaccuracy. Pacline uses robotic loading to monorail conveyors to drive reliable rates and significantly reduce labor costs.   Key Features and Benefits: Efficient Robotic Loading: With vacuum-gripping end effectors, our robots can integrate with both automated and manual carton erection processes. The inclusion of a motorized drive roller (MDR) conveyor ensures single carton delivery for fast and reliable loading. Flexible Design: Tailored to manage various carton sizes, Pacline’s robots can handle multiple pick and place points, loading onto common or specific carriers. Safety: Pacline’s robotic solutions are equipped with safety cells and access doors that uphold or surpass industry standards. Operator entry into the cell for regularly scheduled maintenance is protected by a “request to enter” feature that safely pauses robot operation. Upgrade Capabilities: Current users of Pacline empty carton or tote delivery monorails can upgrade to a robotic loading solution with potentially minimal alterations to their existing layouts. Automated Trash Removal: With our Robotics and Automation expertise, Pacline offers smart trash carton removal solutions. This add-on enables automatic identification and transfer of specific cartons from monorail carriers to a belt conveyor for either disposal or recycling. Distribution centers and warehouses aiming for a competitive edge will find Pacline's robotic carton-loading solution an invaluable addition to their operations.    For inquiries or further details, distributors are invited to contact our team at Pacline or visit www.pacline.com/solutions/robotics/empty-carton-robotic-loading/ to learn more.   About Pacline Conveyors With its new Robotics and Automation division, Pacline is more committed than ever to delivering solutions that streamline warehouse and distribution center operations. Embracing the future, Pacline ensures robust and state-of-the-art integration of conveyor systems with robotics. Visit www.pacline.com for more information.

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is offering scholarship opportunities to undergraduates who are pursuing a material handling, logistics, or supply chain career. Eligible students should clearly demonstrate dedication to achieving excellence, strong leadership skills, potential for future growth as a leader, and persistence in the pursuit of education. To qualify, students must be enrolled for both the fall 2024 and spring 2025 academic term at a non-profit college or university in the United States accredited by the Council for Higher Education. Students from the following target programs are encouraged to apply: • Industrial engineering • Industrial distribution • Mechanical & electrical engineering • Structural engineering with a focus on cold-formed steel design • Computer science related to material handling • Business & management related to material handling or supply chain management • Imaging and camera-based vision systems, LIDAR sensors, and RADAR sensors technologies • Engineering technology The scholarship awards range from $1,500 to $6,000 and must be used for costs relating to tuition, fees, and books associated with attending school full-time. Scholarships are one-year awards. Former recipients of the award are eligible to re-apply each year if they meet the eligibility requirements. To apply for a scholarship, applicants must first be nominated by a professor, faculty member, or employer (direct supervisor/manager or senior company official). To register, learn more about the requirements, and request a nomination, students can visit https://MHEFI.smapply.org. One application enables students to apply for many of the available scholarships. The deadline to apply for scholarships is January 31, 2024. MHEFI awarded $200,000 to 56 students during the 2023/2024 academic year. About MHEFI The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, its programs have supported over 1,000 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at mhefi.org. If you would like to support MHEFI’s mission to provide financial support for educational programs, please visit mhi.org/mhefi/donors. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

Glimpse into the future of the supply chain by watching season two of “Jobs of Tomorrow.” MHI has now made all 12 episodes of this docuseries available to stream for free on MHIview and tubi. As part of MHI’s commitment to education, this series offers the perspectives of supply chain leaders and academics about the future of the industry. It also interviews current students who are preparing to enter the supply chain, profiling their job search process and the opportunities available to them. “In season two, we dive into such topics as electric vehicles and robotics and automation,” said John Paxton, CEO of MHI. “While these technologies will revolutionize the supply chain, the people who utilize these systems are another important part of the “Jobs of Tomorrow” story. These episodes show their critical role in steering innovation forward.” Below are the episodes that can now be watched on MHIview: • From Data to Delivery: Optimizing Supply Chain Performance: Data is omnipresent. It’s the most crucial thing to keep businesses functional. But what makes it so important and how is it utilized? • From Newbies to Ninjas: Gamifying Workforce for Future-proof Supply Chains: ?The supply chain industry is leveling up its workforce by recruiting natural talents from the younger generation to create a future-proofed team! • Sustain-Able: Scopes 1, 2 and 3 in the Supply Chain: Carbon emissions pose a threat to the world. The supply chain is ready to tackle it head-on and provide sustainable practices that ensure the world is a healthier place for all. • The Final Stretch: Optimizing the Last Mile: The hardest part of the delivery process is the last mile. The supply chain industry is continuously implementing solutions to get packages from the warehouse to the customer. • Integrated Nexus: The Glocal Supply Chains: An integrated s upply chain can result in disruptions from various factors such as natural disasters, transportation failures, labor strikes, geopolitical conflicts, or a single supplier/manufacturing failure. • Creating a Culture of Innovation: By allowing employees to experiment and try new things, companies create an environment that helps to create the jobs of tomorrow. • Back to the Future of Robotics and Automation: Over the years, technology has become so advanced that we’re seeing monumental shifts in the supply chain industry, especially with the rise of automation and robots. • Charging Forward: Electric Vehicles for the Supply Chain: This episode explores electric vehicles in supply chains and the improvements organizations continue to make. • From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Building Intelligent Supply Chains: AI technologies like Machine Learning and Computer Vision can automate processes and provide rich data sets to help companies make well-informed decisions to boost efficiency. • Put A Lock On It: Cybersecurity and the Supply Chain: Discover just how important cybersecurity is to the supply chain and the steps they need to take to avoid these attacks. • The Individuals Behind Efficient Supply Chains: New technologies, changing demographics and new ways of thinking are impacting the work we do and how we do it. The “Jobs of Tomorrow” docuseries highlights different jobs across industries, examining how they have changed and will continue to change. • What’s in the Box? Sustainability and Packaging: The world is becoming a more sustainable place, and many industries, like the supply chain, are pushing their efforts to go green and produce sustainable packaging methods. Last November, MHI introduced the inaugural season of Jobs of Tomorrow. Those episodes, which highlight the impact of supply chain technologies on society and the global economy, can be viewed on MHIview and Amazon. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

ATLANTA (Nov. 2, 2023) – FORTNA, a leading automation and software company for the full logistics value chain, is thrilled to announce a global strategic partnership with Geek+, a leader in mobile robotics solutions for logistics. The partnership marks a significant milestone in the industry, as two industry leaders join forces to transform the way companies approach order fulfillment, bringing the revolutionary goods-to-person and mobile sortation systems developed by Geek+ to FORTNA customers.    FORTNA, renowned for its deep domain knowledge and experience in supply chain optimization, is collaborating with Geek+, a company known for pioneering the use of innovative robotic systems in warehouse automation, to create customized solutions tailored to the unique needs of their customers. This partnership will empower businesses to streamline operations, reduce costs and enhance overall efficiency in order fulfillment.    Through the global partnership, multiple projects are already in different stages of deployment in both the United States and the EMEA region, including major robotic installations for several large retailers in the sports and home appliances sectors as well as innovations in goods-to-person sortation systems. These robotic systems enable customers to add flexibility to their operations while increasing throughput and creating a more positive workplace for their warehouse employees.    Key benefits of this partnership include:  Enhanced Efficiency: FORTNA’s extensive industry knowledge will be complemented by Geek+’s state-of-the-art robotics technology, creating highly efficient and adaptable automated solutions. Mobile robotic systems have more than double the average order picking and sorting throughput. Scalability: The collaboration will offer businesses scalable solutions that can grow with their needs, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-changing marketplace. Optimized Warehouse Operations: By integrating advanced robotics into warehouse operations, customers can significantly improve order accuracy, storage utilization and reduce labor costs. Integrated directly into FORTNA WESTM software, Geek+’s robotics offerings now benefit from order priority adjustments in real-time, enabling businesses to adapt to operational changes more effectively. By coordinating work activities in concert with Geek+’s offerings, FORTNA WESTM is also able to assign tasks to the best-fit automation at the optimal time for further throughput improvements while reducing the cost to pick. Increased Customer Satisfaction: Faster and more accurate order fulfillment will lead to improved consumer satisfaction, loyalty and retention. A Better Workplace: Mobile robotics allow employees to focus on less strenuous tasks in a safer work environment, supporting businesses’ ESG commitments. Both FORTNA and Geek+ are committed to innovation, sustainability and delivering solutions that align with the latest industry trends and regulations.    "Together with Geek+, we provide our customers with a competitive edge through the seamless integration of automation and robotics into their supply chain operations,” said Robert McKeel, Chief Executive Officer, FORTNA. “The partnership between FORTNA and Geek+ aims to accelerate supply chain automation, making it more efficient and cost-effective and increasing the timely delivery of goods to consumers.”    In a rapidly evolving e-Commerce landscape, the demand for efficient and scalable order fulfillment solutions has never been greater. FORTNA and Geek+ are dedicated to addressing these challenges head-on by combining their expertise to design, develop and implement cutting-edge automated robotic solutions.    Lit Fung, Vice President and Managing Director for International Business Geek+, also expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The FORTNA and Geek+ partnership signifies another milestone in the robotics shake-up of order fulfillment automation. Companies seeking to enhance their supply chain operations can now leverage the combined expertise of these two industry leaders to achieve greater efficiency and competitiveness in the global marketplace.”   About FORTNA  FORTNA partners with the world’s leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services. Visit www.fortna.com.    About Geek+  Geek+ is a global leader in robotic solutions for logistics. We develop Autonomous Mobile-Robot (AMR) solutions to realize flexible, reliable, and highly efficient automation for warehouses and supply chain management. Geek+ is trusted by over 1,000 global industry leaders and has been recognized as the world leader in autonomous mobile robots. Founded in 2015, Geek+ has over 1,500 employees, with offices in the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, and Singapore.   

Stevens Point, WI — November 1, 2023 — Steel King Industries, a leading manufacturer of storage rack and material handling products announced that it has been awarded the prestigious MVS (Most Valuable Supplier) Award for its outstanding achievements in 2023 by industry trade association MHEDA (The Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association. Given to less than 10% of all MHEDA member companies, this achievement marks the 9th consecutive year that Steel King has achieved the Award.   To qualify for the MVS Award, Steel King had to meet a series of criteria in areas important to the companies who do business with them, including a commitment to excellence, professionalism, and responsible stewardship. Companies must also demonstrate an ongoing commitment to safety and employee training and provide documentation of active participation in programs that demonstrate they ‘give back’ to their communities.   MVS Award winners have demonstrated an overall commitment to business excellence by documenting activity in the following areas: Industry Advocacy Distributor Advocacy Business Networking Continuing Education Business Best Practices “Steel King is very honored to receive this award for the 9th consecutive year from MHEDA,” said Don Heemstra, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Steel King. “We are especially proud to be the only rack manufacturer to receive this award since its inception. This award not only demonstrates our commitment to being an innovative partner to our distributor network, but also showcases our pledge to continuing education, industry best practices, employee engagement, and giving back to our communities.”   As part of the nomination process, a Steel King dealer must recommend the company for MVS status. “We have partnered with Steel King for over 20 years, and over that time, we have designed, sold, and installed numerous selective and dense pallet racking systems and guard rail systems with Steel King’s support,” said James Westbrooks, Engineering Manager at Prestige (Prestige Sales Co. Inc.). Prestige is a leader in the storage and material handling industry in the Southeast and holds an Excalibur-level dealer status with Steel King. “Equally important as the quality products they deliver, Steel King’s people have made a lasting impact on three generations of Prestige employees. With Steel King, Prestige knows they have a partner they can count on, no matter the circumstance.”   About MHEDA The Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) is the premier trade association dedicated to serving all segments of the material handling business community. MHEDA represents almost 600 companies in the material handling equipment business. Located in suburban Chicago, the association provides services to companies seeking to improve their business through education, networking, benchmarking and best practices. For more information, visit mheda.org.   About Steel King Industries Since 1970, Steel King Industries has been manufacturing a full line of material handling products, including selective pallet racks, dynamic flow storage systems, cantilever racks, portable racks, and custom shipping racks, along with industrial steel containers and guard railing. Products are made using only U.S. steel. Innovation, customization, and design strength have earned Steel King the reputation as a leader in the material-handling marketplace. The company is headquartered in Stevens Point, WI, the company has over 500 employees with manufacturing facilities in Stevens Point and New London, WI and Rome, GA. For more information, call Steel King at (800) 826-0203 or visit steelking.com.

Berea, OH – (October 23,2023)- PAC Machinery announces the 250C Combo L-Bar Sealer and Tunnel Combination Shrink System will replace the Clamco 120/240C Shrink System that has been discontinued. The 250C Combo Series includes standard features and unique advantages not found on competitive systems in the same class.   “We are debuting the 250C at the same price of our discontinued unit until the end of the year so that our customers can take advantage of a much better system that is more feature-rich with a better tunnel and is designed for longevity of use, said Greg Berguig, VP, PAC Machinery. “We are excited to continue updating our product lines to offer more efficient options for our customers, Berguig said.   The Clamco 250C Combo Shrink Wrap System combines an L-bar sealer with a shrink tunnel in one robust, compact unit featuring a motorized closing seal bar arm that improves both operator ergonomics as well as production output. The power take-away conveyor quickly transitions product from the sealer to the tunnel. The high flow digitally controlled 6,000-watt tunnel is ideal for effectively shrink wrapping a range of products at a rate of up to 12 packs/min and measures 16" W x 22 "L x 9" H. The machine has a welded steel frame and 33” operating height. It features Pinwheel perforator wheels for rapid air escape that results in excellent shrink for superior performance.   This packaging machine is designed to work with polyolefin up to 150 gauge and PVC up to 100 gauge. The film cradle can accommodate up to 20" wide centerfold film.   From L-Bar Sealers to high-speed Automatic Shrink Packaging Systems, Clamco brand shrink machines from PAC offers a wide range of machines in this product category. Shrink machines can be used across a wide range of industries including retail, beauty, home goods, food, and e-commerce logistics.   Notable L-bar sealer features on the 250C include a 17" x 23" seal area for shrink wrapping a range of product sizes. Heavy-duty seal arm with motorized closing - push button or auto pace modes, Quick height adjustment facilitates centering the seal on the product. Heated seal blade aids in long-lasting performance and easy replacement. Adjustable seal power provides high seal repeatability.   There are numerous safety features that includes automatic cool down for maximum component reliability. Seal arm obstruction detection for ensured operator safety. Quick access to the electrical cabinet for easy troubleshooting and locking casters for safe, stable operation.   The 250C is in stock and ships from the Berea, Ohio facility. For more information visit the 250C Product Page, and take a look at the video.    About PAC Machinery As a leader in the flexible packaging industry for over 60 years, PAC Machinery is a trusted partner for businesses desiring more from their packaging capabilities. From global companies, pharmaceutical and medical industry manufacturers to online retailers, PAC Machinery can transform packaging operations with customized solutions that immediately improve ROI. Products include: versatile poly bagging, shrink wrapping, bag sealing and flow wrapping systems. PAC’s solutions increase productivity through automation, reduce return rates with superior package integrity, minimize package volume to save shipping costs, and extend product shelf life for maximum freshness. With better choices and more experience, PAC Machinery creates the ideal solution for any packaging requirement.   PAC Machinery’s globally recognized machine brands include: Packaging Aids, Vertrod, Clamco, and Rollbag, Headquartered in San Rafael, California with an additional manufacturing facilities in Berea, OH and Milwaukee, WI. PAC Machinery at 25 Tiburon Street, San Rafael, CA 94901.   Contact Shannon Winans PAC Machinery Marketing Director 1 (800) 985-9570 x261 Shannonw@pacmachinery.com

On September 20, 2023, UFP Global Holdings Ltd., a sister company of UFP Packaging, acquired a majority stake in UFP Palets y Embalajes SL, a newly formed company combining Palets Suller SL, Serrería y Palets Chiva SL, and Drevex Castellón SL. The company is a full-service provider of wooden pallet and packaging solutions in Spain. As the country’s market leader in machine-built pallets, UFP Palets is positioned to serve the region’s ceramic, agriculture, automotive, chemical, and food and beverage industries.   “We are excited to welcome Samuel Suller and the people of Palets Suller into the UFP family,” said Vice President, International Investment, Bradley French. “The addition of new product designs and manufacturing capabilities from UFP Packaging to the great reputation of service and quality from Palets Suller, we will see UFP Palets y Embalajes SL emerge as a market leader not only for pallets but for all industrial packaging needs in Spain.”   UFP Global Holdings Ltd. manufactures industrial packaging in five countries around the globe, including Canada, Mexico, Spain, India, and Australia.   For more information, visit UFP Palets y Embalajes SL’s website here.   About UFP Packaging A part of the UFP Industries, Inc., family of companies, UFP Packaging provides full-service, customized industrial packaging solutions and related services to a wide range of industries. With facilities across the globe, it serves regional, national, and global customers with everything from large shipping crates, agriculture bins, wood pallets, steel crates, corrugated packaging and OEM components.   About UFP Palets y Embalajes SL UFP Palets y Embalajes is a full-service provider of wooden pallets and specialty crates in Spain. With expertise in designing and manufacturing diverse customized options, we’re well- positioned to supply various industries, including ceramic tile, agriculture, automotive, chemical, and food and beverage. Our expertise and access to multiple materials enable us to evaluate sustainable and economical packaging alternatives without sacrificing quality or protection.

Dr Henry Puhl is moving from KION Group to the Upper Austrian intralogistics specialist and will become the new CEO of TGW Logistics in February 2024 Current CEO Harald Schröpf is leaving the company at his own request and will retire in calendar year 2024 The company wide transformation program will be continued and will give the company a new upswing (Marchtrenk, 27. October 2023) The Board of Directors of TGW Future Private Foundation, the sole owner of TGW Logistics, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Henry Puhl as the new Chief Executive Officer. Puhl will take over as CEO from February 2024, succeeding Harald Schröpf, who has led TGW Logistics as CEO for the past six years and has been instrumental in the company's growth and success. The search for a new CEO was an intense process. Henry Puhl's track record and leadership experience in the automation industry – most recently as CTO of the KION Group – as well as his strong identification with the company's values stood out and made him the ideal choice to lead TGW Logistics into the next phase. The TGW Future Private Foundation, owner of TGW Logistics, is responsible for the selection of the new CEO. Chairman of the Board of Directors of TGW Future Private Foundation Martin Krauss on the selection: „With Henry Puhl, we have been able to gain a highly qualified and empathetic leader who has a deep understanding of the industry and an impressive track record. His competence and the high level of identification with our foundation's philosophy "Focusing on people – learning and growing" testify to the right mix of heart and mind. These qualities, together with his strong customer orientation, make Henry Puhl the ideal leader for TGW Logistics and we look forward to working with him“, says Krauss. In addition to his experience as CTO of the KION Group, Henry Puhl has an international track record in industrial technology and automation, and has extensive knowledge covering the entire value chain. He is a charismatic leader with a deep understanding of the customer perspective, broad technical knowhow and a lot of transformation experience. The 52-year-old's professional career includes well-known global companies such as the CLAAS Group and John Deere (Deere & Company). „Intralogistics is looking forward to a very positive growth market. TGW Logistics has state-of-the-art technology and unique know-how, already has a very good business base in Europe and a lot of potential to position itself more strongly in the USA as well. We will use the transformation that has already begun in the company to elevate TGW Logistics to the top league of international players and make optimal use of market potentials." adds Puhl. TGW Future Private Foundation is convinced that TGW Logistics will further strengthen its global position in intralogistics and logistics automation under Puhl's leadership and looks forward to a promising future. Outgoing CEO Harald Schröpf, who was instrumental in paving the way for today's TGW Logistics, will retire in 2024. His commitment to TGW Logistics and his successful work are deeply appreciated. He will play a critical role in preparing the company for the transition and facilitating a smooth transition over the next few months. To ensure this he will continue to be available as an advisor to the company after February 1st. www.tgw-future.org | www.tgw-group.com About TGW Future Private Foundation The TGW Future Private Foundation, established in 2004, is the sole owner of TGW Logistics. In line with the legacy of its founder, Ludwig Szinicz, it pursues three central goals: the sustainable continuation of its corporate holdings, the promotion of people inside and outside the TGW world, and the careful management of its assets.   TGW Future Private Foundation is financed by an annual distribution of one third of TGW Logistics' operating profit, of which it invests at least 30% in the non-profit area TGW Future Wings. In the past financial year, more than four million euros were made available for educational innovations   As a result, the TGW Future Private Foundation now unites two areas under one roof: TGW Logistics, industrial entrepreneurship, and TGW Future Wings, social entrepreneurship. Together, they form the community of values of the TGW world, which is characterized by a purpose-oriented approach.   About TGW Logistics TGW Logistics is one of the leading international suppliers of material handling solutions. For over 50 years, the Austrian specialist has implemented highly automated systems for customers, including brands from A as in Adidas to Z as in Zalando. As systems integrator, TGW Logistics plans, produces, implements and services complex logistics centers – from mechatronic products and robots to control systems and software.   TGW Logistics has subsidiaries in Europe, China and the US and employs more than 4,400 people worldwide. In the 2022/23 business year, the company generated a total turnover of 955 million euros.   Contact TGW Future Private Foundation Tanja Obmann Head of Corporate Communications +43 676 8717 1549 t.obmann@tgw-future.org   TGW Logistics Ingrid Gogl Director Marketing & Communications +43 676 87 17 17 17 ingrid.gogl@tgw-group.com

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Oct. 23, 2023) – Toyota Material Handling (TMH), one of the North American leaders in material handling innovation, received the 2023 Manufacturing Excellence Award for Community Impact during the Indiana Manufacturers Association's (IMA) Hall of Fame Luncheon last week at Indianapolis’ Bitwell Event Center. The awards, given annually by the IMA, recognize manufacturers that make important contributions to the customers and communities they serve and set an example for other companies to follow.   Toyota Material Handling was selected from a large group of applicants for showing exemplary leadership and a strong commitment to community service as reflected in its company policy, resources and employee participation.   “At Toyota, we believe it is our responsibility to contribute to society in meaningful ways and make a real difference in the communities in which we live and work,” said Tony Miller, Toyota Material Handling Senior Vice President of Operations, Engineering & Strategic Planning. “We take that responsibility seriously, and it’s an honor to be recognized with this award by the IMA. I’d like to thank every one of our associates for their unwavering commitment to making our community a better place. This award is not about the contributions of a few; it’s only possible because of the efforts of everyone at Toyota. We will always seek opportunities to invest in the communities we serve and dedicate our time and resources to continuously improve the lives of those around us.”   Corporate social responsibility is integral to Toyota’s culture. Toyota has cultivated numerous community-focused relationships, including corporate partnerships with the American Red Cross, United Way and Anchor House, a local nonprofit focusing on investing in neighbors through housing, employment resources and nutritional assistance. Throughout the year, Toyota sponsors and organizes volunteer activities on and off Toyota's campus. In 2022, Toyota associates donated 12,000 hours of their time to support local organizations, contributing to a total economic impact of $750,000.   “We instituted the Indiana Manufacturers Hall of Fame Awards in 2015 to help bring awareness and recognition to the many positive contributions of Hoosier manufacturers, and added the Manufacturing Excellence Awards in 2019 to focus and honor companies in specific areas of achievement,” said IMA President and CEO Brian Burton. “We congratulate Toyota Material Handling for their outstanding work and continued dedication to making Indiana manufacturing a positive and driving force for the state.”   Manufacturing continues to be one of the highest-paying industry sectors in the state, accounting for nearly 30% of Indiana’s total output and employing approximately 20% of its workforce. Learn more about Toyota’s dedication to serving Indiana communities and the manufacturing industry at ToyotaForklift.com, or explore opportunities to join the Toyota team here.   About Toyota Material Handling Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in warehousing and distribution. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com.   About the Indiana Manufacturers Association Formed in 1901, the Indiana Manufacturers Association is the second oldest manufacturers association in the country and the only trade association in Indiana that exclusively focuses on manufacturing. Manufacturing is the driving force of Indiana’s economy, employing more people and contributing more to Indiana’s gross domestic product than any other industry. The Indiana Manufacturers Association, representing more than 1,100 companies, is dedicated to advocating for a business climate that creates, protects, and promotes quality manufacturing jobs in Indiana. The staff of the Indiana Manufacturers Association are recognized experts in areas including tax, environment, labor relations, human resources, energy, workforce development, and health care. To learn more about how membership can be a benefit for your company, visit www.indianamfg.com.   Contact Justin Albers Toyota Material Handling   812-350-9739 Justin.Albers@toyotatmh.com  

CINCINNATI, OH (October 20, 2023) — Matthews Automation Solutions, a leading provider of innovative material handling systems and software, and proven process optimization expertise, today announced that it has been identified as a Sample Vendor in the 2023 Gartner Hype Cycle for Supply Chain Execution Technologies. Matthews Automation Solutions was named in the Warehouse Execution Systems category. [1]   The Gartner Hype Cycle is a graphic representation of an emerging technology’s maturity lifecycle and potential adoption trajectory. Hype Cycles insights help clients see the evolution of these technologies and evaluate application deployment opportunities beneficial to their business goals.       According to the Gartner Hype Cycle for Supply Chain Execution Technologies, "Warehouse execution systems (WESs) are a hybrid technology that blends capabilities from traditional warehouse management systems (WMSs) and warehouse control systems (WCSs). WESs enhance work management in automated warehouses and manage the interplay between automated and manual processes. WESs leverage near real-time insight into work in the automated warehouse, combined with advanced business process logic, to improve the flow, orchestration and prioritization of work."   In the Hype Cycle for Supply Chain Execution Technologies, Gartner states “Supply chain technology leaders, especially in high-volume, high-velocity environments like e-commerce, retail and direct-to-consumer, are under pressure to drive increased throughput at lower costs per order, which is pushing the need for high-velocity automated fulfillment. WESs are a potentially good fit for automated order-picking strategies, and companies will look to WESs to help support increased volume and velocity.”   "Having Gartner highlight Matthews Automation Solutions for the second year in a row solidifies our leadership position in the supply chain execution technology market," says Gary Cash, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Matthews Automation Solutions. "As an established warehouse execution system and warehouse controls system provider for over 25 years, we specialize in providing Information Anywhere and adaptive intelligence through our dynamic suite of warehouse software products. With NEXUS, our next-generation WES, we expect to continue setting the standard."   [1] Gartner, “2023 Hype Cycle for Supply Chain Execution Technologies,” Dwight Klappich, 13 July, 2023.   Gartner Disclaimer GARTNER and HYPE CYCLE are the registered trademarks of Gartner Inc., and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and/or internationally and has been used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in our research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.     About Matthews Automation Solutions Global brands partner with Matthews Automation Solutions to increase distribution and order fulfillment speed, accuracy and efficiency. Matthews’ broad portfolio of best-of-breed solutions—including leading material handling automation brands Compass, Lightning Pick and Pyramid—offers warehouse execution software, controls, pick-to-light, put walls, order finishing systems, autonomous mobile robots and more. Combined with 25 years of industry experience and proven integration with other material handling systems, Matthews delivers agile and scalable applications throughout the supply chain. Matthews Automation Solutions is a Matthews International company, servicing customers from two North American locations.   Contact Lynn Drewicz Marketing Manager Matthews Automation Solutions 262.250.2169 ldrewicz@matw.com matthewsautomation.com      

October 17, 2023 – Green Cubes Technology (Green Cubes), the leader in producing Lithium-ion (Li-ion) power systems that facilitate the transition from lead-acid batteries and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power to green Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery power, today announced it is celebrating ten years of motive power technology leadership for material handling and ground support equipment. For over 35 years, Green Cubes has been on the forefront of electrification innovations and this marks ten years of success with its flagship suite of Lithium SAFEFlex Battery solutions designed to meet the cost, performance, efficiency, and durability requirements of the rugged warehouse, distribution, and airport environments. Lithium SAFEFlex industrial lithium battery systems are designed as drop-in replacements for traditional Lead acid batteries. They eliminate the need for watering and battery swaps and increase equipment up-time with fast opportunity charging.   With a lower total cost of ownership for electric equipment, industrial companies can capture cost-saving and greenhouse gas emission-reduction opportunities by planning the electrification of their operations, while increasing overall productivity. According to Allied Market Research, the forklift battery market is projected to reach $7.4 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 7.04%. Green Cubes is poised to be an integral part of these projections.    “As a pioneer in the Motive space for over a decade, Green Cubes has provided the industry with the solutions to modernize and optimize material handling power with Lithium SAFEFlex, our Lithium-ion battery power system that has dual benefits of improved ROI (Return On Investment) and decreased environmental impact,” said Michael Walsh, Chief Executive Officer for Green Cubes. “We will continue to invest in technology innovation and manufacturing excellence while expanding our service and customer application infrastructure. For 35 years we’ve made a positive impact on the Indiana economy and will continue to do so as we expand our footprint in Kokomo, creating more jobs in clean energy.”   Green Cubes recently added a 36,000-square-foot facility to produce Lithium SAFEFlex batteries and house engineering and service talent to support customer applications. Additionally, Green Cubes established a new Technology Center in Switzerland, to focus on product innovation. Together these teams are working to improve technology and service offerings based on a decade of field learning and experience.   About Green Cubes Technology Green Cubes Technology develops and manufactures safe and reliable electrification solutions that enable its OEM and enterprise customers to transition from Lead Acid and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power to Lithium-ion battery power. Green Cubes utilizes proven hardware and software platforms to build the most reliable Lithium power solutions in its industries. With over 300 employees across six countries, Green Cubes has been producing innovative, high-performance and high-quality power solutions since 1986.

MHI, in collaboration with Deloitte Consulting LLP, recently launched the MHI Annual Industry Report Survey - the report will be available in March 2024 at MODEX.    The objective of this survey is to develop leading insights on the impact of emerging supply chain technology on operations and workers in the space and what companies are doing to remain competitive and resilient in this rapidly evolving marketplace.    The 2024 report will be the eleventh in a series of annual industry reports published by MHI and Deloitte. These reports provide annual updates on the innovative technologies that have the most potential to transform supply chains, including projected adoption rates of the next five years for each of the 11 categories of technology covered in the report and an analysis of common barriers to adoption.   To complete the survey, click here.

MHI recently announced the expansion of Christy Dula’s role to Chief Experience and Digital Technology Officer. In this expanded role, she will manage the information technology and membership teams to expand MHI’s engagement with MHI members and other stakeholders.  MHI is building a cohesive member experience that will seamlessly blend the in-person and digital experiences.  Aligning both our digital technology and the membership teams will provide enhanced member experiences and deeper engagement. "Christy’s new role allows her to leverage both her extensive customer experience and digital skill sets to grow MHI’s member satisfaction, drive deeper engagement and widen our reach to the overall manufacturing and supply chain community," said MHI CEO John Paxton. "Her expertise is a tremendous asset to MHI, and I’m excited to see how she will take MHI to the next level of in-person and digital engagement." "I’m honored to take on this expanded role at MHI to create more memorable member experiences both in-person and through our digital landscape," added Dula. "I look forward to working with the IT and membership teams to build on our work to deliver superior experiences and continuously enhance member value." Dula joined MHI in 2018 as Chief Digital Officer with a career that included 20 years of experience in information technology, customer experience and management consulting largely in the retail industry. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

Newnan/USA. On October 5, 2023, Grenzebach hosted their biennial Automationfest with industry-leading manufacturers. This year marks the German-based company’s 35th anniversary in the U.S.: its first international expansion and main manufacturing and development location in Newnan, Georgia was founded in 1988. The US headquarters nearby Atlanta, Georgia houses approximately 110 employees and is one of five locations in the U.S.   “While Automationfest allows us to showcase the latest innovations, most importantly it convenes the brightest minds who are leading the next generation of manufacturing,” said John Fluker, President and CEO of Grenzebach Corporation. “We are a true Journey Partner to our clients – from the beginning, through the life of the products we engineer and manufacture to support their business, and beyond. To achieve this, we must advocate for highly skilled labor through public policy initiatives.”   There were approximately 260 customers, partners and colleagues in attendance at Automationfest. Notable attendees included Newnan`s Mayor Keith Brady, Coweta County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Candace Boothby, and many others.   Interactive Technology Sessions and Future-Facing Seminars A full day of seminars covered topics such as how VR and AR affect the future of robotics and energy efficiency and integrated solutions in the float glass industry.   An exhibition hall featured 16 different booths from different companies and partners in the US, with live demonstrations of smart manufacturing solutions automated machinery and state-of-the-art robotics.   Additionally, John Fluker moderated a panel discussion on artificial intelligence powering the factories of tomorrow with presenters, Knudt Flor (SC State University College of Charleston), Sean Madhavaraman (Georgia Tech - Ai Program - GA-AIM) and Anna Kyriakidou (Grenzebach Hellas) the software development company part of the Grenzebach Group.   Key takeaways from this panel included:   Artificial Intelligence should be targeted, and the use should know what problems it is trying to solve With companies effectively utilizing automation to address manpower shortages, utilization of Artificial Intelligence with the data that is collected will become necessary in order to maintain competitive positions.   Authentic Oktoberfest Celebration This historic milestone concluded with an Oktoberfest celebration filled with food and drink to recognize Grenzebach’s Bavarian roots. Oktoberfest embodies the spirit of companionship that underpins Grenzebach’s mission to be a true Journey Partner for its clients.   About Grenzebach Grenzebach is a leading automation solution provider for the global glass, building materials and intralogistics markets. In addition, the company develops new application areas, such as various recycling processes, friction stir welding, the automation of industrial additive manufacturing, digital networking, or solutions for sustainable energy generation such as solar-active façades. Grenzebach ranks among the international technology leaders in its markets. The global manufacturing footprint, with production sites in Germany, Romania, the US, and China, as well as additional worldwide locations, ensures on-site customer support. More than 3,000 systems installed in more than 55 countries stand for quality and reliability. Since the company opened its doors over 60 years ago, it has been owned by the founding family. With an export ratio of more than 90 percent, Grenzebach is a global player.   Contact Andrea Steigerwald +49 906 982-2656 andrea.steigerwald@grenzebach.com www.grenzebach.com

Imagine filling a football stadium with wheat to a depth of 9.95 feet. That’s 448,000 cubic feet, or nearly 360,000 bushels with a combined weight of 13,440 tons, enough grain to make 19,550,000 loaves of bread. Now imagine completing this gargantuan vessel loading task of 360,000 bushels per hour.   That’s the rate at which countless grain cargo ships are loaded and unloaded daily in terminals across the United States and Canada. Jim McCready has visited many of them. In fact, such immense velocities would not be possible were it not for the work of companies like his. McCready is president and owner of JPM Inc. of northern Michigan, a company specializing in project management and design of advanced product handling and dust-free loading systems in the ILS/Innovative Loading Systems Division.   He has help. Just across town in Kinross, MI in the Upper Peninsula on a decommissioned SAC bomber base sits Integrated Loading Systems (ILS) / KFM, a machine shop and fabricating company that McCready joins with business partner Chuck Esson/KFM and Swan Engineering. It’s Chuck and his team who are responsible for bringing McCready’s designs to life, cutting, welding, and assembling the different components used in JPM/ILS systems.   Gearing up The most important components and heart of the system comes from NORD Drivesystems, a leading provider of complete, innovative drive solutions. These special double-drum drive winch systems are the “heart, brains, and brawn” of these telescoping dust-free loading devices. As McCready explains, he’s been using the company’s gear motors and helical bevel reducers since 2006, and for good reason. “I’ve completed upwards of 30 projects with NORD products and have never had a problem.” He laughs. “Actually, there was that one time when a new operator went crazy with the joystick and overheated the brake on one of the units, but that wasn't NORD's fault."   The joystick (remote operator) in question is what’s used to raise, lower, and position the articulating shuttletype loaders and telescoping grain discharge units that McCready incorporates into many of his systems. As noted earlier, these systems are responsible for moving grain into the high capacity Panamax ships and grain cargo vessels that arrive each day for loading at ports in Destrehan, LA, Vancouver, BC, and other locations across the U.S. and overseas. The fact that McCready’s designs provide unfailing uptime is what has helped to make JPM/ILS a leader in this industry.   "The demurrage fees for these vessels are extremely high and there simply can't be any unplanned downtime," he says. "I'm happy to say that our systems have in many cases provided round-the-clock operation at maximum loading rates for many years—in fact, one well-known facility recently reported that we've met their productivity baseline for reliability and maintenance since the installation of a system six years ago at Destrehan, LA. They’re very pleased”. Another system in Vancouver, BC, G-3 project has been in operation for over 4 years.   Doubling down McCready is quick to point out the NORD Drivesystems gear motors he uses take much of the credit. In the example just given, each unit is attached to a compact, specially-designed NORD/ILS double-drum drive with integrated braking, one capable of routinely lifting more than 18,000 lbs., 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with 5:1 winch safety factors making them the ”heart, brains, and brawn” of the loading system.   “Our latest design provides a much more efficient and higher grain loading rate than the legacy system they were using," he says. "It also does a much better job at dust retention and control. This is a critical safety and health consideration, and minimizing it also helps further reduce maintenance costs. Like I said, three of these units can fill a football field to about halfway up the goalpost in less than an hour. They move a lot of material quickly and efficiently.”   Grain commerce is an integral part of the U.S. economy, but so is cement, slag, coal, soda ash, clay, and other bulk commodities that are using these NORD/ILS vessel loading systems. All must be moved into and out of cargo ships quickly, safely, and above all, dependably. McCready has designed and delivered material handling systems for each of these products and many more. In each case, he has turned to NORD Drivesystems as the gear motor provider of choice, and done so for nearly four decades. Says McCready, “Everything we do here must comply with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B30.7 winch specifications, which are very detailed and wide-ranging. I attribute much of our ability to meet these specs to NORD's high-quality gear motors and the technical support they've given me over the years. Every one of our systems has to operate without fail, and unless you have the right drive unit, nothing works. That's a big part of why all of our high-capacity vessel loading projects over the past 17 years have been a win for us and our customers."   About NORD DRIVESYSTEMS® With more than 4,000 employees, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been developing, producing and selling drive technology for more than 50 years, and is one of the global leaders of full-service providers in the industry. In addition to standard drives, NORD delivers application-specific concepts and solutions for special requirements such as energy-saving drives or explosion-protected systems. In financial year 2017, annual sales amounted to $781 million. NORD now has subsidiaries and sales partners in 98 countries worldwide. The dense sales and service network guarantees optimal availability, enabling short delivery times and customer-oriented service. NORD produces a very diverse range of drives for torques from 88 to more than 2.2 million lb-in, provides electric motors in the power range of 0.16 to 1,341 HP, and manufactures frequency inverters with the required power electronics of up to 215 HP. Inverter solutions are available for conventional control cabinet installations as well as for decentralized, fully-integrated drive units.  

SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calf., October 16, 2023 — Raymond West, an authorized Raymond Solutions and Support Center, will hold the tenth annual Pink Pallet Jack Project online auction in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month from Oct. 18 through 29.   The 11-day auction will begin Oct. 18 at 12 a.m. PDT on Auctria.com, where participants can bid on three pink Raymond® 8210 powered pallet jacks from suppliers. The auction will end Oct. 29 at 12 a.m. PDT. Winning bids will be announced the first week of November, with all proceeds from the auction being donated to The Tina Fund, Breast Cancer Angels and Northwest Hope & Healing.   The Raymond 8210 powered pallet jack, part of The Raymond Corporation’s intralogistics solutions portfolio, is ideal for retail store, wholesale delivery and food processing applications that require navigation in tight and/or congested areas. The lift truck also will include Raymond’s exclusive Click2Creep™ design, which automatically reduces maximum travel speed, providing a tighter turn radius for pinwheeling or right-angle turning.   Raymond’s Pink Pallet Jack Project has raised more than $175,000 for breast cancer over the past nine years.   For additional information on the companies, please visit www.raymondwest.com.   About The Raymond Corporation The Raymond Corporation, a member of the Toyota Industries family of companies, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.   About Raymond West At Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions, a Toyota Industries Company, we make your business thrive. For decades, we have been trailblazers in the automated warehouse industry with a proven track record of success. By providing tailored warehouse solutions with exact precision and detail, we maximize efficiency and profits for our customers by putting their needs first. With more than 600 service technicians and 1,300 industry experts in 21 locations, Raymond West has the knowledge and expertise to help your business grow.

Kitchener, ON – September 11, 2023 – OTTO Motors, a leading provider of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for material handling, today unveiled OTTO 1200, the highest performing heavy-duty AMR for tight spaces. The newest AMR is designed with a narrow width to autonomously move payloads up to 1,200 kg (2,640 lb) without compromise to safety. Equipped with patented adaptive fieldset technology, OTTO 1200 quickly maneuvers around people and turns in the most space-constrained environments to deliver unmatched throughput.   “Nearly a decade ago, OTTO Motors introduced the first heavy-class AMR for material handling. Today, we’re proud to expand the capabilities of this category by unlocking countless new applications within tight areas of manufacturing environments,” said Matt Rendall, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of OTTO Motors. “Working closely with our customers on hundreds of deployments worldwide, we discovered an opportunity to deliver high throughput in narrow spaces without sacrificing heavy payload capabilities. OTTO 1200 adds a compact, heavy-duty platform to our existing fleet of AMRs, enabling manufacturers to address a diverse range of material handling needs.”   Compact size to move material in tight spaces: Equipped with a narrow footprint of 910 mm, OTTO 1200 quickly and safely moves materials in the most space-constrained environments. High performance safety: Patented adaptive fieldset technology prevents slowdowns around turns, intersections, equipment, and people, delivering best-in-class average speed without compromise to safety. Enhanced serviceability for lower downtime: Drawing on a decade of field-service experience, OTTO 1200 has been designed with a service-first approach to maximize uptime. Built with rapid-access drawers that eliminate the need to remove payloads, OTTO 1200 enables quick maintenance that can be tackled by a single person. Durable build designed to IP54 rating: OTTO 1200 features a rugged, all-metal body designed to IP54 rating, offering a superior ability to withstand dust and water for lasting performance in harsh factory environments. Flexible for countless applications: OTTO 1200 unlocks a wide range of workflows, including inbound to storage, finished goods takeaway, and lineside delivery with the ability to move payloads on pallets, racks, and bins. Key specifications: 1,200 kg (2,645 lb) payload capacity 1.5 m/s (3.4 mph) maximum speed 1350 x 910 x 320 mm (53 x 36 x 13 in) footprint 30-minute charge time from 10% to 90 OTTO 1200 seamlessly collaborates with other OTTO AMRs, enabling manufacturers to unlock facility-scale material handling automation. With over 14 years of robotics experience and more than 5 million production hours, OTTO Motors has helped manufacturers achieve ROI in as low as 11 months. The launch of OTTO 1200 delivers the reliability, productivity, and durability that customers have come to expect from OTTO AMRs, now in a compact heavy-class package.   About OTTO Motors OTTO Motors is a global leader in autonomous technology for material handling inside manufacturing and warehouse facilities. With over five million hours of production experience, OTTO autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are trusted in mission-critical operations for some of the world’s most recognized brands, including GE and Toyota. OTTO Motors was recently recognized as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Robotics Companies of 2023. For more information, visit ottomotors.com.   Contact Jess Blenkarn Marketing Communications press@ottomotors.com www.ottomotors.com  

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is honored to receive two endowments that will benefit students. The new endowments were announced during an October 3rd ceremony at the MHI Annual Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Southworth International Group, Inc. (SIGI) is funding the endowments for $100,000 each. SIGI is the parent company of several leading manufacturers of ergonomic work positioning equipment used in manufacturing, assembly, warehousing, retail, and other facilities. Both endowments were established to honor former SIGI employees. The Brian E. McNamara Honor Scholarship was established to recognize and honor the significant contributions made by Brian to the material handling industry. James Cabot, SIGI President and CEO, stated: “Over a 40-year career with SIGI, Brian McNamara provided key vision, leadership, and determination to enable our business to continue to grow and evolve. The modern SIGI is really a testament to this vision and leadership. At the same time, he has been an active and engaged participant in MHI activities. He has championed bringing new talent into our industry through involvement with MHEFI, CICMHE, and other groups. It is therefore fitting that we recognize Brian’s business leadership, volunteer spirit, and focus on educating and mentoring the next generation through a scholarship fund bearing his name and endowed in perpetuity.” The James J. Galante Memorial Scholarship was established to recognize and memorialize the significant contributions made by James J. Galante to the industry. "Jim enjoyed a more than 50-year career in the material handling industry between Autoquip Corporation and SIGI,” stated Cabot. “His career was diverse including roles in service, sales, product development, codes and standards, education and training in the areas of ergonomics and material handling technologies. In his heart, however, Jim was a teacher and a mentor, and he liked nothing more than working with and sharing his knowledge with younger colleagues within our company and across the industry. Therefore, we are honored to be able to remember Jim and to celebrate his spirit and legacy with an endowed fund bearing his name for perpetuity through MHEFI." The Brian E. McNamara Honor Scholarship and the James J. Galante Memorial Scholarship will be awarded each year to deserving students who apply through the MHEFI scholarship program.  “We are incredibly grateful to SIGI for establishing these generous endowments for MHEFI. In addition to paying tribute to two esteemed leaders, these endowments will open doors for young students to embark on their journey into our industry,” MHI CEO John Paxton stated. About MHEFI The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is an independent charitable organization that was established in 1976. Since 1976, its programs have supported over 1,000 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers. The demands of today’s global economy and fast-paced technological change reinforce the need to draw top talent to sustain and strengthen material handling and supply chain businesses for the future. Learn more at mhefi.org. If you would like to support MHEFI’s mission to provide financial support for educational programs, please visit mhi.org/mhefi/donors. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

ROSELLE, IL, Issued October 5, 2023… Cherry's Industrial Equipment, an engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to solving workflow and safety issues in the workplace, is celebrating its 40th year in business in October.   Introduced stand-alone 180° Pallet Inverter to the marketplace in 1983 In 1983, a gallon of gasoline cost $1.23. Ronald Reagan was the U.S. President, James Thompson was Governor of Illinois, and the average price of a home was $69,900 and lastly, Cherry’s Industrial Equipment company founder/entrepreneur Ron Cherry introduced a stand-alone 180° Pallet Inverter to the U.S. market. The inverter was a new type of material handling equipment with the ability to turn over entire pallet loads.  With that, Cherry’s Industrial Equipment began the journey that would lead it to where it is today, 40 years later – a leading provider of warehousing solutions across a wide range of industries and serving customers across the globe engineering highly manufactured pallet handling and ergonomic equipment to assist the warehouse, dock, or line worker.   Cherry’s Industrial Equipment continues introducing a number of market innovations Cherry’s continued to make its mark with many industry innovations. In 1985, Cherry’s Industrial Equipment became a select distributor of molded plastic pallets, introducing the concept of replacing wood pallets with plastic pallets in production areas for food companies. Four years later, the company designed and introduced the Load Inverter, built to reduce injuries among workers in printing operations. This product was followed by the development of Freezer Space Removal Equipment.   In 1994, working with the Grocery Manufacturers Association, Cherry’s Industrial developed a machine to complete a damage-free transfer of finished goods from a standard-grade pallet to a rental pallet for use in the facility. Other innovative designs included developing Inline Systems for food manufacturing and warehouse operations and Pallet and Container Dispensers.   In keeping with its mission of worker safety and efficiency, Cherry’s Industrial product line has expanded to include pallet retrievers, tippers, and dispensers.   Change in ownership and new location Initially located in Bensenville, IL, Cherry’s then expanded to Elk Grove Village and then finally to its current location in Roselle, IL, which has twice the space of its previous location.   In 2006, Bud Cherry retired and sold the company to long-time employees John Costello and David Novak. In 2014, John Costello bought out his partner’s interest and became the sole owner and CEO, at the same time expanding the Cherry’s team by hiring additional employees.   Cherry’s Industrial Equipment reaches a milestone By 2017, Cherry’s had placed more than 3,000 machines worldwide and continued to produce new product lines with an eye toward the future.   Cherry’s joins Great Game of Business and adopts Open Book Management In 2018, under John Costello’s leadership, Cherry’s put the power of open-book management into practice through the game GGOB, better known as “The Great Game of Business.” Open Book Management is a business philosophy of financial transparency to all employees. Cherry’s takes it a step further and tells the stories behind the numbers, sharing with everyone in the organization how the business works and giving employees a voice in how the company is run and a stake in the outcome. Mr. Costello has spoken of the importance of Open Book Management before a number of groups and recently served as a panelist at the Great Game of Business Conference™ in Kansas City, MO. Cherry’s Industrial Equipment was honored as a 2022 All-Star Company by The Great Game of Business®, which recognized its commitment to create a winning workplace culture and deliver industry-leading financial performance. And the company won Best Places to Work in IL in 2023, in a statewide competition promoted by the Daily Herald.   Celebrates anniversary with October 19 Open House Cherry’s Industrial Equipment will host an Open House on October 19, themed “What Does 2024 and Beyond Look Like?” The event will take place at Cherry’s headquarters at 68 Congress Street West, Roselle, IL.  The Open House will celebrate the past 40 years and bring leading Material Handling experts to look at what the future holds. Presentations include: “IoT and Predictive Maintenance,”; “Sustainability and Energy Efficiency,”; “Warehouse Automation Adoption,”; “Labor Savings and Efficiency with Safety Improvements,” and a panel discussion, “Emerging Technology in Material Handling for 2024 and Beyond.” Guests will also see live demonstrations of cutting-edge technologies, have a chance to tour the facility and participate in networking events. Anyone interested in attending may RSVP by visiting  Events | Cherry's Industrial (cherrysind.com)   “We are very pleased to celebrate this important milestone,” Mr. Costello said. “I am very proud of our company’s culture and the people who make up our team. We are like family; we all work together and support each other. We are very grateful to our customers for entrusting us with their workplace solutions. We love our work and look forward to celebrating the anniversary at our upcoming event.”   He added, “We’re excited for the future. New technology allows us to remotely monitor the performance of the machines that we place in service at our clients’ locations. With this technology, the machines can communicate with us and their operators and tell us what they need in the way of maintenance, parts replacement, and repairs. This will revolutionize the way we support our clients through maintenance. We can only imagine what other innovations will take place in the next 40 years!”     About Cherry’s Industrial Equipment Cherry's Industrial Equipment Corp is an engineering company that solves workflow problems and safety issues and creates ergonomic solutions across a wide range of industries. Founded in 1983, the company’s product lineup, all #madeinamerica, has expanded to include Pallet inverters, Plastic pallets, 90° tippers, Roller skids, Pallet dispensers, Lifting tables, and Pallet washers.  Industries include automotive, food, agriculture, defense, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, printing, distribution, beverage, and more. Headquartered in Roselle, IL, Cherry’s Industrial Equipment serves the needs of businesses throughout the United States and beyond. John Costello is the company’s Chief Executive Officer. For additional information, please contact Michelle Clewer, Marketing Manager by email mclewer@cherrysind.com or call 847-354-6140.

To help companies maintain competitive salaries and wages, the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) has made available its 2023 Warehousing & Logistics Salary Survey Report. Based on a survey of nearly 200 companies, the report offers a comprehensive breakdown of salary data for both exempt and non-exempt employees. More than 20 job titles are referenced in this report, spanning diverse roles in sectors such as shipping, receiving, engineering, sales, and human resources. The report also details many demographic factors that companies can use to determine competitive salaries, including the size of the warehouse, union versus non-union employees, geographic region, and education level. “The persistent labor shortages in the distribution logistics industry require strategic solutions,” stated Michael Mikitka, Executive Vice President of MHI’s Knowledge Value Center and WERC. “Our Warehousing & Logistics Salary Survey Report equips companies to attract and retain talent by helping them better align their pay scales with the industry.” Members from WERC, MHI, and the International Warehouse Logistics Association participated in the survey, which was produced and tabulated by HR Source. All survey participants receive a complimentary final copy of the report. WERC members who did not participate in the survey can purchase the Warehousing & Logistics Salary Survey Report for a cost of $200; non-members for $550. For a discounted rate, the report can be purchased in combination with a 1-year WERC membership for cost of $485.   For questions about the report or WERC membership, please contact JoAnna Leon, Director of WERC Membership, at jleon@werc.org. About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned professionals and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.

MILWAUKEE – Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today announced it completed its acquisition of Ontario, Canada-based Clearpath Robotics Inc., a leader in autonomous robotics, including autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for industrial applications.   The acquisition includes Clearpath Robotics’ namesake research division, a leader in developing autonomous technology for the innovation market, and the industrial division OTTO Motors, which provides AMRs, the next frontier in industrial automation and transformation. Both divisions report to Rockwell’s Intelligent Devices operating segment.   “We are delighted to welcome the Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors teams to Rockwell,” said Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO, Rockwell Automation. “This acquisition marks a turning point for our customers around the world. Rockwell is simplifying and transforming the difficult yet critical function of material handling throughout the manufacturing plant with an end-to-end production logistics solution. Production logistics is key to optimizing operations across an entire facility and bringing the Connected Enterprise to life.”   OTTO Motors will be featured at Rockwell’s Automation Fair, the world’s premier industrial automation and digital transformation event, Nov. 6-9 in Boston, where customers will see firsthand the significant impact that AMRs will have on productivity and safety across operations.   According to Interact Analysis, the market for AMRs in manufacturing is expected to grow about 30% per year over the next five years, with an estimated market size of $6.2 billion by 2027. This acquisition is expected to contribute a percentage point to Rockwell’s fiscal year 2024 revenue growth.   “Not only do AMRs connect islands of automation; they are often one of the final major elements that help manufacturers achieve autonomous production logistics, enabling significant value creation for the manufacturer and their customers,” said Amar Mehta, EY Americas Strategy and Transactions Advanced Manufacturing Leader. “Rockwell is a leader in the key hardware, software, and services that are needed to integrate AMRs into a manufacturing plant. With this acquisition, Rockwell enhances its ability to take manufacturers on a full end-to-end digital transformation for their production environments."   About Rockwell Automation Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 28,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit rockwellautomation.com.   About OTTO Motors by Rockwell Automation OTTO Motors by Rockwell Automation is a global leader in autonomous technology for material handling inside manufacturing and warehouse facilities. With over five million hours of production experience, OTTO autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are trusted in mission-critical operations for some of the world’s most recognized brands. OTTO Motors was recognized as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Robotics Companies of 2023. For more information, visit ottomotors.com.   About Clearpath Robotics by Rockwell Automation Clearpath Robotics by Rockwell Automation is a global leader in unmanned vehicle robotics for research and development, and provides hardware, software, and services to enable mobile robotics product deployment and operation. Clearpath works with over 500 of the world’s most innovative brands in over 40 countries, serving markets that span mining, military, agriculture, aerospace, and academia. Clearpath was recognized as a Robotics Business Review’s RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards 2023 Winner. For more information, visit clearpathrobotics.com.

MOORESTOWN, NJ (Oct. 4, 2023) OPEX® Corporation, a global leader in Next Generation Automation providing solutions for warehouse, document, and mail automation, has won a Gold 2023 Merit Award for technology in the category of Robotics for the company’s Infinity® automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS).   The Infinity AS/RS is the most advanced goods-to-person (G2P) technology solution available in warehouse automation.   Designed to reduce labor challenges, drive order accuracy, maximize existing space, and scale to meet demand, the Infinity AS/RS features unparalleled storage density, configurability, and flexibility to help ecommerce clients increase productivity and throughput.   Infinity’s iBOT® wireless robotic vehicles travel under the storage structure and pass through the aisles, minimizing distance and saving time.   “We are proud to have won this award for our Infinity system,” said Alex Stevens, President, Warehouse Automation at OPEX, which has been family-owned and operated for nearly 50 years. “At OPEX, we continuously reimagine automation technology to help our clients solve their most significant business challenges, today and in the future.”   Judged by industry executives, Merit Awards staff, members of the media, and consultants, the Merit Awards recognize global industries and the markets they serve.   About OPEX OPEX Corporation is a global leader in Next Generation Automation, providing innovative, unique solutions for warehouse, document and mail automation. With headquarters in Moorestown, NJ, USA—and facilities in Pennsauken, NJ; Plano, TX; France; Germany; Switzerland; the United Kingdom; and Australia—OPEX has more than 1,600 employees who are continuously reimagining and delivering customized, scalable technology solutions that solve the business challenges of today and in the future.   Contact Laura Evans levans@opex.com +1.856.727.1100 x5012  

When the largest manufacturing and supply chain trade event of 2024, MODEX, returns to Atlanta on March 11 it will include over 1,000 exhibitors from leading solution providers and a comprehensive Educational Conference focusing on best-in-class solutions for manufacturing and supply chain operations. MODEX 2024 exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, logistics and transportation industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems and smart, connected supply chain technologies and last mile logistics.   “Only at MODEX, can you engage in face-to-face business interactions and gain immersive firsthand experiences with cutting-edge supply chain equipment, technology, and solutions,” says John Paxton, CEO, MHI. “The value of witnessing these solutions in-person, in-action on the exhibition floor, participating in informative educational sessions, and connecting with industry leaders and innovators all in one place is invaluable to taking your operations to the next level of excellence. MHI is excited to offer this market access and knowledge-sharing opportunity to their entire industry.”   “Supply chains are essential to the health of the overall global economy.” says Daniel McKinnon, EVP of Exhibitions, MHI. “By exploring the diverse range of solutions, engaging with industry-leading suppliers, and networking with peers, manufacturing and supply chain professionals can unlock opportunities to identify essential solutions that will pave the way for their future success.” MODEX 2024 Conference  In addition to the exhibits, the MODEX Conference will include four keynotes and over 165 show floor educational sessions covering leading trends, best practices and state-of-the-art equipment and technology solutions that can make manufacturing and the entire supply chain work more resiliently, efficiently and profitably.    March 11 Keynote: Lessons Learned from the Supply Chain Front Line Bill Seward, President, UPS Supply Chain Solutions   March 12 Keynote: Exponential Change in the Age of AI: Digitization, Decarbonization and Reformation Gerd Leonhard, CEO, The Futures Agency and Founder, The Good Future Project   March 13 Keynote: A Conversation with Jeremy Renner The Heart of An Avenger   March 30 Keynote Panel: Preview of MHI 2024 Annual Industry Report John Paxton, CEO, MHI and Wanda Johnson, Supply Chain Specialist Leader, Deloitte Consulting LLP   March 13: MHI Industry Night with Colin Jost MODEX will feature an evening of food, drinks and entertainment by comedian Colin Jost on Wednesday, March 31. Tickets to this event are $50 and include beer, wine and hors d'oeuvres. The door prize for this event will be a trip of a lifetime vacation.    Women in the Supply Chain Industry Forum on March 11 at MODEX MHI has partnered with Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association and the Warehousing, Education and Research Council (WERC) to bring an afternoon of discussion, education, and networking for women in our industry.     MHI Young Professionals Network Reception on March 11 at MODEX This event provides attendees with an opportunity to network and connect with young professionals in the material handling and supply chain industry.   MODEX 2024 Student Day on March 13 MHI in partnership with Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE), Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) and the Material Handling Education Foundation (MHEFI) presents Student Day at MODEX. More than 300 students will have the opportunity to tour the exhibition and gain first-hand experiences of the latest supply chain technologies. MODEX is the largest manufacturing and supply chain expo held in North America and South America. The event will be held March 11-14, 2024 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center.   For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit modexshow.com. MODEX is Powered by MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers, and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.   Contact: For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Oct. 3, 2023 – With the new C6040 ultra-compact Industrial PC (IPC), Beckhoff is adding further scalability in terms of power and interface options to its proven C60xx series. Leveraging 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors with up to 16 cores, the controller is ideal for handling extremely complex automation projects in one ruggedized controller measuring just 132 x 202 x 76 mm.   As such, the C6040 enables a range of new applications for the popular C60xx family. This includes even greater capabilities for sophisticated multi-axis motion, complex HMI applications and systems with extremely short cycle times. That reaches all the way up to onboard machine learning or machine vision integrated into the standard automation software and hardware from Beckhoff.   With its other 12th-generation processors, Intel® classifies the different CPU types into performance or efficiency cores exclusively. However, the Intel® Core™ i7 and i9 processors used in the C6040 are the first to be installed in a hybrid architecture. This means that four additional efficiency cores are added to the Core™ i7 and eight to the Core™ i9 processors. This unique combination of performance and efficiency cores allows applications to be implemented on a total of 12 or 16 processor cores.   Performance cores are primarily suitable for high-performance, single-thread applications. However, many additional threads can be executed in real time or in user mode on the additional efficiency cores.   Beyond that, each individual core can be configured individually via the clock frequency. The additional power supply integrated on the motherboard, which is developed and produced by Beckhoff in-house, offers ample power reserves to fully utilize the enormous computing capabilities of the processors.     About Beckhoff Automation: At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.     Contact: Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com  

GREENE, N.Y., October 4, 2023 — Continuing a long tradition of industry-leading innovation, The Raymond Corporation introduces the Integrated Tether System, a first-of-a-kind operator assist tool designed to alert operators and managers and to limit lift truck functionality* if an operator is not properly tethered. The wireless connection in the Integrated Tether System is compatible with Raymond® lift trucks, is unique in the marketplace and offers valuable data-gathering capabilities that can help reinforce best practices with all operators, enhancing security and confidence.   “Over the last several years, facility owners and managers have had to deal with increasing the number of operators in the warehouses and the need to reinforce and monitor best practices,” said Shannon Curtis, product manager at The Raymond Corporation. “As a result, managers are looking for technology-based offerings that can help assist managers with these ever-increasing demands. This solution comes at a perfect time to support the new U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration national emphasis program and reinforces Raymond’s dedication to providing secure solutions for operations.”   The Integrated Tether System features a smart tether that uses a sensor to connect to and communicate with the lift truck and offers audio and visual notifications to alert the operator of tether status — connected or disconnected. When operators pair Raymond lift trucks and Raymond iWAREHOUSE® and iMONITOR® Telematics, the lift truck will respond in one of two ways: when the operator’s harness is properly connected to the self-retracting lanyard (SRL), the lift truck retains full travel speed and full lift-height capability; or if the operator is not properly connected, the lift truck limits travel speed to 1 mph and disables lift capability.   Offering a single-source solution for those facilities with mixed fleets or facilities without iWAREHOUSE Telematics, the comprehensive system will still share audio and visual notifications to operators if a tether connection has not been properly made.   In addition to controlling lift truck functionality, the Integrated Tether System offers valuable reporting capabilities through iWAREHOUSE and iMONITOR Telematics, allowing managers to simplify workforce management and training by providing data and metrics on operator connection histories, system involvements, and more.   “That’s what sets the Raymond Integrated Tether System apart,” Curtis said. “Wireless integration with iWAREHOUSE Telematics means the tether is less expensive to integrate and there are fewer parts to maintain. Factor in the data-reporting capabilities,* and the Integrated Tether System becomes an easy choice for facilities that frequently hire new or inexperienced operators.”   The Integrated Tether System offers full functionality when used with iWAREHOUSE Telematics and Raymond Very Narrow Aisle Equipment; 5300, 5400, 5500, and 5600 models and the Raymond 9600 and 9700 Swing-Reach® Trucks. Operators can use the Integrated Tether System with a full-body harness and an SRL.   For more information or to locate an authorized Raymond Solutions and Support Center, visit raymondcorp.com or call 800-235-7200.   About The Raymond Corporation: The Raymond Corporation, a member of the Toyota Industries family of companies, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.   Contact: Elizabeth Buza The Raymond Corporation elizabeth.buza@raymondcorp.com 607-656-2734    

AMSTERDAM - October 2, 2023 -  Hai Robotics ("Hai"), pioneer and leader in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) Systems, today announced the launch of the world's first telescopic Grapple Hook ACR, the HaiPick A42T-E2, and the HaiPick System 3—two new innovations that address customer concerns around increasing storage density and performance at a smaller warehouse footprint. The telescopic Grapple Hook ACR can be integrated within HaiPick System 3, creating a nexus that facilitates higher performance while delivering enhanced storage density.    The HaiPick A42T-E2—equipped with ChainPick technology—features a grappling hook with a picking speed of 2.7 seconds, quickly pulling totes one after another. Such ChainPick technology is key to enabling up to five-deep tote storage capacity, allowing shorter picking and placing time to further streamline the goods-to-person workflow. Horizontal space in between totes can be slashed by 60%, ensuring no space gap at the back and hence optimizing existing warehouse storage space. Businesses are also offered tailored solutions to scale up or down, allowing them to maintain a competitive edge without compromising on financial agility, while still achieving cost-efficiency.   "Businesses nowadays are struggling to not only optimize their warehouse space, but also strike a balance between automation and leaving room for growth," said Peter Guan, General Manager at Hai Robotics EMEA. "We are thrilled with the launch of the HaiPick A42T-E2. This project encapsulates our commitment to providing intelligent, flexible and efficient solutions for the modern warehousing industry, while keeping in mind the growing and dynamic needs of this market on a global scale."   The HaiPick System 3, on the other hand, is the latest solution in Hai's portfolio, enabling ultra-high storage density up to 50 totes/m2 and increasing worker efficiency up to six times. HaiPick System 3 is a highly standardized system incorporating Hai's telescopic Grapple Hook ACRs and Fast-transit K50 autonomous mobile robots (AMR) running at a speed of 4m/s. HaiPick System 3 introduces fast deployment and efficient ACR-AMR collaboration: While ACRs handle totes from the top to the bottom of the racks, AMRs handle rack-bottom totes between racks and workstation swiftly. Additionally, the solution facilitates rack expansion by up to five-deep configuration, by using the telescopic Grapple Hook ACR, with a maximum picking height of up to 10 meters.    "HaiPick System 3 is a high-performance and agile solution that scales alongside businesses to better achieve instantaneous customer satisfaction," added Guan. "Combined with the telescopic Grapple Hook ACR, warehouses will be able to achieve a level of performance efficiency and ROI at new heights in both B2B and B2C operations, such as within 3PL and apparel industries."   Davide Tuzi, Country Manager of Italy at Hai Robotics, will discuss more details in the upcoming episode of HaiPulse webinar. The special edition, scheduled to air on October 20th, at 9:30 AM (CET), will cover an in-depth analysis of these two innovations. Sign up for this webinar here.   About Hai Robotics: Hai Robotics, pioneer and a leader in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) Systems, is committed to providing flexible, intelligent, and efficient warehouse automation solutions through robotics technology and AI algorithms. The HaiPick solution, independently developed in 2015, is the world's first ever ACR solution. Hai Robotics is a global enterprise that has more than 1,000 projects worldwide and serves customers from more than 30 countries and regions. We have offices to cover the United States, Europe, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia and Australia. We strive to combine global experience with local expertise to provide our customers with tailored, quality solutions. To learn more about Hai Robotics, visit hairobotics.com.   Contact: pr@hairobotics.com

BELTON, MO (October 2, 2023) – KPI Solutions (KPI), a leader in supply chain consulting, software, automation, and systems integration, today announced that Roger Counihan has joined the company as Senior Vice President, of Sales.    In this role, Roger will provide strategic leadership to drive growth by delivering successful solutions that help clients reduce labor dependence, increase productivity, and build scalability.   “I’m excited to join KPI Solutions as our team designs and integrates new processes coupled with world-class automation technology that supports our clients’ operational transformation,” said Roger. “Developing creative, bespoke solutions for clients is a passion and I look forward to leveraging my experience in supply chain strategy, distribution center design, robotics, and software to help clients meet today’s business challenges.”   “We are happy to welcome Roger to the KPI Commercial team as another seasoned, highly skilled leader for our clients as they seek options to elevate performance,” said Ron Adams, Chief Commercial Officer at KPI. “Roger’s ability to quickly grasp business challenges and address them with innovative operational designs and high-performing technologies will create scalable, resilient, and agile automation solutions for our clients.”   Most recently, Roger served as Chief Revenue Officer at CognitOps, a supply chain software services firm. Prior, he rapidly rose through positions of increasing responsibility in both sales and delivery roles at Fortna, global telecommunications provider Brightstar, and Capgemini. He holds a B.S. and M.S., Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia and resides in Atlanta.     About KPI Solutions™: KPI Solutions is an end-to-end warehousing and distribution solutions provider. We partner with our clients to analyze, design, implement and support a full range of customized supply chain solutions that elevate distribution performance, provide competitive advantage, and enable growth. Our data-driven, technology-neutral approach transforms operations with automation to boost fulfillment speed, reduce reliance on labor, and improve agility. Our full-service capabilities include supply chain consulting, engineered concept design, systems integration, warehouse software and lifetime services. For more information, please visit kpisolutions.com.   Contact: Patti Satterfield Sr. Director, Business Development patti.satterfield@kpisolutions.com  

COLUMBUS. Ind. (Sept. 28, 2023) – Toyota Material Handling, the industry leader in material handling innovation, is launching a new line of electric pneumatic forklifts with 48V and 80V models. This durable line is built to withstand outdoor terrain and work in various weather conditions, making them ideal for retail applications such as lumberyards, home centers, landscaping, and store support applications.   “Our goal at Toyota is to embrace the spirit of Kaizen – or continuous improvement – in everything we do and every product we offer,” said Tony Miller, Toyota Material Handling Senior Vice President of Engineering, Operations and Strategic Planning. “These new 48V and 80V electric pneumatic forklifts set a new standard in quality material handling solutions, helping elevate work efficiency for operators with the integration of cutting-edge technologies and versatility across a wide range of tasks and terrains.”   These new models, featuring six different lift capacities ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 pounds, offer cost-effective and reliable solutions for end-users. Toyota’s innovative System of Active Stability (SAS) springs into action when operators encounter unanticipated loads and speed conditions. Additionally, Toyota’s Operator Presence Sensing System (OPSS) along with the optional Seatbelt Interlock Encourages operators to maintain a properly seated position with the seatbelt buckled or travel and load handling operations will be limited.   Built with standard AC drive and lift motors, along with significantly lower noise and vibration levels this forklift provides a smooth operation. The regenerative braking system adjusts the speed of the truck when the operator’s foot is removed from the accelerator and conserves energy when speeds begin to slow by returning energy to the battery, increasing operational time, and improving the overall efficiency of the forklift. An optional Slope Assist feature maintains the speed of the forklift on a slope by switching the power mode of the truck.   The load-sensing power steering capabilities provide smooth handling operation for operators, while also keeping more power in the battery. In addition to the industry-leading lineup of material handling solutions, the new 48V and 80V electric pneumatic forklifts provide customers with superior performance options while maintaining energy efficiency.   Learn more about Toyota Material Handling’s full line of material handling products and solutions including these new electric pneumatic forklifts at ToyotaForklift.com.     About Toyota Material Handling Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in warehousing and distribution. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com.   Contact Carson Horn, APR The Communications Group  501-515-0849  chorn@comgroup.com         Justin Albers Toyota Material Handling  812-350-9739  Justin.Albers@toyotatmh.com    

CHARLOTTE, NC – Bosch Rexroth announces Erwin Wieckowski, P.Eng. as the new President and CEO of Bosch Rexroth North and Central America based in Charlotte, NC, effective October 1, 2023.    The role has been performed on an interim basis by Reinhard Schaefer in addition to his role as a member of the Divisional Board of Management with responsibility for Manufacturing. Schaefer will remain in the region to support the transition.    “We are thrilled to have Erwin join our organization,” said Reinhard Schaefer. “I know he will successfully lead this region during a time of significant growth opportunities.”        About Bosch Rexroth: As one of the world’s leading suppliers of drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth ensures efficient, powerful, and safe movement in machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile and Industrial Applications as well as Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions, engineering and services, Bosch Rexroth is creating the necessary environment for fully connected applications. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drive and control technology, gear technology and linear motion and assembly technology, including software and interfaces to the Internet of Things. With locations in over 80 countries, more than 32,000 associates generated sales revenue of around 7.0 billion euros in 2022. To learn more, please visit www.boschrexroth-us.com.   The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 421,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2022). The company generated sales of 88.2 billion euros in 2022. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. As a leading IoT provider, Bosch offers innovative solutions for smart homes, Industry 4.0, and connected mobility. Bosch is pursuing a vision of mobility that is sustainable, safe, and exciting. It uses its expertise in sensor technology, software, and services, as well as its own IoT cloud, to offer its customers connected, cross-domain solutions from a single source. The Bosch Group’s strategic objective is to facilitate connected living with products and solutions that either contain artificial intelligence (AI) or have been developed or manufactured with its help. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is “Invented for life.” The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 470 subsidiary and regional companies in over 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch’s global manufacturing, engineering, and sales network covers nearly every country in the world. With its more than 400 locations worldwide, the Bosch Group has been carbon neutral since the first quarter of 2020. The basis for the company’s future growth is its innovative strength. At 136 locations across the globe, Bosch employs some 85,500associates in research and development, of which nearly 44,000 are software engineers.    Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.iot.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com.   Contact: Bosch Rexroth Corporation Jennifer Fanning (704) 714-8694 Jennifer.Fanning@boschrexroth-us.com

At its 2023 Annual Conference, MHI recognized five professionals making an impact on the material handling and supply chain industry. The award winners were announced during an October 3rd ceremony at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. MHI’s Young Professional Network (YPN) awarded Austin Percifull the Outstanding Young Professional award. Austin is an account manager with Spring Automation. The YPN Outstanding Mentor Award was presented to Gerard Biasutto, who is the Director of Product Management for Blue Giant Equipment Corporation. For the first time, MHI’s Marketing Professionals (Mpro) community issued the Outstanding Marketer award. Tracy Niehaus, Director of Marketing, Warehouse Solutions North America for Vanderlande, was the recipient of this inaugural award. Reflecting on the award winners, John Paxton, CEO of MHI stated, “People are the most important factor when it comes to the success of the supply chain industry. MHI is honored to recognize these outstanding award winners for their dedication to the industry. We are proud of the work that YPN and Mpro do to foster professional connections and develop future talent for the supply chain industry.” Two lifetime achievement awards were presented by the Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc., an independent charitable organization that provides financial support to engage and retain talent in the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry. Brian McNamara, former President of Southworth International Group, won the Norman L. Cahners award for his decades of dedication and service to the material handling industry. The Norman L. Cahners Award recognizes a career of extraordinary service and visionary contributions to the industry. Additionally, Dr. William G. Ferrell, who is the Flour International Supply Chain Professor and Associate Dean of the Graduate School at Clemson University was awarded with the Reed-Apple Education Award. The Reed-Apple Award recognizes extraordinary contributions in the field of material handling and logistics education. “I can’t imagine a better pair to be recognized for their exceptional contributions to our industry than Brian McNamara and Bill Ferrell. Their careers have been devoted to this industry and to the development and nurturing of the next generation of material handling and supply chain leaders,” noted Paxton. MHI’s 2023 Annual Conference was held October 1-4, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and featured interactive educational sessions, MHI Industry Group meetings, and networking events. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

Vancouver, WA, September 1, 2023:  Columbia Machine introduces the NEW FLD2500 Floor Level infeed conventional palletizer. This new model is the next step in the evolution of a new family of Floor Level infeed palletizers from Columbia Machine. The FLD palletizers are all capable of being equipped with a fully integrated stretch wrapper that allows for concurrent “stack and wrap” load building at much higher rates than previously achievable.    The FLD2500 utilizes a dual hoist concept and an electric overhead Row Pusher.  The dual hoist format, when combined with a roller style Layer Stripper Apron, allows the footprint to be reduced significantly (40%!) over Floor Level palletizers with similar throughput capacity.   The movement and positioning of each hoist is numerically controlled using servo technology.  This allows for faster and more accurate machine movements leading to greater throughput and easier set up and programmability.   The FLD2500 is capable of palletizing virtually any package type including unwrapped trays, film only bundles, plastic totes, RPCs and many others too.     Options include fully integrated stretch wrapping, Smart Diagnostics with video playback to assist maintenance personnel in identifying the cause of a machine stoppage and a servo actuated touchless turning infeed for gentle package handling, display ready case orienting or 4 way “labels out” layer forming (and several more options).   Columbia is renowned for the industry-leading safety and guarding system that provides “next level protection”. On the FLD2500, this standard package includes Category 3, Performance Level D safety components and incorporates fully integrated guarding, full height light curtains, automatic hoist pins, case infeed tunnel and interlocked load building area access doors. This safety package keeps your employees safe while still being operationally “friendly” and meeting production demands by providing convenient and safe access when needed.    About Columbia Machine Columbia manufactures inline high speed, high-level, floor-level and robotic palletizers and load transfer stations.  Columbia also provides Complete Systems Integration. Columbia Palletizers feature flexible, upgradeable designs with speeds up to 200 cases per minute. With the broadest and most current product line available, Columbia is one of the leading palletizing solutions provider in North America. All Columbia palletizers are backed by 24-hour customer support and parts service.  

NORD’s MAXXDRIVE industrial gear unit series are built to handle the toughest loads and are engineered with an optimized temperature management system to withstand extreme environments.   To meet the requirements of various bulk material handling applications, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS engineers their products in a versatile, modular system comprised of gear units, electric motors, and variable frequency drives. The highly configurable solutions accommodate a wide range of plant arrangements and offer flexible implementation of customer-specific design specifications. Additional options such as couplings, brakes, fans, base frames, backstops, and hazard protection are also available for precise application needs.   For many systems in the bulk material handling industry, the drive solution includes a MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear unit. These gear units provide high output torques from 132,000 lb-in to 2,495,900 lb-in and ensure excellent load capacity, long service life, and quiet operation. They are made from a robust one-piece UNICASE™ housing and offer both right-angle and parallel designs.   MAXXDRIVE XD industrial gear units are NORD’s most recent addition to the MAXXDRIVE product family and are ideal for lifting equipment such as cranes and hoists. They feature center distances increased by 35% compared to the standard housings, enabling a U-shaped system design with the cable drum and motor on the same side as the gearbox. Their housings are also optimized for downward radial loads and include an inspection cover for quick, easy maintenance.   The power and speed ranges of the two-stage MAXXDRIVE XT right-angle industrial gear units have been designed especially for applications requiring high speed ratios in combination with high powers. High thermal capacity is achieved through the special ribbed housing design along with the enhanced axial fans and air guide covers for greater heat dissipation. Due to their effective cooling, these drives offer a robust solution in environments with demanding ambient conditions and large temperature fluctuations. MAXXDRIVE XT units also offer a symmetrical design for mirror image installations where space is limited and can be mounted on a swing base depending on the application.   Standard MAXXDRIVE industrial gear units are extremely durable and engineered to handle the toughest loads. Their high torque capacity enables systems to efficiently handle the mass flow rate and reliably transport goods. They are highly versatile and can be configured with extensive input and output options, multiple installation positions, and various motor mounting options. A special sealing arrangement additionally reduces maintenance while large roller bearings and center distances increase the load capacity and service life of the components.   UNICASE helical bevel gear units are commonly used for conveyor applications within the bulk goods handling industry due to their compact design, high-efficiency, and high radial and axial load capacities. They are built using a robust, cast iron housing that enables long service life and low maintenance. These gear boxes also feature extensive life gearing, minimum backlash, and adaptable shaft, mounting, and bearing options.   UNICASE parallel shaft gear units are a compact, powerful solution with a performance range of 0.16 hp – 268 hp and torque up to 680,200 lb-in. The robust, cast iron housings require minimal maintenance while delivering reliable, cost-effective operation for a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). They have a variety of options to choose from including 15 case sizes, flexible mounting, and various shaft designs for adaptability to precisely fit system arrangements.   The NORDAC FLEX variable frequency drive is NORD’s most flexible VFD with a wide range of scalable functions including functional safety, an integrated brake rectifier for motor brake control, and POSICON integrated positioning mode for precise control. These drives can be controlled individually to intelligently meter, weigh, and adjust the bulk goods flow rate for fewer backups and breakdowns. The VFDs can additionally be implemented with customer-specific process functions such as automatic blockage detection/elimination and automatic mass flow regulation.   NORDAC PRO SK 500P variable frequency drives are a control cabinet solution with five available frame sizes and tiered functionality ranging from basic to advanced versions. They feature several interface options including an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface for efficient connection to Ethernet-based control systems, a Bluetooth interface with an SD memory card as the parameter storage medium, and a USB interface for voltage-free parameterization even when the mains power is disconnected. With high precision regulation and large overload capacities for synchronous and asynchronous motors, these drives are well suited for the heavy loads of bulk goods handling.   With their widespread industry knowledge, application expertise, and technical support, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS develops complete drive solutions for all types of applications in the field of bulk handling, providing worldwide support for storing, conveying, weighing, dosing, loading, and unloading systems.     About NORD DRIVESYSTEMS® With more than 4,000 employees, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been developing, producing and selling drive technology for more than 50 years, and is one of the global leaders of full-service providers in the industry. In addition to standard drives, NORD delivers application-specific concepts and solutions for special requirements such as energy-saving drives or explosion-protected systems. In financial year 2017, annual sales amounted to $781 million. NORD now has subsidiaries and sales partners in 98 countries worldwide. The dense sales and service network guarantees optimal availability, enabling short delivery times and customer-oriented service. NORD produces a very diverse range of drives for torques from 88 to more than 2.2 million lb-in, provides electric motors in the power range of 0.16 to 1,341 HP, and manufactures frequency inverters with the required power electronics of up to 215 HP. Inverter solutions are available for conventional control cabinet installations as well as for decentralized, fully-integrated drive units.   Contact NORD Gear Corp – United States Member of the NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group 608-850-1444 Arielle.Spotts@nord.com     

GREENE, N.Y., September 21, 2023 — The Raymond Corporation, a leading global supplier of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions, has been named to Food Shippers of America’s (FSA’s) 2023 Top Food Chain Technology list for its iWAREHOUSE® FieldSense (iW.FieldSense) Proximity Notification System. The Top Food Chain Technology program annually highlights standout technologies that are leading the way to revolutionizing the supply chain within the food and beverage industry.   iW.FieldSense is part of the iWAREHOUSE Intelligent Warehouse Solutions portfolio and Raymond’s intralogistics capabilities — empowering companies to optimize, connect and automate their operations with a variety of tools and services. The robust system is designed as a training reinforcement tool to alert pedestrians and lift truck operators when they come within a predefined distance of properly equipped lift trucks and pedestrians. iW.FieldSense also can alert vehicle operators to the proximity of structural elements in a facility. Using audible and visual alerts, the technology helps increase a user’s environmental awareness of other properly equipped users, reinforcing training and best practices in today’s congested warehouses.   “Raymond offers the food and beverage industry an automated, integrated system — from operator assist technologies like the iW.FieldSense to automated guided vehicles that perform in repetitive applications and automated storage and retrieval systems that offer efficiencies to move goods through facilities,” said Brian Everett, group publisher and editorial director of Food Chain Digest, the official magazine of Food Shippers of America. “We acknowledge that Raymond’s intelligent intralogistics and automated solutions free up labor for food shippers to perform more value-driven tasks to reduce inefficiencies — a major supply chain pain point for many food companies.”   Versatile for all operations, industries and applications, Raymond® products help enhance the entire warehouse and distribution operation while delivering actionable, data-driven insights.   "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Dave Norton, vice president of customer solutions and support, The Raymond Corporation. “We are excited to continue innovating and elevating the food chain industry with cutting-edge technology.”    View the full list of companies named to FSA’s 2023 Top Food Chain Technology list here.   For more information or to locate an authorized Raymond Solutions and Support Center, visit raymondcorp.com or call 800-235-7200.   About The Raymond Corporation The Raymond Corporation, a Toyota Industries Company, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

ATLANTA (Sept. 19, 2023) – FORTNA, a leading automation and software company for the full logistics value chain, today announced that Cheryl Falk, SVP, Marketing Communications and Demand Generation, has been honored with a 2023 Women in Supply Chain award by Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive.    “This is a well-deserved honor for Cheryl, who has been a marketing leader for more than 25 years – all in the highly competitive and ever-changing supply chain industry,” said Robert McKeel, Chief Executive Officer, FORTNA. “Cheryl is a talented leader who is not only at the forefront of innovation in her industry but who has empowered and encouraged women throughout her career.”    This year, Supply & Demand Chain Executive received over 400 submissions, the highest number of applications in the history of the process.    “While there’s still more work to be done, what we’re doing is working. From truck drivers to CEOs, what these winners are doing matters to the future of all supply chains,” said Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive.    “Women have been making a significant impact in supply chain management, contributing to the growth and innovation of the industry,” adds Sarah Barnes-Humphrey, founder of Let’s Talk Supply Chain podcast and Blended Pledge project, both exclusive sponsors of the Women in Supply Chain award. “As more women join the supply chain workforce, they bring diverse perspectives that can help address complex supply chain problems and improve global supply chain operations.”    To view the full list of winners, visit foodl.me/fdx1zi. Recipients will be honored at this year’s Women in Supply Chain Forum set to take place Nov. 14-15, 2023, in Atlanta.    Food Logistics reaches more than 26,000 supply chain executives in the global food and beverage industries, including executives in the food sector (growers, producers, manufacturers, wholesalers and grocers) and the logistics section (transportation, warehousing, distribution, software and technology) who share a mutual interest in the operations and business aspects of the global cold food supply chain. Supply & Demand Chain Executive is the only supply chain publication covering the entire global supply chain, focusing on trucking, warehousing, packaging, procurement, risk management and professional development.      About FORTNA  FORTNA partners with the world’s leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services. Visit www.fortna.com. 

WAUKESHA, WI (September 21, 2023) — Matthews Automation Solutions, a provider of warehouse automation and software, announces the new release of their leading pick-to-light software, Lightning Pick Version 8.0. This version features a completely new Operations Manager module with an updated user interface (UI) platform, advanced filtering, faster real-time messaging, encryption between the UI and server, and manages larger sets of data with increased speed.    Pick-to-light systems are used in distribution centers, omnichannel fulfillment centers and production facilities to improve material handling tasks like order picking, kitting, assembly, and sorting. Lights mounted to shelves, racks, carts, workstations and other surfaces visually direct employees to the right products or parts required to complete an order or job. Along with the light devices and related hardware, software is required to receive orders from the customers’ WMS, ERP, MES, or other host software, then manage and optimize the physical tasks with lights.     Introduced in 1998, Lightning Pick was the first Windows-based pick-to-light software available in the United States. The Windows platform was more user-friendly and cost effective than previous generations of this technology. This enabled more companies to adopt light-directed systems and apply them to a wide range of processes within their operations. A fully versioned product, Lightning Pick effectively manages small installations to enterprise-class, multi-site solutions. Today, Matthews’ Lightning Pick has one of the largest number of live pick-to-light systems in North America, with over one million lights installed.   Lightning Pick Version 8.0 highlights include: Version 8.0 represents a major move forward for the product with more streamlined processes, auto refreshing, improved search capabilities and filter/report sharing. Operations Manager has been re-platformed from .NET 4 to .NET 6 in accordance with Microsoft’s long-term roadmap. Encryption between the server and the user interface (UI). Advanced user interface filtering, similar in functionality to the popular Microsoft 365 platform, is ideal for both new and expert users. The Operations Manager framework makes it easy to add in custom GUI screens and functionality specific to end users. Lightning Pick can now accept and return JSON in addition to XML, giving users additional flexibility. Lightning Pick provides workplan wizards and other easy-to-use wizards to automate and streamline new implementations and expansions. “For 25 years, Lightning Pick has been developed with the latest Microsoft technologies. Version 8.0 advances this methodology by delivering significantly advanced performance, functionality, and security for our customers’ light-directed systems,” stated Mike McManus, General Manager of Matthews Lightning Pick.   Lightning Pick software drives the performance of order picking and fulfillment for many global Fortune 500 brands in retail, ecommerce, third party logistics (3PL), pharmaceutical, medical, grocery and convenience, cosmetics, vitamins and nutraceuticals, and more. Plus, production applications for automotive, agricultural, electronics and other discrete manufacturing industries.    Part of Matthews Automation Solutions, Lightning Pick is the best-of-breed solution for pick-to-light, put walls, pack-to-light, picking carts and other light-directed picking, sorting, and material handling systems that boost omnichannel order fulfillment speed and accuracy.     About Matthews Automation Solutions Global brands partner with Matthews Automation Solutions - a division of Matthews International - for innovative material handling technologies and proven vertical industry expertise. Matthews’ best-in-class warehouse automation brands – Compass Engineering, Lightning Pick and Pyramid – deliver agile, integrated applications. Our recognized picking systems which include pick-to-light, put walls, and picking carts, drive speed and accuracy in order picking and order sortation tasks. Advanced Warehouse Execution Software (WES) integrates and synchronizes islands of automation and balances work for optimum throughput, material flow and real-time process visibility. Combined with our new collaborative robot technologies, Matthews delivers innovative systems that maximize your order fulfillment processes today, and tomorrow.   Contact Lynn Drewicz Marketing Manager ldrewicz@matw.com 262-250-2169 matthewsautomation.com

COLUMBUS, Ind. (September 18, 2023) – Toyota Material Handling, one of the North American leaders in material handling products and solutions, has announced Lea Ann King and Kim Douglass are recipients of the 2023 Women in Supply Chain Award. The award, given annually by Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, honors female supply chain leaders and executives whose accomplishments, mentorship and actions set a positive example for women at all levels of the supply chain network.   “Lea Ann and Kim are exceptional leaders who are paving a path for women in the supply chain and material handling industries,” said Bill Finerty, Toyota Material Handling President & CEO. “These women embody Toyota’s founding principle to contribute positively to society and make the world a better place for all while encouraging others to do the same.”   King, Toyota’s Vice President of Legal and General Counsel, is a dynamic leader who inspires others. King founded the Toyota Women’s Impact Network (T-WIN), the company’s women’s initiative that ensures Toyota has an inclusive culture and attracts diverse talent. She is a champion for women in all roles and creates mentorship and teaching opportunities for female professionals. King also showcases her commitment to the supply chain industry by serving on the board of the Industrial Truck Association (ITA), including her most recent position as chair of the ITA’s lawyer’s committee from 2016-2019. She continues to advocate for women in the legal field, regardless of the industry.   Douglass, an Assembly Team Leader at Toyota, is a trailblazer and role model in the material handling and supply chain industry. Last year, Douglass became the first woman to medal in the Toyota Material Handling Group’s Global Skill Competition, earning the gold in the 2022 competition for Assembly. Since her historic win, Douglass has committed to advocating for other women within the organization. She represents Toyota’s commitment to encouraging more women to pursue careers in the material handling industry. She also serves as an ambassador for the Toyota Women’s Impact Network. Douglass advocates for women to receive the skills training, professional development, mentoring and coaching they need to have successful careers in the material handling manufacturing world.   Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive received over 400 submissions for this year’s award, which set the publication’s record for any of its award categories. Of that number, 118 were submitted by male counterparts, and 39 women were self-nominated.   Learn more about Toyota’s impact on the supply chain industry at ToyotaForklift.com, and explore career opportunities with Toyota here.     About Toyota Material Handling  Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in warehousing and distribution. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com.   Contact Carson Horn, APR The Communications Group 501-515-0849 chorn@comgroup.com   Justin Albers Toyota Material Handling 812-350-9739 Justin.Albers@toyotatmh.com  

SAN FRANCISCO — 26 September 2023 — Dexterity AI today announced a collaboration with FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX), to leverage AI-powered robotic technology to load boxes into trucks and trailers.   Truck loading has long been considered one of the most challenging tasks in parcel hubs. Manual loading is taxing and previous technology approaches have not been able to handle the complex decision making required to stack the wide range of shipments encountered in FedEx network, which vary in size, shape, weight, and packaging material.   Dexterity AI focuses on the complexity of truck loading by giving mobile robots a suite of intelligence ranging from the ability to see, touch, think, and move quickly to pack trailers with stable, dense walls of randomized boxes.   “Our culture of innovation is driven by a desire to help our team members and customers succeed,” said Rebecca Yeung, corporate vice president of Operations Science and Advanced Technologies for FedEx. “Based on feedback from our operations team, we have been looking for a solution that helps alleviate the challenges of truck loading. Collaborating with Dexterity AI to combine the latest in AI and robotics supports our operations team while meeting growing customer demand.”   Introducing Next-Generation AI for Intelligent Truck Loading Robots   Dexterity AI’s proprietary mobile robot design, DexR, navigates autonomously to the back of trailers and connects to a powered conveyor system that feeds the robot boxes directly from the sortation system. The DexR’s unique two arm design enables the robot to pick and pack boxes simultaneously, improving throughput. ?Dexterity’s AI platform uses a broad set of intelligence, so it can be used to handle the complexities of truck loading required by operations.   Some unique characteristics of the platform include: Generative Wall Planning: With every new box presented to the DexR, Dexterity’s AI software takes 500 milliseconds or less to assess billions of wall build possibilities to pack trailers with tight, stable walls. A Sense of Touch: Dexterity AI-powered force control gives robots a unique sense of touch so they know how to gently nudge boxes together in creating tightly packed walls. Machine Learning-Based Pack Improvement: Machine learning helps ensure that with every box picked, the Dexterity AI truck loading software becomes even more efficient in handling a broader range of packing challenges. Integrated Motion Planning: By integrating its own trajectory and motion planning, the Dexterity AI platform helps the DexR’s two arms move quickly inside trailers without colliding with each other or the truck walls. Testing of the truck load technology is ongoing by FedEx with a goal to refine the technology and deploy commercially in the future.   “FedEx shares our belief that innovation should solve the most difficult tasks in operations,” said Samir Menon, founder and CEO of Dexterity AI. “Our collaboration is driven by a vision of AI-powered robotics that is adaptable to our customer’s most pressing needs.”   The official unveiling of this innovative AI-powered robotics truck loading technology took place at the companies’ joint event “Unlock the Dock” in San Francisco on September 26, 2023.     About Dexterity Dexterity, Inc. is a Redwood City, California-based robotics company specializing in creating intelligent robots with human-like dexterity. By automating repetitive tasks, Dexterity's full-stack robotics solutions unlock the maximum value of the workforce, allowing employees to focus on higher-level, cognitive work. With applications in logistics, warehousing, and supply chain operations, Dexterity's robots excel in complex manipulations in unpredictable environments. To learn more, visit www.dexterity.ai.   About FedEx FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services. With annual revenue of nearly $90 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions through operating companies competing collectively, operating collaboratively and innovating digitally as one FedEx. Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. To learn more, please visit fedex.com/about.

GREENE, N.Y., September 26, 2023 — The Raymond Corporation will kick off its ninth annual Manufacturing Day event, The Raymond Corporation’s 2023 Virtual Manufacturing Day, on Oct. 6, 2023. National Manufacturing Day is an annual celebration of the manufacturing industry and organized by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) since 2012.   This year is the fourth year Raymond’s Manufacturing Day will be an entirely virtual event. This online program, starting Oct. 6 and continuing through Oct. 27, will help teachers and students learn more about future careers in modern manufacturing. Students from schools across the globe will have the opportunity to learn about building skills for the future through a virtual manufacturing facility tour, highlights of industry technology and discussions with Raymond’s associates and leadership team.   “We’re excited to shine a light on the incredible advancements happening in the material handling industry and hope to ignite curiosity and passion in the next generation of innovators,” said Tony Topencik, vice president of operations, quality, environmental health and safety at The Raymond Corporation. “It’s crucial to recognize that there will always be a demand for skilled workers who play essential roles in keeping our supply chains running smoothly. We’re dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can thrive and make their mark in shaping the future of manufacturing.”   For over 100 years, Raymond has been a leader in manufacturing, engineering and the material handling industry and is recognized for its leadership and innovation through various awards over the years, including: Forbes Best Midsize Employer, 2021, 2022 and 2023 Manufacturing Leadership Award, 2021, 2022 IndustryWeek Best Plants Award, 2018, 2022 Plant Engineering Product of the Year Award, 2020, 2023           “Raymond’s commitment to innovation and nurturing the next generation of leaders in manufacturing helps ensure that they have the tools and resources required to make a positive impact on the supply chain,” said Randy Wolken, president and CEO at Manufacturers Association of Central New York. “We are proud to be part of their journey as they continue to drive progress and shape the future of this dynamic industry right here in the heart of New York state.”   Individuals interested in joining the virtual celebration can find more information below.   What: The Raymond Corporation will host its ninth annual Manufacturing Day event. The month-long event, kicking off Oct. 6, will be a self-guided, interactive exploration of The Raymond Corporation, including: A virtual factory tour, in which students can explore Raymond’s manufacturing floor. Associate testimonials from Raymond’s headquarters in Greene, New York, covering its apprentice program, co-op program, and various departments on its manufacturing floor. A technician spotlight which will showcase two Raymond Solutions and Support Centers from across the United States. Industry technology showcasing the future of manufacturing. When: Starting Friday, Oct. 6, 2023, at 8 a.m. This is not a live event, and participants are free to join at their convenience through Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, at 5 p.m. The experience is expected to take approximately one hour to complete. Where: www.raymondcorp.com/ManufacturingDayRegistration Who: This virtual event is open to all middle and high school students globally via teacher registration. Please email manufacturingday@raymondcorp.com if you have any questions. Interview Subjects: Steve VanNostrand, executive vice president at The Raymond Corporation, and Tony Topencik, vice president of operations, quality, environmental health and safety at The Raymond Corporation. For more information or to locate an authorized Raymond Solutions and Support Center, visit www.raymondcorp.com or call 800-235-7200.   About The Raymond Corporation The Raymond Corporation, a Toyota Industries Company, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.   About The National Associated of Manufacturers (NAM) The National Association of Manufacturers is one of the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12.8 million men and women, contributes $2.77 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 58% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.  

The 3 new releases were premiered today at Combilift headquarters at an exclusive media event to mark Combilift's 25th year in business.   Combi-LC Combilift announced its move into the offshore wind sector today with the launch of a new product designed to meet the load handling demands of largescale offshore wind manufacturers. The Combi-LC, designed at Combilift’s HQ and Manufacturing plant in Ireland, in collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, allows for the movement of wind turbine blades and towers through production stages and on to storage locations.   Combi-AGT Deliver long loads in narrow aisles safely and reliably, around the clock, with the new Combi-AGT Autonomous Guided Forklift Truck. Our autonomous truck solutions combine sophisticated innovative technology to provide the highest levels of productivity and safety. The Combi-AGT can operate autonomously in guided aisles and free-roaming while also featuring a manual driving option.   Combi-Connect Combi-Connect is a telematic software product that provides customers with greater levels of insight into fleet management and usage, providing real-time data on fleet performance, including location tracking, usage analytics, and maintenance alerts. With this invaluable information at their fingertips, businesses can improve and enhance operational performance.   For more information, please visit our website at combilift.com.

Integrated Warehouse Solutions®, Inc. announces the acquisition of Pioneer Dock Equipment.  Burleson, TX – Integrated Warehouse Solutions (“IWS”) is pleased to announce that it has acquired Pioneer Dock Equipment (“Pioneer”) based in Spring Hill, Tennessee. Pioneer designs and manufactures a wide range of loading dock equipment including dock levelers, vehicle restraints, edge of docks, seals, and shelters.  They sell through a network of dealers that distribute in the US, Mexico, and Canada.   “We have worked with Pioneer in various ways over the years and couldn’t be more excited about welcoming them into the IWS family of brands,” said Ciaran Farrell, President and CEO of IWS.  “Combining Pioneer with the IWS brand portfolio expands our One Partner, Multiple Brands, Endless Solutions approach to the market giving both new and existing customers a wider range of products and support to meet their material handling needs”.   “I am excited that Pioneer is entering our next phase of growth with IWS, and I am exceptionally proud of the Pioneer team. We couldn’t have found a better partner to align our future growth with”, said Randy Kozak, President of Pioneer.   About Integrated Warehouse Solutions IWS represents the coming together of quality known brands including Bluff Manufacturing®, Wesco Industrial Products®, and Nordock®, within the material handling industry.  Their products focus on making the loading dock and warehouse a safer and more efficient space. For more information about IWS, visit their website at www.iwsolutions.com.   About Pioneer Dock Equipment Pioneer Dock Equipment has been one of the leading manufacturers of quality loading dock equipment for more than 40 years. As such, their products are offered by many material handling, industrial door, and forklift distributors across North America. For more information about Pioneer, visit their website at www.pioneerleveler.com.    About Wincove Private Holdings, LP Wincove Private Holdings is an investment company that creates long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders by partnering with business owners, entrepreneurs, and management teams to build market-leading companies. With offices in Boston and New York, Wincove has a permanent capital base, staying invested in its partner companies for an unlimited time. For more information about Wincove, visit their website www.wincove.com.    

CHICAGO, Ill., SEPT 19, 2023 — Great Place To Work® has selected Logiwa Inc., a leading cloud fulfillment platform for high-volume direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses, as a member of the 2023 Best Workplaces in Technology™ List by Great Place To Work® Turkey. This recognition highlights Logiwa as a premier workplace in the technology industry, emphasizing the company's culture of fostering innovation.    "We are 100% committed to the ART of our culture – accountability, responsiveness and togetherness. These values allow our team members to contribute and grow at the highest levels – and bring innovative ideas to their roles every day.," said Erhan Musaoglu, founder and CEO of Logiwa. "This passion drives us to excel in the dynamic landscape of the technology industry."    The technology and IT sector have long stood as a driving force in Turkey and globally. Notably, 85% of employees within organizations listed among the Best Employers in the Technology industry express a strong inclination to recommend their workplace to friends and family, signifying a 28% higher employee satisfaction level compared to standard organizations. 85% of employees in these companies feel that their contributions are genuinely valued by their managers compared to 44% in standard companies.    In 2022, Logiwa earned Best Workplaces for Innovation By All™, Best Workplaces Multinational™, and Turkey's Best Employers™. In addition, Logiwa earned their Turkey Great Place to Work Certification™ 2023.    For further insights into Logiwa Inc. and its award-winning warehouse management and fulfillment software, please visit www.logiwa.com.    About Logiwa  Logiwa is the leading cloud fulfillment software for high-volume fulfillment networks, direct-to-consumer brands, and 3PLs. The Logiwa Cloud Fulfillment Platform is an integrated WMS and DTC fulfillment system that makes it easy to run a digital warehouse and scale your high-volume fulfillment operations. Logiwa’s solution works where traditional warehouse management systems fail: it connects quickly with new online stores and marketplaces, makes it easy to run a digital warehouse, and is easily updated to support dynamic warehouse environments. To learn more about Logiwa WMS please visit www.logiwa.com.    About Great Place To Work  As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their proprietary platform and For All™ Model help companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified™ or receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ List. 

The Electrification and Controls Manufacturers Association (ECMA) proudly announces its rebranding as Automation, Controls, and Electrification Association (ACE), signifying a new era of innovation in industrial automation and material handling. This rebranding signifies ACE's steadfast commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence in the domains of automation, controls, and electrification solutions.    ACE members are at the forefront of delivering solutions across the globe, spanning significant manufacturing and distribution sectors. This includes a range of cutting-edge offerings such as controls systems, drives, motors, I/O’s, HMI’s, safety devices vision systems, sensors, weighing mechanisms, cabling solutions plus all the included software, all working synergistically to elevate productivity in material handling.   Chairman of ACE, Jason Looman with Scanreco, spoke on the significance of this rebranding, stating, "Our transformation into ACE harmonizes with our journey of inclusivity, innovation, and safety. The shift to Automation, Controls, and Electrification Association resonates with our comprehensive approach to automating and integrating material handling facilities."   Skyeler Smith, Industry Development Specialist, with the Murrelektronik team expresses their excitement as well. "This transformation underscores our unwavering commitment to pioneering controls and electrification solutions. It mirrors collective growth and innovation within material handling sectors, strengthening ACE's thought leadership and industry advancement."   Steve Cunningham, Director of Sales and Marketing for Microtronics, LLC, concurs. "ACE succinctly captures our identity as automation, controls, and electrification companies, echoing our technological drive and brand prominence."    This evolution encapsulates ACE's dedication to evolving with technological progress while upholding brand significance. ACE stands as the definitive representative of the industry's leading suppliers of automation, electrification, controlling devices, and solutions.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ACE, please visit mhi.org/ace.   About MHI  MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 970 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.    

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 14, 2023 – Beckhoff is adding more devices to its scalable AA3000 electric cylinder series to extend the significant advantages in total cost of ownership, footprint, energy efficiency and sustainability to more applications. The new AA3100 devices offer the necessary force, dynamics and compactness needed for linear motion applications. However, this direct-drive solution delivers all the advantages of servo technology, including controlled positioning, safe holding at a standstill and high efficiency.   The AA3100 series is designed as a drop-in replacement for hydraulic or pneumatic actuators. These legacy approaches waste excess energy and floorspace required for compressors, while adding costly and complex mechanical components. In the case of pneumatics, they can leak and create messes on the plant floor. To simplify replacement of these devices, the AA3100 devices leverage an ISO 15552 flange size and bolting points on both sides as well as an external thread mount on the shaft end of the spindle to mount ball heads, clamping hooks or other common adapters.   There are two variants each for the first products in the series, the AA3123 and AA3133 electric cylinders:   AA3123 5,300 N peak force, 1,300 N continuous force and 0.28 m/s maximum speed. 2,650 N peak force, 650 N continuous force and 0.56 m/s maximum speed. AA3133 12,500 N peak force, 2,800 N continuous force and 0.12 m/s maximum speed. 6,000 N peak force, 1,400 N continuous force and 0.24 m/s maximum speed.   Like their predecessors in the AA3000 series, the new AA3100 devices offer the compelling benefits expected from Beckhoff electric cylinders: Integrated mechanism: The devices feature precise roller bearings, ball screw and guide to provide backlash-free, purely translatory motion. Ultra-fast commissioning: a safe 24-bit multiturn encoder with high resolution, One Cable Technology (OCT) and an electronic identification plate all make startup go faster. Simplified data access: TwinCAT 3 automation software automatically configures position travel limits and known position offset for the encoder after reading in the device’s electronic nameplate. Significant customizability: A range of spindle pitches and a backlash-free holding brake are available to help meet the unique requirements of any application. About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

CHICAGO, Ill., SEPT. 14, 2023 — Logiwa Inc., the leading cloud fulfillment platform for high-volume direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses, announces the launch of their enhanced Fulfillment By Amazon (FBA) integration. This advancement improves upon the existing Logiwa integration for the Amazon FBA process, increasing operational efficiency and reducing costs for businesses operating in the dynamic world of ecommerce.    Amazon is the global epicenter of ecommerce, and a majority of online transactions are fulfilled through its platform. Logiwa WMS and DTC fulfillment system fully supports all essential FBA functionalities within its application.    Logiwa's enhanced Amazon FBA integration offers a comprehensive suite of features seamlessly integrated into an intuitive user interface. This integration streamlines the complete FBA workflow within the Logiwa user interface, strengthening accuracy and operational fluidity. It drives increased order shipments, labor-hour savings, and improved profit margins. Businesses can effortlessly create FBA shipment plans, generate box labels, and perform various FBA tasks, all within a single unified platform.    “This enhanced integration is a game-changer for our customers,” said Erhan Musaoglu, Founder and CEO of Logiwa, " By providing all the essential Amazon FBA tools within an easily accessible platform, our customers can significantly boost their operational efficiency – and ultimately succeed through fulfillment excellence."    Logiwa also offers other Amazon services such as Amazon Seller Central, Vendor Central, Vendor Shipping, and Buy Shipping. For additional details and insights, please read our blog post on Amazon FBA.    About Logiwa  Logiwa is one of the leading cloud DTC fulfillment solutions for high-volume ecommerce brands, 3PLs and wholesalers. The Logiwa Cloud Fulfillment Platform is an integrated WMS and DTC fulfillment system that makes it easy to run a digital warehouse and scale your high-volume fulfillment operations. Logiwa’s solution works where traditional warehouse management systems fail: it connects quickly with new online stores and marketplaces, makes it easy to run a digital warehouse, and is easily updated to support dynamic warehouse environments. To learn more about Logiwa WMS please visit www.logiwa.com. 

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 13, 2023 – The Global Packaging Team at Beckhoff is expanding how it supports its numerous multinational CPG and machine builder OEM customers. Beckhoff USA’s industry management experts – Packaging Industry Manager Mark Ruberg and Packaging Industry Business Development Manager Rick Forsgren – are now officially part of the Global Packaging Team led by Frank Würthner, Global Business Management Packaging.   “As Beckhoff’s market share grows around the world, we’ve become a full automation system supplier to all the major global household brands and their engineering partners,” Ruberg said. “As we win more exciting packaging automation projects, Beckhoff is collaborating on projects in Europe, the Americas and throughout the ASEAN regions. Our customers will work with the same great team of people, now with more formal collaboration, so Beckhoff can deliver better solutions at a global scale.”   Beckhoff works with many of the largest names in food and bev, pharma, cosmetics and more. These high-stakes applications require intense coordination with customer sites on different continents and Beckhoff’s international subsidiaries.   Beckhoff USA President Kevin Barker announced the news during PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2023. “We fully support the initiative to strengthen and better align our strategic industry sales and support efforts around the world. I have full confidence in Mark and Rick and believe this enhanced Global Packaging Team will deliver major advantages for customers,” Barker said.   Based in Germany, Würthner works closely with colleagues and packaging customers around the world. Ruberg and Forsgren will continue to report directly to David Emory, Director of Strategic Sales at Beckhoff USA, along with further direction from Würthner.   “Beckhoff works with the top machine builders in this space, including Coesia, Syntegon, Koch Packaging, Multivac and multiple ProMach companies,” Emory said. “Since the U.S. is such a major market for the packaging industry, this enhanced cooperation with Beckhoff USA is a critical step in providing the best possible outcomes to help customers leave the status quo behind.”   The collaboration extends beyond the U.S. and western Europe to encompass efforts across Asia, Africa and South America. An experienced global team is essential, not just a nice to have, and Beckhoff is continuing to build this out. Andrew Plater, Global Market Manager – Food, Beverage and Tobacco, who works at the Beckhoff UK subsidiary, is another key player with Ruberg and Forsgren.   “Mark and I have been working closely with Frank, Andy and other colleagues on an almost daily basis for a while now. So it really made sense to formalize this Global Packaging Team,” Forsgren said. “Serving multinational customers requires serious alignment in terms of pricing, support, project timelines and recommending the ideal packaging machine builder or systems integrator. This level of service doesn’t happen by accident – it takes a well-coordinated team.”   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com  

JONESBORO, Ark.—Hytrol Conveyor Company is pleased to announce the hire of Sara Leritte as the Director of Strategic Planning. Leritte has seven years of strategic planning experience, with 19 years in the technology sector. She’s led teams from all over the world including Brazil, India and South East Asia.   In her new role, Leritte will focus on the long-term plans for the company. She will initially shepherd in the strategic plan, then branch into communication strategy along with collaboration between departments to track progress through metrics.    Leritte said, “When I saw the camaraderie and close-knit work culture Hytrol has, I knew that was a company I wanted to be part of. I look forward to working with each department to develop cohesive and measurable long-term goals.”   Phillip Poston, Hytrol’s Chief Development Officer said, “Sara’s efforts will have a positive impact on Hytrol’s future trajectory. She brings the experience we need to build cohesion between departments and stakeholders, which will translate into action plans for the business to implement and execute.”   Leritte has her MBA from the University of Arkansas where she received the opportunity to study abroad in India. She also has her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute.    Leritte grew up in Bossier City, Louisiana. She and her husband are the proud owners of three dogs and one cat. She takes part in an educational non-profit for medieval reenactment. In her spare time, she anticipates working with her husband on the project house they have purchased to renovate. They also enjoy camping, kayaking and hiking.    About Hytrol Hytrol Conveyor Company Inc. is one of the world leaders in the design and manufacturing of material handling systems for a variety of industries. Since its founding, the company has been dedicated to pushing forward the material handling industry. Hytrol is the largest conveyor manufacturer in the United States. It designs, develops, and delivers the most advanced material handling systems and includes a network of more than 100 independent businesses worldwide. The company also develops software for conveyors and warehouse management. For more information on Hytrol, visit hytrol.com.

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 12, 2023 – With Beckhoff Vision, engineers can see what’s possible when machine vision hardware and automation software are perfectly matched. This comprehensive line of EtherCAT-enabled industrial cameras, lighting and lensing components are paired with proven TwinCAT Vision software to round out a complete product portfolio.   The new Beckhoff Vision hardware includes area scan cameras, C-mount lenses, multicolor LED illumination and complete vision units. Whether used as components or an entire machine vision system, the Vision product portfolio meets industrial requirements perfectly.   The power of this solution is evidenced by the industry acclaim earned even before full release. Beckhoff Vision has already earned a Red Dot Award and the iF Design Award Gold, the highest distinction in the competition.   Whether implementing individual components or an entire machine vision system, engineers can tailor an ideal solution for their unique applications with these new products: Cameras: The IP65/67, EtherCAT-enabled area-scan cameras generate high-quality image data via monochrome and color Sony CMOS sensors with up to 24-megapixel resolution and GigE Vision transfer rates of 2.5 Gbit/s. Lenses: The robust, industrial C-mount lenses ensure ease of use and high availability, along with an innovative robust locking mechanism, VIS to NIR AR coating, up to 2 μm resolution, and models for camera formats of up to 1.2” (19.3 mm image circle). Lighting: The IP65/67, EtherCAT-enabled multicolor LED illumination, in panel, ring, and bar configurations, produces highly controlled illumination for consistently high-quality images. Incorporated current-based controls allow precise operation even in spectrally adjustable pulse mode. All-in-one solutions: Complete machine vision units consisting of a camera, illumination and electronically focusable liquid lens are also available. Beckhoff introduced TwinCAT Vision in 2017 and has continued to enhance the software since then. Unlike black-box vision systems, it brings image processing directly into the machine control environment.   This fully integrated approach reduces latency, accelerates reaction times and supports a single development environment for the complete machine control solution. All these software benefits combine to make Beckhoff Vision an even more compelling and comprehensive solution.   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

CHICAGO, Ill., SEPT 7, 2023 — Logiwa, the leading DTC cloud fulfillment platform for high-volume direct-to-consumer businesses, is pleased to announce the addition of two key executives to its senior leadership team. Greg Halko has joined as Senior Vice President of Growth & Operations, while Shannon Caflisch has assumed the role of Vice President of Sales.   Greg brings more than 15 years of experience in operations and growth strategy to Logiwa, with a proven track record in driving operational excellence and expanding market presence. Assuming the newly established position of Senior Vice President of Growth & Operations, Greg will play a vital role in scaling Logiwa’s operations and fueling its growth initiatives. His primary focus will consist of streamlining and enhancing Logiwa’s customer-facing processes and touchpoints within onboarding, customer success and support.   Also joining Logiwa's leadership team is Shannon Caflisch, Vice President of Sales. Caflisch brings more than 15 years of experience in sales leadership and customer relationship management. He has successfully led high-performing sales teams in both the software-as-a-service (SaaS) industry and the warehouse management systems (WMS) sector in his last two roles. His focus on building robust relationships with clients and partners aligns perfectly with Logiwa's customer-centric approach.   As Vice President of Sales, Caflisch will lead Logiwa's direct and field sales organization and spearhead the development and execution of sales strategies to expand market share and drive customer acquisition.   "We are excited to welcome Greg and Shannon to our leadership team," said Erhan Musaoglu, CEO and founder of Logiwa. "They are seasoned industry leaders and will be the perfect complement to our expanding leadership team, bringing the right combination of skills, knowledge and vision to drive our growth strategy.”   About Logiwa Logiwa is one of the leading cloud DTC fulfillment solutions for high-volume ecommerce brands, 3PLs and wholesalers. The Logiwa Cloud Fulfillment Platform is an integrated WMS and DTC fulfillment system that makes it easy to run a digital warehouse and scale your high-volume fulfillment operations. Logiwa’s solution works where traditional warehouse management systems fail: it connects quickly with new online stores and marketplaces, makes it easy to run a digital warehouse, and is easily updated to support dynamic warehouse environments. To learn more about Logiwa WMS please visit www.logiwa.com.

Quebec, September 7, 2023 – UgoWork™, a Canadian lithium-ion energy solutions provider specialized in the material handling industry, is set to make a significant impact by representing MHI’s Advanced Energy Council (AEC) at the upcoming IFDA Solutions Conference. Hosted by the International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA), the conference is slated to take place from September 11 to 13 at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Texas.   In a focused effort to further enhance its contributions to the food and beverage sectors in the United States and Canada, UgoWork will contribute to the AEC panel by sharing its extensive energy expertise, garnered through years of data gathering from its cloud-connected lithium-ion battery solutions. With an unwavering commitment to reshaping the landscape of material handling, UgoWork is excited to share best practices in effective energy management, optimizing fleet and operations, and promoting efficient energy consumption.   The conference will feature a workshop session titled "Lithium-ion Batteries: A New Ingredient to Boost Material Handling Efficiency in the Food Industry." This illuminating session, scheduled for Monday, September 11, from 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM, will see Jean-François Marchand, UgoWork's Marketing Director and representative of MHI's Advanced Energy Council, sharing insights alongside eminent industry experts.   As part of a distinguished panel that includes Jinger J. McPeak, VP Ethium - Ethium by EControls, and Martin Boyd, VP Product Planning & Solutions - Hyster-Yale Group, Marchand will delve into critical aspects of lithium-ion battery technology and their applications in the food industry. The discussion will span a comprehensive introduction to lithium-ion batteries, including Temperature Control, Safety, Data and Vehicle Integration, as well as their impact on Asset Lifespan, Maintenance, ESG Implications, and ROI.   UgoWork's and the AEC’s presence at the IFDA Solutions Conference is a testament to their dedication to advancing energy solutions in the material handling sector. The IFDA is renowned for its association with industry giants such as Conagra Foodservice, McCain Foods USA, Penske  and Unilever Food Solutions, adding a significant layer of credibility to the event.   Jean-François Marchand emphasized the importance of this participation, stating, "It's a privilege for us to represent the Advanced Energy Council and to have access to an audience for whom we're convinced we can deliver benefits. In the context of industry transformation, we want to share knowledge about the benefits of advancement that will help them. We listen to the concerns of our customers to adapt our offer. 50% of our customers are in the food and beverage sector."     About UgoWork UgoWork develops, manufactures, and offers energy expertise and innovative lithium-ion power solutions that unlock the possibilities of Energy as a Service for the material handling industry. The company provides a flexible and cost-efficient consumption model that guarantees uptime and peace of mind. Its cloud-based approach to fleet optimization, pay-per-use program, energy insight, continuous field service, uptime guarantee, and end-of-life management enable fleet managers to execute their energy transition seamlessly. UgoWork’s products and energy solutions cater to industrial trucks operating in the food and beverage, manufacturing, transportation, and distribution sectors.   Based in Quebec, Canada, the company offers its advanced, cost-efficient, and proven energy management programs across North America to many fortune 500 companies. Visit ugowork.com.   About AEC – Advanced Energy Council Founded in 2023, the Advanced Energy Council was established to represent the companies that produce, implement, and support advanced energy technologies and accessories. The group was formed with the intention of being inclusive of current and future motive energy storage technologies. AEC aims to serve as the collective voice in the industry to promote innovative energy solutions and education for the market, colleagues, and end users.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.   To learn more about AEC, please visit mhi.org/aec or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.  

The Solutions Community Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the recent approval of applications to join the MHI Solutions Community for Bastian Solutions, DMW&H, Electro Kinetic Technologies, LLC, Georg Utz, Inc., Gray Solutions, Lucas Systems, Inc., Maveneer, LLC, Nutting Carts and Trailers, Regal Rexnord, and Tension Packaging & Automation.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about the Solutions Community, please visit mhi.org/solutions-community or contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org.    About Solutions Community Solutions Community members are the industry’s thought leaders on automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. This includes suppliers, integrators, consultants, media, academia and users. They collaborate on solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. All participants adhere to a safe harbor no-buy, no-sell environment to openly discuss topics of mutual interest, including best practices, lessons learned and other information.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

TORONTO, Canada – Harris-Stolper International Inc. (“Harris Cabs”), a leading innovator in the material handling world of operator cabs, announced today the launch of its new UL Certified operator cabs, further solidifying its commitment to delivering the highest standard of safety, performance, and reliability to its valued customers. UL Solutions, a global leader in applied safety science, completed multiple system-level tests on electrical accessories used in the enclosed cabin assemblies. This certification to UL 558, the Standard for Industrial Trucks, Internal Combustion Engine-Powered, includes full cab and panel cab designs for H0158UL IC series trucks rated for 12V DC and 24V DC applications.   The certification is a key milestone for Harris, as this now opens the doors for significantly more enclosed operator cab choices, in addition to the existing 143+ active cab models available. The certification by UL Solutions is a testament to Harris Cabs’ dedication to excellence and underscores its continuous efforts to provide cutting-edge solutions that meet and exceed industry benchmarks.   “We are incredibly proud to introduce our UL Certified product line to the market. This achievement is a direct result of our team’s relentless pursuit of excellence and steadfast commitment to the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of our customers, OEM partners, and dealers alike. With the UL certification, our partners can have the utmost confidence in the enhanced performance and safety of our products. This further demonstrates our commitment to safety and that our products will continue to evolve without compromising quality or reliability” said Amit N Jain, President of Harris-Stolper.   Following this achievement, Harris-Stolper will continue to pursue additional certifications from UL Solutions, including certification to UL 583, the Standard for Electric-Battery-Powered Industrial Trucks.     About Harris-Stolper Behind the Harris Cabs brand, there’s a tremendous group of people. Arguably the hardest working team in the industry. Certainly, the most dedicated. Passionate about what they do, they bring their A-game to work. Every. Single. Day. Harris-Stolper plays an integral role in the material handling world, manufacturing operator cab enclosures, and trusted by thousands of professionals. They help forklift manufacturers and dealers maximize operator productivity. How? By keeping end users safe and comfortable, so they can extract more value from their material handling equipment.  

MHI recently announced the dates for ProMat 2025. ProMat 2025 will be held March 17-20, 2025 at Chicago's McCormick Place. ProMat is the largest international manufacturing and supply chain show and conference held in the United States. The 2025 event will be the biggest ProMat ever and will include an expansion into McCormick Place's Lakeside Hall.   ProMat brings together solution providers who demonstrate their equipment, systems and services to over 50,000 manufacturing and supply chain professionals from around the globe, seeking productivity solutions for their operations. Over 1,100 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on ProMat’s three show floors totaling over 700,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, transportation, and logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems.   To make it easier for attendees to find the solutions they need, ProMat’s three hall’s will be solution-focused:    South Hall —Manufacturing, Planning & Sourcing —Fulfillment, Workforce & Labor —Data Capture, Analytics & Information Management North Hall —Automation and Robotics —Emerging Supply Chain Technology Lakeside Hall —Sustainability & Risk Management —Transportation, Distribution & Warehousing —Last Mile   ProMat 2025 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities.   ProMat 2025 will again include its highly regarded and prestigious International Buyer Program. The Program provides matchmaking for interested buyers and sellers through an International Business Center located near the show hall.   Exhibit Space Draw Lease Deadline is November 1, 2023 The ProMat 2025 Exhibit Space Draw will be held November 14-16, 2023. This will be the first opportunity for organizations to secure exhibit space at this event. The deadline for leases for the Space Draw is 5pm ET on November 1, 2023.   For more information on exhibiting or attending ProMat, visit promatshow.com.    

Valley City, OH…. Engineered Material Handling (EMH) new Single Leg Semi Gantry Crane makes it easy to transfer loads between workstations, while freeing up overhead cranes to handle other tasks. With its 10-ton capacity, shop floor productivity is dramatically improved. With its exclusive poly wheel design, the need to have built-in floor rails is eliminated–reducing costs and improving floor safety.   The EMH Single Leg Semi Gantry Crane is a simple, effective, and flexible shop floor solution. Proven EMH crane components complement the system.   The EMH Single Leg Semi Gantry Crane integrates the new EMH EG Hoist. With the EG Series Hoist, trolley adjustment is easier with integrated and robust staging that stays tightly together during adjustment. The EG Series Hoist is designed to have a more spacious enclosure to accommodate much larger control panels and variable frequency drives. It has capacities of 3, 5, 7.5, and 10 metric tons, and 20, 33, 50 and 65-foot lifts. EG Series Hoists are currently available in monorail and double-girder models, providing a price and performance ratio that compares favorably with the best in the industry today.   The EG Series Hoist incorporates numerous safety features. A new smooth acting rope guide tracks on a bar independent of the hoist frame to eliminate possible damage. The EG Series Hoist also offers manufacturing advantages and efficiencies. Instead of having various lengths of dead end supports, there is now just one size that fits all three lift ranges, 20, 33 and 50-feet. The EG Series also offers a variety of specialized hoist options including variable frequency hoisting.   For more information about the Single Leg Semi Gantry Crane and Engineered Material Handling (EMH) visit us at www.emhcranes.com.   About EMH: EMH, Engineered Material Handling, headquartered in Valley City, Ohio, designs, sells and manufactures a complete line of overhead material handling equipment for loads from 25 lbs. to 300 tons, serving various industries with Bridge Cranes, Gantry Cranes, Jib Cranes, Self-Standing Cranes, Workstation Cranes, and Crane Kits, plus custom and standard Wire Rope Hoists and End Trucks. EMH is ISO 9001:2015 certified.   Contact: EMH Marketing 1-330-220-8600 Ext. 225 info@emhcranes.com

CHICAGO, Ill., AUG 28, 2023 — Great Place To Work® and Fortune magazine have selected Logiwa Inc., a leading cloud fulfillment platform for high-volume direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses, as a member of the esteemed 2023 Fortune Best Small Workplaces™ List. This acknowledgment underscores Logiwa's standing as one of the foremost employers of choice in the nation, firmly attesting to its commitment to fostering a remarkable workplace environment.   "This milestone is a testament to the exceptional culture we've nurtured at Logiwa—the embodiment of the art of our culture, where accountability, responsiveness, and togetherness flourish," stated Erhan Musaoglu, Founder and CEO of Logiwa. "These core values are the foundation igniting innovation and engagement with our team, giving everyone a stake in our growth journey."   The Best Small Workplaces list is highly competitive, requiring a combination of outstanding practices and employee contentment. To arrive at the Best Small Workplaces list, Great Place To Work analyzed survey responses from over 32,000 employees representing Great Place To Work Certified™ organizations with 10 to 99 employees across the United States.   The survey responses provide a comprehensive insight into the employees' workplace experience. The honorees were chosen based on their ability to create a positive work environment that transcends job roles, racial, gender, and sexual orientation differences, work statuses, and other demographic attributes.   “Any organization can be great, no matter the size of their payroll or the size of their bottom line,” says Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “These remarkable companies know that the high-trust culture they’ve built can compete with companies of any size.”   Fortune Editor-in-Chief Alyson Shontell says, "Fortune congratulates the companies on the 2023 Best Small Workplaces List, whose business practices prove that it doesn’t take a big headcount to make a big impact."   In 2022, Logiwa earned their Great Place to Work Certification™. In addition, they were ranked as a Best Workplace in Chicago™ in 2023.   For further insights into Logiwa Inc. and its award-winning warehouse management and fulfillment software, please visit www.logiwa.com.   About Logiwa: Logiwa is one of the leading cloud DTC fulfillment solution for high-volume ecommerce brands, 3PLs and wholesalers. The Logiwa Cloud Fulfillment Platform is an integrated WMS and DTC fulfillment system that makes it easy to run a digital warehouse and scale your high-volume fulfillment operations. Logiwa’s solution works where traditional WMS systems fail: it connects quickly with new online stores and marketplaces, makes it easy to run a digital warehouse, and is easily updated to support dynamic warehouse environments. To learn more about Logiwa please visit www.logiwa.com.   About the Fortune Best Small Workplaces List: Great Place To Work selected the Fortune Best Small Workplaces List by surveying companies employing 7.5 million people in the U.S with 1.3 million confidential responses received. Of those, more than 32,000 responses were received from employees at companies eligible for the Best Small Workplaces list and this ranking is based on that feedback. Company scores are derived from 60 employee experience questions within the Great Place To Work Trust Index™ Survey. Read the full methodology.

The Conveyor and Sortation Systems (CSS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Pepperl+Fuchs’ application to join CSS at the 2023 Spring Meeting held May 24, 2023, in Charlotte, NC.    MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about CSS, please visit mhi.org/conf or contact Jayesh Mehta, Managing Executive at jmehta@mhi.org.   About CSS: CSS aims to promote market growth, awareness, and effective use of traditional and emerging conveyor/sortation technologies in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. Member companies can provide end users with access to a wide range of perspectives and solutions, and, as a collective of manufacturers, are genuinely invested in customer success.   About MHI: MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.  

The Mobile Automation Group (MAG) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the recent approval of Crown Equipment Corporation, Cornerstone Specialty Wood Products, Gray Solutions, Murata Machinery USA (Muratec), Pepperl+Fuchs, and Rajant Corporation applications to join MAG at the 2023 Spring Meeting held May 23 in Charlotte, NC.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/mag.About MAG:Mobile Automation Group (MAG) members are the industry’s leading suppliers of automatic guided vehicle systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. MAG member companies meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and safe operation of automatic guided vehicle systems. MAG members are committed to the development, maintenance and publishing of industry standard specifications for these systems.About MHI:MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

The AEC Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of Concentric LLC, Conductix-Wampfler, Crown Battery, Crown Equipment Corp., East Penn Manufacturing Co., Electrovaya, Enatel, EnerSys, Ethium by EControls, Flux Power, Green Cubes Technology, Hyster-Yale Group Inc., Micropower Group US, OneCharge Inc., The Raymond Corp., Resonant Link Inc., Toyota Material Handling, TWS Technology, UgoWork, and Wiferion North America Inc’s applications to join the AEC at their inaugural membership meeting at the 2023 Spring Meeting held May 22, 2023 in Charlotte, NC.MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about AEC, please visit mhi.org/aec or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About AECFounded in 2023, the Advanced Energy Council was established to represent the companies that produce, implement, and support advanced energy technologies and accessories. The group was formed with the intention of being inclusive of current and future motive energy storage technologies. AEC aims to serve as the collective voice in the industry to promote innovative energy solutions and education for the market, colleagues, and end users.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The SLAM Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the approval of enVista, Gorbel Inc., Phoenix Labeling, Sparck Technologies, and Tension Packaging & Automation’s applications to join SLAM at the 2023 Spring Meeting held May 23, 2023 in Charlotte, NC.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about SLAM, please visit mhi.org/slam or contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org.    About SLAM SLAM members meet regularly to discuss the industry and promote the best and largest possible market for end-of-line technologies and systems, emphasizing the best interest of the user. Member companies aim to be the authoritative resource for transforming today’s end of line fulfillment operations to address tomorrow’s challenges by defining and evaluating best practices for the marketplace.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and logistics community.

The Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the recent approval of Hai Robotics’ application to join ASRS at the 2023 Spring Meeting held May 23rd in Charlotte, NC.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   The ASRS Industry Group of MHI is a member-driven organization. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/ Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently through: The development and promotion of standard nomenclature; Assisting and coordinating the efforts of related trade associations and product sections of MHI as applicable to Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems and component elements; The preparation and distribution of promotional and educational materials; The establishment of liaison and cooperation with private and governmental entities establishing standards and/or safety codes that may be pertinent to this Product Section and Working Groups The collection and dissemination of reliable industry statistics. For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about ASRS, please visit mhi.org/as-rs.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.   

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) is pleased to announce the formation of the Al Wurz Scholarship Fund. This fund was made possible from generous contributions totaling $176,621 from Jane, Ron, and Dave Wurz, his loving family.    The Al Wurz Scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student studying at universities and colleges in the United States in the targeted programs of Industrial Engineering, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering and/or Civil and Structural Engineering with a focus on material handling, logistics and supply chain.   Mr. Wurz, who passed away on April 26, 2022, is the founder of Accu-Sort Systems, Inc. and is widely considered a pioneer in the barcode scanning industry.   Al’s vision and his company’s products helped meet the demand for ever increasing throughput in the material handling industry.  Wurz served on the MHI Board of Governors and was a Lifetime Director of the Material Handling Education Foundation.    If you would like to donate to the Al Wurz Scholarship Fund, please visit https://www.mhi.org/mhefi/donors, click on the “Donate” button, and add a special instruction “For the Al Wurz Fund.” The Foundation also accepts checks made payable to MHEFI and mailed to 8720 Red Oak Blvd., Suite 201, Charlotte, NC 28217. Please make a note on the check that the funds are “For the Al Wurz Fund.”    For information on MHEFI or to contribute to the 2023 scholarship programs, please visit www.mhefi.org. For questions, contact Donna Varner at dvarner@mhi.org   About MHEFI MHEFI’s mission is to provide financial support for educational programs to engage and retain talent for the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry, and they accomplish this by striving to be the funding source for these educational programs.  

The Advanced Energy Council (AEC) will hold its inaugural membership meeting on Monday, May 22 at MHI’s Spring Meeting. The Industry Group plans to affirm the following member company applicants during the meeting: Concentric LLC, Conductix-Wampfler, Crown Battery, Crown Equipment Corp., East Penn Manufacturing Co., Electrovaya, Enatel, EnerSys, Ethium by EControls, Flux Power, Green Cubes Technology, Hyster-Yale Group Inc., Micropower Group US, OneCharge Inc., The Raymond Corp., Resonant Link Inc., Toyota Material Handling, TWS Technology, UgoWork, and Wiferion North America Inc.The AEC invites MHI Spring Meeting guests to attend the membership meeting. More information regarding the Spring Meeting can be found at mhi.org/spring.The AEC’s focus is advanced energy solutions, including lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells and other technologies and accessories. The group’s mission is to uplift and promote the safe use and adoption of advanced energy technologies by advancing sustainable motive material handling energy solutions. AEC aims to be a trusted center for excellence and expertise by providing a collective voice for its members and creating standardization and education for practitioners.AEC membership will consist of companies from the following categories:• Battery manufacturers• Charger/accessory manufacturers• Equipment OEMs (AMRs/AGVs, forklifts, drones, carts, aerial equipment, etc.)• Battery suppliers• Consultants• Service companies• AcademiaMHI member companies can join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community joins MHI members with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about the AEC, please visit mhi.org/aec. Companies interested in joining the AEC can contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org. About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

A new report released by MHI and Deloitte finds that 74% of supply chain leaders are increasing their supply chain technology and innovation investments with 90% saying they are planning to spend over $1 million, an increase of 24% over last year. Thirty-six percent plan to spend over $10 million, up 19%.   This investment includes solutions for improved supply chain transparency and sustainability, according to the 2023 MHI Annual Industry Report, “The Responsible Supply Chain: Transparency, Sustainability, and the Case for Business.” The report provides new insights into trends and technologies that are transforming supply chains and the priorities of the people who run them.    As a result of these increased investments, adoption of the 11 categories of technology covered in the report is predicted to rise dramatically over the next five years.   Inventory and Network Optimization – 87% Cloud Computing and Storage – 86% Sensors and Automatic Identification – 84% Advanced Analytics – 82% Wearable and Mobile Technology – 80% Robotics and Automation – 78% 3D Printing – 75% Artificial Intelligence – 73% Internet of Things – 68% Blockchain – 68% Driverless Vehicles and Drones – 66% The 2023 report, the tenth in a series of annual industry reports published by MHI and Deloitte, provides updates on the innovative technologies that have the most potential to transform supply chains into more transparent, sustainable, and responsible operations.    “Responsible supply chains must react in real-time to changing conditions, this requires actionable data, automation and automated decision-making,” said John Paxton, CEO of MHI. “Investments in automation and other digital solutions like IoT, advanced analytics and AI not only arm your operations with speed, accuracy, and improved visibility. These solutions enable the real-time decision-making and transparency necessary for reporting and improving performance up and down the responsible supply chain.”   Workforce tops list of supply chain challenges, disruption a close second Once again, hiring and retaining qualified workers (57%) and the talent shortage (56%) were the top supply chain challenges cited by survey respondents. However, this was followed closely by supply chain disruptions (54%), out-of-stock situations (52%) and customer demands (52%).   The worker shortage is spurring companies to invest in technologies that not only improve agility and efficiency but also reduce the need for repetitive, manual labor. These investments create the kind of advanced technology environment that results in more rewarding supply chain jobs that appeal to today’s top talent.   This could provide a new path to upskilling current employees and attracting new talent – creating a more modern, capable workforce that can quickly adapt and adjust to changes in the technology and market landscape.   Forty-one percent of respondents are reskilling/upskilling workers for emerging technologies, 34% are recruiting for skillsets for future needs and 27% are working to create a culture of innovation.   “Tech investment is only part of the equation,” said Paxton. “Having an innovative culture and the right people in place to implement innovation and to bring it all together to exceed your customer demands and expectations – whether they are fast delivery, personalization, low cost, delivery transparency or sustainability goals.”    To prepare for supply chain disruption and build transparency, collaboration is key Company leaders understand that planning for digital supply chain investments now is the only way to create a strategy to win the future – a future where supply chain disruption will be the norm. As a result, 49% are partnering with vendors to understand application/benefits and 31% are piloting new technologies.   In the past, companies could succeed by primarily collaborating with a small set of suppliers and distributors. However, the supply shocks of the past few years vividly illustrated that a broader approach for collaboration and data sharing is needed to achieve true transparency, sustainability, and resiliency.   Increased focus on sustainability Supply chain companies are faced with increasing pressure to become more environmentally responsible and sustainable. In fact, nearly half of this year’s survey respondents (48%) say they face increased influences to adopt a more sustainable supply chain. The pressure is coming from many angles, including consumers, regulators, industry groups, traditional and social media, and other stakeholders that increasingly expect brands and their supply chains to adhere to their own high standards.    According to the survey, the top focus areas for sustainability are electrification (40%), natural resource management (29%), water usage (27%), and transition to renewables (27%). However, only 23% of respondents have made Scope 3 emissions a top focus of their sustainability efforts.   With so much valuable new data being generated by supply chains, the ability to share that data securely and transparently has become a strategic priority. Scope footprinting, target setting, abatement and disclosure for sustainability simply isn’t possible without collaboration up and down the supply chain and the availability of accurate and reportable data. Additionally, achieving true end-to-end supply chain transparency requires the same.   “As leaders, we must drive transparency and coordinate change across the end-to-end supply chain as we work collaboratively to reduce Scope 3 emissions and move toward the circular economy,” said Paxton. “Sustainability will become a key competitive advantage for in the future. Investments in sustainability and transparency help reduce risk exposure and build loyalty with customers and employees alike.” The report includes a Climate Readiness Assessment to help companies evaluate their operations’ maturity across 5 modules of climate with a brief diagnostic that can provide a snapshot of an organization’s climate maturity. Upon completion, the user is classified into one of 6 climate profiles.   “Supply chain companies embarking on their sustainability journey will need input from across their organization to support reporting,” said Wanda Johnson, Specialist Leader, Deloitte Consulting. “Embracing circularity, reducing environmental impacts, regenerating nature, and embedding equity should all be coded to their DNA and driven from the top down for them to be successful.” The report also provides real-world case studies of digital supply chain technologies and recommendations for leaders for developing strategies to implement these innovations. The report ends with a report on Supply Chain 2033 with predictions on what will be the future state for supply chains. The findings of the 2023 report are based on survey responses from over 2,000 manufacturing and supply chain industry leaders from a wide range of industries at the end of 2022. Eighty-three percent of respondents hold executive-level positions such as CEO, Vice President, General Manager, Department Head or Engineering Management. Participating companies range in size from small to large, with 74% reporting annual sales of more than $50 million, and 8% reporting $1 billion or more.   Download the complete report here.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include manufacturers of material handling equipment including warehousing and logistics, systems integrators, third-party logistics providers, consultants, and publishers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and is a professional organization focused on logistics management and its role in the supply chain.   About Deloitte Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world’s most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500® and more than 5,000 private and middle market companies. Our people work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today’s marketplace — delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthy society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Now celebrating 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte’s more than 312,000 people worldwide make an impact that matters at www.deloitte.com.    

The manufacturing and supply chain community came together in a big way after four years for a record-setting ProMat event, according to show producer MHI. With an overall registration count of 50,924 and 1,051 exhibitors, the event featured 562,700 net square feet of exhibit solutions and over 150 educational sessions encompassing 1.2 million square feet at Chicago’s McCormick Place.This was the largest ProMat event to date for MHI, with 12% more registered attendees than the last pre-pandemic show – ProMat 2019. The event also saw a rebound in international attendance with attendees representing 178 countries.“MHI is committed to bringing this industry together to share leading-edge trends, technology, and innovations. The success of ProMat 2023 is proof of that and the supply chain industry’s continued relevance to the marketplace and central role in commerce,” says John Paxton, CEO, MHI. “No other event showcases all this industry has to offer to improve operational productivity and efficiency across manufacturing and supply chains. With so much tech and end-to-end solutions, ProMat offers this industry a one-stop-shop for solutions and the unparalleled education attendees need to survive and even thrive in a constantly changing marketplace.”“The energy on the show floor and the connections being made is a clear sign of the power of this industry,” added Daniel McKinnon, EVP of Exhibitions at MHI. “Attendees representing the Fortune 500, the top 100 retailers and consumer goods firms brought large teams to ProMat to source the latest technologies and to learn leading trends impacting supply chains. They came to ProMat with plans in hand and budgets in place to improve their operations and build resilient supply chain operations for future success.”The dominant trend at ProMat was a focus on digital supply chain solutions including automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, augmented reality, the Internet of Things, and end-to-end data transparency. These new technologies work seamlessly in conjunction the traditional material handling solutions that are also on display on the show floor to make efficient end-to-end operations possible.“We’re seeing a big acceleration in the adoption of these technologies over the next five years in manufacturing and supply chain operations,” said Paxton. “The solutions on display this year were evidence of this trend.”ProMat Supply Chain ConferenceThe tech trend was also evident in ProMat Supply Chain Conference sessions which included over 150 educational seminars and four keynotes. On March 20, Michelle Dilley, CEO of AWESOME led a panel of senior-level women supply chain professionals. Chef and founder of World Central Kitchen founder José Andrés discussed his work in delivering humanitarian relief in some of the world’s hardest-hit areas including Ukraine and Turkey in his March 21 keynote.During the March 22 keynote, MHI’s John Paxton and Deloitte’s Wanda Johnson released the findings of the 2023 MHI Annual Industry Report: “The Responsible Supply Chain: Transparency, Sustainability, and the Case for Business.” during a panel discussion with four industry thought leaders. The report details the revolutionary adoption of supply chain technology that is predicted to make operations more responsive, agile, and responsible. The report can be downloaded here.The March 22 afternoon keynote featured Academy-Award-winning director Ron Howard who inspired the audience with his tales of creativity and mentoring during his storied film career.Industry Night with comedian Nate Bargatze was an exciting and entertaining evening. Fifty-one thousand dollars in proceeds from the event were donated to the Material Handling Education Foundation to fund scholarships and programs for students and educators in our industry. MHI also announced a $15,000 donation to World Central Kitchen.WERC Connects and Women in Supply Chain ConferenceProMat also featured two paid conference sessions, the Women in Supply Chain Conference on March 20 and WERC Connects on March 21. Each event had over 200 attendees and featured lunch, networking, and an educational session. The 2023 WERC Annual Conference will be held June 4-7 in Orlando.2023 MHI Innovation AwardsDuring this event, MHI announced the winners of the 2023 MHI Innovation Awards during ProMat. The MHI Innovation Awards serve to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain innovative products and services. The awards had 156 submissions from ProMat 2023 exhibitors, and the winners were:·       Best New Product: Agility Robotics·       Best IT Innovation: OneRack·       Best Innovation of an Existing Product: Hai RoboticsMHI would like to thank the individuals who graciously volunteered their time as Innovation Award judges.sSy.ai Wins 2023 MHI StartUp AwardsSy.ai was the winner of the 2023 MHI StartUp Award. The StartUp Pavilion is a specialized area on the ProMat show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech and innovation. This award was chosen by ProMat attendees during the first three days of the event. sSy.ai uses AI/ML to transform standard cameras into sensors. Besides object recognition, this technology allows the extraction of metric data (Indoor tracking, distance, speed, etc.) of any asset/object in the warehouse.Student Day at ProMat Student Day at ProMat introduced 381 high school and university students and educators to career opportunities in material handling, supply chain and logistics through hands-on learning and networking with industry professionals. This year’s Student Day combined an interactive educational session with a dynamic guided tour of the ProMat expo.On-demand content from the event, including keynote sessions, educational sessions and video presentations will soon be available online at promatshow.com via ProMat Digital Entry.The next MHI-sponsored trade event will be MODEX 2024 held March 11-14 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. For more information on exhibiting at MODEX, or to register as an attendee, visit modexshow.com. The next ProMat will be held at Chicago’s McCormick Place in 2025.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment community.Contact: For more information on MHI or ProMat contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

MHI is pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 MHI Innovation and Startup Awards.    After receiving 156 submissions for this years’ awards, judges comprised of professionals from the material handling and supply chain industry completed the initial vetting process.    Four finalists were previously chosen and announced as the most innovative products in each category - Best New Innovation, Best Innovation of an Existing Product, and Best IT Innovation based on concept, value, and impact. The winners were announced on March 22 at MHI Industry Night at ProMat 2023.   The 2023 MHI Innovation Award winners are: Best New Product: Agility Robotics Best IT Innovation: OneRack Best Innovation of an Existing Product: Hai Robotics The MHI Innovation Award serves to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain products and services to ProMat attendees. ProMat 2023 exhibitors were called to submit a new product, product line, technology or service or new application of existing products or technology that create quantifiable and sustainable results in terms of ROI, cost savings, customer satisfaction, etc.    MHI would like to thank the individuals who graciously volunteered their time as Innovation Award judges.    To see more information and learn more about all of the Innovation Award submissions, click here to see all innovation award nominees.   sSy.ai Wins 2023 MHI StartUp Award sSy.ai was the winner of the 2023 MHI StartUp Award. The StartUp Pavilion is a specialized area on the ProMat show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech and innovation. This award was chosen by ProMat attendees during the first three days of the event. sSy.ai uses AI/ML to transform standard cameras into sensors. Besides object recognition, this technology allows the extraction of metric data (Indoor tracking, distance, speed, etc.) of any asset/object in the warehouse.    About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through its programming, events and WERC division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.   Contact: For more information on the MHI Innovation Awards or ProMat contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

The Mobile Automation Group (MAG) Industry Group of MHI will host a seminar session at ProMat 2023. The panel discussion, titled "Highflying Automation: How to Maximize Vertical Storage," will discuss use cases for automated compact storage concepts, such as Automated Very Narrow Aisle (AutoVNA) turret trucks), Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), and 3D Shuttle systems.    More and more US metro areas see steadily increasing real estate prices. Combined with supply chain issues likely boosting the trend to more local stock as a safety buffer, warehouses must maximize storage density. AS/RS and 3D-Shuttle systems are automated by nature, but Very Narrow Aisle is often operated with manual turret trucks with or without assistance systems. The audience will learn about the benefits of AutoVNA vs. Manual Turret trucks, AI for storage strategies and inventory management, and real-world applications.    “The Mobile Automation Group is focused on promoting market awareness, growth, and the effective use of driverless industrial vehicles while bringing the value of education and preparedness to the forefront of mobile automation,” says MAG Chairman, Brian Keiger of stow Robotics. “The efficient use of space is a critical success factor in warehousing, and we as a group want to help customers understand that the deployment of AutoVNA trucks is a great way to safely and efficiently revolutionize the storage and retrieval of goods in the material handling vertical space, especially in narrow aisles.”    Panelists include Yanis Harmance of KION, John Hayes of Balyo, and Tim Harrison of Jungheinrich, and will be moderated by Ashley Rhodes from St. Onge.   MAG is one of 18 industry groups within MHI. MAG is a group of system and component suppliers that operate in the mobile automation market for material movement in manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial applications.    For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/mag or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.   About MAG MAG members are the industry’s leading suppliers of mobile automation systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. MAG member companies meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and safe operation of automatic guided vehicle systems. MAG members are committed to the development, maintenance and publishing of industry standard specifications for these systems.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling, logistics and supply chain equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third party logistics providers. Much of the work of the industry is done within its product- and solution- specific groups. The association also sponsors trade events, such as ProMat and MODEX to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate industry professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.       

The Robotics Group (TRG) Industry Group of MHI has produced a new educational resource highlighting the latest innovations in the automation industry. The video highlights the latest applications in the automation industry, while also focusing on the important decision-making factors one should be aware of when considering automation.“The Robotics Group is a diverse group with extensive expertise that can assist in advising stakeholders on options available when considering implementing robotic technologies together with other warehouse automation solutions,” said Crystal Parrott, Chair of TRG and Chief Operating Officer at Plus One Robotics. “We encourage organizations to join TRG and bring their expertise to the table as we continue to deliver valuable content that supports our members and end users incorporate robotics within the logistics industry.”In addition, TRG will also be presenting four educational seminars during the ProMat 2023 Education Conference. Learn more about the type of content produced by TRG by attending one of the following ProMat 2023 seminars: The Importance of Risk Assessments in Automation – Monday, March 20th, 2023 – Theater H What’s Possible Now in Warehouse Robotics – Tuesday, March 21st, 2023 – Robotics Theater Tracking Project ROI – Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 – Robotics Theater Integrating in Workflows Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 – Theater GVisit promatshow.com/education/seminars to learn more and register for ProMat.Education for the industry is a core mission for TRG. “TRG provides resources and the latest education on these advanced robotics solutions to help the practitioners with their implementations” said John Paxton, MHI’s CEO.For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about TRG, please visit mhi.org/robotics or contact Jayesh Mehta at jmehta@mhi.org.About The Robotics GroupThe Robotics Group (TRG) members are leading manufacturers, integrators, consultants, and component suppliers of robotic solutions designed specifically for warehousing and distribution applications.Traditionally, industrial robots in material handling applications have been limited to palletizing/depalletizing, conveyor picking, or other highly repetitive tasks. Technology advancements are creating opportunities for robots and automated machinery in a wider variety of applications, including warehousing and distribution center activities.TRG conducts education and outreach with the goal of fostering technology adoption in this rapidly changing industry sector.About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.

MHI is honored that Trade Show Executive (TSE) has named its MODEX show as one of the top 50 fasting-growing shows for total attendance. TSE will honor MHI at its Fastest 50 Awards & Summit on May 1-3 in Miami. TSE states, “The summit is a celebration of the winners as well as the industry’s robust recovery.” “Being recognized on such a prestigious list is not only a great accomplishment, but a great reminder of the success of the MODEX brand and of the resilience of the supply chain industry,” said MHI Executive Vice President of Exhibitions Daniel McKinnon. “We’re thrilled to be included and look forward to an amazing ProMat this year and an even more successful MODEX event in 2024.” According to MHI Chief Executive Officer John Paxton, “This honor reflects MHI’s commitment to serving its members and the supply chain community. We strive to create exhibitions that connect the exhibitors’ innovative technology to customers in need of those solutions. We are thankful to the exhibitors and attendees who make this success possible.”   MODEX 2024, the largest international supply chain expo, will be on held March 11-14, 2024 at the World Congress Center in Atlanta. The trade show will host more than 900 exhibitors, 150+ education sessions, and thousands of domestic and global attendees from the supply chain and manufacturing industry. To learn more, visit modexshow.com.  About MHIMHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment community. 

The MHI Solutions Community Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the recent approval of applications to join the MHI Solutions Community for Autoquip Corporation; Configura, Inc.; JGA LLC; META Storage Solutions; ORBIS Corporation; RightHand Robotics, Inc.; SAVOYE North America Inc.; stow robotics US; and Woodsage.    MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   The MHI Solutions Community members are the Industry’s thought leaders on automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. This includes suppliers, integrators, consultants, media, academia and users. They collaborate on solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. The philosophy of the Solutions Community is to support MHI’s mission of providing a unique venue where suppliers of material handling equipment and technology can collaboratively work with the user community to improve the marketplace for all. All participants adhere to a safe harbor no-buy, no-sell environment to openly discuss topics of mutual interest, including best practices, lessons learned and other information.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about the Solutions Community, please visit mhi.org/solutions-community.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.   

With ProMat 2023 just one month away, attendee registrations are tracking above the last in-person ProMat event. Looking at attendees that have registered to date, they are high in quality from a buying authority perspective and represent a large number of the Fortune 1000 and top 100 retailers and consumer goods firms that are bringing their teams to the show.    When attendees register, they are asked to answer a variety of demographic questions indicating their industry, product interest, buying authority and spending plans. Below are some highlights from current ProMat 2023 attendee demographics.   –85% have buying power –80% are coming to see new products and innovations –65% are coming to network and learn –38% plan on spending over $1 million over the next 18 months –49% are corporate or senior management –34% are middle management or IT/Engineering –66% are looking for solutions for distribution centers or warehouses supporting manufacturing –25% are looking for solutions for manufacturing facilities   When it comes to the solutions, ProMat 2023 attendees are looking for a wide range of equipment and technologies for their operations. However, there is a heightened interest in automation, robotics, autonomous vehicles and emerging technologies. The top product interest categories for attendees currently are: –Automation and Robotics including AGVS and AS/RS –Autonomous Vehicles including Mobile Robots, Fork Trucks and Drones –Software and Data Analytics, including AI and Machine Learning  –Conveyor & Sortation Equipment  –Automatic Identification & Data Collection/Radio Frequency Identification  –Fork Trucks and Lifting Equipment –Order Picking, Fulfillment and Manifest Solutions –Sustainability and Alternative Energy Solutions including Batteries –Loading Dock Equipment –Racks, Shelving and Storage Equipment  –Ergonomic and Safety Equipment  –Packaging and Parcel Shipping Solutions    These statistics are an early indication of high interest attendees have in gaining new information to inform investments in the manufacturing and supply chain equipment and systems that will be showcased at ProMat.   ProMat will be held March 20-23 at Chicago’s McCormick Place and will be the most important week in 2023 for the manufacturing and supply chain industry. The event will feature over 1,000 exhibits, 150 educational seminars and 4 keynotes.   For more information and to register for free admission to attend ProMat, visit promatshow.com.   ProMat is Powered by MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehouse, distribution and logistics community.

After receiving 156 submissions for the 2023 MHI Innovation Awards from ProMat 2023 exhibitors, MHI announces the four finalists chosen as the most innovative products in each category - Best New Innovation; Best Innovation of an Existing Product; and Best IT Innovation based on concept, value, and impact.    Five independent judges comprised of professionals from the material handling and supply chain industry completed the initial review process. Here are the finalists in no particular order.   Best New Innovation: Agility Robotics for Digit a Human-Centric Robot: ProMat Booth S1031 Berkshire Grey Inc. Project GreyWolf - A Berkshire Grey & Locus Robotics Solution: ProMat Booth N6707 OPEX Corporation for OPEX® Infinity™ AS/RS System: ProMat Booth S2712 Packsize International Inc. for X5: Booth S3547   Best Innovation of an Existing Product: HAI Robotics U.S.A. Inc. for A42T Autonomous Case-picking Robot: ProMat Booth N7900  Vanderlande Industries, Inc. for ADAPTO Shuttle: ProMat Booth S603 Ideal Warehouse Innovations, Inc. for SLIDE-effect® Dock Bumper: ProMat Booth S3350 Geekplus America, Inc. for PopPick: ProMat Booth N7307/N7507   Best IT Innovation:      Synkrato for Synkrato warehouse digital twin: ProMat Booth N6256 OneRack for OneRack: ProMat Booth S2882 Lucas Systems, Inc. for Lucas Systems Dynamic Work Optimization: ProMat Booth S3775 FORTNA for FORTNA OptiSlot DC Featuring Digital Twin Technology: ProMat Booth S1947   The MHI Innovation Award serves to educate and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain products and services to ProMat attendees.  ProMat 2023 exhibitors were called to submit a new product, product line, technology or service or new application of existing products or technology that create quantifiable and sustainable results in terms of ROI, cost savings, customer satisfaction, etc.     On Monday, March 20, 2023, finalists move onto the next round of judging and will present their unique solutions to a panel of independent judges on the show floor at ProMat 2023. The winners in each category will be announced at ProMat 2023 on March 22nd during MHI Industry Night with Nate Bargatze.    MHI would like to thank the five judges for graciously volunteering their time as Innovation Award judges.   To see more information and learn more about the innovations above and all of the 2023 MHI Innovation Award submissions, visit promatshow.com/innovation-awards. For more information on attending ProMat, visit promatshow.com.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehouse, distribution and logistics community.   About ProMat ProMat 2023 will be held March 20 - 23 in Chicago’s McCormick Place. Over 1030 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on ProMat’s show floor totaling over 560,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions. ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and supply chain logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems. ProMat 2023 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities.     Contact: For more information on the MHI Innovation Awards or ProMat contact Greg Baer at 704-714-8725.  

The Scan Label Apply Manifest (SLAM) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce the recent approval of Solution Net Systems Inc. and The Numina Group’s applications to join SLAM at the 2022 Annual Conference, held October 4, 2022 in San Antonio, TX.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   SLAM members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of technologies and solutions for the last 100 feet of fulfillment. SLAM stands for Scan, Label, Apply, and Manifest. The Mission of the group is “To provide thought leadership for best practices on “the last 100 feet” of every warehouse in the world.” Their Vision is “to be 100 feet ahead of “the last 100 feet” in warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment applications.” The members of the SLAM Group will collaborate to provide education, thought leadership, and identify emerging technologies and trends that will improve fulfillment operations.   For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about SLAM, please visit mhi.org/slam.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.     

Estral is pleased to announce the recent approval of their application to join the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) at their 2022 Annual Membership Meeting held in San Antonio, Texas in Q4.   MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment.   Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) was founded in 1958. RMI members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of Industrial Steel Storage Racks and Related Structural Systems. They supply industrial rack solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. RMI believes that it is important to you that your supplier be committed to the principles of continuous improvement in both product design/application and in the highest Professional and Ethical Standards of Performance as embodied in the mission and work conducted within RMI.    For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about RMI please visit mhi.org/rmi.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics. 

The Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA) Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce their newest video, “SMA: The Future of Storage,” a testimonial video.   The highlights: ·       SMA Members share brief testimonials on why their companies became SMA members ·       Members share the benefits of SMA for potential members, end-users, practitioners and the industry  ·       Members reference the importance of safety best practices and SMA’s commitment to developing standards for the industry   View the video here: https://videos.mhi.org/sma-the-future-of-storage    For more information about SMA, visit www.mhi.org/sma or contact Anna Harreveld at aharreveld@mhi.org,704-676-1190.   “The new testimonial video from SMA brings awareness to SMA’s collective thought leadership and industry expertise in the storage solutions space. If you are in the material handling and supply chain industry, the SMA is a strong resource for best practices and effective solutions,” said Sandy Ball, SMA Marketing Chair and Director of Marketing, Cornerstone Specialty Wood Products, LLC   “The new SMA video highlights the commitment that SMA has to the industry of providing effective storage solutions as well as collaboratively developing and promoting best safety practices,” stated Chris Pahls, SMA Chair and NexCaliber Product Manager, Steel King Industries. “We (SMA) hope that more companies will join us to make the industry better, safer and stronger together.”    Upcoming SMA Event- SAVE THE DATE!    SMA of MHI presents: The New SMA Standards and S-Mark Certification Program along with best practices that can mitigate risk at the 2023 ProMat Tradeshow Monday, March 20, 2023,  1:30 p.m.  Theater I- McCormick Place, Chicago   ·       The seminar highlights the new SMA standards on shelving, work platforms and stairways that have been proposed for inclusion in the 2024 International Building Codes (IBC) ·       An introduction to the SMA “S-Mark” certification program and how it will affect manufacturers, integrators and end users ·       Provides an overview of how adhering to best practices for boltless shelving and work platforms will help keep your facility safer by mitigating risks ·       You can gain access to this event with your free registration to attend ProMat    About SMA The Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of industrial storage equipment. They supply storage solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Industrial storage equipment includes steel shelving, industrial work platforms, work and assembly stations, modular drawer equipment, clothing storage lockers, movable base storage equipment, storage containers and directly related equipment.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

The Ergonomics Assist Systems and Equipment (EASE) Council Industry Group of MHI is pleased to announce their newest video, “EASE is making work easy.”    The highlights: ·       The video features EASE member case study highlights on ergonomic equipment solutions designed to make work easier from ergonomic, safety and accessibility standpoints  ·       Members share why their companies find benefit in joining the EASE industry group ·       Members highlight what the collective EASE Council has to offer end-users and practitioners    Watch the video here: https://videos.mhi.org/ease-is-making-work-easy   “The new case study video from EASE is a great way to bring awareness both in and out of our industry to ergonomic solutions, whether someone’s knowledge is extensive or perhaps they’re new to the industry. It’s also a great tool to bring awareness to the value of the EASE Council as a collective,” said Amy Blueter, EASE Chair and representative of Kinetic Technologies, LLC.   “The video is a testament to the EASE member commitment of promoting best practices,” stated Scott Lackey, EASE Secretary and Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Blickle USA. “This highlights the strong commitment EASE has to the industry of providing solutions that center ergonomic safety and improving efficiency.”   Upcoming EASE Event- SAVE THE DATE!    2023 ProMat Tradeshow EASE education seminar:  Maximize Workplace Safety and Minimize Risk: Ask an Ergonomist Monday, March 20, 2023 12:45 p.m.  Theater H- McCormick Place, Chicago.   ·       The seminar features three guest ergonomists answering commonly encountered industrial ergonomics questions.  ·       Gain access with your free registration to attend ProMat    “The EASE Council is excited to host a high-value information-rich seminar where attendees can learn more about the value of implementing ergonomics programs and best practices directly from ergonomists,” said Kelly Wehner, EASE Vice Chair and President, Case Systems and BOSTONtec.   About EASE EASE Council is the group within MHI focused solely on making work easier for people by improving the work environment. EASE members promote the practice of good ergonomics in the workplace by providing solutions across a broad spectrum of applications and industries. Activities include presentations at various industry events, development of non-commercial training materials, and collaboration with NIOSH and the academic community. For more information visit: https://www.mhi.org/ease    Contact Anna Harreveld EASE Managing Executive aharreveld@mhi.org 704-676-1190   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.  

AR Racking S.A.U. is pleased to announce the recent approval of their application to join the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) at their 2022 Annual Membership Meeting held in San Antonio, Texas in Q4. AR Racking is a company specialized in the manufacture, design, calculation, and installation of storage systems for industrial loads. After being one of the leaders in Europe and Latin America, AR Racking has made a strong commitment to the U.S. market with the creation of its subsidiary AR Racking Inc. based in Charlotte (North Carolina). Moreover, as in recent years, AR Racking is developing large storage projects in collaboration with the most important system integrators of automated storage solutions. MHI member companies have the opportunity to join any of MHI’s Industry Groups or the Solutions Community. Industry Groups share information and conduct research to stay at the forefront of their industry. Typical Industry Group activities include industry statistics collection, standards development, technical publications, public relations, promotion of safety, and member and user education. The Solutions Community brings MHI members together with equipment and systems users to collaborate and address common challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain in a safe harbor environment. Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) was founded in 1958. RMI members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of Industrial Steel Storage Racks and Related Structural Systems. They supply industrial rack solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. RMI believes that it is important to you that your supplier be committed to the principles of continuous improvement in both product design/application and in the highest Professional and Ethical Standards of Performance as embodied in the mission and work conducted within RMI. For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about RMI please visit mhi.org/rmi. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers, and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics. 

MHI’s Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association has launched the ProGMA Checklist, a comprehensive guide to the myriad of protective guarding equipment that can be used in any warehouse, distribution center, and industrial facility.   Safety and facility managers across North America’s industrial sectors have welcomed the checklist that can be printed or viewed on a tablet. The checklist is designed to be used in a ‘walkthrough’ scenario, where a purchasing decision maker can view the protective guarding equipment already in place and identify where they may need more in future. It has already emerged as a tool for risk assessments. Safety is always a key consideration in material handling facilities, and applications often change within the facility. When applications or operations change, it often means there is a change in need for protective guarding. The protective guarding checklist is an easy way to match need with the type of guarding and ProGMA member supplier.   As ProGMA repeatedly says, safety is an issue that every single facility has in common, and they all have some type of protective guarding. However, this equipment sector encompasses many different solutions, from safety gates for pallet drop areas to bollards that protect structures and netting that prevents items from falling off shelves. There are many more applications in between too.   The checklist follows the earlier release of ProGMA’s search tool, which also addresses the abundance of protective guarding solutions that are available in the market and supports end users looking for the right products for their varying facilities. Most industrial facilities use multiple pieces of protective guarding as employee safety is of utmost importance. The key is to identify the hazards and the solutions for those dangers, and then follow that with purchase and eventual installation.   The checklist and search tool dovetail in that they both identify protective guarding options and the ProGMA members that provide that type of equipment. The checklist can be used as one walks through a facility; the technology tool helps to also identify the guarding that is needed in a certain area, such as a rack system, or for a specific risk, like fall protection. Someone may use the checklist and then turn to the technology tool to find a manufacturer.   As a walkthrough is being conducted, it may be discovered that newly purchased automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are striking pallet racks on a regular basis, which can ultimately damage the rack structure. The checklist provides a list of guarding options that can be used to better secure the rack system. And, in line with using the search tool as a complement, they may then either click the link to kerbing / bumpers or use the search tool to find the ProGMA members that manufacture them.   The checklist features main headings, beneath which are subheads and sub product categories. All categories were largely taken from the protective guarding search tool and the types of guarding that ProGMA members offer. Membership decided to place the categories into more general areas within the facility to make it easy to determine, for example, all the areas in which bollards or safety gates could be used. The document ‘flows’ as someone would walk through and around the building; there is a lot of protective guarding that is required to protect structures and personnel outside.   Every product ProGMA members manufacture is somewhere on the list; each item links back to pictures of that piece of protective guarding and the list of members that offer that type of product. As the protective guarding industry evolves, so will the list. It may also be updated as new members join the ProGMA.   View the Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association ProGMA checklist here.   About ProGMA The Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association (ProGMA) is an Industry Group of MHI. Members are the industry’s leading suppliers of fixed protective guarding products designed to protect personnel, equipment, and inventory in industrial facilities. Member companies meet regularly to review, discuss, and revise the standards for design and performance of protective guarding products used in the material handling industry. ProGMA member companies are committed to the development, maintenance, and publishing of industry standard specifications for these systems. Visit the website at mhi.org/progma.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehouse, distribution and logistics community.

MHI is launching a new Industry Group, the Advanced Energy Council (AEC), focused on advanced energy solutions including lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and other technologies and accessories. AEC is opening membership enrollment for charter members now through December 31, 2022.   The group’s mission is to uplift and promote the safe use and adoption of advanced energy technologies in motive material handling applications by advancing sustainable motive material handling energy solutions.   AEC will provide value to its members by promoting innovative energy solutions as the collective voice of its members and aims to be a trusted center for excellence and expertise through the creation of standardization and education for practitioners.   AEC membership will consist of companies from the following categories: Battery manufacturers Charger/accessory manufacturers Equipment OEM’s (AMRs/AGVs., forklifts, drones, carts, aerial equipment, other),  Battery suppliers Consultants Service companies Academia  Current AEC membership applicants include: Conductix-Wampfler, Crown Battery Manufacturing Company, East Penn Manufacturing Co, Enatel, Enersys, Ethium by EControls, Hyster-Yale Group, OneCharge Inc, The Raymond Corporation, and Wiferion North America Inc.   Charter members will have the AEC Industry Group initiation fee waived, so join the growing number of AEC membership applicants today. Interested applicants should contact Christian Dow at cdow@mhi.org and Kia Schmit at kschmit@mhi.org.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehouse, distribution and logistics community.      

The Mobile Automation Group (MAG) of Material Handling Industry (MHI) reports a strong year of accomplishments in 2022 with aggressive plans for 2023. “Coming off remote work and meeting requirements in 2021, we were not sure how quickly our group would ramp up in support of our industry,” stated MAG Chairman Mark Longacre of JBT. “But our member companies jumped right in, planning and creating content to help potential customers understand how mobile automation can solve their most difficult labor challenges.”   The mobile automation industry continues to see intense interest, with customers focusing on automating material movement in manufacturing and warehousing. As a result, suppliers in the industry are joining MAG to increase collaboration.   In the past four years, MAG has added 11 new member companies. In 2022, MAG members met to create two educational blog articles, one webinar, and multiple educational seminars at the ProMat and Pack Expo trade shows. Plans for 2023 will rapidly expand the thought leadership goals of the group, with ten blogs, four podcasts, two articles, one video, quarterly press releases, and an update of our online training modules planned.   MAG is one of 18 industry groups within MHI. MAG is a group of system and component suppliers that operate in the mobile automation market for material movement in manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial applications.    For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups. To learn more about MAG, please visit mhi.org/mag.   About MAG MAG members are the industry’s leading suppliers of mobile automation systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. MAG programs include: the development of educational and training materials; being a voice in the development and maintenance of national standards; the confidential exchange of market statistics and publication of industry data to the public; the communication of the benefits of MAG solutions via trade shows, educational forums, and other national and regional seminars.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI’s over 900 members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, the members’ customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC) is a division of MHI and provides education and research to the warehouse, distribution and logistics community.  

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, is pleased to announce the WERC 46th Annual Conference coming to Orlando, FL June 4-7, 2023.    Themed around “Growth Through Disruption,” this in-person event will be hosted at the Hilton Orlando in Florida. The conference will feature three days of education sessions that address the current concerns of WERC members, like ongoing workforce challenges and escalating costs in three categories: People, Processes, and Systems and Data. The conference will also feature three keynotes:  Jim Knight: two decades leading Global Training at Hard Rock International Libby Gill: a change management educator and leadership coach who previously led communications at Sony, Universal, and Turner Broadcasting Joe Theismann: Super Bowl winner and most productive quarterback in Washington Redskins history “We’re thrilled to be meeting together again as warehousing professionals to lift and educate the industry,” says Michael Mikitka, EVP for MHI Knowledge Center and WERC. “The WERC Conference has historically been a place for professionals to gather together to exchange information to solve top of mind issues that face warehousing professionals as well as an excellent venue to network and make connections in our industry.”   There’s no better place to meet and reconnect with friends, colleagues, and peers. You won’t want to miss the camaraderie and shared, face-to-face interactions that make the conference so relevant, powerful, and valuable to those who attend.   Companies also have the opportunity to become a sponsor for the WERC conference. Sponsors have the opportunity to host an educational session and a kiosk in the general session room. To learn more about becoming a sponsor and all sponsorship options, view the prospectus.   Visit werc.org/2023 today for details and registration.    Contact Krys Slovacek at kslovacek@werc.org with questions.    About WERC WERC, a division of MHI, is the only professional organization focused on distribution logistics management and its role in the supply chain. Through membership in WERC, seasoned practitioners and those new to the industry master best practices and establish valuable professional relationships. Learn more about WERC at werc.org.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include manufacturers of material handling equipment including warehousing and logistics, systems integrators, third-party logistics providers, consultants and publishers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX exhibitions to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals.   

Strong leaders in your organization can make or break talent retention. With 50 percent of employees leaving their job because of their manager, strong leadership can make or break talent retention.  The MHI Leadership Program is dedicated to help you build strong leaders within your organization and ultimately retain and nurture top talent. Through the program, new leaders will have the opportunity to connect with industry peers and leaders, gain a broader perspective of the supply chain and material handling industry, and grow their leadership skills and expertise.  The 14 week-long cohort program starts on March 2, 2023 and combines tools, assessments, live virtual cohort learning, online courses, one-on-one coaching, peer mentoring, and senior industry leader connections. The program features curriculum on emotional intelligence, decision making, communication styles, art of negotiations, influencing strategies and more. Learn more and register today. About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. WERC is a division of MHI.   Contact: For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

The Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) recently named four new members to their Board of Directors whose terms will start on January 1, 2023.  Bryan Jensen, Chair & EVP, St. Onge Company Ray Niemeyer, VP of Sales & Marketing, SpaceGuard Products Crystal Parrott, COO, Plus One Robotics Mitch Smith, VP of Business Development, Hytrol Other MHEFI Board members for 2023 include: Brian Neuwirth, President UNEX Manufacturing Ryan Bartlett, Vice President United Material Handling Sal Fateen, Last Retiring President Seizmic, Inc. Mike Laurent, Treasurer MHEFI Donna Varner, Executive Director MHEFI Arthur H. Stroyd, Jr., Director Del Sole Cavanaugh Stroyd LLC Dr. Michael Kay, CICMHE Liaison North Carolina State University Jay Anderson, Director Steel King Industries Patti Blessing, Director Mojix James Cabot, Director Southworth International Group Christian Dow, Director MHI Joel Thomas, Director Siemens Industry Sebastian Titze, Director BEUMER Corporation Michael Mikitka, Director MHI/WERC James K. Allred, Lifetime Director J.K. Allred Consulting Dr. James Tompkins, Lifetime Director Tompkins International John Hill, Lifetime Director St. Onge Company William Powell, Lifetime Director Powell Systems, Inc. Arthur St. Onge, Lifetime Director St. Onge Company       MHEFI is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to encouraging and supporting material handling education. Established in 1976, the Foundation programs have supported over 1,000 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers.   Donations are accepted by the Foundation throughout the year, and 90% of donations go towards student scholarships and support. Eighty percent of the students supported by MHEFI work in the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry.  Visit mhi.org/mhefi/donors to contribute online to material handling education and help the Foundation attract students to the industry. For more information, visit www.mhefi.org.

During the 2022 MHI Annual Conference, the Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI) presented the Norman L. Cahners Industry Award to David Lippert, President of Hamilton Caster & Mfg. Company.  The Norman L. Cahners award is given to nominees who have continually made extraordinary contributions to the industry throughout their lifetime. Lippert is an industry veteran who has served on the MHI Board of Governors, MHI Roundtable Advisory Committee, MHEFI Board of Directors, industry representative on the College-Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE), as well as leadership roles for the Institute of Caster & Wheel Manufacturers and participation in the Ergonomic Assist Systems and Equipment Council.? In addition to the Cahners award, MHEFI hosted a fundraiser at the 2022 MHI Annual Conference. MHEFI raised $71,707 over the course of the three-day conference through generous pledged and online donations from Annual Conference attendees and the silent auction. Funds are used to support the mission of the organization to provide financial support for educational programs to engage and retain talent for the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry.?? Donations are accepted by the Foundation throughout the year, and 90% of donations go towards student scholarships and support. Eighty percent of the students supported by MHEFI work in the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry.  Visit mhi.org/mhefi/donors to contribute online to material handling education and help the Foundation attract students to the industry. MHEFI is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to encouraging and supporting material handling education. Established in 1976, the Foundation programs have supported over 1,000 students and educators seeking pathways to quality educational programs and fulfilling careers.  For more information, visit www.mhefi.org.

MHI, in collaboration with Deloitte Consulting LLP, recently launched the MHI Annual Industry Report Survey - the report will be available in March 2023 at ProMat.    The objective of this survey is to develop leading insights on the impact of emerging innovation in supply chains and what companies can do to remain competitive and resilient to global disruption in a rapidly evolving marketplace.    The 2023 report will be the tenth in a series of annual industry reports published by MHI and Deloitte. These reports provides annual updates on the innovative technologies that have the most potential to transform supply chains, including projected adoption rates of the next five years for each of the 11 categories of technology covered in the report and an analysis of common barriers to adoption.   Upon completion of the survey, respondents can access a customized Sustainability Readiness Assessment Report based on their responses to an additional short survey.   To complete the survey, click here.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. WERC is a division of MHI.   Contact: For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

Five of MHI’s automation-based Industry Groups will be participating at Pack Expo International on October 24-25, 2022. The groups participating are Conveyor & Sortation Systems (CSS), The Mobile Automation Group (MAG), Scan|Label|Apply|Manifest (SLAM), The Robotics Group (TRG), and the MHI Solutions Community. These Industry Groups are expanding to broader audiences to educate potential users of their technologies and solutions.   The Industry Groups will present the following seminars:   Monday, October 24: 2022 Deloitte/Material Handling Industry Annual Report - CSS             11:30 AM, Industry Speaks Stage – North Hall   Monday, October 24: eCommerce Fulfillment – Business case for a SLAM solution - SLAM             12:30 PM, Industry Speaks Stage – North Hall   Tuesday, October 25: AGVs and AMRs: Sexy Technology with a Solid Business Case - MAG             11:00 AM, Room W195 – West Hall   Tuesday, October 25: Deploying Successful Robotic Strategies - TRG             1:00 PM, Room W195 – West Hall   Tuesday, October 25: The Future of Conveyors & Sortation with the Adoption of AMR’s Case - CSS             2:30 PM, Room W195 – West Hall   At 4:00 PM on Tuesday, all 5 groups will be sponsoring a Networking Happy Hour that will be open to all.     For a detailed schedule of Industry Groups events at Pack Expo, please visit https://www.mhi.org/solutions/industrygroups/session-pmmi. For more information about MHI Industry Groups, please visit mhi.org/industrygroups.   About MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.       

When the premier manufacturing and supply chain trade event of 2023, ProMat, returns to Chicago on March 20 it will include over 900 exhibits from leading solution providers and a comprehensive Educational Conference of over 150 sessions focusing on best-in-class solutions for manufacturing and supply chain operations. ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, logistics and transportation industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems and smart, connected supply chain technologies.   “There is no substitute for ProMat where you can see all of the products in-action. You will find the solutions to your specific operational challenges, all in one location, from the exhibits, during the educational sessions and by speaking with the leading innovative material handling and supply chain suppliers,” says John Paxton, CEO, MHI. “We are excited to provide this market access and knowledge opportunity for our entire community.”   “Seeing the large array of solutions, meeting with leading suppliers and connecting with peers will allow attendees the opportunity to discover products, services and technologies that will be essential for their success in the future,” adds Daniel McKinnon, EVP of Exhibitions, MHI. ProMat 2023 Conference  In addition to the exhibits, the ProMat Conference will include four keynotes and over 150 educational seminars covering leading trends, best practices and state-of-the-art equipment and technology solutions that can make manufacturing and the entire supply chain work more resiliently, efficiently and profitably.    March 20 Keynote: Women in Leadership Panel  Moderated by Michelle Dilley, CEO of AWESOME   March 21 Keynote: A Conversation with José Andrés Chef and founder of World Central Kitchen March 22 Keynote Panel: Preview of MHI 2023 Annual Industry Report John Paxton, CEO, MHI and Deloitte Consulting LLP   March 22 Keynote: A Conversation with Ron Howard Director, Cultural Icon and Actor   March 22: MHI Industry Night with Nate Bargatze ProMat will feature the announcement of the 2023 MHI Innovation Award winners during an evening of music, food, drinks and entertainment by comedian Nate Bargatze on Wednesday, March 21. Tickets to this event are $50. The door prize for this event will be a trip of a lifetime vacation. Trip Value: $30,000. See official rules.   Women in the Supply Chain Industry Forum on March 20 at ProMat MHI has partnered with Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association and the Warehousing, Education and Research Council (WERC) to bring an afternoon of discussion, education and networking for women in our industry.     MHI Young Professionals Network Reception on March 20 at ProMat This event provides attendees to network and connect with young professionals in the material handling and supply chain industry.   ProMat Student Day on March 22 MHI in partnership with Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE), Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) and the Material Handling Education Foundation (MHEFI) presents Student Day at ProMat 2023 on Wednesday, March 22. This event features guided show floor tours to attract the future talent to our industry. ProMat is the largest manufacturing and supply chain expo held in the Americas. The event will be held March 20-23, 2023 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. For more information on exhibiting or attending ProMat, visit promatshow.com. ProMat is Powered by MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry as a whole through programming and events. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals. WERC is a division of MHI.   Contact: For more information on MHI activities and programming contact Carol Miller at 704-676-1190.

MODEX 2024 will be held March 11-14 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. MODEX is the largest international supply chain expo, bringing together solution providers who demonstrate the full spectrum of equipment, technology, systems and services for manufacturing, supply chain and transportation operations.    In March 2024, over 900 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on the MODEX show floor totaling over 405,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions.    MODEX exhibits will represent all segments of material handling, transportation and supply chain solutions, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems.   To make it easier for attendees to find the solutions they need, the MODEX show floor will be divided into solution-specific sections: Equipment and components for manufacturing/assembly logistics solutions, fulfillment and delivery solutions, information technology (IT) solutions, transportation and logistics solutions and emerging technology solutions.   MODEX 2024 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities.   Deadline for the Exhibit Space Draw is November 2, 2022 The deadline to participate in the MODEX Exhibit Space Draw is November 2, 2022. The Space Draw will be the first opportunity for organizations to secure exhibit space at this event.    For more information on exhibiting or attending MODEX, visit modexshow.com.   MODEX is Powered by MHI MHI is an international trade association that has represented the material handling, logistics and supply chain industry since 1945. MHI members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers and third-party logistics providers. MHI offers education, networking and solution sourcing for their members, their customers and the industry through its programming, events and WERC division. The association sponsors the ProMat and MODEX expos to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate manufacturing and supply chain professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.