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.

Spilamberto, Italy — [March 12th, 2026] — Sitma introduces PackHub, a compact Automated Bagging System designed to simplify and accelerate order fulfillment operations while easily integrating into existing packing workflows.Developed to support growing e-commerce and fulfillment environments, PackHub automates key steps of the bagging process, including bag feeding, orientation, and labeling, helping operators work more efficiently while maintaining a simple and intuitive workflow. By streamlining repetitive tasks, the system can reduce packaging time by up to 50% per order, increasing productivity without requiring a complete process overhaul.At the core of the system is a high-capacity hopper holding up to 500 bags, enabling continuous production with a large buffer capacity and minimizing operator intervention. Bags are singulated through a precision friction feeder and automatically rotated into the optimal position for ergonomic product insertion. A vacuum cup holding station stabilizes the bag during packing, while an integrated labeling unit prints and applies labels directly to the envelope.PackHub is designed for flexibility and easy integration. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for facilities with limited floor space, while the wheeled frame allows the unit to be easily repositioned within the production environment.“PackHub was developed to offer a practical automation step for operations looking to increase packaging productivity without completely redesigning their workflow,” said Stefano De Marco, Chief Executive Officer at Sitma. “By automating the most repetitive tasks while keeping operator interaction simple and intuitive, PackHub helps companies scale their fulfillment operations efficiently.”See PackHub in Action at Upcoming Trade ShowsSitma will showcase PackHub at two major intralogistics events in 2026. The system will be on display at LogiMAT 2026, taking place March 24–26 in Stuttgart, Germany, at the Sitma booth in Hall 6, Booth 6C12. PackHub will also be presented to the North American market at MODEX 2026, held April 13–16 in Atlanta, Georgia, where visitors can find Sitma at Booth A3127.Offering a practical step toward packaging automation, PackHub provides an efficient balance between manual packing and fully automated systems, helping companies improve throughput, reduce operator fatigue, and enhance packaging consistency.About SitmaSitma, a pioneer in packaging and sortation solutions since 1965, serves industries from consumer goods and frozen foods to graphic arts, direct mail, and e-commerce fulfillment. With a strong focus on sustainability, Sitma develops right-sized, eco-friendly packaging to minimize material use and optimize transportation. Operating in more than 70 countries with over 9,000 installations, Sitma’s product portfolio spans automated identification, order fulfillment, e-commerce automation, and sortation equipment.ContactMaurizio GianettoMarketing Managermaurizio.gianetto@sitma.com

Charlotte, N.C. & Alpharetta, Ga. – Jan. 28, 2025 – Murata Machinery USA, Inc. (Muratec USA) and Cimcorp, global leaders in logistics and warehouse automation, are set to showcase groundbreaking automation solutions at ProMat 2025, taking place March 17–20 at McCormick Place, booth S1231, in Chicago. This historic collaboration will celebrate a combined 100 years of innovation in North America while unveiling revolutionary, first-of-their-kind solutions designed to meet critical supply chain challenges head-on.Since Cimcorp Group joined the Murata Machinery Ltd. (MML) corporate network of affiliated companies in 2014, Cimcorp North America and Muratec USA have operated as independent sister companies. While maintaining their unique brand identities, they harness their complementary expertise in end-to-end automation to deliver innovative, scalable solutions that streamline supply chain operations—from material handling to order fulfillment.“Our partnership with Muratec is built on a shared vision of innovation and leadership,” said Pekka Natri, head of Region North America at Cimcorp. “ProMat 2025 will demonstrate how we’re delivering game-changing solutions that address the evolving needs of industries across North America. This is more than collaboration—it’s a revolution.”Muratec excels in material handling, inventory management, and order fulfillment, while Cimcorp specializes in optimizing and automating warehouse, distribution, and order fulfillment operations with specialized software for high-demand sectors like groceries and tire manufacturing.During the show, the companies will feature the much-anticipated debut of cutting-edge solutions:• Muratec’s Double Reach Shuttle ASRS: Making its North American rollout, this system is engineered to maximize storage density and throughput, redefining efficiency in material handling.• Cimcorp’s Dreamfield End-to-End Solution: A state-of-the-art automated warehousing solution designed to optimize fresh produce, dairy, bakery, and beverage warehousing and distribution, enabling faster, smarter, and more sustainable operations.• Dreamfield Futurelab: An interactive experience showcasing Cimcorp’s visionary innovations and commitment to the future of logistics automation for grocery retail, bakery, dairy, and beverage industries.• Muratec’s Integrated Model – An interactive showcase of Muratec’s end-to-end logistics solutions featuring automated cranes, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and Cimcorp picking systems, streamlining material flow to solve warehousing and distribution challenges.“This is not just a trade show—ProMat 2025 represents a defining moment in logistics automation,” said Masatoshi Wakabayashi, General Manager of Muratec USA’s Logistics & Automation Division. “The unveiling of Muratec’s Double Reach Shuttle and Cimcorp’s Dreamfield Future Lab are milestones that reflect our shared vision for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable future.”At ProMat 2025, attendees can engage with Muratec and Cimcorp experts, explore live technology demonstrations, and discover case studies highlighting the transformative impact of their integrated automation solutions. Attendees also can participate in exclusive, must-see events each day at 2 p.m. at booth S1231:• Day 1: Unveiling of Muratec’s Double Reach Shuttle, a cutting-edge solution to streamline material handling.• Day 2: A Joint Keynote Address hosted by Muratec and Cimcorp leadership, exploring their unified vision for transforming logistics automation in North America.• Day 3: Introduction of Cimcorp’s Dreamfield solution, featuring new CEO Veli-Matti Hakala, who will share insights on the company’s forward-thinking strategy.Historic Brand Convergence: 2025 is a milestone year for the Murata global alliance of automation pioneers. Parent company MML is celebrating 90 years of global leadership, and Cimcorp and Muratec USA each mark 50 years of automation innovation. This historic convergence underscores their shared legacy of excellence. Together at ProMat 2025, Muratec USA and Cimcorp NA will illustrate how their North American partnership is translating into practical, scalable solutions that transform logistics into a seamless, efficient process, setting a new standard for the industry.To schedule a meeting with Muratec USA and Cimcorp NA representatives at ProMat 2025, email Hayley Brown at hayley@dprgroup.com.About CimcorpCimcorp Group has been simplifying material flows since 1975. As a global system integrator, Cimcorp improves its customers profitability by offering unique solutions for automation that run with easy-to-use software and are backed by lifetime services that ensure success for customers in grocery retail and the tire industry. Cimcorp’s solutions are helping customers succeed in their markets, today and tomorrow. Backed by a worldwide network of offices and partners, and as a member of Murata Machinery Ltd., one of the world's largest logistics automation suppliers – Cimcorp offers local support globally. For more information, visit www.cimcorp.com.About Murata Machinery USA, Inc.Murata Machinery USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Murata Machinery Ltd.(MML), a pioneer and world leader in high-speed, automated turning and fabrication, logistics & material handling automation, clean factory automation, and textile machinery. Established in 1935, MML is the sole manufacturer of Muratec brand machinery and systems that supports North American manufacturing and logistics companies across regional and global supply chains, accelerating their competitive edge through integrated automation. Manufacturing for half a century with thousands of installations worldwide and first-to-market innovations, Muratec is trusted by leading global brands and suppliers. Each solution uses time-tested technology and is customized to meet customers' exact needs with flexibility and personalized support provided for the life of the system. For more information, visit www.muratec-usa.com.ContactCimcorp Automation Ltd.Kristiner Taylor(289) 253-7819kristiner.taylor@cimcorp.comwww.cimcorp.comMurata Machinery USA, Inc.Charles Wisniowski704-394-8331, ext. 1316charles.wisniowski@muratec-usa.comwww.muratec-usa.com

The Project ChallengeWith a wide range of order profiles from its footwear and apparel customer, Allbirds, UPS Supply Chain Solutions® needed a scalable yet standardized automation solution that could be seamlessly expanded across multiple distribution centers.Our SolutionAfter initially starting with 27 shelf-to-person picking robots, UPS Supply Chain Solutions® scaled its automation to 184 robots across two warehouses covering the West and East Coast of the United States. The successful implementation equipped UPS Supply Chain Solutions® and Allbirds with the agility and scalability needed to navigate changes in channel shifts, consumer expectations, seasonality and product categories. By leveraging mobile robotic solutions, UPS Supply Chain Solutions® and Alllbirds have achieved higher warehouse productivity and efficiency with faster and more accurate order fulfillment operations.

Diversco’s largest warehouse in Cambridge, Ontario, inventories and distributes parts and supplies for their watersports, scuba and marine divisions. As the 52,000 square foot warehouse was quickly running out of space, Diversco now uses three Shuttle XPs with PPG inventory management software to manage small parts inventory (4,500 SKUs) and rack and shelving with handheld RF scanning technology for large item inventory (400 SKUs).

Newegg's growing business and focus on customer satisfaction required increased capacity and service levels for customers on the East Coast. The company invested in a new distribution center with a zone routing conveyor system to ensure that over 98 percent of Newegg customer orders will ship within one business day of ordering.

New innovation in location technology could revolutionize how we fulfill orders. By taking advantage of these technologies both inside and outside the warehouse, supply chain professionals can continue to build stronger, more efficient processes.

This is a paid advertisement. Automating your packing slip process and shipping labeling can lead to a more efficient, effective, and sustainable order fulfillment process. Discover FOX IV's three unique solutions to automate your packing slip and shipping label processes. See how these different solutions can boost your productivity, reduce costs, and reduce waste.

MAVs deliver a lot of benefits, including higher efficiency, productivity, safety, and flexibility. To provide safe, efficient, and cost-effective movement of materials. To supplement or replace manually-operated material handling vehicles, such as forklifts, tuggers, and order pickers. For greater flexibility in material transport compared to fixed solutions, such as conveyors. In response to shortages in labor, allowing reassignment of employees to areas where they can add more value. To eliminate associate travel time during picking and order fulfillment.

In a typical warehouse operation, the order-picking process consists of retrieving products from storage locations to fulfill customer orders. The process has received a great deal of attention from warehousing practitioners and researchers because it is generally the most labor-consuming operation in a warehouse, accounting for approximately 35% of a warehouse operating cost. From a general point of view, there are two basic order picking systems, namely parts-to-picker, and picker-to-parts. In the former, some sort of automated system is used to bring the products to the picker (i.e., the picking operator), whereas in the latter, the picker travels along the aisles of the warehouse retrieving the required products from the storage locations. Among these two types of systems, it has been well documented that the largest proportion of order picking systems found worldwide belong to the picker-to-parts type, probably because of the lower capital investment required and the flexibility and adaptability of human workers.

Click Here to Read More

Click Here to Read More

Guest blog from MHI Member Company DTG...

In the bustling world of eCommerce, the heart of warehouse efficiency pulses within the final 100 feet. This pivotal space, integral to order fulfillment, has remained largely untouched by many optimization strategies - until now. Our latest episode of the MHI Industry Leadership podcast delves deep into the role of Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRCs) in these critical zones, casting a spotlight on SLAM - Scan, Label, Apply, and Manifest - processes. Joined by seasoned experts Chuck Cobb and Steve Castle, we explore transformative techniques that not only enhance efficiency but also skyrocket outbound package accuracy. Their insights, garnered from decades in the material handling and VRC industries, are a goldmine for anyone keen on supercharging their order fulfillment operations. Don't miss out on these game-changing insights! Tune in, and discover how to elevate your warehouse operations to new heights!