IMHX 2022 - Event Issue - September

50 atit’sSynergyOUNOTT!celebrates50thanniversaryIMHX 6 - 8 September | NEC Birmingham, UK THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS SHOW 2022 IMHX IN www.imhx.netPREVIEW

Synergy initially focused on developing innovative solutions for vehicle route scheduling but 35 years later launched its best-in-breed SnapFulfil WMS, for which it is Backrenowned.in2007, the SnapFulfil suite was architected for the web utilising Adobe Flex and Microsoft.NET-based C# programming. Its launch spearheaded real time data information to optimise warehouse management, without sacrificing any functionality. Today, its unique rules-based configuration engine delivers a highly flexible, agile and cost effective solution that is used in leading e-commerce, D2C and 3PL warehouses around the world.

Included since 2012 in Gartner’s elite WMS Magic Quadrant, Synergy has a global footprint with offices in the UK and North America. It continues to pioneer with remote and selfimplementation capabilities that empower customers to handle their own multi-site rollouts and develop more sustainable business models.

50 years ahead of the curve

One of the world’s pioneers of cloud-based warehouse management software, Synergy Logistics, is celebrating its half century Establishedmilestone.in1972,

E-COMMERCE FULFILMENT BOOM

So, while the business landscape is ever changing, it’s those retail firms who make smart data driven technology investments – without a large capital outlay investment up front or costly infrastructure changes – who can quickly reap the benefits.

The shift to D2C retail also means that data gathering and insight is ever more important when it comes to understanding not only goods in and out and staffing patterns, but consumer habits. This need for real time data will continue to drive demand for intuitive WMS, with built-in flexibility and capability to store and interpret data in one place. The power of data delivered by SnapFulfil enables customers to keep up with demand while scaling for growth. ›› EVENT production output ramp up eight-fold since switching to SnapFulfil

Highly configurable WMS software meant every aspect of the recent e-commerce fulfilment boom could be automated, streamlined and made intuitive for floor staff and management. As leading brands switched up their game plan by going direct to consumer (D2C), Synergy helped many of them seamlessly achieve their D2C ambitions – and without seven or eight figure Offeringinvestments.responsive

Synergy Logistics –

WMS technology innovator Synergy Logistics is celebrating 50 years in business

Intuitive and scalable, it also has the capacity to adapt and evolve with customer service innovations that the top-tier of retailers are repeatedly introducing, such as distributed order managing, waveless and priority based order processing and optimal returns processing.

support options, SnapFulfil helps change management by allowing the flow of data and order of operations to be regularly updated – empowering decision makers to store, organise, deliver, and track the accomplishment of work throughout a facility.

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THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS

Synergy Chairman, Hugh Stevens, has been at the helm of the company for more than 40 years and proudly remembers launching one of the world’s first warehouse management systems, Locator, in 1985. Hugh continues to innovate and shape the future of warehouse infrastructure, saying: “My mantra has always been stick to your knitting! It’s easy to be distracted by market noise but our specialism is warehouse management and I never lose sight of that. We have survived and thrived for half a century by looking ahead. Rather than fearing change, I’ve always embraced it, anticipating what’s next and investing today in tomorrow’s product.”

Synergy CEO, Tony Dobson, says: “We bring a base feature set tailored to the specific challenges faced by 3PLs. Our software is highly configurable and, after training, can easily be managed by in-house teams to support everything from new customer onboarding to process changes. We’ve standardised our interfaces to support easily understood and accomplished integrations and also come to the table with a library of existing applications to help ease technical sales processes.”

All about speed-to-value partnership, this ‘self sustainable’ and highly configurable implementation option (with support as required) enables simple and effective multi-site onboardingonce clients have been instructed in the first one or two - for a seamless self-rollout across their DC estate.

›› Additionally, a growing numbers of high growth 3PLs also sought a more scalable, easily configured, API friendly and robust pathway to meet the new challenges of multichannel fulfilment.

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Specialist temperature controlled 3PL provider, Moran Logistics, has seen its production output ramp up eight-fold since switching to SnapFulfil. It’s able to handle and automate the many parameters and anomalies of their fast-moving environment, such as varied SKU and product dating, no split pallets and dynamic pick slots to replace out-of-date items with fresh product, which removes risk. Subsequently, they are also investigating further integration of WMS and their existing TMS software, so that haulier activity and loading is also automated via SnapFulfil.

To facilitate this seismic shift in supply chain demand, Synergy established two specific innovations in service delivery that are helping to shape the supply chain now and for the future. The first was a Remote Implementation (RI) initiative that went full speed ahead during the COVID-19 crisis. With RI, regardless of warehouse location or whatever physical access barriers may exist, if there is an internet connection, the team can swiftly, and cost effectively implement. Not only does an RI approach negate travel time, it also enables Synergy to handle multiple implementations concurrently, which means a lower total cost to the client. It leverages the remote tools that have been in greater use during the pandemic and enables SnapFulfil to lead the way in delivering a highly customisable user Theexperience.second innovation was the configuration of a version of SnapFulfil that enabled clients to onboard the WMS solution themselves. This Self Implementation (SI) approach provides clients with greater control, more independence, and the development of internal system expertise.

September | COVER STORY

SERVICE DELIVERY INNOVATIONS

Customers are increasingly enthusiastic about having the flexibility to implement on their own schedule and aligned much more closely with their own IT roadmap. In this way, leading US online farmer-to-farmer and Ag tech company, Farmers Business Network, fast-tracked its expansion plans and in just a year saw 15 new DCs fully operational and powered by SnapFulfil. Their volumes have rocketed exponentially and that’s down to the micro DC approach, which facilitates much slicker, quicker and cheaper shipping. They have since built their TMS integration around it, plus with an expansion roll out into Australia and Canada now underway have even created their own custom API with SnapFulfil. So, looking forward Synergy is visualising a fulfilment future where demand for an agile and flexible digital transition will be as important as a company’s products and services. Businesses are now adjusting their game plans on a regular basis, whether introducing D2C or new lines to meet evolving purchasing habits. Leading edge technology is central to tackling these sudden challenges, satisfying demand, staying competitive, plus managing labour efficiency and Tonyproductivity.Dobson adds: “Having a WMS that is both responsive and able to provide easily accessible, real-time data is paramount to improving efficiencies warehouse wide. With warehousing cost control set to be a continuing key trend in a systematically tough economy we are well-placed to help logistics operations achieve

Top of the WMS wish list for 3PLs looking to make the step-up is a cloud-based solution offering flexible and specific workflows and processes to meet individual customer needs, as well as multiple picking/packing approaches to ensure the application can support efficient approaches in structuring and prioritising work. Superior functionality is another must have. SnapFulfil is especially appealing for 3PLs with features such as multi-owner, best-of-breed billing software, plus an information-rich portal offering enhanced visibility. The former offers the highest levels of detail, accuracy and clarity and the latter brings greater visibility and a more granular approach and all its associated efficiencies. But identifying the solution is just half of the challenge. Delivering it while continuing to satisfy existing customer requirements - and without incurring custom coding costs and delays for new clientsis a different matter.

It will see hundreds of managers, from across the UK, come together to hear best practice advice.

6 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT UKMHA COMMENT | September

The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) will be exhibiting along with CFTS at this year’s IMHX on stand 5D12. Having been formed last year by the merger of the industry’s two most respected trade associations – the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) and the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA), this is their first exhibition as UKMHA.

offerMoney-savingatIMHX

The UKMHA are running an exclusive money-saving offer for visitors to their stand at this year’s IMHX.

UKMHA are running an IMHX exclusive offer for visitors to their stand: For those who buy a ticket at the show to the upcoming Safety Convention, they will receive a free second ticket and will also receive a year’s free SUG membership. This offer is on a first-come basis with limited purchases on each of the three days of IMHX. Safety is at the heart of the organisation and the Safety Convention this year’s event is to be held at The Heart of England Conference Centre on 17th November. This is the most authoritative event of its kind in the materials handling calendar.

The event is part of the Association’s drive to large-scale change for the better and this year’s event will be focussed on operator training. Collectively, Safety Convention delegates are responsible for the lives of many thousands of workers across ››

However, whilst vital, operator training is only one element of providing a safe site, and the Convention will also provide access to specialists in assistance systems, ensuring pedestrians and MHE are kept apart, safe handling of non-palletised loads, and Advancesmore.

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Every year there are beenwhichtruckfatalities,injuries,seriousincludingtooperatorscouldhaveprevented

›› the UK. It is crucial that they have the very best, most practical and valuable information and this is exactly what the Safety Convention strives to do. Following the theme of this year’s National Forklift Safety Day, the UKMHA Safety Convention will be looking at an holistic approach to ‘The Life Cycle of Operator Training’. Training is often seen as a linear journey, but this is far from accurate. Training should be an ongoing process with no end point. Refresher training is equally as important as new training and without regular review operators, supervisors and managers can become complacent and this can prove to be a dangerous, even fatal, mistake.

Sharing the UKMHA stand, will be their company responsible for the training and accreditation of providers of Thorough Examinations, CFTS.

The distinctive CFTS mark is a guarantee that a Thorough Examination is full and valid under law and has been carried out by a fully trained engineer in accordance with strict quality Onlyprocedures.companies that are officially accredited to CFTS can use the distinctive kitemark on literature, certification and reports, and can place the CFTS stickers on the trucks they inspect.

Thorough Examination of all lifting equipment by a ‘competent person’ is a legal requirement, but understanding what this encompasses can be challenging. CFTS staff will be on hand to answer questions about what equipment is in scope of the regulations, legal obligations and the correct inspection intervals, and how to recognise a truly competent person.

www.ukmha.org.uk

The CFTS sticker shows that the equipment has received a genuinely Thorough Examination, satisfying both LOLER and PUWER regulations. There are now hundreds of CFTS-accredited companies ensuring coverage all around the UK and Ireland.

Both CFTS and UKMHA will have their expert teams available on the IMHX stand to offer advice and guidance. Visitors are encouraged to visit stand 5D12 to find out more about the work UKMHA and CFTS carry out in the industry, particularly around best-practice, health and safety, and legal obligations. Visitors can also discover the benefits to their business of being part of these important organisations as well as taking advantage of the exclusive IMHX offers. 

Every year there are serious injuries, including fatalities, to truck operators and to pedestrians and co-workers, which could have been prevented if properly trained staff had followed safe systems of work. In fact, ‘struck by a moving vehicle’ is the second most common cause of workplace fatality, accounting for 23 deaths in the year 2021/22. As companies continue to invest in new material handling equipment, storage solutions and technology, it is imperative that operators are given adequate training to ensure they know how to use the equipment safely in their specific working environment.

in technology introduce new hazards for those who maintain equipment as well as for those operating it, and UKMHA will use IMHX to launch a new Guidance Note specifically dealing with safe working practices for maintenance of high voltage material handling equipment. Normally free only to members and available to purchase for non-members, copies will be available on the IMHX stand. UKMHA are also using IMHX as an opportunity to highlight their new Safety Alerts. These alerts, which will be published regularly on the UKMHA website and are freely accessible to all comers, have been created by the UKMHA Health & Safety Group to highlight hazards and safe working practices for technicians working on MHE. Also on this year’s stand, UKMHA will be highlighting another of their annual events, the Archies, formerly known as the Awards for Excellence. Every year, entrants seek to win the ultimate accolade, a hand-cast Archie statuette, modelled on Archimedes — the father of engineering. The award has become the symbol of distinction within the materials handling sector, so to honour this most coveted prize, the event will henceforth be known as The Archies. The inaugural Archies is taking place on 15th October at Hilton Metropole Birmingham and will celebrate the best in the material handling industry.

The warehouse of the future will have its capacity management system based on data, using smart AI technology. Data is everywhere, and businesses must take it all into consideration and use it as indicators and predictors for what is working well and what needs improvement. With automated technology, there are fewer errors in planning and more effective space utilisation. Automation of repetitive tasks is an essential factor for the future of warehousing, where the top priorities are enabling staff to focus on key operations, using space wisely and more profitably, whilst attracting and retaining employees.

The warehouse of tomorrow needs to feature two key elements - automation and digitalisation, says Andrei Danescu, CEO of BotsAndUS.

The warehouse of the past was a place to store goods that were moved on pallets in and out. Warehouses were perceived as a big storage area deemed by the corporate world as an unproductive necessity and a cost centre. However, perception has changed nowadays with warehouses having a much more critical role, which is to keep the promises of marketing and sales departments to meet the customers' expectations. In today's business world, it's all about how smart the system operates. Currently, order turnaround - which translates into how much time it takes to pick and pack an order to be ready for pickup by a delivery company - is measured in hours rather than days.

The perfect blend

10 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION | September

››

Supply chain management involves rapid response to changing conditions, identifying new opportunities and implementing new solutions, which are never easy tasks. The business disruption caused by Covid-19 has resulted in 82% of retailers changing their approach to stock management.

The B2B Metaverse is one of the most exciting concepts in the industry, as it allows for the creation of digital twins enhanced by real-time data, especially in warehouses, You can virtually tour all of the warehouse facilities to analyse operations and identify in real-time aspects of the operation that require improvement. With the rapid advancement of logistics technology, predictive analytics and scenario testing can unwrap countless possibilities. BotsAndUs intelligence aims to increase the efficiency, productivity and connectivity of existing and future supply chain networks.

BotsAndUs robots work alongside warehouse employees

A comprehensive transparent supply chain and operations are essential for driving innovation and responding to disruptions in real-time. For example, warehouses can test whether specific technologies or layouts will improve operations without physically doing so. This reduces disruptions and maintenance time and saves unnecessary costs. Real-time data coupled with digital twins providing accurate, up-to-date insights into how warehouses are designed, planned, operated and optimised. Businesses can make incremental cost savings that, when added up, lead to significantly improved profit margins.

DIGITAL TWINS PROVIDE DEEPER INSIGHTS

A digital twin in this context is a digital representation of the warehouse space combined with real-time data which can replicate operations without causing interruptions. Furthermore, AI driven digital twins of warehouses can help managers to optimise processes while having complete, remote visibility in real-time. By leveraging AI driven digital twins, customers gain a deeper understanding of their operations and can optimise their supply chain, from sourcing and planning to distribution and logistical processes. The warehouse's advanced and predictive analytics from the digital twin system, improves forecasting and drives more intelligent decision-making. With advanced analytics, businesses can accurately forecast demand, plan inventory locations, determine stock demand value, and reduce risks. Even with complex supply chains, companies can respond quickly to supply chain issues, manage complexity and demand resulting from new channels and optimise picking and storage intelligently.

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PRACTISING RISK-FREE TESTING

A live digital twin creates a bridge between data from existing warehouse management systems with live data from within the warehouse. A digital twin empowered system can alert if the data doesn't match, allowing for the problem to be fixed immediately.

As a result of using this system, warehouse inventory counts can be eliminated, space can be better utilised and package misplacement can be reduced. Taking this to the next level, a virtual representation of warehouses' physical supply chain allows businesses to combine data from multiple sources to achieve a complete picture of operations, stock levels, exception planning and other Currently,information.alack of visibility in operations frequently can lead to items being out of stock, ageing manufacturing inventory or disruptions related to weather. Supply chains which can self-monitor and be self-maintained by constant data exchange between suppliers, devices and logistics providers will be transformed into an intelligent predictable system. In the future it will be supply chain management that will make or break a company. A proven solution for the future is blending the right robotic automation with existing operations, providing improved efficiency and reduced costs. An integrated real-time, 360-degree inventory enables businesses to gain greater visibility, improving efficiency, decreasing over and under-stocking and enhancing planning and The system also provides automated daily stock checks, which companies cannot perform manually, reducing the time and cost of collecting reliable real-time inventory data. This data supports managers in driving better business decisions and ensures financial compliance by identifying gaps and inconsistencies as they Additionally,occur. the technology reduces revenue leakage associated with lost, misplaced or non-compliant assets. Plus, warehouses that sell rack space can see what space is available at any given time, increasing revenues by better utilising their racks. BotsAndUs is an innovative robotics and artificial intelligence company. Their platform, powered by autonomous robots, delivers real-time data and insights for the receiving, storing and dispatch stages. This means that it offers companies unprecedented real-time access into their operations. It is the only platform that automates inventory management and storage processes. BotsAndUs robots are fully autonomous, work alongside warehouse employees, and can quickly and accurately detect labels (RFID, QR/barcodes).

The continuous data stream does not require any human effort and it is easier and more efficient to collect data using automated methods than to gather data manually, which can produce inaccurate results. The images and videos captured by the robots are processed and directly transferred to the Warehouse Management System (WMS) for immediate review, increasing productivity whilst reducing processing and tracking time. 

›› Many factors are holding back warehouses from adopting all that digitalisation and automation has to offer. But those that do embrace available solutions will be best placed to benefit from the technological advancements of the future. And in the race to optimise logistics and supply chain, many companies are turning to a digital twin AI enabled system, which is a 3D replica of the space enhanced by real-time data.

Daifuku has been specifically responsible for the design and installation of the storage and retrieval systems in the Pantry and Larder Store within the Ingredients Kitchen area of the GA Pet Foods’ facility. This solution comprises 12 automated cranes (six in each chamber), with associated racking, which creates 21,000 unique storage locations. These are used to store raw ingredients and finished products in the Pantry / Larder Store respectively, prior to transportation (via the automated camels) to the extrusion facility, where the finished, dry pet food is formed. All of the warehouse systems are controlled by Daifuku’s WCS partner, Invar. Having opened the fully automated production facility this summer, the next project on GA’s agenda is its finished packaging line, which will further improve its service levels to global ChairmancustomersofGAPet

“Right from the start, we made this intention clear, paying each technology provider for their time during the pre-engineering phase - so that they could provide us with the best, most detailed designs and proposals. We didn’t just ask firms for their ‘best price’. We wanted this to be a quality-driven process and not one that focused solely on the lowest cost.

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“Having now opened our fully-automated Ingredients Kitchen, the results speak for themselves. This operation, we believe, sets new global standards for not just pet food production, but also human food processing – especially in the areas of traceability and operational efficiency.”  One of three huge planttheingredientstovehiclesautomated‘camel’usedtransporttopre-extrusion

projectPet

The Pantry is where raw ingredients are stored prior processingto

Food Partners, Roger Bracewell, said: “From the outset of our automation journey, we made it clear to potential technology partners that we wanted to create a collaborative team, where genuine dialogue could take place among all of our automation partners.

Japanese factory automation specialist Daifuku has been instrumental in creating what is considered to be Europe’s most advanced production plant dedicated to the manufacture of high-quality ‘own label’ pet food. Serving more than 2,500 customers globally, Lancashire-based GA Pet Food Partners produces over 80,000 tonnes of complete dog and cat food to strict human-grade standards. Its innovative use of intelligent automation underpins the business’ operational efficiencies, while enabling it to manufactures 930 different products for its global customer base of pet food brands. Being able to manage such complexity, while maintaining the highest food standards, is largely down to the company’s adoption of best-in-class technology, which includes four fully automated fork lift trucks (called ‘Henrys’), high bay storage and retrieval systems, sorting transfer vehicles (STVs), conveyors and three huge automated guided vehicles (camels) called Snap, Crackle and Pop.

During 2020 and the onset of the pandemic, an explosion in demand for computer equipment was experienced, prompted by people having to work from home during the succession of national lockdowns. It quickly became apparent that the increase in order volumes being processed by the company warranted an expansion of its material handling fleet. To meet this growing demand, Westcoast increased its material handling fleet with additional TSP Series turret trucks and GPC Series low level order pickers with long forks plus the addition of Crown’s new ESR 1000 Series reach truck equipped with 13.5 metre masts. The assistance systems inherent in the ESR 1000 have enabled Westcoast's operators to rapidly improve their efficiency. The truck’s functionality enables faster working at height, aided by Auto Height Select, while Xpress Lower can double lowering speed safely for improved productivity.

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During the procurement process, safety was a number one priority for Westcoast and so Crown recommended their InfoLink® system be fitted to all trucks. The InfoLink system helps improve the safety of operations and protects employees by making them more safety conscious. ESR operators receive coaching through on-screen safety reminders, encouraging safe behaviour when driving the trucks, with real time dynamic coaching messages. Through InfoLink, Westcoast manages operator certifications and lift truck access electronically. This helps to prevent unauthorised truck operation while also monitoring impacts to help reduce accidents and unintended Indamage.addition to its material handling equipment, Crown also provides Westcoast with a full support service, short-term hire – bridging and support machines during peak periods, cleaning equipment, battery change facilities plus other products across the range.  Westcoast’s new building comprises a 31,500 square metre storage and distribution facility

Westcoast Ltd is the distributor arm of the Westcoast Group, one of the largest private companies in the UK. Westcoast is specialised in wholesale distribution of IT equipment from leading brands such as HP, Microsoft, Lenovo, Apple and others to resellers, retailers and office product dealers in the UK and DuringEurope.2019, strong growth prompted the company to expand their operations, adding a new site in Andover, Hampshire to complement existing facilities in Theale and Milton Keynes.

Westcoast – a wholesale distributor of IT equipment – is benefiting from the introduction of Crown intralogistics solutions at its new facility in Andover.

The new building comprises a 31,500 square metre storage and distribution facility while a further 7,000 square metres is utilised as a configuration centre. To support the Andover operation, a new material handling fleet was ordered from its long-time supplier Crown Lift Trucks. After consultation on warehouse and racking layouts with Crown’s logistics specialists, Westcoast opted for a solution founded on a fleet of Crown TSP Series Very Narrow Aisle turret trucks equipped with the automation technologies Auto Positioning System (APS) and Auto Fence. The VNA trucks are supported by a mixed fleet comprising ESR Series reach trucks with lift heights to 13.5 metres, SP Series stock pickers, GPC Series order pickers equipped with short forks, WT Series powered ride-on pallet trucks with rear entry and SC Series four-wheel electric counterbalance forklifts. A specific Westcoast requirement was to improve productivity and safety. Part of the Crown solution was to specify the TSP Series turret trucks with Crown’s Auto Positioning System, enabling the truck to take the most efficient and effective route to the next rack location, increasing productivity by up to 25 per cent. Crown’s Auto Fence system was also specified, helping to promote safe operation by automatically slowing travel speed, stopping or limiting lift height within the aisle, based on the location of the truck.

New MHE fleet boosts productivity and safety

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Switch to VNA storage boosts specialist’sfulfilmentcapacity

The Flexi Truck’s iconic articulated design is ideally suited to modern fulfilment centre operations because it saves space, increases productivity and allows safe access to stacking aisles and stored products.

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“With the Flexi Truck’s unique, smooth independent power steering, pallets can be picked and put-away on the top beam of the highest racking smoothly, safely and efficiently,” says John Maguire.

Having opened its first facility some nine years ago, FuturePro has grown rapidly and today the company operates a total of five fulfilment warehouses located close to Reading, some 35 minutes from West London. Mark Wallace, FuturePro Logistics’ managing director, comments: “To achieve optimum on-line order fulfilment performance it is important to deploy the most suitable materials handling equipment. Our investment in Flexi Trucks was based, in part, on the Flexi’s ability to deliver improved space-efficiency, enhanced productivity and the benefits of multi-tasking which are so important in our highly flexible operations.”

With its headquarters, design and manufacturing facilities in the UK, Narrow Aisle Ltd has supplied over 10,000 Flexi articulated forklift trucks to users throughout the world and has a global network of over 65 authorised distributors. Visitors to IMHX 2022 can see the latest Flexi ACiON and Flexi LiTHiON VNA truck ranges.  www.futureprologistics.comwww.flexi.co.uk

The racking aisles at the Thatcham warehouse are now two metres wide – whereas a traditional reach truck would require three metre aisles within which to safely work. The top beam is set at eight metres high. Replenishment stock is held in the upper levels of the system and pallets are dropped to ground level, where order picking can take place as and when required. In addition, a 7,000 ft mezzanine structure provides additional floor space for order picking and packing, while client dispatches and returns are processed in the area created underneath the raised structure. A diverse range of products - from FMCG goods, beverages, and electronics – is stored and fulfilled often overnight for a client list that includes both well-known brand names and start-up businesses.

Initially two Flexi Trucks are in operation at FuturePro’s Thatcham warehouse where they are used for a range of tasks including unloading incoming delivery vehicles and transferring loads to their allocated position within the racking. Activity levels are always high with the volume of customer orders driving the need to constantly replenish picking stock on the mezzanine and at floor level within the store’s main racked area.

Picking pallets at height is not a problem for the Flexi Truck thanks to the truck’s integrated sideshifting carriage and tilting HiViS heavy duty ‘I’ beam mast design that eliminates mast sway – even at heights of eight metres and over. This feature – which is unique to Flexi - enhances the truck’s already class-leading operator visibility to both sides of the aisle.

e-Commerce fulfilment specialist FuturePro Logistics has increased storage capacity by some 30 per cent at its newly built 50,000 sq ft warehouse in Berkshire. By switching to a very narrow aisle (VNA) racking scheme served by Flexi Truck articulated forklift technology, e-Commerce fulfilment specialist FuturePro Logistics has increased storage capacity by some 30 per cent at its newly built 50,000 sq ft warehouse in Thatcham, Berkshire.

Flexi Trucks feature digital electric motor technology and independent drive and hydraulic motors are standard. The truck’s unique independent power-steering motor provides precise steering with no ‘kickback’ and, because 20 per cent less battery energy is consumed, one overnight battery charge is all that is required to ensure that the truck performs at optimum efficiency throughout a full working day. “The control systems at the heart of the Flexi Truck deliver greater reliability and higher productivity combined with significantly reduced operating and maintenance costs,” says John Maguire, managing director of Narrow Aisle Ltd, manufacturer of the Flexi Truck range.

www.imhx.net 17THE UK’S LARGEST INTRALOGISTICS EVENTWWW.B i GDUG.CO.UK 0330 332 6312 STORAGE PROBLEMS? We’ve heard it all. Better yet, we’ve solved it all. Get in touch with our Business Services team today to book your FREE consultation. The trusted experts in space utilisation.

www.imhx.net 19THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENTLoading Bay and In Plant Safety | Temperature Control | Energy Saving Solutions | Maintanance & Repair +44www.ritehite.co.uk(0)1795842370 • ukoperations@ritehite.com From parking bay floor to loading dock ceiling, WEʼVE GOT EVERY ANGLE COVERED Experts in Loading Bay Safety Solutions Much happens in your loading bay, we’re here to make sure it all goes forward safely. We assess every hazardous area, creating robust and practical safety solutions that enable your people to work with high levels of protection and productivity. For safety solutions that cover every angle, contact Rite-Hite today.

WHAT... For 21 years, IMHX has been at the heart of the UK’s warehouse logistics and materials handling sector. Free to attend, it’s where leading suppliers of forklifts, warehouse robotics, automation, racking, storage, lifting equipment and supply chain tech gather to introduce the latest products and services into this dynamic industry. 

WHO... Perfect for those working in the warehouse and distribution sector, in supply chain logistics, e-commerce retail and the manufacturing / automotive industries, IMHX brings you the latest technology and critical thinking through a free seminar programme, live demonstrations and right across a show floor comprised of some 300 exhibitors As an opportunity for networking, its second to none with thousands of materials handling professionals bringing the NEC to life alongside suppliers and members of our key association partners, including UKMHA, AMHSA and UKWA 

IMHX runs 6-8th September 2022 in Hall 5 of the NEC. The doors open 9:30am each day and the show closes at 5:00pm (4:00pm on the final day). With the next IMHX not scheduled until 2025, it’s certainly one not to miss! 

The Birmingham NEC is one of the most accessible event venues in the UK. Whether you plan to drive, fly or take a train, getting to the NEC is a breeze. There is ample parking for visitors and Hall 5 sits at the heart of the NEC complex. For sat-nav directions, please follow B40 1NT 

Visitors are invited to REGISTER, FREE OF CHARGE, in advance of the show to avoid any queues on the day. For detailed information about what’s on, hotel accommodation and getting to the NEC, visit the show WEBSITE  www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT

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PARKING!FREE

Visitors travelling to IMHX 2022 by car can park at the exhibition venue, the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, entirely free of charge thanks to the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), who will sponsor parking charges for the duration of the three-day-event. Visitors can claim their free parking pass at www.imhx.net/en/travel/visitor-parking.html

IMHX Essentials

WHERE...

WHEN...HOW...

www.imhx.net September | A-Z Two Types of Automation That Can Instantly Power, Optimise, and Protect Supply Chain Operations Discover how at stand 5B90

22 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT A-Z | September A-ZExhibitors COMPANY STAND COMPANY STAND 51T ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS 5G92 ACCESSAFE 5B46 ACR 5D90 ACTEMIUM AUTOMATION NOTTINGHAM 5AM21 ADDGARDS 5B16 ADVANCED HANDLING 5F118 ADVENTURA WORKS SA 5D96 AGANTO 5D01 ALBRIGHT INTERNATIONAL 5D75 AMBER INDUSTRIES 5B100 AMH LIFE SERVICES 5B47 AMHSA AMHSA PAVILION AR RACKING SA 5F42 ARMSTRONG NIELD 5C86 ARROW INDUSTRIAL GROUP 5C97 ASG ENERGY SERVICES UK13A ASG PROJECTED SAFETY SOLUTIONS UK13 ASG SERVICES 5E02 A-SAFE UK 5E35 AUTOSTORE SYSTEM 5F75 AXELENT 5B115 B + B ATTACHMENTS 5F30 BBI 5D91 BATTERY SERVICE HUB 5F116 BETA SOLUTIONS 5C62 BG LOG UK 5D95 BIL GROUP 5A46 BIL GROUP 5A45 BITO STORAGE SYSTEM 5B15 BIXOLON EUROPE GMBH 5A80 BOPLAN 5D21 BOSCH REXROTH 5D101 BOTSANDUS UK15 BOWE INTRALOGISTICS 5F44 BRAVIISOL S.R.L 5D20 BROTHER UK 5C84 BS HANDLING SYSTEMS 5B48 C.M.C. S.P.A. 5C61 CAJA ROBOTICS 5F77 CARBON8LIGHTING 5F86 CAVAION BAUMANN UK 5C107 CESAB MATERIAL HANDLING UK 5D40 CILT (UK) 5D93 CL TYRES 5E34 CLEGG FOOD PROJECTS 5C02 CLOSE BROTHERS ASSET FINANCE 5C45 COGNEX UK 5B35 COGRI GROUP 5C60

24 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT A-Z | September COMBILIFT 5F33 COMBILIFT 5F40 COMPACT MANUFACTURING 5A35 COMPACT MANUFACTURING 5F01 CONISTER BANK 5G94 CONKER 5C93 CONVEYOR SYSTEMS 5D30 CONVEYOR UNITS 5F20 CONVEYOR UNITS 5F41 COPRISYSTEMS UK11 COVARIANT 5D10 CPA ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS 5C94 CRACKING RACKING 5G104 CRAEMER UK 5C40 CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY 5C80 CROWN LIFT TRUCKS 5E31 DAIFUKU CO 5F68 DALTON SAFETY 5D99 DAMON TECHNOLOGY GROUP 5A74 DATA INSTALLATION & SUPPLIES 5F87 DAVIS DERBY 5B64 DIAMOND PHOENIX AUTOMATION 5AM24 DLL GROUP 5E75 ECOLIGHTING UK 5A22 EDMOLIFT UK 5B24 EK ROBOTICS 5AM30 ELEMENT LOGIC UK 5A20 ELMLEIGH ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS 5AM22 ELOCKER 5D108 ELOKON GMBH 5E55 ENERSYS UK 5B50 ENGELMANN & BUCKHAM 5AM29 EPAL 5F95 ESPEX BATTERIES 5F61 EUROPEAN MEZZANINE 5A70 EUROROLL 5E44 EUROSORT BV 5E60 EXOTEC 5F100 EXPORTA 5E73 FALLPROTEC 5A82 FARAONE INDUSTRIE S.P.A 5F94 FASTRAX CONVEYORS & ROLLERS 5E39 FATH 5C100 FB CHAIN DZ4 FIVES 5B27 FLEXQUBE 5C55 FMH CONVEYORS & MOTION06 5A25 FORK TRUCK TYRES 5G50 GARANTELL 5E72 GEBHARDT EUROPEAN CONVEYOR SYSTEMS 5F88 GEEK PLUS 5F50 GEM ONE NV 5F96 GERMAN BIONIC SYSTEMS UK8B GENIE GRIPS 5E01 GEORGE UTZ 5F67 G-FORCE EUROPE.COM 5G53 GMR SAFETY INC 5C96 GO PLASTIC PALLETS 5D70 GPC INDUSTRIES 5F64 GRAMMER SEATING SYSTEMS 5D03 GUIDANCE AUTOMATION 5A90 HAI ROBOTICS EUROPE BV 5C70 HAKO MACHINES 5D62 HANDLING & STORAGE SOLUTIONS 5E70 HEFEI BANYITONG SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPING CO 5F89 HI-LEVEL MEZZANINES UK6 HOLOPHANE EUROPE 5C52 HOPPECKE INDUSTRIAL BATTERIES UK10 IFM ELECTRONIC 5C83 ILOCKERZ 5B70 ILTA GMBH 5D105 IMHX 2025 5F105 INDIGO SOFTWARE 5F71 INDUSTORE 5A40 INDUSTRIAL CLEANING EQUIPMENT 5B28 INDUSTRIAL LABELLING SYSTEMS 5E61 INOTEC UK 5G90 COMPANY STAND COMPANY STAND

25 THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS SHOW +44 (0) 1925 715767 asgservices.co.uk info@asgservices.co.uk Leading labelling and integrated solutions provider ASG Services and protection systems provider Kingspan® have teamed up to provide the ultimate in protection. Kingspan® SafeDefence Barriers are revolutionary! Constructed from highperformance synthetic polymer and featuring a unique, steel single fixing bolt, the barriers flex on impact, safely absorbing kinetic energy without causing damage to floors and other surfaces. Easy to install, long-lasting and highly visible – the future of workplace protection is here! Contact us now to find out more. IMHX 2022 – 6-8 September Join us to see it on Stand 5E02 KPSPost KPSRail KPSBarriers KPSGoalpost KPSGate

26 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT A-Z | September INTELLIGENT ENERGY 5C85 INTERROLL 5F46 INTRALOX 5A47 INVAR INTEGRATION 5AM26 INVESTEC BANK PLC 5F47 IRON MOUNTAIN (UK) PLC 5C81 ITEM PRODUCTS 5B01 ITOH DENKI EUROPE 5C50 JMC 5C101 JOHN BEAN TECHNOLOGIES 5E85 JOHN JORDAN 5F84 JOHN SCOTT WORKS 5C87 JRACKING (CHINA) STORAGE SOLUTIONS 5A84 KELVIN ENGINEERING 5B21 KEYSTONE CASTOR COMPANY 5E81 KINGSPAN 5E02 KNAPP 5E45 KONECRANES FINLAND OY 5F83 KORBER SUPPLY CHAIN 5E33 LAC CONVEYOR SYSTEMS 5F110 LEVIAT 5G51 LIGHTHOUSE (UK) 5G57 LKE (UK) 5C53 LOCUS ROBOTICS 5E30 LOGIDOT 5A72 LOGISTEX 5E50 LOGISTICS BUSINESS PUBLISHING 5F82 LOGOPAK INTERNATIONAL 5F43 LOMART 5B20 LONES UK T/A WORKPLACE PRODUCTS 5F45 LUCAS SYSTEMS 5C49 LUMENSTREAM 5D100 MACE INDUSTRIES 5D31 MAGAZINO GMBH 5C98 MANUFACTURING MANAGEMENT 5G54 MAR-KEY GROUP 5E53 MARTOR UK 5F97 MBA CONSULTING ENGINEERS UK3 MCCUE INTERNATIONAL 5D60 MDSS -SLOWSTOP GUARDING SYSTEMS 5G96 MECALUX UK 5E80 MEON LTD 5C105 MIDAC UK 5B10 MITEK MEZZANINE SYSTEMS 5AM20 MITEQ 5A73 MJ PRODUCTS LTD 5F121 MODULA STORAGE SOLUTIONS 5B32 MOFFETT AUTOMATED STORAGE 5E110 MPM SRL 5F78 MULTISUITE 5A64 NARROW AISLE 5F60 NENE STORAGE EQUIPMENT 5B23 NENE STORAGE EQUIPMENT 5B40 NERAK-WIESE 5F32 NILFISK 5B60 NPORS 5G49 NULOGY UK8A OMRON ELECTRONICS 5A30 ONE51 ES PLASTICS (UK) 5AM28 OPEX 5D115 ORION MIS 5C51 PW BARTESKO 5B45 PALAMATIC HANDLING SYSTEMS 5B63 PALBAND 5C95 PALLITE UK1 PANOTEC SRL 5A92 PERFORMANCE NETWORKS 5C106 PIERAU 5D125 PLEDGE EARTH TECHNOLOGIES 5G95 PLUG POWER 5D92 PORTMAN ASSET FINANCE 5E51 PROCENTEC 5B83 PROTEAN SOFTWARE DZ3 PSB INTRALOGISTICS GMBH 5F66 PYROBAN 5E40 QTS (QUBE TRANSPORTATION) 5F85 QUALITY METAL PRODUCTS 5F63 RAM-MOUNT UK 5A21 COMPANY STAND COMPANY STAND

Elevate EMEA 2022 Join Körber for our key European event for supply chain professionals. 1 Concise, expert knowledge 25+ cutting-edge sessions on what makes the top supply chain performers stand out. 2 Discover the mega-trends Hear from the experts on labour issues, digitisation, automation, sustainability & more. Our technology roadmaps3 Discover the future of our products via roadmaps and explore new technologies for your operation. 4 User Groups Network with other product users and share pain-points and solutions. Rotterdam, Netherlands October 11th - 13th Learn More

28 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT A-Z | September RANDEX 5E76 RCR FLOORING PRODUCTS 5E74 REDHILL MANUFACTURING 5C01 RENOVOTEC 5E57 ROSS HANDLING 5B55 RTITB 5G74 S&S PLASTICS 5G72 SAFEGLIDE 5G84 SCALLOG 5AM29 SCHOELLER ALLIBERT 5E37 SEALED AIR 5F80 SEC GROUP 5D80 SERVICE GEENI 5D126 SHD LOGISTICS 5F105 SHS HANDLING SOLUTIONS 5B58 SIS SYSTEMS (UK) 5G58 SITMA MACHINERY 5AM29 SKILLED GROUP 5AM29 SMC EUROCLAMP 5E65 SOUTHGATE PACKAGING 5F90 SPACE PRODUCTIV 5B80 SPACIOTEMPO UK 5E47 SPARCK TECHNOLOGIES 5F112 SPECIALIST STORAGE PRODUCTS 5G60 SPERRIN METAL PRODUCTS 5B34 STOW 5B105 STOW 5B110 STRATA SALES 5E42 SUPPLY CHAIN NETWORK UK12 SUSTAINABILITY ZONE 5D80 SWISSLOG UK 5E62 SYNERGY LOGISTICS 5F70 TAWI UK 5B02 TEK SEATING 5A24 TEK-TRONIKS 5C92 TENTE CASTORS 5D94 TGW SYSTEMS BV 5E71 THE CONFIG TEAM UK5 THE LOGISTICS STUDIO 5G120 THE OPS PARTNERSHIP 5B36 THE SAFETY KNIFE CO 5A86 THE SUPPLY CHAIN CONSULTING GROUP 5G47 THE WAREHOUSE FIT OUT GROUP 5G70 TIVE INC 5B82 TOUCHSTAR TECHNOLOGIES 5F117 TRACTONOMY ROBOTICS BV 5G71 TRANSAID UK7 TRANSLIFT BENDI 5C75 TRASCAR 5AM29 TRIO MOBIL BILISIM SISTEMLERI AS 5B37 TROAX UK 5B26 TUGBOT 5G05 TXM LEAN SOLUTIONS 5C91 UKMHA 5D12 UKWA UKWA PAVILION UNILIN 5F72 V INSTALLATIONS MECHANICAL HANDLING 5E32 VALE ENGINEERING 5A49 VISIONNAV ROBOTICS (SHENZHEN) CO 5C57 VISUAL UK 5A94 WALTHER FALTSYSTEME GMBH 5D72 WAREHOUSE CONTROL SOLUTIONS 5AM27 WAREHOUSE LOGISTICS NEWS 5G33 WAREHOUSE PARTNERS UK2 WESSEX PACKAGING 5D97 WESTGATE GLOBAL 5G30 WHEEL.ME 5C99A WHITTAN GROUP 5F55 WISE ROBOTICS (UK) 5D47 WISETECH GLOBAL (UK) UK4 WITRON ENGINEERING BV 5B03 WORKAROUND GMBH 5C44 WRH GLOBAL UK 5D15 YAPLEX 5F03 YORKSHIRE PACKAGING SYSTEMS 5B49 ZAPI UK 5E56 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES 5B90 COMPANY STAND COMPANY STAND

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30 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT FLOORPLAN | September 5F03 5B155D10 5A21 5G335A305F40 5D30 5A25 5B205B10 5E45 5D40 5F43 5A40 5F55 5F61 5C455AM205E60 5C605D60 5B70 5B905C755D705E705F755F675E405F405F425E42 5F605F47 5B01 5A24 5A70 5G705G495G30 5F015E015D015E025D035C02 5E30 5E725D72 5F40 5G47 5F20 5D31 5E44 5F70 5F725E47 5F63 5D20 5C555B21 5C62 5C01 5F715C575D62 5E555E50 5E57 5E56 5C70 5E51 5C42 5F64 5C50 5F50 5E73 5F65 5E62 5A64 5D21 5F46 5B28 5B23 5B40 5B45 5A20 5B26 5A45 5A46 5A47 5B02 5B03 5A49 5F66 5AM21 5AM24 5AM265AM295AM285AM30 5AM27 5AM22 5B50 5D47 5E33 5F30 5F32 5F33 5A22 5B16 5B27 5D15 5B46 5B55 5B25 5E61 5C61 5B345B32 5B365B37 5B35 5B58 5C515C53 5C54 5B60 5E53 5C40 5C49 5C44 5B48 5B80 5F41 5B835B82 5F45 5F44 5E355E37 5E39 5B63 5E32 5E31 5B64 5G50 5G585G51 5G53 5G605G575G565G54 5E71 5G01 5E345B245D12 5G04 5G05 5B49 5B22 5B47 5A385A35 ENTRANCEVISITORS THE SponsoredCONFERENCELOGISTICSbyPrologis PAVILLIONAMHSA HAI ROBOTICS WHITTAN A-SAFE CROWNUKMHA THE SponsoredSOLUTIONSLOGISTICSbyHAIRobotics Hall 5

www.imhx.net 31THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | FLOORPLAN 5B70 5B905C755D705E705F75 5E755D75 5D805E855F85 5B1105C87 5F95 5F105 5F115 5C1075E115 5A90 5F1175A101UK2UK1 UK12 UK15UK13 UK11UK3 UK4 UK5 UK7 UK6 UK9 5F67 5F80 5F88 5F100 5A70 5A72 5A84 5A86 5G90 5G96 5G1045G945G925G70 5E725D72 5F63 5F87 5E76 5F96 5E74 5C62 5F97 5C575D62 5C70 5D71 5F64 5F94 5E73 5F89 5F865F835A645F65 5G715E815E80 5G845G74 5F66 5F82 5F905F845F68 UK105A945B115 Demo Pod 1 5G72 5C61 5F110 5F114 5F785F77 5F112 5A92 UK14 5C83 5C865C815C80 5B80 5C84 5B835B82 5C97 5C90 5C94 5C1055C99 5A73 5C85 5B100 5D126 5D94 5D101 5D115 5D90 5D97 5D105 5E110 5D92 5D91 5E71 5C92 5D935C935C915D96 5D95 5B105 5C95 5C96 5D99 DZ3 5D100 5D1275D125 5A74 5A80 5A82 5C98 5C100 DZ45C101 PodDemo3 PodDemo2 5C102 UK13a 5D106 5F1135G1205G95 5C104UK8A 5F120 5F116 5F118 5D110UK8B 5D108 5F121PAVILLIONUKWAIMHX 2025 CONFERENCELOGISTICSbyPrologis DEMOZONESEATINGAREAHAI ROBOTICS AXELENT SOLUTIONSLOGISTICSHAIRobotics Hall 5

For example, I’m assuming automation is hot on your list. The more decisions and processes you can automate, the more you can free up human workers to focus on tasks that machines aren’t well-suited to take on. But what type of automation technology do you need and where do you need it most? If that’s something you’re still pondering, let me point you toward two types of automation worth a closer look at IMHX (or via pilots in your own facilities): robotics automation and industrial automation. ››

The theme of IMHX 2022 – how to ‘optimise, protect and power’ operations – is very apropos given the state of the supply chain and ‘The Great Reset’ we seem to be undergoing. I suspect very little of your operation is in the same state it was two years ago, and I know your priorities have significantly shifted. Whether you’re a logistics manager, IT decision-maker, or procurement professional, the only things that matter at present are augmenting your workforce, sourcing the right supplies, rightsizing inventory, increasing capacity and throughput and finding the right shipping channels. These are the things that make it possible to sustain operations, keep customers happy and remain profitable in an impossibly volatile market. However, the only thing that is making these things possible in today’s climate is technology. There are only so many hours in the day and so many people on the clock. If you don’t implement, refine, or scale technology systems quickly, it’s going to be difficult to see or do much more than you and your team do today. I assume that’s why you’re attending IMHX 2022 – to find out what technologies are available to help you power, optimise, and protect operations today and long into the future.

Truth be told, nearly every technology you see can probably help you in some way. They wouldn’t be on the market if they didn’t offer a certain benefit. So, the first thing you should do before you meet with technology providers is consider what exactly it is you’re trying to do – whether that’s solve specific problems, mitigate foreseeable risks, or simply boost efficiencies to gain a competitive advantage. From there, it will be easier to narrow down possible technology solutions and evaluate how fast they’ll be able to deliver results, how well they’ll integrate into your overall systems architecture, and how scalable they’ll be in the future as your operational needs evolve.

Power, optimise and protect Marcel Kars, Vice President, Warehouse Automation, Zebra Technologies, looks at two types of automation that can power, optimise and protect supply chain operations.

32 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT AUTOMATION | September

Favouring innovation in outbound logistics is natural as it’s the final step to revenue generation – making it a more ‘obvious’ priority. However, the inbound logistics process is often a root cause – if not the primary cause – of inefficiency and quality errors downstream. If you automate certain production, processing or fulfilment process with AMRs or machine vision systems but don’t automate receiving and replenishment workflows in a similar manner, all you’re doing is creating more stress on your operation. Workers will struggle to get inbound materials and products put away or cross-docked because processes remain manual and laborious, even when forklifts and other machines are used. The sheer volume of inventory unloaded every day multiplies at record rates as customer demand balloons.

›› According to a recent GLOBAL WAREHOUSING VISION STUDY commissioned by Zebra Technologies, nearly eight in 10 associates say walking fewer miles per day would make their jobs more enjoyable, even if they had to pick or handle more items. And 83% percent of associates who work alongside AMRs today confirm the robots have helped increase their productivity and reduce their walking/travel time. That may not seem like a big surprise given the purpose and proven impact of AMRs in warehouse environments.

83% of workers say AMRs have increased productivitytheir

In other words, if you want to get more products out the door, you must balance operations by pulling more robotics and industrial automation solutions into inbound environments. This equilibrium is key to improving the dock-to-stock cycle times needed to keep up with the rapid pace of high-velocity outbound operations.

Speaking of flexibility, the advancements made in machine vision and fixed industrial scanning systems in the past 12-24 months have been nothing short of momentous. You can now use a single no code/low code software platform to program and power all smart cameras and fixed industrial scanners throughout your facility, whether installed on conveyor belts, forklifts or loading docks. If you want to move a camera or scanner to another location or application, it can be done by your in-house team within hours using the intelligent software platform. Even better, quality control inspectors, loading and receiving teams, and others who may rely on the cameras and scanners in their workflow can successfully learn how to interact with these machine vision and fixed industrial scanning systems within hours. In fact, they may not even need to interact with the systems unless an issue is flagged, as industrial automation is allowing many workflows to be managed by exception.

Plus, there is growing value in autonomously transporting material and goods to the correct bin locations so there’s a steady flow of inbound inventory to order fulfilment locations. Free from this task, receiving teams can focus on high-value tasks such as inspection and scanning critical information into the warehouse management system (WMS). And if you automate inspections and scanning, then workers are further freed up to focus on strategic tasks that only humans have the skills, creativity and acumen to Inhandle.turn, you’ll have both the labour and technology resources you need to power, optimise and, therefore, protect your operations no matter what demands customers place on you or what may threaten disruption. The increased agility and flexibility offered by these two types of automation solutions will result in stability. 

If you’re curious how AMRs, machine vision systems, or industrial scanners could be used to improve your inbound or outbound operations, stop by Zebra booth 5B90 at IMHX 2022.

However, what you might find interesting is that 73% of associates who work alongside AMRs today say the industrial mobile robots have helped them reduce errors, while 65% say AMRs have enabled their advancement to new roles or Ifopportunities.warehouseassociates are giving AMRs that much credit, perhaps you should too. You need a way to recruit more workers, and you need a way to augment your existing workforce as business demands increase. If AMRs can help people work smarter and more efficiently – and they can attract people who may not otherwise consider working in a warehouse – why wouldn’t you want to give them a trial run? They’re a low-risk, high reward automation solution given that they can be deployed “as-a-service.” You don’t have to make a significant upfront investment. You could test out 20 AMRs this month as part of a full-service robot-as-a-service (RaaS) subscription model and then add 200 more next month if you wanted to automate additional workflows or increase AMR support during the peak holiday season. In addition to this deployment flexibility, AMRs have exceptional workflow flexibility. They can automatically pickup and deliver everything from raw materials and finished goods to packages and dunnage, and they can also guide newly-hired seasonal workers through picking and put away tasks so they can reach full productivity within hours or days – not weeks or months. Plus, AMRs can give workers the freedom to stay put in a single zone or workstation to get through more tasks in a day without needing to exert more energy walking materials or goods back and forth. And because AMRs are completely autonomous, you don’t need anyone on the IT or operations team overseeing or controlling their movements. Once these intelligent robots are configured, they will safely and dynamically navigate facilities on their own per the programmed workflow parameters and facility maps. If you ever need to redirect them to another task, a remote team or operations manager can update the workflow instructions using a cloud-based system.

The smart camera or scanner and the intelligent software within do most of the work – automating the product or label inspection process and rendering a pass/fail decision based on the quality criteria programmed for that workflow. If an item fails inspection or a package is flagged as being mislabelled, an alert is sent to a worker for further investigation and resolution.

Jim Lawton, a well-known robotics expert who now leads Zebra’s Robotics Automation business, recently advised supply chain decision-makers to audit operations more holistically when valuing different types of technology as ‘a solution’ to anything. Inbound and outbound teams are equally affected by order surges. So, you can’t assume that adding AMRs or machine vision systems on outbound processes will optimise or protect your business during volatile periods. I agree completely, which is why I’m now recommending that you reconsider where, why and how you plan to leverage automation solutions in the coming months and years.

www.imhx.net 33THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | AUTOMATION

34 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT AMHSA COMMENT | September

IMHX is the perfect place to learn about the benefits of automation, says Matthew Jones, Administration and Events Manager for AMHSA.

IMHX will once again feature the AMHSA Pavilion, which will be the main focus for promoting logistics automation at the show. Located in hall 5 – right by the Logistics Conference theatre – the pavilion will feature the stands of nine AMHSA members around its perimeter. As at previous shows, the central area of the AMHSA Pavilion will accommodate a lounge where members can offer hospitality and light refreshments to clients, other guests and potential members. The space will also feature two meeting rooms for members’ exclusive use for private discussions with show visitors. The remaining 21 AMHSA members exhibiting at IMHX will be based on stands located around the exhibition, with all 30 members at the event set to ››

Get an educationautomation

As the voice of the automated material handling sector, representing over 60 members, the Automated Material Handling Systems Association (AMHSA) is committed to educating professionals across the industry about the benefits of intralogistics automation – and IMHX provides the ideal platform to share insights and answer queries.

Matthew AMHSAEventsAdministrationJones,andManagerfor

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BENEFITS OF AUTOMATION

36 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT AMHSA COMMENT | September

The AMHSA members exhibiting in the AMHSA Pavilion at IMHX are Actemium Automation, Diamond Phoenix Automation, ek robotics, Elmleigh Electrical Systems, Engelmann & Buckham, Invar Integration, IPL Global, MiTek and Warehouse Control Solutions. The AMHSA members exhibiting elsewhere at the show are Bowe Systec, BS Handling Systems, Conveyor Units, Daifuku, Ferag, Gebhardt European Conveyor Systems, Go Plastic Pallets, Hi-Level Mezzanines, ifm electronic, Interroll, JBT Corporation, Kardex Remstar, KNAPP, Korber Supply Chain, Logistex, Narrow Aisle, Nerak-Wiese, S&S Plastics, Swisslog, Wise Robotics and Witron. 

AMHSA members exhibiting at IMHX will be keen to explain the many benefits of automation to show visitors. Automation is able to solve some of the most challenging issues in intralogistics today: labour scarcity, dealing cost-effectively with rising e-commerce volumes and how to build supply chain resilience. With labour availability being a real headache for warehouse operators currently, investment in automation can circumvent this issue and enable a step-change in productivity. As online retail continues to grow, retailers need to plan for increases in labourintensive e-com fulfilment.

AMHSA representatives and members will be participating in the packed conference programme at IMHX. Taking place across two presentation venues – the Logistics Conference theatre and the Logistics Solutions theatre – the conference sessions will cover hot topics in the industry. AMHSA is directly involved in three conference sessions. The first will be a 20-minute presentation in the Logistics Solutions theatre on Tuesday at 11.30am. With the title ‘Technology for Automation’, this session will be hosted by Dave Berridge, AMHSA Secretary, who will lead a discussion with a solution provider and an end user. On the Wednesday, AMHSA will host a panel discussion at the Logistics Conference theatre at 10am. Entitled ‘Technology for Sustainable Solutions’, this session will be led by Hilton Campbell (Managing Director of AMHSA member, Interroll) and will feature contributions from a representative of a leading FMCG brand; Steve Penney of Go Plastic Pallets; and Dave Berridge. Dave will share insight from the FEM (European Materials Handling Federation), which is working to introduce pan-European sustainability standards, similar to the rating system for energy Theefficiency.finalconference

session involving AMHSA will take place back in the Logistics Solutions theatre on Thursday at 11.30am. This 20-minute presentation is entitled ‘Automation for SMEs’ and will see AMHSA member, Logistex, lead a panel discussion on trends and technologies in automation for small and mediumsized enterprises. The session will feature insights from AMHSA members Engelmann & Buckham, Hi-Level Mezzanines, Iconsys and Kardex. In addition to these three conference sessions, several AMHSA members will be delivering their own ‘Power Pitch’ in the Logistics Solutions theatre. Designed to highlight an innovative product, service or solution, these 5-minute slots consist of a 3-minute presentation followed by a 2-minute Q&A. Look out for Power Pitches from Hi-Level Mezzanines, Iconsys, ILS, Kardex, KNAPP and S&S Plastics.

›› showcase leading-edge automation solutions and software for the supply chain.

CATCH A CONFERENCE SESSION

Automation enables companies to deal efficiently and costeffectively with the singles picking and high return rates typical in e-commerce. Logistics automation can also help organisations to build supply chain resilience – following the disruption caused by the pandemic and Brexit – in order to be better prepared for potential challenges in the future. With a lower reliance on labour, the capacity to handle peak volumes and a focus on avoiding single points of failure, automation is proving an attractive option for many warehouse operators.

mostwww.amhsa.co.ukAutomationisabletosolvesomeofthechallengingissuesinintralogisticstoday

Automation enables companies to deal efficiently and costeffectively with the high return rates typical in e-commerce

AMHSA will also use its presence at the exhibition to champion the recruitment of diverse talent into the logistics industry. Given the current rate of growth in intralogistics automation, material handling system integrators and manufacturers need to prioritize recruitment in order to develop the skills needed for the future in the design, installation and maintenance of these technologies. A key tool to help bridge the skills gap is apprenticeships, with AMHSA operating its own apprenticeship programme – now in its eighth year – in association with car manufacturer, Toyota.

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38 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT SUSTAINABILITY ZONE | September

The IMHX Sustainability Zone, which is being delivered in partnership with SEC Storage, will provide visitors with everything they need to develop an effective sustainability policy.

Step into a logistics world like no other This year’s inaugural Sustainability Zone at IMHX, delivered by SEC Group, will be a hub of digital & physical interaction, displays and educational insights. The large 300 square metre stand centrally located at the event, has been thoughtfully designed to welcome visitors to experience the latest technologies, processes and practices that have come to the forefront of the UK’s warehouse and logistics market. A wide range of pertinent themes will be showcased across the three key areas of Technology, Innovation & Infrastructure, and People. Within the Technology zone, there is a range of cutting edge themes across both Digital and Physical elements. Within the Digital section a range of core innovations from Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR), through ››

SU STAINABILITY

prologis.co.ukWebelieve logistics buildings should play their part in protecting our planet. That’s why, since 2008, our buildings in the UK have helped safeguard over 16,646 acres of the rainforest and educated over 12,000 schoolchildren about sustainability, helping them lessen their impact on the Whetherenvironment.it’ssustainable buildings, protecting the rainforest or educating future generations, something special is… MADE IN PROLOGIS

Design for custombuilt structure and pick stations using Autonomous Mobile Robots

Warehouse themes on show will be DIDO, a revolutionary design tool that uses AI and Machine Learning to drive the most efficient design for a warehouse operation today with built in flexibility to provide an agile warehouse configuration that will meet tomorrow’s needs.

40 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT SUSTAINABILITY ZONE | September

Design featuring a range includingelementsofan AMR structure, pick stations, packing desks automationand 300 square metre stand centrally located at the event

The topics featured are also represented in a unique virtual reality landscape replicating the exhibition stand in a virtual exhibition with access to virtual halls demonstrating full scale automated warehouse fit-outs to lecture theatres and more. All linked to a web based Knowledge Hub featuring articles, video and information relating to all the event topics and more.

Across the People zone sponsored by Cranfield University, a range of topics will highlight important themes that are effecting the warehouse operations of today. From bringing more inclusion and diversity to the warehouse and logistics setting, to climate change and mental health awareness, this Zone aims to educate and inspire the next generation of warehouse and logistics professionals, demonstrating the impact they can have on an innovative and fast-paced Visitindustry.theIMHX

abovewithmezzaninerackingCantileverracking,withstorageWarehousedesignpalletandfloorstorageandbelow

https://bit.ly/3KnGEze. 

›› to Blockchain and Digital Twins will be showcased. These technologies all feature in SEC Group’s warehouse and design processes where the company takes a data-driven approach to analysing operational and product data sets, processing this information through SEC’s AI and machine learning analytics tool, and bringing in Virtual Reality for accurate and engaging design prototyping. These processes using the latest in digital innovation, allow SEC to ultimately design the most efficient warehouse storage solutions.

website for more information about all the themes and topics that the Sustainability Zone will address and how the Zone can help visitors to uncover innovative solutions that will enhance their operation's sustainability. Visitors can pre-register to attend the event and can be certain of a warm welcome and a valuable learning experience at the Sustainability Zone.

In the physical technology area, visitors will see extended reality features on Robotics with a digitally augmented Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) from Geek+ as well as information and an augmented visitor experience on Hydrogen Fuel Cells from Intelligent Energy. Other core topics within this zone cover 3D Printing, Bionics and ForAutomation.theInnovation & Infrastructure section, there are two core areas featuring technologies for the External Warehouse and Internal Warehouse. The External Warehouse themes include Modern Warehouse Design sponsored by Prologis, Solar Panels by ASG Energy and Transport by Crown. Additional topics include Multi-Storey Warehousing, Sustainable Materials and On-Site Energy, all with AR functionality allowing visitors to explore each theme simply by scanning a QR code with a Amongsmartphone.theInternal

Transforming warehouse design through Extended Reality SEC Group brings you intelligent warehouse design and industry-leading innovation using Data Analytics and Machine Learning to deliver and install the warehouse solutions you need today with flexibility built in for future growth. - Warehouse design simulations - Powered by Extended Reality (XR) - Integrated storage solutions & automation - Fully immersive Virtual Reality experience - 3D Virtual Reality training aid This ground-breaking technology will be showcased in the Sustainability Zone at IMHX 6th - 8th September 2022 at the NEC, Birmingham. Visit us at stand 5D80 and try our 3D Virtual Reality Experience! info@sec-group.co.uk | 01438731990

42 www.imhx.net THE UK’S LARGEST INTRALOGISTICS EVENT LOGISTICS PROPERTY | September

With the growth of online retailing, last-mile order fulfilment facilities must be located within urban areas but, when it comes to developing these much needed units, the needs of the logistics sector remain on the wrong side of planning policy, says Robin Woodbridge, Head of Capital Deployment at Prologis UK.

Over the last decade, demand for online shopping has increased exponentially. The boom in direct-to-consumer retailers has led to an increased number of freight vehicles which are in turn facing increased distances of travel. The recent Worth the Weight: Making London’s deliveries greener and smarter report, published by the Centre for London and supported by Prologis, has drawn attention to the need for shorter, ‘last-mile’ delivery routes, if London is to relieve pressures within its logistics operations and meet net zero by 2030. Despite being essential in upholding the UK’s economy over the pandemic, the logistics sector is now facing its own challenges. Every year £54bn worth of goods flow through Prologis distribution centres in the UK alone, equivalent to 2.6 per cent of the UK GDP and CBRE data suggests that for every extra £1bn spent by British consumers online, an additional 900,000 square feet of logistics space is needed. According to Prologis, for every square foot of space required for a bricks-and-mortar retail store, three square feet of logistics space is needed to fulfil the same demand online.

Online consumers want products to be delivered fast with a growing demand for same day deliveries. With the speed at which goods can be supplied to consumers beholden to how far away they are, last-mile logistics facilities must be located within urban areas of dense populations.

This is where the logistics sector currently appears to be on the wrong side of planning policy. While the government recognises the need for more logistics facilities, it’s clear that current proposals to reform the planning system are too focused on supplying new homes with little regard for logistics. This is a concern, especially when you consider a city as economically important as London has already lost around 100 hectares of industrial land annually over the past decade - whilst

Time to get logical about last-mile logistics

›› ››

the challenges of recruiting talent and space are interlinked. Locating logistics facilities closer to where people live not only allows for faster deliveries but creates lots of job opportunities close to home, from entry level to senior management. An Oxford Economics study in 2020 of the 22 industrial logistics parks owned and run by Prologis in the UK found they were responsible for the employment of around 100,000 people.

›› eCommerce has grown 290% in the same time period. While locating large warehouses on motorway junctions works well for storing goods at a large scale, it is naïve to think that all last-mile facilities can be situated there as well. As the need for goods to be delivered quickly continues to grow, it’s important to make sure there’s a body of goods closer to people. While there is undoubtedly a housing crisis to be addressed, there is also an urgent need for a sense of balance and greater awareness, among consumers and the government, of how important these facilities

September | LOGISTICS PROPERTY

‘Last-mile’ delivery is one of most undervalued ways cities like London can meet their net zero targets and build a better society for future generations

Thereare. is a damaging misconception that locating these facilities outside of cities is good for sustainability, reducing traffic and improving air quality. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Through research produced in partnership with MIT, it has been demonstrated that, to be sustainable, last-mile logistics facilities should be located close to where people live to enable the lastmile route to be faster, as well as to allow the use of electric delivery vehicles, where possible. According to the MIT research, online shopping is 36 per cent more sustainable than bricks-and mortar shops. Transport-related emissions can be reduced by a further 50 per cent if the right number of these buildings are in urban areas, and another 27 per cent via the shift to electric Crucially,vehicles.

‘Last-mile’ delivery is one of most undervalued ways cities like London can meet their net zero targets and build a better society for future generations. 

To combat the issues caused by the last-mile delivery conundrum, Prologis has invested over half a billion pounds in London and the Home Counties in the past 18 months to ensure it can provide the urban logistics facilities its customers need.

www.imhx.net 43THE UK’S LARGEST INTRALOGISTICS EVENT

THURSDAY

Wednesday at the IMHX Conference is another full day of panels, talks and demonstrations. To learn about how to implement a bimodal supply chain strategy, drop by the Logistics Theatre at 12:00 and let Dr Heather Skipworth of Cranfield University explain how taking this approach can increase agility and address constantly evolving customer needs.

IMHX is back. The team and I are absolutely thrilled to be able to welcome you back to the NEC, 6-8 September, as we once again meet at the UK’s biggest intralogistics event, where we will host a series of insightful sessions at the conference.

Register for your free ticket by visiting imhx.net

In the Solutions Theatre, AMHSA hosts a panel designed to help SMEs take their first steps into automating their warehouse. Five automation experts from Logistex, Engelman & Buckham, Kardex, Hi-level Mezzanine and IConSys cover all aspects of getting the building blocks in place for creating a strong automation plan.

WEDNESDAY

With over 40 hours of high-level content, the IMHX 2022 conference programme will deliver a plethora of information that will help attendees from across the logistics and supply chain sectors shape their business strategy, says IMHX event director, Rob Fisher.

The boom in e-commerce that the pandemic accelerated shows no sign of returning to pre-covid levels. With over two decades experience strategizing with Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Asda; James Osborn, VP of TGW Logistics, shares his advice for retailers on the number one way to increase online supply chain capacity.

| September

TUESDAY

There will be two conference theatres on the exhibition floor at IMHX: the Logistics Theatre focuses on in-depth conversations about the pressing issues in our industry; the Solutions Theatre showcases the latest in warehousing technology. 

CONFERENCE CALL

How is your materials handling equipment fuelled? Diesel trucks are a significant barrier to achieving net-zero, and the global lithium shortage is impacting EV manufacturers. A panel of experts hosted by Intelligent Energy brings forth another option, showcasing realworld experiences of hydrogen-powered MHE.

Against an ever-worsening economic backdrop, and supply levels at their lowest ever, the industrial property market is increasingly reaching a pinch point. Kevin Mofid, Head of Logistics and Industrial Research at Savills, gives attendees crucial advice on how to navigate the waters of UK warehousing for occupiers. 

The final day of IMHX hosts dozens of high-level speakers keen to share their knowledge with visitors. Clare Bottle, CEO of the UKWA, covers how using warehouse roof space can result in dramatically lower carbon emissions as well as lower energy bills – critical in the coming months, when the energy price cap is set to rise again.

Proceedings kick off in the Logistics Theatre with a panel debate on the topic of Driving sustainability in logistics. The panel is made up of senior representatives from SEC Storage, ASG Energy Services, Ecologi and Intelligent Energy – all of whom can be found in the Sustainability Zone, a new feature for 2022. In the Solutions Theatre, Tim McLean, Managing Director of TXM Lean Solutions, discusses best practice for tackling supply chain disruption. He outlines simple strategies for driving down lead time and smart inventory management that ensures you have just what you need when you need it.

Another highlight from day one is a presentation detailing the development of inclusive workplace practices to overcome recruitment challenges, hosted by GXO’s Mark Simmons, HR Director, and Alison Thwaite, Employment Development Manager at Workfit. In the afternoon, visitors can expect to learn about how to tackle the challenge of heavy vehicle decarbonisation, given the current technology lag, in a talk hosted by XPO Logistics’ Environmental & Sustainability Lead, Dr Nicholas Head. 

With over 40 hours of high-level content, you can be sure that there are plenty of learning opportunities for attendees from across the logistics and supply chain sector. From the sustainable returns question in fashion to how the new Prime Minister’s policies affect retailers, the programme is home to a plethora of free information that can help you shape your business’ strategy.

44 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT

Data is showing that a large part of the shift from brick-and-mortar retail to online shopping is here to stay. With major online fashion retailers quietly introducing a fee for returns, Damien Skinner, Country Manager for UK & Ireland at HAI Robotics, explains how ACR technology can improve the accuracy and efficiency of the returns process, enabling warehouses to cut down on costs whilst future-proofing their facilities.

FEATURES On Wednesday afternoon in the Logistics Theatre, the winners of the Supply Chain #NextGen programme, sponsored by Generation Logistics, are unveiled during a drinks reception. The initiative celebrates the contributions of people under the age of thirty who have made a promising start to their careers in the logistics sector.

CONFERENCE OVERVIEW

Award recipients will gain access to a number of career-boosting media opportunities to ensure they continue to flourish in their chosen career.

The UK is under a brand-new premiership with a brand new manifesto. Phil Shaw, Chief Economist at Investec, goes over what the Prime Minister’s policies mean for the logistics and supply chain sector and analyses wider prospects for the economy and interest rates. 

New for 2022, the Power Pitch contest showcases ten products and solutions which are changing the game in the intralogistics sector. Each contestant has three minutes on stage to give their pitch, followed by a two-minute Q&A with the audience and a panel of judges. Both the judging panel and audience have a say in the final score, which enters onto the Power Pitch leader board. The contestant at the top of the leader board at 13:00 is declared Power Pitch Champion and will have the chance to record an episode with The Logistics Podcast, as well as a bottle or two of champagne! 

The first day of IMHX is certain to have an unrivalled atmosphere: almost three years to the day since the last edition closed, logisticians from across the UK and beyond are eager to return to the NEC to do business and reunite with the industry.

The FareShare Story: social and environmental benefits of redistributing surplus food Carl Hawkes, Head of Network Support, FareShare 10.00 - 10.20

The challenge of heavy vehicle decarbonisation: overcoming the technology lag Dr Nicholas Head, Environmental & Sustainability Lead, UK & Ireland, XPO Logistics 15.30 - 16.15

10.00 DEBATE:-10.45

Simple strategies to tackle supply chain disruption

Every shipment matters: an introduction to realtime supply chain visibility Matt Holland, Director of Sales, UK, Ireland & Nordic, Tive 14.00Thriving14.20inavolatile

Technology: AMSHA's essential journey guide Dave Berridge, Managing Director, Emkat Solutions Adam Fox, Business Development Manager, Swisslog 12.00 - 12.30

Making e-commerce work with Micro Fulfillment Dara Ansari, Innovation & Logistics Expert, KNAPP 10.30 - 10.50 An integrated suite of climate solutions Gerald Chifamba, Business Devlopment Manager, pledge.io 10.55 - 11.25 How can Autonomous Case Handling Robots help your warehouse with order picking? Damien Skinner, Country Manager UK & Ireland, HAI Robotics 11.30Warehouse11.50Automation

Driving sustainability in logistics Harry Watts, Managing Director, SEC Storage Adam Keenan, Business Development & Account Manager, MHE Intelligent Energy Tony Gresty, Managing Director, ASG Energy Services Senior Representative, Ecologi 11.00Overcoming11.45

Carlo Capoia, Sales Director, Panotec Paul Chapple, Sales Lead EMEA, WestRock 13.00 - 13.20 Achieving the low carbon warehouse of tomorrow Tony Gresty, Managing Director, ASG Energy Services 13.30 - 13.50

Tim McLean, Managing Director, TXM Lean Solutions 12.35Flexibility12.55and sustainability: get ahead of your customer demands

Phil Shepley, VP and Head of Commercial UK, Iron Mountain Tom Shaw, Director, JLL. Joe Skinner, Associate Development Director, Tritax Senior Representative, UKWA 14.30 - 15.15

word: a revolutionary approach to warehouse automation Remy Malchirand, VP Sales, Western Europe, Exotec 14.30 - 14.50

Connecting the packaging dots sustainably Scott Torrington, General Manager, CMC Machinery Tuesday 10:00 - 14.:50 10:00 - 16:15

SOLUTIONS THEATRE LOGISTICS THEATRE DAY ONE:

6th September www.imhx.net 45THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT

recruitment challenges with an inclusive workforce: GXO and Workfit partnership Mark Simmons, HR Director, GXO Alison Thwaite, Employment Development Manager, Workfit Tommy Patrick, Transport Operative, GXO 12:00 - 12:45 Going beyond net zero Simon Cox, Head of Development Management & UK Sustainability Officer, Prologis 13.30 - 14.15

September | CONFERENCE OVERVIEW

PANEL DISCUSSION: Investing in our carbon future through estate transformation

• ILS Flexwipe - Phil Molloy, Business Development Manager, Industrial Labelling Systems

*NEW FOR 2022 The Power Pitch sees five speakers get three minutes on the clock to impress both a live audience and a judging panel of industry experts, followed by two minutes for questions.

46 www.imhx.net

Take your pick: order, batch, case, or pallet picking using AMRs Melonee Wise, VP Robotics Automation, Zebra Technologies

12.00 - 12.30

Flexible power & connected automation: smart solutions for an efficient future Pete Wooding, Manager - Tech & VNA UK, Crown 13.00 - 13.50

The winners of the Supply Chain #NextGen initiative will be announced during this reception in the Logistics Theatre

James Osborn, VP - Business Development eGrocery Investments, TGW Logistics Group Oana Andreea Jinga, Co-founder & CEO, BotsAndUs Mike Young, Director UK Business Development I&L, Client Solutions, CBRE Ashley Hartwell, Managing Consultant, Supply Chain Consulting Group 14.00 - 14.20 Reduce the risk of injury and increase productivity in warehousing and logistics Lewis Robinson, Key Account Manager, Logistics, Piab 14.30 - 14.50 Level Up! Unlocking the next level of efficiency in your warehouse with AI Robotics Kent Weber, Integrated Marketing, Covariant NEW

PANEL DISCUSSION: Real-world Experience of Hydrogen Powered MHE Stefan Fenchel, Sustainability Project Manager, BMW Ulf Jorgensen, Founder & Executive Partner, H2 Core Systems Ben Wendrock, Systems Integration Manager, FES Stefan Hanisch-Meinel, Project Manager - Fuel Cell Systems, FES Harry Karmazyn, Head of Low Power Product Development, Intelligent Energy 10.55 - 11.25

12.00 - 12.45 Bi-modal supply chains for efficiency and responsiveness. Dr Heather Skipworth, Director of the Agile Supply Chain Research Club, Cranfield University 13:00 - 13:20 A place like home: going the extra mile to make Prologis Parks industry leading. Sally Duggelby, Vice President of Capital Deployment & Leasing, Prologis 13.30 - 14.15 UK Logistics Property: how can occupiers secure space in the current environment? Kevin Mofid, Head of Logistics and Industrial Research, Savills 14.30Lessons15.15from Crisis: mapping the Future of Resilient Cold Chains Shane Brennan 15.30 - 16.15 Supply Chain #NextGen

Hilton Campbell, CEO, Interroll Steve Penney, UK Key Account Sales Manager, GoPlasticPallets Dave Berridge, Managing Director, Emkat

THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT

PANEL DISCUSSION: Automation shouldn't cost the earth

11.00Generation11.45Logistics: public perceptions of the sector Bethany Windsor, Programme Manager, Generation Logistics

The £4.4 billion returns conundrum in the UK fashion industry Damien Skinner, Country Manager UK & Ireland, HAI Robotics

10.00 - 10.50

10.00 - 10.45

*POWER PITCH: Robotics on Demand:

CONFERENCE OVERVIEW | September

DAY TWO: Wednesday 7th September 10:00 - 14.:50 10:00 - 16:15

• AMR Connect - Graham Lee, Business Development Manager, iconsys

• Logidot RLTS - Niccolo Corsini, Founder & CEO, Logidot

• Autonomous wheel solutions - Ben Katz, Solutions Integration Manager, Wheel.me

PANEL DISCUSSION: To what extent will we see supply chain automation in our stores in the future?

12.35 - 12.55

11.30 - 11.50

SOLUTIONS THEATRE LOGISTICS THEATRE

• RedPilot - Laura Carter, Business Development Manager, KNAPP

Dr Soroosh Saghiri, Course Director: Logistics, Procurement & Supply Chain Management, Cranfield University 11.00 –Walking11.45onSunshine: how a warehouse roof can save you money and help save the planet Clare Bottle, CEO, UKWA Kevin McCann, Policy Manager, Solar Energy UK Thomas McMillian, Energy Director, Savills Laurence Robinson, Senior Analyst, Delta EE Jenna Strover, Head of Commercial Delivery, Potter Space 13.00 –Newsflash:13.20

Damien Skinner, Country Manager UK & Ireland, HAI Robotics

Enter the Smart Warehouse: how IoT and location-based process automation can make your operations leaner and more resilient

microfulfilment isn’t taking off! Here’s why

www.imhx.netEVENT | CONFERENCE OVERVIEW

11.30 - 11.50

10.00 -10.45 Supply Chain and Procurement Digital Transformation

Tim Newton, Intralogistics Sales Manager UK & Northern Ireland, DLL Group Cesar Nostri, Intralogistics Sales Manager Europe South & East, DLL Group

Warehouse Automation Outlook Rowan Stott, Senior Analyst, Interact Analysis

• Digitising road freight - Jai Kanwar, Co-founder, Zeus Labs

*NEW FOR 2022 The Power Pitch sees five speakers get three minutes on the clock to impress both a live audience and a judging panel of industry experts, followed by two minutes for questions.

10.00 - 10.20

Nigel Lahiri, AMR Consultant, Logistex Richard McClean, Director, Engelmann & Buckham

Aaron Thornton, Director New Business, UK & Ireland, Kardex Chris Baxter, Sales Director, Hi-level Mezzanine Graham Lee, Solutions Consultant, Industrial Automation, iconsys

For Faster Delivery: gear4Music Success Story Martin Stephenson, IT Director, Gear4Music Carlos Villafane, Country Manager, UK & Ireland, ProGlove. 14.00 - 14.20

James Osborn, VP - Business Development eGrocery Investments, TGW Group 13.30 – 14.15 Leading a new era in business: placing ex-offenders into employment

SOLUTIONS THEATRE LOGISTICS THEATRE

PANEL DISCUSSION: Automation strategy for SMEs

Steve Freer, CEO, Tempus Novo. Val Wawrosz, Managing Director & Founder, Tempus Novo 14.30 – 15.15

DAY THREE: Thursday 8th September 10:00 - 14.20 10:00 - 15:15

12.00 - 12.30

*POWER PITCH

How innovative investment solutions aid the realisation of intralogistics and automation projects

September

• Robot-ready floor tiles - Chris Baxter, Sales Director, Hi-level Mezzanine

10.30 - 10.50

47THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS

Kai Kreos-Nemcok, Solution Expert & Sales Manager, Wheel.me 13.30Picking13.50Process

Intelligent master data management for automation Marinus Bouwman, Product Manager KiSoft Pack Master, KNAPP NEW

• Stop shipping & storing air! - Nick Bortone, Managing Director, S&S Plastics 12.35Changes12.55inNo 10: What changes for the logistics sector? Phil Shaw, Chief Economist Investec. 13.00 - 13.20 Democratising robotics – autonomous wheels as the ultimate solution

• Konecranes Agilon - Antony Ward, Agilon Sales Manager, Konecranes

• Turn-key forklift solution - Alex Manolov, Founder AdVentura Works

Niccolo Corsini, Founder & CEO, Logidot 10.55Automation11.25and e-commerce: how can you scale your warehouse solution as your business grows?

FIRST Inventor of the world’s first advanced polymer safety barrier, A-SAFE has been setting the global standard in workplace safety for almost two decades. From warehouses, cold storage and manufacturing facilities to car parks and airports; A-SAFE provides rigorously tested and certified industrial impact protection for a range of specialist applications.

A-Safe will also demonstrate their iFlex™ Double Traffic Barrers+ which protect pedestrians, assets and infrastructure from vehicle impacts and are designed for high-traffic environments where pedestrian traffic and heavyweight vehicles share space.  www.bit.ly/3zTuEmN

SAFETY

www.baumann-sideloaders.com/elx-range/

Action stations!

Baumann manufacturedhas sideloaders for 52 years and electric versions since the early 1990s. Their ability to carry long loads securely on their bed make them ideal for the timber trade and have since proved vital for steel, plastics, concrete and many other sectors. The 120-volt ELX Series of 3 to 5 tonnes capacity sideloaders are highly efficient and durable electric machines capable of efficiently working in small spaces with incredible runtimes. Baumann electric sideloaders also have zero emissions, extended outreach, are cheaper to maintain, and provide a better operator environment, making them increasingly popular throughout the UK. 

SECURELYLONGCARRYINGLOADS

48 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT DEMO ZONE | September

A-SAFE products featured in the Demo Zone include the iFlex™ Double Traffic Barrier. Designed to safeguard buildings, machinery and equipment from damage caused by high-energy vehicle impacts, it is ideal for facilities with high volumes of heavyweight vehicles in operation.

There's nothing better than seeing the latest technology and equipment physically in action and that's why the IMHX Demo Zone is always such a popular show feature. The Demo Zone is a dedicated area of the event where visitors get to watch new products and ground-breaking tech perform the jobs that they do best within the warehouse or distribution centre environment. With a scheduled timetable of displays across all three days of IMHX 2022 make sure you don’t miss the chance to see something that might be just what you are looking for to enhance throughput, boost safety, reduce energy consumption, maximise storage capacity or improve picking efficiency within your business. 

CONNECTEDANDTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIVEINTELLIGENTLYSYSTEMS

www.imhx.net 49THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | DEMO ZONE

The Combi-CBE is characterised well as palletised goods. This highly versatile and manoeuvrable forklift works inside and out and can offload and transport products in narrow confines to storage or production facilities. Combilift drivers will be putting this 2,500kg capacity truck through its paces in the IMHX demo area. 

FORKLIFTANDVERSATILEHIGHLYMANOEUVRABLE

The new Cesab B-Series electric range was developed in consultation with operators, with the present-day handling needs of businesses front of mind.  www.cesab-forklifts.co.uk

www.combilift.com/combi-cb/ ROBOTSAUTONOMOUSFULLY

ZERO

handlingspaceforoffersThisemission-freedesignandmultidirectionalbycapabilitycompactcounterbalancetogetherwithquiet,electricpower.uniquecombinationmultiplebenefitsuserssuchasthesafe,savingandproductiveofbothlongloadsas

FORKLIFTSELECTRICEMISSION

BotsAndUs develops robotics and AI logistics solutions for digital twin warehouse environments. The company provides solutions that capture realtime data at the acceptance and storage process to help companies drive better business decisions. The fully autonomous robots measure, track and find goods across warehouses without workflow disruption. They also collect data in real-time on goods as they pass through the warehouse and provide information on their condition, volume, count and location on shelves - fully automating receiving and stock taking processes. The data is easily accessible and can be analysed instantly from anywhere, allowing teams to obtain full warehouse inventory visibility. 

The perfect pairing of innovative technology and intelligently-connected systems, the award-winning Crown ESR 1000 Series reach truck owes its acclaimed performance to the Gena® operating system, which provides operators with a data-rich user experience, enabling them to work precisely and effectively at any height without compromising performance. Gena® is intuitive, customisable and interactive, relaying information to a 7" touchscreen via the InfoLink fleet management system it facilitates operator onboarding and boosts productivity. Another innovation that visitors to the Demo Zone can see for themselves is the optional Xpress Lower™ automation. Capable of doubling mast-lowering speeds to 1.1 m/s, this technology offers a boost to productivity of up to 21 percent. 

A

www.crown.com/en-uk/forklifts/reach-trucks-esr.html

www.botsandus.com/platform

Cesab Material Handling will highlight its completely renewed B series of zero emissions electric forklift trucks. The five new ranges include 3-wheel trucks with 1.0 tonne capacity to 4-wheel trucks with up to 8.5 tonne capacity. All models are fitted as standard with Cesab’s ISD, Intelligent Stability Design, as standard. This active safety system monitors the key parameters of the truck and takes corrective action when necessary to assure the stability of the machine and load. In addition, IMD (Intelligent Mast Design) technology provides industry leading levels of visibility for the operator through the mast.

www.proteansoftware.com

These two very different vehicles will be operating under ek robotics’ single control system to demonstrate the flexibility that ek robotics is able to offer. 

www.ek-robotics.com/en/transport-robots/vario-move/

RECEIVE PAYMENTS!FASTER

FB Chain manufactures leaf chain, anchor bolts, chain kits for telehandlers, pins and pulleys for the materials handling industry - often according to clients’ individual requirements. FB Chain is also at the forefront of materials handling safety for developing and producing the industry standard Professional Chain Wear Gauge and has now developed the Professional Fork Wear Gauge – which will be shown for the first time at IMHX 2022. As the only leaf chain manufacturer represented by the UKMHA, FB Chain is also a key source of technical and application assistance for both equipment manufacturers and operators. 

50 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT DEMO ZONE | September

www.warehouseautomation.com/asrs/perfect-pick/

Protean Software’s next-gen Field Service Management system – ServiceSight – has been developed to help any service business reduce costs, improve productivity and efficiency and, perhaps most importantly, get paid faster!

Protean’s cloud technology means users can access vital data from any device, anywhere in the world, at any time. ServiceSight contains CRM functionality to help manage prospects and customers, quoting, complete job and inspection management, stock control with order processing, service contracts, equipment registers and web portal to allow customers to self-serve. Coupled with a state-of-the-art mobile app on Android & iOS for field engineers, ServiceSight can help companies of all sizes reach their business goals. 

FORK ATFORGAUGEWEARSHOWNTHEFIRSTTIMEIMHX2022

www.leafchain.com

ek robotics will present its award winning Vario CB AGV which will be moving palletised loads between racking, drop and collect stations. Complementing the Vario will be ek robotics’ willFastmovelow-profilevehicle,whichbeshowntransferring pallets from drop to collect positions. Both machines will be operating on routes that will demonstrate their manoeuvrability and from time-to-time throughout the day they will be opportunity charging their lithium batteries.

AUTOMATIONGENERATIONNEXT

SOLUTIONTRANSFERPALLET

Step into Opex’s virtual warehouse for a Virtual Reality experience of the Opex Perfect Pick - a scalable, goods-to-person picking solution that improves the rate and efficiency of inventory moving through a customer fulfilment or distribution centre. The Perfect Pick, unlike other solutions, is a self-contained, standalone point solution. One aisle is comprised of modular, high-density racking along with a fleet of autonomous robotic delivery vehicles, iBOTs®, which access every storage location within their aisle – both horizontally and vertically. iBOTs deliver inventory directly to a workstation located at the ends of the aisle. 

www.imhx.net 51THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | DEMO ZONE THE IDEAL SPACE Whittan work with companies large and small to expand storage capabilities and is best known for its wide range of pallet racking, shelving and lockers are manufactured in Britain. The Whittan Group family of trusted brands include some of the most well-known names in storage: Link51, Apex, HiStore, Polypal UK, Polypal Europe, LinkLockers, Probe and LinBins. Three bays of Link51 standard pallet racking have been installed at the demonstration area to help exhibitors display their mechanical handling equipment. Made from high-quality steel and finished with graphite grey uprights and contrasting orange beams to aid pallet placement, the racking provides the ideal space for exhibitors to show off their products.  SEPTEMBERTUESDAY6th WEDNESDAY7thSEPTEMBER SEPTEMBERTHURSDAY8th CompanyName Location CompanyName Location CompanyName Location 10.00 E&K Robotics Robotics area Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo Combilift FLT Demo 10.15 Cesab FLT Demo Opex Pod 2 Breakk 10.30 Bots & Us Pod 1 Combilift FLT Demo Baumann FLT Demo 10.45 Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo Break E&K Robotics Automation Demo 11.00 Opex Pod 2 Baumann FLT Demo Cesab FLT Demo 11.15 Combilift FLT Demo E&K Robotics Automation Demo Bots & Us Pod 1 11.30 Break Cesab FLT Demo Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo 11.45 Baumann FLT Demo Bots & Us Pod 1 Opex Pod 2 12.00 E&K Robotics Robotics area Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo Combilift FLT Demo 12.15 Cesab FLT Demo Opex Pod 2 Break 12.30 Bots & Us Pod 1 Combilift FLT Demo Baumann FLT Demo 12.45 Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo Break E&K Robotics Automation Demo 13.00 Opex Pod 2 Baumann FLT Demo Cesab FLT Demo 13.15 Combilift FLT Demo E&K Robotics Automation Demo Bots & Us Pod 1 13.30 Break Cesab FLT Demo Crown Lift Truck FLT Demo 13.45 Baumann FLT Demo Bots & Us Pod 1 Opex Pod 2 14.00 E&K Robotics Automation Demo Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo Combilift FLT Demo 14.15 Cesab FLT Demo Opex Pod 2 Break 14.30 Bots & Us Pod 1 Combilift FLT Demo Baumann FLT Demo 14.45 Crown Lift Trucks FLT Demo Break E&K Robotics Automation Demo 15.00 Opex Pod 2 Baumann FLT Demo Cesab FLT Demo 15.15 Combilift FLT Demo E&K Robotics Automation Demo Bots & Us Pod 1 15.30 Break Cesab FLT Demo Opex Pod 2 15.45 Baumann FLT Demo Bots & Us Pod 1 DEMONSTRATIONS SCHEDULED

over

52 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT EXHIBITOR HIGHLIGHTS | September

The eventessential a Covid-enforced hiatus, IMHXthe UK’s premier logistics solutions and intralogistics technology event – returns to the NEC, Birmingham to showcase the developments that are shaping the global logistics industry three action-packed days in

September.

After

September | EXHIBITOR HIGHLIGHTS

“After Covid it will be great to be back at the NEC and I look forward to welcoming visitors and exhibitors alike to an event where it is certain that a lot of business will be done”

VisionNav Robotics is among the fastest-growing operator-free industrial vehicle manufacturers in the world and the company will use IMHX 2022 to highlight the range of fully automated, visionguided forklift trucks and intelligent operating systems that it has produced for the European market.

On the 6th, 7th and 8th of September, the chance to see up-tothe-minute advances in technology from literally hundreds of exhibitors will ensure that IMHX 2022 is the essential gathering place for UK logistics professionals seeking the latest storage and handling solutions that will enable them to stay ahead of supply chain Automationtrends.is a key focus area for supply chain decision makers and the chance to see working demonstrations of the latest automated handling technology – from entry level solutions to fully automated warehouse systems - is just one of the many reasons to visit IMHX 2022.

ROB FISHER Group Director, IMHX

Exhibitor Swisslog’s automated warehousing technologies include traditional high bay warehouses and innovative robot-based materials handling solutions that provide quality, flexibility and efficiency. Every application is customised to deliver the lowest cost per pick. Visitors to the Swisslog stand can learn about the next generation of the ItemPiQ robot order picking system. ItemPiQ is highly ››

Sophisticated automated handling technology is now within financial reach of SMEs as well as the biggest players and a host of pioneering and industry-leading automation providers will be demonstrating solutions that range from entry-level technology to advanced, large scale integrated projects at IMHX 2022. For example, IMHX 2022 will be the place to evaluate the growing range of driverless materials handling solutions that are becoming an increasingly common feature within warehouses and DCs.

www.imhx.net 53THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT

Meanwhile, iFollow will be showcasing Its premium, slimline autonomous mobile robots. Suited to a broad range of applications, even in cold storage, iFollow’s mobile robots can assist order picking operations in sectors such as grocery, manufacturing and logistics.

HAI Robotics, the pioneer in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) systems, will exhibit its highly flexible goods-to-person solutions that are designed to improve operational efficiency and storage Warehousedensity.operators visiting the event can find out how they can enjoy the benefits of Covariant’s robotics solution with minimal upfront costs by signing up for the company’s robotics-as-aservice customised subscription agreements and also learn how Amber Industries Ltd – a company with over 40 years’ experience in the automated mechanical handling and conveyor industry - works to enhance the efficiency of its clients’ operations by providing innovative and expertly tailored conveyor solutions at a competitive price. Visitors can also check out the range of automated storage systems for pallets and bins developed by racking and storage solutions supplier, Stow.

SUSTAINABILITY With environmental issues very much to the fore, IMHX 2022 will also be the place to examine the advanced lift truck power sources, such as lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cells, that are remodeling the way that many companies operate their intralogistics processes.

Meanwhile Gebhardt – who celebrate their 70th anniversary in 2022 – will show examples of the kind of customised and innovative intralogistics solutions that they have been supplying to customers throughout the world for more than seven decades.

For example, Intelligent Energy, a leading fuel cell development and manufacturing business, will showcase the new “H2 E-Pack” – a plug-and-play battery replacement that uses the company’s IE-LIFT™ MHE fuel cell module at its core.”

iFollow will be showcasing Its premium, robotsautonomousslimlinemobile Locus Robotics will demonstrate its autonomous mobile robot solution

Locus Robotics will also demonstrate an autonomous mobile robot solution throughout IMHX. The Locus multi-bot solution incorporates powerful and intelligent autonomous mobile robots that operate collaboratively with human workers to double, even triple piece-handling productivity, all with less labour compared to traditional piece handling systems.

THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT EXHIBITOR HIGHLIGHTS | September

›› versatile for easy adaptation to a customer's changing product palette. Aided by artificial intelligence, the system "learns" the optimal picking method for each new item.

Designed to help retailers, 3PLs and specialty warehouses efficiently meet or exceed the increasingly complex and demanding requirements of fulfilment environments, the Locus AMR can be integrated into existing warehouse infrastructures without disrupting workflows.

The automated storage, transport, sorting and picking systems supplied by Daifuku include flexible automated guided vehicle (AGV) transport technology as well as rail-guided sorting transfer vehicle (STR) systems, while Knapp’s smart solutions and automated storage systems support the logistics processes of leading companies’ worldwide.

Intelligent Energy is also among the sponsors of a brand new feature of IMHX 2022 – the Sustainability Zone. Combining physical displays, augmented reality, and virtual reality demonstrations, the IMHX Sustainability Zone will give visitors a ‘deep dive’ into the many steps that companies operating in the supply chain space can take to make sure they perform as Prominently located within the main IMHX exhibition hall, the ground-breaking zone, which is being delivered in partnership with SEC Storage, will provide visitors with an insight into an array of adoptable sustainable initiatives. Set across 300 square metres, it will allow visitors to take away everything ››

BotsAndUs will show how their fully autonomous robots measure, track and find goods across warehouses without workflow disruption, while visitors will also discover how Exotec’s range of robotics deliver sustainable warehouse productivity gains by enabling human workers and robots to collaborate.

www.imhx.net 55THE UK’S LARGEST INTRALOGISTICS EVENT Temporary in name, but not in nature Space to grow | Flexibility to adapt | Power to change For a free no-obligation site visit from one of our experts, call us today on 01889 569 569 or visit www.spaciotempo.co.uk With 40mm steel clad sandwich panels, robust aluminium frames, ground sealing options and steel plated ground fixings a Spaciotempo building stands for real quality. Our cost-effective, rapidly installed structures bridge the gap between temporary & permanent and will help to give your business the breathing space it truly needs. COME AND SEE THE SPACIOTEMPO DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF WHEN WE INSTALL ONE OF OUR TEMPORARY BUILDING SOLUTIONS INSIDE THE NEC! Visit us on stand 5E47 6 - 8 September | NEC Birmingham, UK

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

box maker is among a plethora of systems and solutions specifically developed to meet the distinct needs of online retailers and their fulfillment operations will be under the spotlight at IMHX 2022. Narrow Aisle Ltd will demonstrate the benefits of the Easi-Pick, a compact ride-on electric-powered vertical order picker designed specifically with e-fulfillment operations in mind. Meanwhile, a range of storage and picking technology ideal for equipping ‘dark stores’ – the new breed of micro-fulfillment centres that are widely regarded as one of the most exciting online retail developments to emerge from the pandemic, will be highlighted by Bito Storage Systems. Of course, with global energy prices soaring, the commercial incentive for operating in an environmentally-conscious way has never been greater. With many of the world’s leading MHE manufacturers highlighting the latest developments in power sources and fuel cell technology, IMHX 2022 will be the perfect opportunity to see the latest carbon-reducing offerings from many of the world’s leading forklift brands.

Forklift attachment manufacturer, B&B Attachments, will exhibit the new electrically operated and electronically controlled KAUP Electric Fork Positioner - the T160BE. The attachment completely removes the requirement for hydraulic operation - a PLC with CAN-Bus-interface opens new communication possibilities between the attachment and fork truck.

AR Racking will display a wide variety of solutions and services ranging from the design and planning of storage systems to the implementation and commissioning stage of a project. A highlight will be the company’s AR Shuttle semi-automatic solution, which combines the possibility of high density and compact storage with operating agility. ››

56 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT EXHIBITOR HIGHLIGHTS | September

One of the highlights of IMHX is likely to be the special presentation and networking reception that is being held to

›› they need to develop an effective sustainability policy or benchmark their existing strategy against examples from some of the most successful companies in the industry. Of course, embracing sustainability is not just a corporate social responsibility issue – it can be the catalyst for driving operational and financial efficiency and optimising supply chain performance.

Enviromental benefits have long been at the forefront of Crown Lift Trucks’ product development plans and IMHX 2022 will see the company highlight its family of reach truck models that deliver industry-leading energy savings.

Sparck Technologies (formerly Packaging by Quadient) will use IMHX to demonstrate its eco-conscious packaging technology that creates fit-to-size boxes for every consignment quickly and Sparck’sefficiently.fit-to-size

›› ASG Services is using the event to showcase its traditional labelling, safety netting and line marking solutions but in particular, it will be introducing IMHX visitors to two of its latest product ranges, the Kingspan SafeDefence barrier system and the new technology underpinning its Projected Safety Solutions.

SafeDefence is a versatile range of products purpose-designed to protect warehouse personnel, building structures and valuable stock from accident damage caused by impacts from material handling equipment. The system is reliant on a high-performance synthetic polymer that flexes on impact to safely absorb kinetic Theenergy.system includes posts, rails, barriers, goalposts and gates, and its ability to be quickly installed in new-build warehouses, thanks to its single anchor point as opposed to the four-point solution used in traditional steel barriers, is just one of the reasons it is proving popular with ASG Services’ customers.

Visitors to the Goplasticpallets.com stand will also be able to see the APB1210 Pool Pallet, a range of Attached Lid Containers, and a range of lightweight nestable pallets which are said to be ideal for use in retail and export applications. Following the recent acquisition of mechanical handling technology provider Andron Handling, V Installations will be highlighting its extended range of handling solutions.

www.imhx.net 57THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | EXHIBITOR HIGHLIGHTS

Goplasticpallets.com –an independent supplier of plastic pallets, pallet boxes, containers, crates, and trays - will be showcasing two new products: a Euro format of the space-saving foldable CabCube 3.0 and a new range of Smart Euronorm storage containers, perfect for automated ASRS applications.

IMHX 2022 event director, Rob Fisher, says: “After Covid it will be great to be back at the NEC and I look forward to welcoming visitors and exhibitors alike to an event where it is certain that a lot of business will be done. Every aspect of IMHX 2022 will be relevant for the challenges and opportunities presenting themselves to companies in the logistics and supply chain sectors today.“With the vast array of equipment, solutions and technology on show, IMHX 2022 is an essential diary date for anyone whose dayto-day job function involves the storage or movement of goods through the supply chain. “Supply chain issues are at the top of the modern business agenda as retailers, manufacturers and logistics operators strive to keep up with the growth of the on-demand economy and a visit to IMHX is a great chance to see hundreds of intralogistics solutions under one roof and a wonderful opportunity to build a greater understanding of how modern technology can deliver the operational benefits companies across all industry sectors are looking for.”  IMHX 2022 will take place from 6 – 8 September at the NEC, Birmingham and admission is free-of charge. To register for your free exhibition entry pass please visit www.imhx.net.

AR Racking will display a wide variety of solutions and services

58 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT UKWA | September Solar PV on the UK’s wholedoublerooftopswarehousecouldthesolarcapacityoftheoftheUK Clare Bottle, CEO of the United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) explains how warehouses could double the UK’s solar capacity, reduce sector emissions, and save £3bn per year Walking withsunshineonUKWA at IMHX

www.imhx.net 59THE UK’S LARGEST INTRALOGISTICS EVENT packaging fulfilment productivity southgatepackaging .com The Pacplan motto is ‘everything to hand’ and that’s no idle boast. The Pacplan® TechnikTM range of carts, trollies and cages cater for the requirements of order fulfilment and warehousing environments Each model is designed to maximise your productivity, but can also help to reduce both operator fatigue and injury by supplying application specific equipment for your picking and despatch operation Ultimate order fulfilment efficiency see a selection at Stand 5F90 Fore more details on the Pacplan® TechnickTM range of fulfilment products, please contact us on 01553 69 29 69 or at enquiries@southgateglobal.com for more details everything to hand TM SOUTHGATE SHD ADVERT AUGUST 2022_Layout 1 04/08/2022 14:17 Page 1 info@stertil.co.uk Tel. 08707 700471 www.stertilcombilokg2.com/uk /Stertil-b-v- Stertil Dock Products @Stertil Stertildock AUTOMATIC UNIVERSAL VEHICLE RESTRAINT SYSTEM Maximum safety. Flexible versatility; broad range of vehicles types, wheel sizes and axles. Space-saving design, for more shunting area and vehicle manoeuvrability. Extremely durable galvanised sturdy construction and integrated wheel guide. Reliable Stertil® hydraulic system. Audio & visual safety options. TÜV Rheinland Approved According to the EC Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. THE NEXT LEVEL IN SAFETY NEW CONTACT US TODAY! Watch COMBILOKthe® G2 Film:

THEATRE

To put this in context, the National Grid 2022 future energy scenarios considers UK’s solar capacity needs to at least double by 2030 - our report shows that by adopting solar PV the warehousing sector could achieve that goal Ofsingle-handedly!course,decarbonisation

Conclusions show that 15 GW of additional solar PV on the UK’s warehouse rooftops could double the solar capacity of the whole of the UK, in turn reducing sector emissions by a significant 2 million tonnes of CO2 per year and delivering massive annual savings on energy costs of up to £3bn.

Secondly, we have developed a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for UKWA members keen to adopt solar PV, and thirdly – perhaps most importantly, UKWA has created a clear and compelling evidence-based policy paper to government to demonstrate that solar PV on warehouses delivers clear environmental and cost benefits not only to businesses in our sector, but to UK plc

EVENTClare Bottle, CEO of UKWA

At this year’s IMHX the United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) will be sharing the results and implications for the industry and for future government policy of its major research report into solar PV for warehouses.

While solar PV seems an obvious opportunity for warehouse owners to reap the benefits of lower energy costs and achieve more sustainable operation, the issue is fraught with potential Thecomplexities.outputsof our solar PV report are threefold. Firstly, it considers the possible barriers – such as upfront investment, payback time, grid connections - and provides an independent assessment of the viability as well as the benefits of solar PV for the UK warehousing sector.

On funding, the government’s super deduction on capital investment including solar panels can provide significant investment savings, however this is due to end in April 2023. UKWA proposes this is extended to 2030 to support levelling up the UK's warehousing, which we believe will help address upfront investment concerns. On planning, UKWA will highlight the barriers presented by grid permits and recommend that the approach to DNO/DSO and connection planning should be reformed. Our aim will be to ensure part of the review of the electricity market arrangements by BEIS, and Ofgem's review of DSO governance model, enables the widespread installation of commercial rooftop solar On tax, solar energy is excepted from business rates, our message is that this must be preserved and maintained, in recognition of the important role solar plays in supporting improved EPC ratings. We will also promote and support local energy schemes to encourage closer cooperation between businesses and communities, helping to increase the value for exported solar power, while also minimising impact on the wider grid This is the beginning of a quiet revolution for warehousing – so if you’re part of our sector, please visit UKWA at IMHX 2022! 

The findings of our report are nothing short of staggering.

LOGISTICS Learn more at IMHX seminar and panel discussion

The seminar and panel discussion is entitled, ‘Walking on Sunshine: how a warehouse roof can save you money and help save the planet’. 

Initially commissioned to explore how solar PV could contribute to the sector’s journey towards net zero, the issue of sustainable energy has subsequently become even more urgent in the light of rocketing energy prices. In short, warehouse operators need to find a solution that reduces carbon emissions AND saves costs.

To present this ground-breaking research and to discuss the exciting possibilities it raises for our sector, UKWA will be joined in the Logistics Theatre at IMHX on Thursday 8th at 11am by researchers Delta-EE and Solar Energy UK.

requires action from all industry sectors and warehousing is poised to play its part in reducing emissions. However, delivering net zero is expected to drive increased electricity demand, a particular concern for the warehousing and logistics sector as MHE, rail and road freight transport transition to electrification. The price of electricity has already risen sharply because of global supply chain shortages and costs are expected to continue upwards. Solar PV is widely predicted to be a major part of the solution, providing low cost, secure and green electricity, but so far this option has been largely unexplored and untapped in our sector.

UKWA | September

Yet, solar PV would appear to be an excellent choice for warehouses, which invariably feature high (out of sight), large scale, typically un-obstructed flat roof space, ideal for such Unlikeinstallations.utility scale solar, warehouse rooftop solar does not compete with farmland and is typically close to industrial and residential centres. Solar panels are also becoming an increasingly affordable source of renewable energy.

60 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS

sector’s ability to scale-up and adapt its services in response to such massive and rapid changes in consumer spending patterns was hugely impressive and without the expertise and dedication of the industry there can be little doubt that the public would have found the restrictive lockdown conditions even more difficult to live with. For warehouse or distribution centre operators the need to keep pace with the shift away from bulk deliveries to retail stores towards the fulfillment of individual online orders directly to the consumer has necessitated significant adjustments across all aspects of the warehouse operation.

For instance, the e-commerce boom prompted many storage operations to reconsider their order picking methodologies. In particular, the space constraints generated by the need to hold more SKUs and the shorter pick times and quicker throughput rates needed to meet the delivery expectations of internet shoppers meant that storage solutions had to be rethought to make the most of the people and (in the majority of cases) limited space available. A plethora of systems and solutions specifically developed to meet the distinct needs of online retailers and their fulfillment operations will be under the spotlight at the forthcoming IMHX 2022 (6-8 September, NEC, Birmingham). With over 300 exhibiting companies logistics and e-commerce fulfillment professionals can be sure that they will leave IMHX 2022 having seen the very latest technological advancements that will enable them to meet the expectations of today’s increasingly demanding online shoppers.  To register for your free visitor pass, please go to www.imhx.net

www.imhx.net 61THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | UKW IMHX 2022 will provide e-commerce fulfilment professionals with an essential opportunity to discover technologies that will real bottom-line benefits to their business, says IMHX 2022 Event Director, Rob Fisher Covid-19 – and the lockdowns introduced in an effort to restrict its spread among the population – changed the way goods are stored, picked and moved to the consumer dramatically, with the switch to online shopping in particular forcing retailers and their logistics partners to radically rethink and rapidly adapt well-established working practices.

E-COMMERCE optionsOnline

The pace of change was breathtaking. Ten years of forecasted e-commerce growth occurred during the first month of the first national lockdown in 2020, and between February and October of 2021 the value of online sales in total retail sales grew from 19.6% to The28.5%.logistics

62 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS | September

The system is designed with flexibility and modularity in mind. For example, while other products require specific posts for different configurations, Axelent’s X-Protect is designed to allow limitless combinations while flexible connection pieces help dissipate the force of an impact - so not only is X-Protect easy to install and replace, it is also incredibly strong. The system has the widest centres between posts on the market, which means fewer holes in the floor are needed, which, in turn, result in lower installation costs and rapid installation Thespeeds.entire Axelent range is 100 per cent modular and features the same type of floor anchoring system. This makes it simple and straightforward to switch between, for example, impact barriers and pedestrian barriers, without the need to undertake any additional installation work. Checking the condition of safety barriers should be part of every routine facility inspection. If a damaged or worn part is identified the Axelent system allows individual parts to be speedily replaced -right down to component level. This quick switch capability ensures that on-site disruption is minimised while any essential barrier repair work is And,undertaken.because

X-Protect from Axelent is the only impact protection system that changes with a user’s needs. Its unique modular design allows the system’s existing configuration to be easily modified as and when required. This means that with X-Protect protection can be added when needed. Furthermore X-Protect can integrate with the Axelent X-Guard machine guarding system. This is a unique feature in the marketplace.

THE AXELENT X-PROTECT RANGE OF ASEFFECTIVELYTOFACTORYALLOWSBUTHIGHESTNOTPROTECTIONIMPACTPRODUCTSONLYDELIVERTHELEVELSOFSAFETYTHEIRCLEVERDESIGNWAREHOUSEORBARRIERSYSTEMSBEQUICKLYANDCOSTRECONFIGUREDANDWHENREQUIRED

Axelent’s impact proection barrier is part of the X-Protect range

Axelent is a safety company, naturally X-Protect has been through a series of rigorous tests to ensure that it delivers the highest levels of force resistance. At Axelent’s state-ofthe-art testing facility real world forces and impact zones are used throughout the product testing process so users have the peace of mind that comes with the knowledge that their barrier safety system will deliver the required level of people, product and handling equipment protection at all times. Axelent is a company that takes environmental matters seriously so to ensure that the Axelent impact protection system is produced in the most sustainable way possible only one kind of plastic is used in each part. This optimises the product’s ability to be recycled at the end of its working life: quite simply when an Axelent shock protector is worn out it can easily be turned into raw material for use in the production process of another product. The materials from which X-Protect barriers are produced have been carefully selected to be as long-lived and environmentally friendly as possible and are supplied by companies local to Axelent to further limit environmental Visitorsimpact. to IMHX 2022 can check out X-Protect and other products in the Axelent range on stand 5B115 

X-Protect range of impact protection products is super easy to install and their clever design means that the different products in the Axelent range are interchangeable. This compatibility allows warehouse or factory safety systems to be quickly and cost effectively reconfigured as required.

Safety Mostsimplicityandbarrierproductson the market work well as shock protectors but can be hard to assemble. Furthermore, many existing products lack true flexibility, are hard to extend and make it impossible for users to build on an existing system of Butprotection.theAxelent

Axelent offers a wide range of smart products for a safer production and warehouse environment. Whatever the challenge, we know the significance of creating solutions that can handle them. We’ve spent years in development to make sure our products exceeds all expectations. To succeed, we need to create something no one has ever done before. Pushing the design to the limit. The result is our refined impact protection system. We call it X-Protect.

X-Protect is a range of modular impact barrier systems and is the most recent addition to Axelent’s portfolio of workplace safety products. Safety is just our starting point. Our goal is flexibility. Welcome to a new era of impact protection with products designed to simplify your future!

Designed for a simple future X-PROTECT | IMPACT PROTECTION

While most warehouses have adopted some degree of automation to increase throughput efficiency, the pick-andplace aspect of the process is still predominantly manual and, as a result, can account for 50 per cent or more of an operation’s total labour costs.

The Covariant Brain is a universal Al that allows robots to see, think and act. It is a connected and unified AI Robotics platform that is trained on billions of data points across hundreds of thousands of SKUs from Covariant robots in warehouses around the world. Regardless of an object’s shape or size, or the packaging it requires —the Covariant Brain allows virtually any type of item in a warehouse to be handled by robots .

• Kitting and co-packing meal kits, health & beauty items, and more.

Traditionally it has not been possible to use robots to automate this part of the warehouse operation due to the dexterity and adaptability required to handle the infinite variety of item shapes and sizes found in modern warehouses. However, the development of Alpowered automation, or AI Robotics, means robots can now perform even the most complex piece-picking operations Covariant’sautonomously.AlRobotics

This means that Covariant robots can perform with high speed and accuracy resulting in a faster time-to-value straight away. And as robots continue to perform, the Brain continues to learn, adapt, and improve, benefiting all connected robots. As a leader in Al Robotics and an expert in warehouse automation, Covariant works with customers collaboratively to design, develop, and deploy robotic solutions that seamlessly integrate into the existing operation. Robotic solutions from Covariant and their partners (companies such as KNAPP, ABB, Bastian, MHS) include:

• Induction onto unit sorters, autobaggers, and AMRs

• Sortation for batch-picking operations and reverse logistics At IMHX, Covariant is showcasing live warehouse automation solutions in action, powered by the Covariant Brain.

COVARIANT HAS BEEN DEPLOYING AI-POWERED ROBOTIC SOLUTIONS TO AUTOMATE WAREHOUSES AROUND THE WORLD, FROM THE LARGEST 3PLS AND RETAILERS TO DTC BRANDS AND WHOLESALERS, FOR MANY YEARS. BY AUTOMATING PIECE-PICKING, THE COMPANY HELPS WAREHOUSES TO UNLOCK KEY EFFICIENCIES THAT WERE PREVIOUSLY CONSIDERE D UNACHIEVABLE Covariant is showcasing various warehouse automation solutions in action at IMHX 2022

Visitors can watch as automated robots perform a range of pick-and-place tasks involving a variety of objects, accurately and at high speed. So call at stand 5D10 where you can enjoy some refreshment and a chance to discuss how the Covariant Brain can help your business. 

platform enables robots to handle virtually any SKU or object. Informed by millions of picks, Covariant-powered robots can perform autonomously from day one, while continuously adapting and learning. From order picking and item induction to depalletisation and beyond, the Covariant Brain allows a wide variety of warehouse pick-and-place tasks that previously had to be performed manually, to be automated.

• Goods-to-person order picking from Autostore systems, KNAPP shuttles, etc.

solutionsautomationwarehouseAIDeliveringRobotics

• Depalletisation of mixed-SKU pallets

64 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS | September

www.imhx.netTHE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS #IMHX22 YOUR INTRALOGISTICSPREMIEREVENTISBACK! It’s been a long three years, but the wait is finally over. This September, it’s time to welcome you and your industry back to IMHX – the UK’s must-attend intralogistics event of the year. REGISTER NOW! TO BOOK YOUR FREE TICKET, VISIT IMHX.NET

Less is footprint40sortersmore:requirepercentlessspace

TO 40

on the same footprint • Less materials needed • Less floorspace needed • Higher efficiency for the operators thanks to less walking distance • Very limited effect on capacity • No impact on the versatility and reliability • No

more

At IMHX 2022 DistriSort will highlight its latest innovation in automated sortation: the Chute Pitch Reducer cuts the amount of footprint required by a sorter by up to 40 per cent - meaning less space is required for your sorting solution. Alternatively you can have up to 40 per cent more destinations for you sorter. In a market where available floor space is the major restricting factor on the size of a sorter, you have to come up with creative ideas to get the maximum out of every available square meter of the DistriSortwarehouse.is already well known for integrating durable high capacity sorters on a small footprint, but is now making a huge step in what was believed to be impossible. Introducing the Chute Pitch TheReducer.Chute Pitch Reducer means that either the sorter itself can drastically reduce in size and budget, or we can fit up to 40 per cent more exits in the same footprint. It represents a massive improvement for customers and a revolution in the automated sortation Byindustry.implementing a pneumatically controlled ‘door’ into the chutes, we can alter the forward movement of a discharged item. When an item is bound for the chute this door is linked to, it activates, rising up and creating a barrier in the chute. This stops the item in its forward slide and guides it down into the designated exit. The result is that for example 400 chutes could fit in the same footprint as 300 chutes previously. This innovation enhances the flexibility while maintaining the capacity, reliability and accuracy that EuroSort sorters are known for.

CENT THE CHUTE PITCH REDUCER BENEFITS • Up

66 www.imhx.net THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS | September

sorting

THE CHUTE PITCH REDUCER FROM DISTRISORT SLASHES THE SIZE OF THE FOOTPRINT REQUIRED TO ACCOMMODATE A SORTATION SOLUTION BY

DistriSort is an integrator of tailormade sorting concepts and solutions. From idea and concept, to the implementation and installation. We pride ourselves on our in depth expertise in high demanding industries like: fashion, e-commerce, books, pharma and postal services. Our concepts can be found in over 40 countries worldwide. In order to provide you the best sorting concept, we go through a step-bystep plan. Together we look at the desired situation and define a common goal. To get to this point we ask a lot of questions, do research and make inventories of the existing situation. We will go as far as provide you with an ROI calculation to make sure you have a well-balanced assessment for a possible investment.  Find out more on: www.distrisort.com UP PER to 40% exists impact on the accuracy DistriSort’S Chute Pitch Reducer cuts the footprint required by a sorter by up to 40 per cent

www.imhx.net 67THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS DistriSort Sorting Solutions DistriSort Projects B.V. | De Boomgaard 2 | 1243 HV ‘s-Graveland | The Netherlands | www.distrisort.com Automated Sorting Solutions Concepts for E-Commerce, incoming and outgoing goods, cross docking and returns. Separate or combined. We know what it takes; small, large, odd-sized and different packaging materials, we have a solution for your automated sorting requirements. Visit us at IMHX stand 5E60 Call +31 (0) 88 205 60 13 or e-mail: info@distrisort.com DistriSort Sorting Solutions DistriSort Projects B.V. | De Boomgaard 2 | 1243 HV ‘s-Graveland | The Netherlands | www.distrisort.com Automated Sorting Solutions Concepts for E-Commerce, incoming and outgoing goods, cross docking and returns. Separate or combined. We know what it takes; small, large, odd-sized and different packaging materials, we have a solution for your automated sorting requirements. Visit us at IMHX stand 5E60 Call +31 (0) 88 205 60 13 or e-mail: info@distrisort.com

Materials handling equipment is integral to many of the UK’s most critical industries, from construction and aerospace, to food and beverage and manufacturing. But the remarkable resilience that the sector has displayed has been driven, overwhelmingly, by the unrelenting rise of e-commerce. Indeed, the Amazon effect has proved transformative to just about every industry, as consumers grow used to delivery within hours and fast and efficient returns policies.

The need for efficiency and increased productivity in e-commerce and elsewhere is being met with other rapid technological advancements. And, as more and better materials handling equipment is needed, demand for the flexible financing tools that can support the investment required is growing too. After all, there is no avoiding the political and economic instability that all industries are facing across the UK.

Materials handling can represent a significant expenditure for any business and justifying substantial financial commitments is tough in the current environment and the uncertainty that the sector’s endcustomers are facing has implications for manufacturers and sellers of materials handling equipment. This means that having the right financing partner in place is particularly critical to any supplier looking to build strong relationships with their customers and maximise their sales opportunities.

INVESTEC PersonalisedOFFERS:service

resilienceBuilding in the industryhandlingmaterials

The knock-on implications for forklift truck demands have been considerable. Many warehouses are now running triple shifts. Fewer pallets and bulk orders are being shipped, with more emphasis instead on individual items. Warehouse aisles are getting narrower and shelves higher. Meanwhile, a growing number of smaller, regional warehouses designed to cater for lastmile delivery and micro-fulfilment are in turn driving demand for equipment that suits these specific requirements.

Single and multi-asset financing Your customers may need finance for anything from a single truck to multiple trucks for multiple sites. That’s why we offer businesses a wide range of materials handling finance options, from £5,000 to over £10m. Simple and quick proposals To make it easy for you to submit your finance proposal directly to us we have created an app. It’s so simple, you can even submit a proposal while you are with a customer. Get in touch for more Thisinformation.isachallenging but exciting period for the logistics and materials handling industry so make time to meet the Investec team on stand 5F47 at IMHX 2022 where a refreshing cold beverage will be waiting. Investec’s Chief Economist Phil Shaw will also be giving an insight of the economic climate, the new PM’s policies, prospects of the economy and impact of interest rates in a keynote presentation during the IMHX Conference.  THE ABILITY TO OFFER SEAMLESS SERVICE IS INCREASINGLY CRITICAL TO THE MATERIALS HANDLING EQUIPMENT SALES PROCESS AND WORKING WITH A FLEXIBLE AND EXPERIENCED FINANCING PARTNER HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT expenditurehandlingMaterialscanrepresentasignificantforanybusiness

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Your dedicated relationship manager takes the time to really understand the equipment sales and finance requirements, to help you structure bespoke deals for your customers. Our wider team is also on hand for quick underwriting and pay-out.

Having a huge wealth of experience in your market means that we understand the challenges that the changing economic landscape brings. Our team is so embedded in your industry, we understand your pain points. Let us support you through the good times and bad. Come and see us on Stand 5F47 and find out how we can help. Let’s talk.

Investec Bank plc is registered in England. Registered No. 489604. Registered at 30 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7QP. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS herechange.conditionsEconomicWe’retostay.

Richard Moss, Whittan’s Chief Sales Officer, comments: “IMHX is the perfect opportunity for companies to connect with some of the leading industry suppliers and experts working within the UK. With over 70 years’ worth of experience Whittan are equipped to help you increase efficiency, optimise productivity and enhance the future of your business. By visiting Whittan at IMHX 2022, you get the chance to speak to one of our industry leading experts who can work with you to understand your requirements and guide you towards the best storage solution for your business.“

To book a meeting with a Whittan storage specialist at IMHX 2022 email connected@whittan.com Visitors can find Whittan at IMHX 2022 on Stand 5F55.

Whittan’s team of experts will be on hand on Stand 5F55 throughout the show to discuss visitors’ specific requirements. The wide range of solutions available from Whittan, which have been installed in all sectors and industries for over 70 years, includes products from industry leading storage brands such as Link51, LinkLockers, HiStore, Probe, Polypal UK, Apex and TheLinBins.Whittan range includes an extensive collection of pallet racking which is custom designed in a wide range of sizes and capabilities, including wide and narrow aisle, drive-in and dynamic storage. While Whittan’s shelving has been designed to meet different load capacities and work in even the smallest of spaces. Both storage solutions can be designed to include anything from a few simple bays all the way through to a multi-tier structure. Of further interest will be Whittan’s modular range of LinkLockers that can be cleverly designed to fit a client’s space and adapt as the user’s requirements change. And companies looking to maximise every inch of space available, should take the time to discover Whittan’s mezzanine solutions, which work in harmony with the company’s other storage solutions to create valuable extra usable floor space. All Whittan systems are supported by the company’s range of storage accessories that aim to maximise the capabilities of a client’s materials handling equipment, optimise stock control and increase picking efficiency. Quality comes as standard with Whittan and the company’s solutions are designed and manufactured to British standard requirements, SEMA Codes of Practice and British Safety Council Certifications. They are also made in Britain. Furthermore, Whittan has recently been awarded the industry leading Alcumus SafeContractor accreditation.

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Sustainability will play a big part in this year’s IMHX. Exhibitors are being encouraged to eliminate waste by reusing and recycling anything they use for the exhibition. As the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of storage systems Whittan’s stand will be constructed from UK manufactured products, allowing visitors to see the quality and durability of the company’s solutions. Once the show has finished everything used to make the Whittan stand will go back to the company’s factory and reused.

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“IMHX IS THE TOFOROPPORTUNITYPERFECTCOMPANIESCONNECT”

Rob Fisher, IMHX Group Director, said “The team and I are delighted to welcome the Whittan Group to IMHX 2022. With no less than seven wellknown industry brands, Whittan Group’s innovative, game-changing storage solutions will no doubt prove of high interest to the many logistics leaders and professionals that will attend this year’s event.”  Register for IMHX 2022 for free by visiting com/survey/2869hrd7bdgrmhttps://registration.gesevent.

RICHARD MOSS Chief Sales Officer Whittan The wide range of solutions available from Whittan, which have been installed in all sectors and industries for over 70 years

Climate change has become a growing problem and industries must find ways to reduce their carbon footprint. As the UK’s largest steel storage manufacturer, Whittan understands the importance of sustainability and how making even small changes can make a big di erence.

Our pallet racking, shelving and lockers are manufactured here in the UK across four factories and one in Spain, meaning we’re never far away from our customers. By choosing Whittan you’ll benefit from shorter lead times and avoid supply chain issues, as well as minimising your impact on the environment.

Maximising storage capability

Sustainability doesn’t stop at how far your products travel. If you need more storage space it can also make environmental sense to expand on your existing system rather than extending the footprint of your Whittanwarehouse.and our expert team of in-house designers can help you maximise your space by building on your existing storage solution and adding extra capacity with scalable solutions that can grow with your business.

Reliability in storage A storage solution that has been designed correctly for its intended role and manufactured to the highest standards will achieve longevity and reliability and extending the life of a product can o er environmental Ourbenefits.solutions meet British standard requirements and British Safety Council Certifications. We are also Full Manufacturing SEMA Members which means our designs are submitted to independent product

Whittan at IMHX

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Visit Whittan on Stand 5F55 and you will get to see with your own eyes the quality and durability of our solutions. Ready to expand your capabilities with storage? 01952

www.whittan.comenquiries@whittan.com682251

Finally,assessments.nomatter how carefully you use your equipment, damage can happen which will limit its lifespan. Whittan will support you with our skilled team of SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors who are perfectly positioned to report on the status of your installation, regardless of the original supplier, and ensure SEMA codes of practice.

Choose Whittan for reliable and sustainable storage

This year our stand will be constructed from our own UK manufactured products and once the show has finished everything used in making the stand will go back into our factory to be reused!

Food, produce, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology companies are familiar with the requirements necessary to move their goods to ensure quality and safety standards are met.

INVEST IN TECHNOLOGY TO LOWER OPERATIONAL COST Rejected truckloads contribute significantly to overall transportation expenditures. Shippers have already been strained by inflation, capacity shortages, rising fuel costs, and global climate conditions. Investing in costeffective temperature loggers is the easiest way for shippers to maintain a high level of quality and safety throughout their entire cold chain.

CREATE AN AUDIT TRAIL FOR REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

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With all the risks involved in hauling refrigerated goods, it is essential for shippers and their transportation providers to use temperature loggers for first and last mile cold chain visibility. Whether it’s the distribution of pharmaceutical goods or fresh produce, logistics professionals are responsible for ensuring that their time-sensitive shipments arrive on time without damage or spoilage. Logistics managers have limited visibility into whether their providers are correctly tracking and maintaining temperatures in their cold chain. Some shippers require carriers to manually complete cold chain custody forms, others may send a photo of their reefer temp to communicate that they were following proper instructions. Yet, these methods provide limited data and do not identify whether these loads experienced temperature deviations while in transit. Modern temperature loggers, however, capture temperature conditions at the shipment’s origin, at regular intervals, and at the shipment’s destination - the result is total temperature visibility on every shipment. Temperature loggers are small, hyperaccurate, paper-thin labels attached to shipments that contain a built-in sensor that tracks the temperature conditions of the shipment. The sensor tracks interior reefer temperatures to fully monitor cold chain conditions.

INTRODUCING TIVE TAG

NOTHING SPOILS SOMEONE’S DAY IN LOGISTICS MORE THAN A PERISHABLES SHIPMENT REJECTION DUE TO DAMAGE FROM BEING TOO HOT OR TOO COLD. AND, BECAUSE EACH REJECTION CREATES A CHAIN REACTION THAT NEGATIVELY IMPACTS SHIPPERS AND CARRIERS, TEMPERATURE LOGGERS ARE ESSENTIAL The new Tive Tag temperature logger is like a shipping label with an incredible amount of tech embedded inside

Visitors to IMHX 2022 will be able to see the latest in temperature logger technology – the Tive Tag. The cloudenabled Tive Tag is a temperature logger in the form of a thin, flexible shipping label. It lasts for a year, is designed to be reused trip after trip, and has a non-Lithium earth-friendly battery. And, what’s more, it costs half the price of a conventional logger. Like a shipping label but with an incredible amount of tech embedded inside, the Tive Tag is a simple solution for shippers, retailers, cold storage operators, and last mile delivery. Customers have an audit trail for compliance, the Tag is air freight safe, and supports your ESG initiatives with minimal electronic waste. Simply stick, tap it with your phone, and ship.  To learn more about Tive Tag, please visit: www.tive.com/Tag

Ultimately, the shipper is responsible for collecting compliance documentation. Temperature trackers automatically store a digital record of each shipment and allow shippers to download shipment reports, providing full visibility of temperature conditions throughout the entire journey.

Taking temperaturethe

www.imhx.net 73THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT September | EXHIBTOR HIGHLIGHTS Optimise Your Cold Chain Shipments Simple, power ful, temperature logging Temperature Read by smar tphone or RFID reader Learn more about TiveTag NFCRFID

The new solution supports Hatchette UK’s omni-channel profile with a combination of full case and split case picking methods. Generally, any title can be ordered as a full case or split case. Goods from split case picking are shipped in packages, returnable totes and automatically erected cartons.

A state-of-the-art distribution centre must feature the right degree of automation to ensure that the requirements for quick delivery can be fulfilled and that peaks are covered. But the degree of automation and its application will vary considerably because companies have different resources and skills at their disposal. That’s why TGW individually tailors its solutions to the needs of every customer and the more insight TGW has into historical data, business data and personnel levels, the better the simulation they can run to develop a system that meets the planned investment and labour needs of the Aclient.nice example is the new distribution centre of Hachette UK - the UK’s leading trade publishing group. Hachette’s new DC is in Didcot, Oxforshire. Two previously used distribution centres were merged into the new facility, which is known as the Hely Hutchinson Centre The(HHC).HHC is one of the most advanced distribution centres in Europe. Cuttingedge automation technology and modern systems provide first-rate services to customers and publisher clients. Shorter lead times and lower transport and operation costs are among the many advantages that the new facility has delivered.

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Split case picking of single books is fully managed using a TGW FlashPick® (GTP) solution. Five storage aisles, each equipped with a fleet of TGW Stingray shuttles, supply required source totes to one of 10 “PickCenter One TS” workstations. These enable one-toone ergonomics: empty order cartons and totes are automatically provided at the PickCenter One TS stations and, once they are filled, directed towards the outbound sortation area to be consolidated with other cartons and totes for the same shipping destination.

As a system integrator, TGW (www. tgw-group.com) take over planning, production, implementation and maintenance of distribution centres –including everything from mechatronics to control systems and software. TGW’s core industries are fashion and apparel, groceries and industrial and consumer TGWgoods.continue to invest in innovation, with a focus on artificial intelligence, software and robotics. These technologies are also the basis for maximum automation of the processes in logistics centres that are the most difficult to staff adequately.

TGW Warehouse Software manages all picking as well as the timely coordination of split case titles and copies them to Hachette’s JDA WMS in order to create picking lists and report back details on the contents of finished order cartons and totes.

A five-year Lifetime services contract guarantees high-system availability and the solution at Hachette is maintained and supported by seven TGW on-site residential engineers, who provide flexible three-shift operational support throughout the year. 

More information on TGW and Hachette UK: https://bit.ly/3Qfm1c6 If you’d like to learn how TGW can help your distribution centre meet the unpredictable demands of today’s supply chains, visit the company’s stand (5E71) at IMHX 2022.

TGW INDIVIDUALLY TAILORS ITS SOLUTIONS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF EVERY CUSTOMER. A NICE EXAMPLE IS THE NEW DISTRIBUTION CENTRE OF HACHETTE UK, THE UK’S LEADING TRADE PUBLISHING GROUP Hachette’s new DC is in Didcot, Oxforshire

www.imhx.net 75THE LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS EVENT www.tgw-group.com Worried about challenges lying ahead? We know that investing in automation can be a challenge in a volatile world. We focus on creating long-term partnerships that are built on trust. No matter what the future holds, you can be certain that at TGW we will be here to look after you. PROVIDING RELIABILITY

The cold storage sector has in fact been expanding rapidly for the past decade, buoyed by surging demand and international investment. This growth in capacity is a key factor in ensuring resilience in our cold chain, but the crises of the past three years have shown us much more about what we will need from this additional capacity in future years. The systems and technologies to make best use of space, for example through fully automated warehouses, have come to the fore. But the increase in storage capacity and the adoption of exciting new technologies are only possible if our industry has the people and the skills it needs too. Attracting new people, retaining those in already working in the cold chain, and developing skills for the future are all critical for our industry’s resilience. This is an area where we, along with others in logistics, had been able to coast but the labour crunch as the country came out of Covid restrictions last year was a lesson from which the cold chain is learning. Many individual operators and the industry as a whole are now investing considerably more into ensuring our industry is attractive as a career and that our people have the chance to develop the new skills for the cold chain’s future needs, challenges and opportunities. The theme running through all these considerations for future resilience is the UK’s transition to a Net Zero Economy by 2050. Our industry has been taking important strides forward for some time in improving our environmental impact, but the energy crisis has pushed energy efficiency right to the top of the agenda, particularly the measures that will help operators minimise bills now as well as meeting stringent environmental targets in the coming years. 

toughTalking

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Shane Brennan, Chief Executive of the Cold Chain Federation, is proud of the resilience shown by the UK’s temperature-controlled storage and distribution sector in the face of recent challenges. The cold chain has spent the past three years navigating a path through the extreme disruptions of the pandemic and Brexit, followed swiftly by the labour shortage and now the ongoing energy crisis. Cold chain people have worked tirelessly, drawing on decades of experience and remarkable resilience as well as impressive creativity in finding the new approaches that have been needed to tackle new challenges.

The impacts of each of those crises are still being felt by the operators in our industry to greater or lesser degrees – I fear the energy burden in particular will get worse before it gets better –but our industry is in the process of taking stock. We are working together to examine what happened and how we responded, taking the lessons of this period as we shape the way we see the future of the cold chain and how it interacts with customers, partners and governments in the UK. Resilience has always been a high priority for businesses working in the cold chain, with unexpected requests and sudden changes which must be overcome to make sure high quality, safe food is available where it is needed. But there is no doubt that what resilience means for the cold chain is changing as we look towards the UK’s post-pandemic, post-Brexit, net zero future. Both the repeated stockpiling to prepare for Brexit cliff edges and the sudden enforced hibernation of whole customer sectors during the pandemic swung a national spotlight onto the fact there is a physical limit to the UK’s capacity for storing fresh and frozen food in temperature-controlled warehouses. Operators have been sorely tested in making the best use of the space available when stock was no longer moving, and challenged in deploying their workforce effectively when many people were unavoidably off work or required to isolate.

www.coldchainfederation.org.uk/cold-chain-net-zero-project

C O V I D 1 9 R A P I D A N T I G E N T E S T S C R E E N I N G P R O J E C T I M P L E M E N T E D A T T H R E E S I T E S I N U G A N D A 1 , 0 0 0 , 0 0 0 5 , 2 2 5 H G V , P S V & F O R K L I F T D R I V E R S T R A I N E D I N T A N Z A N I A , U G A N D A & Z A M B I A 1 9 7 7 % I N C R E A S E I N N U M B E R O F D R I V E R S T R A I N E D T R A I N E R S S U C C E S S F U L L Y C O M P L E T E D T H E O R Y T R A I N I N G I N G H A N A P E O P L E R E A C H E D I N R U R A L Z A M B I A W O R K I N G A L O N G S I D E 1 7 D I F F E R E N T A G E N C I E S F R O M M U L T I P L E S E C T O R S T O I M P L E M E N T I M P R O V E D M O T O R C Y C L E S A F E T Y I N K E N Y A I N U G A N D A , C O M P A R E D T O P R E V I O U S Y E A R W I T H T R A N S A I D ' S I N T E G R A T E D M A L A R I A A N D C O V I D 1 9 R E S P O N S E D O N A T E H E R E G E N D E R F O C U S E D P U B L I C T R A N S P O R T R E S E A R C H A N D I M P L E M E N T A T I O N P R O J E C T I N A B U J A , C A P E T O W N A N D T U N I S R O A D S A F E T Y P R O G R A M M E L A U N C H E D I N M O Z A M B I Q U E 1 5 - M O N T H w w w . t r a n s a i d . o r g T R A N S A I D W O R K S I N T W O C O R E A R E A SR O A D S A F E T Y & A C C E S S T O H E A L T H C A R ET O S O L V E T W O O F T H E B I G G E S T T R A N S P O R T C H A L L E N G E S I N S U B S A H A R A N A F R I C A . UK Registered Charity No: 1072105 Patron: HRH The Princess Royal * S t a t i s t i c s c o v e r A p r i l 2 0 2 1 M a r c h 2 0 2 2 T R A N S A I D T R A N S F O R M S L I V E S T H R O U G H S A F E , A V A I L A B L E A N D S U S T A I N A B L E T R A N S P O R T . @ T r a n s a i d O r g / T r a n s a i d @ t r a n s a i d o r g / T r a n s a i d