SHDLOGISTICS March 2020 www.shdlogistics.com

GO OUTDOORS MEET THE JUDGES THE 100

A look at Jungheinrich’s F ind out more about Mirek Raba provides a fresh Innovations & Highlights this year’s Logistics perspective on how supply event. P18 Awards judges. P44 chains are changing. P58 MARCH 2020 SHD L GISTICS

WELCOME TO THE NEXT GENERATION OF LOGISTICS INFORMAMARKETSLTD BE PART OF IT. FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.IMHX.NET it’s got intelligence

The Flexi ACiON range utilises the latest integrated digital technology with cutting edge Cobotics, all designed to help maximise capacity and productivity and reliability.

HiVIS Mast

Clear View Guard

Smooth AC Control

True RadiusTM 220 Degrees

Advanced integrated digital technology that monitors and assists your workforce, with smooth digital AC control and driver assist, the complete Flexi package allows for total control over your .

Contact us today & find out t: 0121 557 6242 how Flexi can improve your e: [email protected] warehouse productivity w: www.flexi.co.uk

FLEXI NARROW AISLE Great Western Way, Great Bridge, Tipton, West Midlands DY4 7AU CONTENTS Promoting Supply Chain Excellence REGULARS FEATURES EDITOR: 05 Comment - Editor Kirsty Adams refl ects Fork Lift Trucks [email protected] on the short- and long-term implications 18 Go Outdoors - A look at Jungheinrich’s 0207 017 7122 of Coronavirus on the logistics sector. latest truck which was unveiled at an 06 News - GMB Union demands Amazon event in Hamburg earlier this year. DEPUTY EDITOR inquiry following 600 injuries in three years. 20 Pedal to the Metal - Using electric [email protected] 10 Cover story: IMHX - The event returns trucks to keep costs low during 0207 921 8281 in 2021 with a bold new message: metal goods manufacturing. Next Generation Logistics. 22 Concrete Fleet - Meeting the CONTRIBUTING EDITOR – PROPERTY 12 Property - David Thame reports on niche needs of a clay and concrete David Thame new thinking in the property business. building product manufacturer. [email protected] 46 Data Analysis - How long is your & Integration 0207 017 6987 distribution centre going to last? 28 Easy Pickings - Implementing 50 HR - Overcoming common robotic picking and packing ADVERTISEMENT SALES problems during training. technology to handle heavy items. [email protected] 58 Logistics 100 - Mirek Raba 30 Process, People, Technology - The 0207 017 6991 provides a fresh perspective on various factors that should be taken into how supply chains are changing. account before implementing automation. [email protected] 32 Bridging the Gap - Building a 0207 017 7124 highly automated intralogistics SPECIAL REPORTS system in the Netherlands. PRODUCTION & DESIGN 14 The Logistics Conference - Find out who 34 Keeping it Moving - A for why PH Media | Josh Pickett is speaking at the spring conference. plastic are an indispensable [email protected] 16 It’s All About Data - Marie Hamblin component in automated . 01726 892212 delves into a hot topic: big data. Space Optimisation 25 Safe, Secure & Compliant - Why 37 Serving Up Space Savings - DIRECTOR, MATERIALS HANDLING GROUP it’s so vital for you to be properly Making the most effi cient use of [email protected] compliant within your supply chain. expensive cold store space. 42 Unseen - How one charity is combatting 38 Speed and Space - Finding a packing ethics breaches in the sector. solution that operates at speed in 44 The Logistics Awards - Meet the confi nes of a small space. some of this year’s judges. 40 A Flexible Solution - Maximising

Published monthly by: the storage capacity of a warehouse Informa Exhibitions Ltd. 16th Floor, 240 Blackfriars Rd, London SE1 8BF on the outskirts of Birmingham. Subscriptions OPINION Order Picking United Kingdom: £132.00 17 AMHSA - Dave Berridge explores 47 On Another Level - Multi-tier shelving Rest of World (surface): £168.00 Rest of World (air): £191.00 what a circular economy means improves warehouse effi ciency by allowing Subscription enquiries: 01635 588 489 for the supply chain. simultaneous order picking on several [email protected] 26 UKWA - Peter Ward discusses the tiers to reduce order throughput times. next steps of post-Brexit logistics. 48 The Frame Game - The business

©2019 Informa Exhibitions Ltd. All Rights reserved. 36 Cold Chain Federation - A guide to case for integrating an A-frame ISSN: 2054-9768 health and safety in a cold store. into an order picking setup. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. 54 FLTA - How to specify a truck Packaging that’s right for your operation. 51 BCMPA - The latest trends – positive and negative – in packaging. 52 Pallet to Palate - How are used to apply directly onto the retaining straps on hundreds of pallets a day, each carrying around 9,000 drinks cans. AI & Machine Learning 55 Machines Can Talk - Will Leet from Honeywell talks everything AI and automation. 56 The AI Barrier - Why AI might not provide a quick fi x for the logistics industry. 57 Rollout - A look at Walmart’s fi rst wave of robots, recently implemented in a superstore in Salem, US.

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 3 Trust : Traigo

Trust : Traigo - the perfect fit for every industry

The Toyota Traigo electric counterbalanced trucks are produced according to the Toyota Production System. Our Traigo range is available as 3 or 4-wheel models of different sizes for a variety of indoor and outdoor applications such as loading, unloading, stacking and horizontal transport. All-electric counterbalanced trucks offer high performance, all-round visibility, easy manoeuvrability and are equipped with our patented System of Active Stability, SAS. You can trust our Traigo range of electric trucks are the perfect fit for your industry meeting your material handling needs for leaner operations.

To learn more about the Toyota Traigo, visit www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk COMMENT

Our sister event Intermodal Asia which takes place in Shanghai has been moved to July due to the Coronavirus. It’s caused the an unprecedented level of disruption to the operations and marketing teams involved, as editor well as exhibitors and visitors. But at least we have our health, a new date and a job to go to. The Coronavirus fallout on the supply chain has, perhaps, only just begun. JCB has had to reduce production levels at its Transaid UK factories due to anticipated component Ambassador shortages from Chinese suppliers. The move meant a shorter working week for around 4,000 JCB and agency shop fl oor employees and the introduction of a 34-hour week for UK production employees until further notice. More than 25% of JCB’s suppliers in China, at the time of writing, were forced to close, and those that reopened are working at reduced More than 25% of JCB’s suppliers capacity and struggling to make shipments. in China ... were forced to close According to a report in The New York Times (nytimes.com), European aircraft “ maker Airbus started to reopen its narrow- body jet assembly operations mid-February H&K Ad 124 x 86.qxp_Layout 1 09/07/2019” 15:23 Page 1 in Tianjin, but would only gradually increase production, whilst implementing all required health and safety measures. While a lot of the focus has been on the short-term supply chain challenges – according to Slimane Allab, EMEA general manager at tech company LLamasoft – in the long-term the impact will be felt by consumers as it is expected there will be a wave of further product DELIVERINGEXCELLENCEIN delays, shortages and cancelled events. Allab also points out, that while companies fire protection typically have contingency plans in case of a supplier outage, this case is unique in that a & fire detection majority of those contingency plans involve Automatic Sprinkler Systems other sources of supply from mainland China. Foam Systems • Fire Pumps So, what’s your contingency plan? Have you Dry & Wet Risers been touched by delays and cancellations? Email Watermist your comments to [email protected]. Fire Detection & Alarms Gas Suppression Service & Maintenance

ASKFORA FREE QUOTATION For a free quotation use this code CSM78 Kirsty Adams Editor 0121 421 9502 [email protected] www.hkfire.co.uk Hall & Kay are a fully approved and certified LPS 1048/1204/1014 fire system installer and maintenance contractor assessed to ISO 9001

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 5 NEWS | MARCH 2020 MORE NEWS ONLINE AT WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM/NEWS

RETAIL › SPONSORED CONTENT › GMB UNION DEMANDS AMAZON INQUIRY NEXSYS FOLLOWING 600 INJURIES IN THE PAST 3 YEARS BATTERY RANGE

The GMB has said it’s time for a our critics seem determined to I cannot remember any TO COVER ALL Parliamentary inquiry into Amazon’s paint a false picture of what it’s company clock up so many MATERIALS working conditions following reports like to work for Amazon. They injuries to its workers. I of 600 serious injuries or near repeat the same sensationalised have been inside the giant HANDLING misses in the past three years. allegations time and time again. Rugeley depot and heard The figures were revealed “Our doors are open to the public, first hand from frightened VEHICLE following a Freedom of Information to politicians, and indeed to anyone workers of the 77 serious Act request submitted by GMB to who truly wants to see the modern, incidents in Rugeley alone. APPLICATIONS local authorities across the UK. innovative and, most importantly, “Amazon purports to be Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) battery According to the GMB, the safe environment we provide to our a 21st century company. It technology from EnerSys, long- information shows that between people. The fact is we benchmark behaves like a 19th century established in providing highly 2016/17 and 2018/19 a total of against UK national data, published millowner. Amazon owner, flexible, maintenance-free operation 622 reports have been made from by the Health & Safety Executive, the American billionaire, Jeff for materials handling vehicles, Amazon warehouses to the Health confirming we have over 40% fewer Bezos, should be called to is now available in two forms. and Safety Executive (HSE) – with injuries on average than other account by Parliament for First is the NexSys Core battery the number rising each year. transportation and warehousing his actions. How can he or (available only in EMEA markets), Amazon gave SHD Logistics the businesses in the UK.” Amazon justify refusing to a high-performance alternative following statement in response Jack Dromey, MP for Birmingham talk to their workers’ union, to traditional lead-acid batteries. to the article from GMB: “Amazon Erdington, told GMB: “In my the GMB, on safety? Their Then, for users seeking even more is a safe place to work. Yet again, 30 years in the world of work behaviour is disgraceful.” n enhanced capabilities, outstanding cycling performance in Partial State of Charge (PSoC) operations and TECHNOLOGY › increased cycle life, there is the new NexSys Pure battery. Comprising JUICE PRESENTS AT ENERGY SYMPOSIUM TPPL technology with the addition of carbon in the active material In January, Juice, provider of Juice provides ‘energy care that monitor and streamline formulation, the NexSys Pure stored energy services, hosted its packages’ on a national, regional battery run and charge battery is powerful enough to offer a first ‘Energy Symposium’ at the and site-scale. This involves full times, making them more compelling alternative to lithium- RAC club in London. SHD was consultation and maintenance efficient. We received a demo ion (Li-ion) in many applications. in attendance. The company’s of fork lift truck fleet batteries. of the intuitive application. The NexSys Core battery is currently business director, Andrew It also includes advice on the Next, Ross Adams and optimised to achieve 100% energy Clarke, opened the proceedings implementation of charging Nathan Burton from Fronius throughput for low to medium-duty by explaining the aim of the products and processes. UK gave an overview some operations. In contrast, the NexSys day: to educate the delegates of Juice’s services are backed of the challenges faced by Pure battery delivers up to 160% manufacturers, suppliers and up by KPI and ROI data. logisticians today, including energy throughput per day. n logistics businesses from across Next to speak was Duncan rising energy costs, a need for a the industry on how the use of Jones, managing director at reduction in CO2 emissions and energy is changing within the Philadelphia Scientific. He posed a requirement for maximum warehouse space. This was to the question: how do you make fork lift truck fleet availability. include a look at some of the new green greener? The company All of Fronius’ offerings aim to technology that is leading the way. provides software solutions overcome these challenges. n

CHARITY ›

FORK LIFT DONATION TO HELP TRANSAID RAISE PROFESSIONAL OPERATOR TRAINING STANDARDS

A fork lift truck donated by UniCarriers UK donated the two-tonne diesel-powered use to help train more than 350 people on has arrived 5,000 miles away in Zambia DL20 counterbalance truck to support the safe and effective operation of materials and immediately entered operation Transaid’s partnership with the Industrial handling equipment in its first year. The to support international development Training Centre (ITC) in Lusaka. forklift will also help empower both younger organisation Transaid with building Lloyd Mbasela, executive director, ITC, said, people and women in skills training, which capacity and improving forklift operator “We are naturally very grateful to receive will increase employment in the industry training and safety standards. UniCarriers the UniCarriers forklift truck, which we will and household revenue generation.” n 10 pre-programmed safety reminders

17 sensors on truck to collect real-time data NEWS | SHD LOGISTICS MORE NEWS ONLINE AT WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM/NEWS

 SOCIAL MEDIA FEEDS.... TRAINING › FUTURE SKILLS › AMHSA HOSTS 2020 GIST LAUNCHES DEGREE TOP TWITTER POSTS TRAINING SEMINAR APPRENTICESHIP Available to AMHSA members, and Steve Knights, Director at SCHEME this year’s training seminar was Knights Consultancy Services. SHD Logistics @shdlogistics hosted in February in Market The day covered the Logistics expert Gist is launching Harborough. The attending group fundamentals of why warehouses a new degree apprenticeship of delegates included those and distribution centres are scheme to create business with plenty of experience in the necessary, and how they should leaders of the future. logistics sector, looking to refresh be designed. Later, the speakers In September 2020, Gist will their knowledge, as well as some provided a comprehensive welcome five recruits to its new newer faces. Speakers included guide to automated storage Management Apprenticeship AMHSA Secretary Dave Berridge, and handling systems.  scheme for A-Level school leavers looking to develop their LAST MILE › career as business leaders. We earned our top tweet fol- Gist has partnered with lowing a story about Europa’s Nottingham Trent University recent drive to offer employees FTA SAYS HS2 MUST equal pay and opportunities. to offer the four-year Level 6 DELIVER FOR LOGISTICS Leadership and Management Apprenticeship. The five HS2 is set to be given the go government that this capacity apprentices will be based at ahead, but logistics businesses will not be pre-allocated Gist’s Head Office in Chineham, now need a guarantee from to passenger services, but Hampshire, and will study as SHD Logistics @shdlogistics government that it will use the instead made available for distance learning students, high-speed rail line to free up bids from freight operators, in visiting the university every space for rail freight services on a fair and transparent way. eight weeks for lectures. The existing lines, says the FTA. The “While FTA and its members apprentices will spend time on business group, which represents appreciate the clarity this placements across the business all of the logistics sector, is decision provides, HS2 should in years one to three and move also calling on the government be considered as just one into role in year four, before to commit to a nationwide element of a nationwide graduating with a BA Hons in programme of upgrades to the strategy to upgrade the rail Leadership and Management. rail network; HS2 will not solve network; this is long overdue. The new Management capacity issues in other regions. We would also like to see Apprenticeship scheme is one This tweet comes off the back Alex Veitch, head of multimodal the complete electrification of only a handful available in of a recent case study in which a policy at FTA, comments: “FTA of the network so rail freight the sector, bringing together warehouse management system helped hit key customer KPIs. is calling on the government can become the first zero the best of higher education to provide reassurance that carbon freight mode, and and vocational training. Gist HS2 will release much-needed the delivery of the Strategic apprentices will be paid to capacity for rail freight services Freight Network, which is learn while working in an on existing lines once operational; a suite of projects aimed at exciting industry and emerge the UK’s rail network is bursting unlocking freight capacity with an excellent degree. at the seams and too often on the conventional network. Lynn Brown, Gist’s HR SHD Logistics @shdlogistics freight loses out to commuter As the UK transitions to a director, explained: “Gist has and leisure services. With HS2 net-zero emission economy, recruited apprentices for some trains able to carry more than rail will play a much years and attracts high- 300,000 people per day, the shift larger role in logistics; the calibre school leavers to our in traffic will release significant government must ensure schemes. The next logical step capacity on existing lines; FTA the framework is in place to was to create a scheme that is seeking a guarantee from enable this transition.”  develops Gist’s next generation of professional managers. “This is an excellent alternative for bright school-leavers who This month’s top follower is want a career but don’t want Karl Smith. Thanks, Karl! to go down the traditional university route. And from Gist’s point of view, it encourages diversity by opening up new Follow us @shdlogistics opportunities to young people.”  Round-the-clock service

● Inspection and maintenance of doors and loading technology

● Fast repairs even at the weekend

● Extensive expertise, including for third-party products

01530 516868 [email protected] COVER STORY | IMHX

FUTUREPROOF YOUR BUSINESS AT IMHX 2021

In dialogue with the industry, the UK’s largest logistics event returns in 2021 with a bold new message: Next Generation Logistics.

This year, logistics is set to see the strongest September at IMHX 2019. The flagship show BECOMING BIENNIAL, IN TUNE growth of any sector in the UK.* Against a welcomed a record-breaking 450+ exhibitors WITH THE INDUSTRY backdrop of unprecedented economic and and occupied a giant 380,000 sq ft at the It was announced last year that IMHX was political change, a new age of industrial history NEC, Birmingham. It was one of the most switching up its frequency. The show is now to has begun for business operating within the highly anticipated occasions on the logistics take place biennially, with two years between materials handling industry and one thing industry calendar, attracting high-level visitors each edition instead of three. This historic is certain: it is now more important ever to from major supply chain operators looking to announcement followed an extensive period of keep your finger on the pulse or risk being left improve their logistics strategy. On the back consultation with the industry. The response behind. The International Materials Handling of some of the transformative technology on was overwhelmingly positive: resetting the Exhibition (IMHX) is the UK’s largest platform display, the event garnered media attention cycle, it was revealed, allowed exhibitors more for logistics professionals involved in handling, from the national press, such as BBC Radio 4 frequent touchpoints with potential customers, movement and transportation of goods across and TechRadar. IMHX 2019 also played host to as well as meeting the demands of visitors to the UK’s supply chains to come together and major launches from several industry-leading whom it was critical to stay informed about celebrate innovation across the sector. The exhibitors, who chose IMHX as their exclusive rapidly evolving industry developments. next edition of IMHX will take place at the NEC, launch platform. This included the JCB 30-19E, Rob Fisher, IMHX group director, comments: Birmingham from 14-16 September 2021. the newest model in JCB’s Teletruk range; “We are delighted at the response from exhibitors the LR35 vertical buffer module from Kardex and visitors alike to the change in cycle for IMHX. IMHX 2019: A RECORD-BREAKING EVENT Remstar and the futuristic Robotics Centre of Becoming a biennial event is a huge step forward, Over 16,000 members of the logistics and Excellence, which showcased the new exciting and it allows us to tackle the pace of change supply chain community gathered last warehouse tech under development at . in the logistics sector head-on. Our industry has transformed over the last few years, and following our thorough, sector-wide research, it is clear this transformation journey has only just begun. AI, robotics and automation are major driving forces which, along with advanced technology platforms, are enabling new applications and solutions. These, ultimately, will reshape logistics operations and as the market- leading event we need to be at the forefront of this. We need to showcase, highlight and debate innovative solutions and help the logistics community navigate, respond, and capitalise on the change. IMHX has a fantastic pedigree of delighting its visitors. We will continue to do this through new feature and content areas as well as by providing a neutral space where the latest intralogistics solutions can be evaluated.” IMHX is delivered by Informa Markets in partnership with the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA). James Clark, secretary JCB’s 30-19E, the newest vehicle in its Teletruk range, launched at IMHX 2019 general, adds: “The feeling among BITA

*JLL Property Predictions 2020. www.jll.co.uk/property/predictions 10 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM IMHX | COVER STORY

members and other key stakeholders is that the change to a biennial cycle [for IMHX] will better suit the sourcing and procurement demands of the show’s visitors and provide exhibitors with enhanced opportunities to engage with key customers and connect with prospective new ones.” If you are interested in exhibiting, two weeks after attending said now’s the time to secure your stand. they had already recommended CONFIDENCE IN THE POWER OF IMHX Here’s some food for thought.* brands they had seen at the event. Crown Lift Trucks is a market-leading • Live events beat other forms of • Seeing is believing. Visitors manufacturer and long-standing IMHX exhibitor. marketing. They are three times who encounter you at live events Mark Eccleston, UK sales director at Crown, more effective than print media. think your product or service is explains: “Crown is a frequent exhibitor at IMHX • Live events change minds. Before 28% more innovative that they and returns time and time again because the an event, 38% thought attending did before they attended. event delivers on expectations.” Crown chose would make buying easier. This • Not being here can damage your IMHX 2019 to launch the new ESR 1000 Series doubled to 76% following the event. brand! The perception of a company Reach Truck with the new Gena operating • Watch sales rocket by harnessing that is not represented at a system, as well as hosting a wider display of the power of face-to-face. 76% industry event, like IMHX, deteriorates their product range. The company reported an of visitors to industry exhibitions by 5%. This is true even for extremely impressive 40% increase in visitors to their stand. make new purchasing decisions well-known or global brands. Eccleston adds: “Being able to display your full or have existing ones reinforced. * Research conducted by Cog range of products or services in one place makes • Live events leave a lasting Research on behalf of FaceTime the exhibition unmissable for any business impression. 69% of visitors surveyed www.facetime.org.uk operating in the UK materials handling industry. “We believe there is no substitute to seeing a truck live and the hand-on experience it offers is far more rewarding than simply reading about something. We also like to get to know our customers, get a feeling Need more information? Scan for their business and the kind of things the QR code below to read the they need. Exhibiting at IMHX offers us this IMHX 2019 Post-Show Report. opportunity, which is why we find it so useful.” Alongside Crown, over 100 prominent names in materials handling have already pledged their support for next year’s event. This includes Combilift, Flexi Narrow Aisle, CESAB, Geek+, Espex Batteries, Nerak Wiese, 6 River Systems, WRH Global, JBT, Element Logic, Touchstar Technologies, TVH Group, Konecranes and Martor UK. 

Visit our website to find out more about exhibiting | www.imhx.net

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 11 PROPERTY

DO THE Today, warehouse development is all about numbers. But which numbers? David Thame reports on new thinking MATHS in the property business.

Demographics is the big – perhaps the biggest The answer is that parts of the property industry – issue in logistics and warehousing. The local are genuinely interested in demographics, and labour market can make (or screw up) the other parts aren’t. The investors – the people best recruitment plans. The ‘within-reach’ who fund new development, and whose interests population matters enormously to fulfilment are closely aligned with the occupiers who pay centres whose basic functions are increasingly them rents – are much the most enthused. hard to distinguish from those of shops. James Clements, partner and head of The property industry gets it. The developers, midlands logistics & industrial, with property landowners and investors who build and consultant Knight Frank, explains: “Investors pay for the UK’s big and urban logistics are absolutely interested, demographics warehousing understand that 3PLs and retailers is one of the first things they ask about a look closely at the demographics before potential development. They ask about selecting a location. But are they responding the labour force and about the scope in ways that will help deliver the warehousing for energy/power connections.” and fulfilment centres the UK needs? That is “What turns them on is the number of chimney a tougher question to answer with certainty. pots, the number of people living and working in an hour or half-an-hour’s drive from the location, ON THE MAP data on local labour force skills and labour costs. Once, a decade or so ago, the property industry They are looking for a good pool of labour but selected warehouse locations roughly like this also for higher skilled workers, people with IT (and I’m not joking). A map is found. The rough skills, because they understand that warehouses centre of the country has a big red line drawn today involve a lot of sophisticated automation.” round it. Within this area motorway junctions Clements insists the property industry’s are identified. Next to motorway junctions, large moneybags are seriously tuned-in to the NUMBERS TO THINK ABOUT flat sites are identified. And that’s it. Job done. logistics’ sectors demographic needs. “It In other words, what determined warehouse really does make a difference. Present a Predictive analytics has yet to make locations was geography mixed with topography. site to investors without the right labour much impact in the warehouse property Having identified the locations, the next market demographics and you just world – but it will. As research from Cushman & Wakefield shows, the step was to do some maths and produce a can’t secure the funding,” he says. changing generations – from boomers, development appraisal. The cost of the land, There is no direct relationship between good via Millennials to Generation Z – will plus cost of construction, plus at least 20% profit, demographics and the investment yield (the mean important but subtle shifts in what divided by floorspace equals rent. If an investor return) investors make on their investment. goods need to be where, and when. is attracted by the kind of return this equation At least, not yet. But Clements says it makes In their analysis, Demographic Shifts: The World in 2030, says we are entering a indicates, then bingo. The result is a warehouse. an enormous difference to whether or not decade of seismic demographic change. Today, ten or more years into the online retail a scheme gets funding in the first place: The Baby Boomers will leave the workforce revolution, things are a little more complicated “Demographic data effects how willing investors and Generation X will march ever closer for developers, but demographics is still a bit- are to get involved. The first question they ask to retirement age, to be replaced by part player. The major change is that motorway is: is this scheme financially viable? Then they Millennials and then Generation Z. This means a group with a lot of money, junctions, being both fairly scarce and either ask about labour market demographics and and the time in which to spend it, are fully developed or not available for development, electricity connections. And there is no doubt replaced by groups with less of both. are now less of a priority. Good A-roads can they are turned off by development opportunities Cushman & Wakefield say this means a work just as well. And the rough centre of the without the right labour market demographics.” temporary reprieve for the bricks-and- country is no longer as important as drive- mortar retail that Boomers often prefer, and then a sudden shift to more intense times to the main centres of population. But IT’S ALL ABOUT LABOUR online retail. 84% of Boomers prefer to otherwise, the same appraisal-based approach Tim Crighton is partner for European shop in-store, and 67% report that if an to warehouse development is still king. logistics & retail at property consultancy item they want is available online and in- So, what’s going on? If distributors, retailers Cushman & Wakefield. He agrees with store, they prefer to purchase it in-store. and the supply chain are obsessed by Clements that property investors light up if demographics, why isn’t the property industry? the conversation turns to demographics.

12 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM PROPERTY

THE ROLE OF LABOUR One of the hottest could be Swindon. an eye to what their potential tenants, and “We see a huge appetite from investors “Look at Swindon,” he says. “The their potential funders, want to see, but in for demographic data. It is part of a wider announcement that Honda is closing its general their attention is still fixed on the interest in community impacts on the one car plant is obviously bad news for the traditional property appraisal. That means hand, and interest in the location’s labour town. It will cost it 3,500 jobs from the point on land cost, build cost, rent and profit. market profile on the other,” says Crighton. when the plant closes in 2022. But there That may change if demographics could “We’re already seeing developers turn will be people who see those numbers and be priced. That way they would find a way away from sites that they might otherwise realise that is a large skilled pool of labour into their appraisal calculations. “But have chosen because of the labour market becoming available. The result could be that it’s not priced today,” says Crighton. demographics. We’re definitely seeing this in Swindon beats Bristol or Reading to capture the European mainland and we are beginning warehousing requirements in the M4 corridor.” THE FINANCIAL EQUATION to see it in the UK, too. The fact is that nobody Investors are watching with interest as Clement adds: “Demographics help a wants to invest in buildings where the level warehouse occupiers deepen their involvement warehouse find a tenant more quickly, I of available workforce is too small, or the with demographics. Crighton says his team think that’s how developers see it, not as labour pool itself is too small,” he says. is working with a number of customers a direct part of the financial equation.” Areas with super-high employment rates, like on predictive analytics, working out how Could that change? Crighton says perhaps: some of the Midlands’ top logistics locations, various types of stock might be moved to “The appetite for omni-channel retailing is ring demographic alarm bells in the minds match different customer profiles. Others growing, so there is an opportunity to price of investors. Their concern echoes that of the are looking at warehousing locations in the demographics into property. The first step would retailers and warehouse operators who know same way that retailers have traditionally be to get a bit more discriminating on our pricing that they will have to fight for labour in a highly looked at high street locations. “Yes, they generally and find the distinction between sites competitive (and increasingly expensive) market. want the right workforce at the right price, but that are really good, and those that are not.” The consequence is already apparent. Amazon they also want to be proximate to the right The property industry is like a sausage have chosen locations far from the normal customers. So, this begins to look a lot more machine. It cranks out a regular supply of Golden Triangle of Midlands hotspots in an like a retail location choice,” says Crighton. something fairly basic that suits most of the effort to resolve labour demography issues. people who buy it. Recalibrating the machine Crighton speculates that we could see more LOOKING AHEAD to produce specialist products, or to produce big warehouse developments in traditionally Demographics is now mainstream among pies and not sausages, is not easy. But if the off-pitch locations and hints that developers and logistics operators, and among the investors occupier tenants, and the investors, want to investors are watching the labour market closely who take such a keen interest in their needs. see demographics become one of the major for signs of the new development opportunities. But the developers? Obviously they have property industry metrics, it is sure to happen. n

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 13 SHD LOGISTICS CONFERENCE

FIRST SPEAKERS ANNOUNCED This year’s Spring Conference includes speakers from Garçon Wines, Best Food Logistics and World Economic Forum.

Richa Sahay

The Conference will take place at The British delivery costs for the urban last-mile. With the Museum in central London on Tuesday 19th ecosystem-wide change, interventions could May at 9:30am, and will feature a broad reduce emissions and traffic congestion by line-up of speakers from across the industry, 30%, and delivery cost by 25%, compared to several of whom have been persuaded to the “do-nothing” scenario. Richa Sahay, one share their stories publicly for the first time. of the authors of the report The Future of the Following its turnaround from a loss-making Last-Mile Ecosystem, will look in particular at business operated by Bidvest to a now- the UK logistics sector and how technologies profitable standalone business unit recently such as drones, droids and camera-based acquired by Tesco subsidiary Booker Group, object tracking can help to play a part. Best Food Logistics is an example of how a United under the title “Transforming Logistics strong leadership team innovating with simple Santiago Navarro Through Technology”, the SHD Logistics Spring technology that utilises Big Data can help deliver Conference will feature a line-up of speakers exceptional customer service and profitable with stories and customer case studies that will growth. Its managing director, Paul Whyte, who development, leasing and operating portfolios, be relatable to businesses of all sizes. The event took on this daunting task in 2017 and is now the vastly experienced Robin Woodbridge, the will be sponsored by Prologis UK which, as a leading the transition to a new owner, has a company’s head of capital deployment, will developer of industrial logistics buildings, has powerful story to tell Conference delegates. deliver a session entitled “The shape of things an insightful overview of the technologies its Serial entrepreneur Santiago Navarro, to come: how technology is driving change clients are embracing and innovates its offering CEO at Garçon Wines, is not only a wine in the industrial logistics sector”. He will in order to help those clients develop and grow. buff, but also has exceptional understanding discuss how industrial logistics property is of the logistics that sit behind the industry. having to adapt to meet the needs of occupiers, SECURE YOUR PLACE NOW Realising that the traditional their employees and changing consumer Prospective delegates are encouraged to were unfit for purpose when shipping habits. He will also explore how emerging secure their place now to take advantage wines through complex supply chains, he technology is transforming a once sleepy of the early-bird discount rate of £245 developed game-changing transit packaging industry into a cutting-edge sector where + VAT (normally £295 + VAT). n that is considerably more cost-effective and data, sustainability and design combine to eco-friendly for the movement of wine. provide cleaner, greener spaces which benefit To find out more, and to register your attendance, Responsible for event sponsor Prologis UK’s businesses, employees and local communities. visit www.logisticsconference.co.uk Justin Atkin of Antwerp Port Authority will speak about: “How Antwerp is becoming a Port of the Future through innovation and technology.” This talk will look at the how the Port of Antwerp embraces cutting-edge thinking to retain its status as a leading gateway to and from the main European centres of production and consumption. Without effective intervention, urban last- mile delivery emissions and traffic congestion are on track to increase by 36% in the top 100 cities globally. The Future of the Last- Mile Ecosystem analyses 24 interventions Justin Atkin that can reduce emissions, congestion and Robin Woodbridge

14 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM Materials handling in the logistics sector needs a different kind of animal

To find out more: Call 03301 23 98 50 or visit www.briggsequipment.co.uk

20 –24 APRIL 2020 TRANSFORMATION IS EVERYWHERE. ITS HEART BEATS IN HANNOVER. For over 70 years we have driven, inspired, led and accompanied the course of industrial transformation. HANNOVER MESSE serves as a window revealing the world of tomorrow. Be part of it: hannovermesse.com #HM20

HOME OF INDUSTRIAL PIONEERS WOMEN IN LOGISTICS

IT’S ALL ABOUT DATA

In this month’s column, Marie Hamblin, a steering committee member of the Women in Logistics Forum within the CILT, delves into a hot topic: big data.

Big data. It sounds daunting. And it is for For organisations able to capture, analyse so many organisations. But what is it? Put and act on insight gleaned from big data, the simply, big data is the use of computing results can be more significant than a tune power to analyse extremely large amounts up. More than often, the impetus to act is of data. The outputs can offer insights into triggered by a competitor, new market entrant efficiencies, costs, and opportunities that give or a trend transversed from one industry to way to strategic or competitive advantage. another. And ironically, sometimes it’s the The saying goes that data is the new oil, and absence of data that creates the opportunities. like oil, without machines to extract, process, With all this data to be captured, processed cleanse, supply and make into something and synthesised in a meaningful way, easily consumable, it may as well be buried. consideration should be given to the data Unlike oil, there’s more data available than that isn’t captured. Retailers have the ever before. From IoT devices to regular opportunity to widen product ranges to system usage, our increased connectivity is include new categories if they can identify generating more interactions, resulting in more complementary products that they are digital experiences, longer engagements data, in more formats and more frequency. not offering their customers. And yet, it’s and potentially greater sales. Opportunities Organisations are swamped with data. logical to understand that they may not can often be found in the absence of data. Having data isn’t the solution in itself. capture data on products they don’t stock. Big data may be the lubricant fueling differentiation between organisations, but only those with the business agility and impetus to action on it can leverage it to supercharge their organisations. Over complex and cumbersome Organisations face a multitude of challenges to This is where companies like Amazon and protection can stifle the very opportunity it manage data before it can even be put to their many other marketplaces excel. By capturing creates. Whilst all data should be treated with advantage. Regulation, security, harmonisation, sales information on products they don’t own the appropriate levels of respect, it should storage, costs and management have become themselves, they are able to identify consumer also be made easily accessible. Insights within domains in their own right. In line with the trends and take actionable insight. Positioning data are seldom recognised by dashboards, velocity at which data grows, establishing the themselves to launch comparable own- it’s the innovators in the business that right talent with the relevant expertise to act brand products only when there is sufficient interpret and play with the data to uncover on and govern all these areas has become certainty of sales – all without having had new opportunities. Big data not only provides the greatest challenge of the new decade. to take a risk on product development or the organisation the fuel, but accessed in Akin to the 1970’s oil crisis where disruption inventory management. They have leveraged the relevant way can create a platform for in supply led to a spike in prices, the current their big data across vast product categories, innovators to experiment on. Embrace the shortage in big data talent has led to fiercely geographies and areas of consumer activity; complexity to uncover the opportunities. n competitive and costly roles to recruit. The from on-demand TV to Alexa commands. energy crises in the 70s forced countries to Digesting more than sales data alone, they look wider than their existing supply base, as have analysed interactions, locations and organisations may need to widen their talent amongst other things, comparable customers MARIE HAMBLIN pools beyond the UK to fulfill their big data to determine consumer intent. With the Marie is a strategic advisor with technology needs. The days of a single inhouse data business agility, marketing tools, huge expertise across retail, corporate innovation expert with the breadth of knowledge expected customer database and most recognisably, and logistics sectors. She applies her and required to oversee data are gone. the logistics capability to fulfil this intent. multidisciplinary knowledge to businesses, The risks of getting it wrong are too great, Another form of uncaptured data is absent helping them to identify and execute new opportunities to futureproof economic like oil in the ocean, data issues can be from many e-commerce analytics processes, return. Her comprehensive understanding tricky to clean up. Whether it’s a security where the lack of an interaction is not of international e-commerce and supply breach, compliance failure or misentretation captured. The taps and swipes of white space chain logistics was honed during six years of the data, issues can be expensive, that don’t fulfil the users expectation are as ASOS.com during its rapid growth phase. complex to manage and carry significantly often an uncaptured exit point. Identifying detrimental and lasting brand impact. these can lead to simple improvements in

16 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM AMHSA | OPINION END OF THE LINE

What does the rise of the circular economy mean for the supply chain? Dave Berridge, secretary of the Automated Material Handling Systems Association (AMHSA), takes a look.

The presence of 17-year- ... old campaigner, Greta Thunberg, at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year underlined the importance of climate change on the global agenda. All around us we see signs of change: from reusable coffee cups and bars of shampoo to the resurgence of doorstep deliveries of milk in glass product, if it offered the same long-life tote – of household products bottles. Consumers, shareholders and performance. In addition to consumer that feature . After governments are beginning to embrace demand, retailers and FMCG companies use, Loop picks up the empties for sustainability – and organisations are are under pressure from government return, cleaning, refilling and redelivery. under increasing pressure to reduce regulation, such as the EU Packaging The operation is being scaled up across the amount of waste they produce. Directive and the UK Landfill Directive. the US – with a tie-up with Walgreens We are witnessing the change from a Recent examples of moves toward and Kroger allowing in-store pick-up traditional, linear economy to a circular sustainability include Tesco’s pledge to and drop-off soon – with plans to start one – and logistics executives need remove one billion pieces of plastic from the service in other countries, including to wake up to the fact that the supply products in its UK stores by the end of the UK. This is effectively an evolution chain will play a key role in this process. this year and John Lewis’ piloting of of the deposit schemes What exactly do we mean by the term eight green initiatives in its Oxford store. that are popular on the Continent circular economy? It’s an environment to encourage the return and reuse in which business models encourage DIGITALISATION of glass bottles. AMHSA members continuous reuse of materials to Some progress on sustainability has have been involved in a number of minimise both waste and the demand been achieved through digitalisation – projects in Europe to automate the for additional natural resources. such as gains from the sharing economy identification, sorting, cleaning and For the supply chain, this means a (through brands such as AirBnB, handling of beverage bottles, so there shift away from the linear pattern Uber and Rent the Runway) and from is potential for increased demand of the past, which began with raw content subscription services (such for logistics automation in any such material firms supplying items to a as Netflix and Spotify). Digitalisation closed-loop projects in the future. factory, which shipped finished goods also holds the key to further progress, to a distribution centre for delivery by enabling co-ordination of all the VISIBILITY to customers, who used them and elements of a circular supply chain It is clear that implementing circular eventually disposed of them. In a in real time. By integrating AI and supply chains is neither easy nor circular supply chain, the beginning machine learning, a supply chain without significant investment in and end of the chain are connected becomes perceptive and agile. new infrastructure. When adapting by processes such as returns and packaging to meet sustainability goals, . The research firm, Gartner, RETURNS it must be remembered that packaging predicts that the circular economy Innovative companies are now not only preserves the condition of will be the only economy by 2029. developing product-to-service concepts the goods and presents them in an that feature returnable packaging. One aesthetically optimal way, but it also REGULATION example is Loop, a shopping platform has an important role in facilitating Retailers are reacting to consumer designed to eliminate single-use their stacking, storage and transport. pressure for sustainability – especially packaging. This is a consortium of How should companies meet the concerning single-use packaging leading brand owners (including Procter challenge of the trend towards the waste – and the market is providing & Gamble, Nestlé and Coca-Cola) with circular economy? The first step is an incentive for them: research logistics provider, UPS, and recycling to gain a clear understanding of their by management consulting firm, company, TerraCycle. Currently suppliers’ operations in order to monitor McKinsey, found that over 70% of available only in the Northeast of the and manage the supply chain. Visibility consumers across multiple sectors United States and the Paris area, Loop is key, with information being made would pay an extra 5% for a green offers home delivery – within its own available to customers and partners. 

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 17 FORK LIFT TRUCKS | POWER

GO OUTDOORS

Networked digital fork camera for Earlier this year SHD Logistics’ editor Kirsty Adams attended intelligent scanning of goods. Jungheinrich’s Innovations & Highlights event in Hamburg, where the company unveiled its latest trucks and features, including its powerful electric forklift for outdoor use. The P30i is a high-voltage electric fork lift truck in the shell of a diesel truck.

A newly developed comfort charging socket and an ergonomic “ charging plug will make intermediate charging as simple and fast as refuelling in future.

The star of Jungheinrich’s Innovations & made ”significant weight savings compared networking the assistance system with the Highlights event in Hamburg was the P30i, a with conventional battery-powered trucks. customer’s own goods management system via high-voltage electric forklift truck in the shell Particularly when operating on the Logistics Interface, an actual comparison of a diesel truck. “The P30i is the first lithium- uneven ground, the longer wheelbase of the contents with the specifications ion truck with the power and driving comfort of and a driver’s cab decoupled from the of the goods management system is possible. a combustion engine and thus a game changer frame result in quieter handling. The latest model in its portfolio of in the world of counterbalance trucks,” says Because the lithium-ion battery modules Automated Guided Vehicles was also on Christian Erlach, board member for sales and are fully integrated into the truck, the show. Thanks to its compact design, the marketing at Jungheinrich AG. As things stand battery trough under the cab can be ERC 213a automated pallet truck is specially at present, the manufacturer expects to launch eliminated for the first time on an EFG. The designed for automated transport processes the P30i on the market at the end of 2021. result is a considerably larger space with in confined spaces. Thanks to modern significantly more legroom for the driver. lithium-ion technology, the ERC 213a has a POWERFUL FOR OUTDOOR USE particularly high availability. A 2.8 kW three- For the EFG P30i, Jungheinrich has further EMISSION-FREE AND RESOURCE-SAVING phase AC motor ensures constant power, the developed the chassis of its new hydrostat, Compared with a diesel truck, the lithium-ion electrically controlled lift motor ensures finely integrating electric drive and the latest truck does not emit any exhaust gases. Soot adjusted lifting at heights of up to 4400 mm. high-voltage lithium-ion technology. The and fine dust pollution are therefore a thing of Jungheinrich has developed a new platform frame, operator protection cab and tyres are the past. Calculated over its entire service life, solution for the two to four series of its EKS specially designed for tough outdoor use. the EFG P30i saves around 52% CO2 compared vertical order picker. For the first time, it Hard rubber bumpers on the counterweight with a combustion engine in today’s European takes into account the requirements of bear witness to the power of the EFG P30i. power mix – despite the higher energy input both narrow and wide aisles. Jungheinrich The vehicle is driven by two electric motors. required for its manufacture. In the lithium- thus offers solutions for additional new A lithium-ion battery, which is permanently ion battery of the EFG P30i, Jungheinrich fields of application. For example, the installed in the vehicle in two modules relies on lithium-iron phosphate as the cell product portfolio was expanded to include of 25 kWh each, supplies the P30i with chemistry and deliberately dispenses with efficient 24V entry-level models. At the sufficient power for intensive use in up to the use of the controversial raw material same time, the “48V-S version” offers high three shifts. A newly developed comfort cobalt. In this way, the electric truck makes performance in multi-shift operation.  charging socket and an ergonomic charging a major contribution to a sustainable and plug will make intermediate charging as emission-free flow of materials in the future. simple and fast as refuelling in future. In combination with high-voltage technology, ADDEDVIEW this gives the P30i particularly high The company also presented a networked availability and more power in outdoor use. digital fork camera for intelligent scanning of 52%

The P30i has a lifting speed that is goods. The solution is the latest feature of the P30i saves around 52% 25% higher than that of classic electric optical assistance system family addedVIEW. CO2 compared with a counterbalance trucks, claims the company. With the help of the digital fork camera combustion engine Its climbing ability is one third better than for reach trucks, on the storage that of a classic EFG. The company has compartments and goods can be read. By

18 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM POWER UP YOUR PRODUCTIVITY!

BRAND NEW RANGE OF POWERED PALLET AND STACKER TRUCKS Get simple, powerful performance with our new range of pedestrian powered doosanflt.com pallet trucks and compact, heavy line and double pallet handler stackers. 01604 825600

SHD Logistics March '20 Half Page.indd 1 12/02/2020 11:04:09

Get powerful with NexSys! opportunity in Join EnerSys in Hall 10 | Stand B09 your hands

To strike the best balance between performance, capital Minimal maintenance / zero battery change and operating costs, the opportunities in choosing the Maximum flexibility right battery for your application is totally in your hands. Ultra-fast charging Opportunity charge capability that rivals Li-ion NexSys® Core and NexSys® Pure TPPL-based batteries Longer service life from EnerSys® are flexible to support your Reduced TCO application types – light, medium and heavy-duty. Support www.discovernexsys.com FORK LIFT TRUCKS | METAL GOODS HANDLING

PEDAL TO THE METAL

SHD Logistics takes a look at an example of how electric trucks can keep handling costs low in metal goods manufacturing.

Electric lift trucks are helping manufacturers applications during long shifts. Easily reduce damage, keeping busy production lines of finished metal goods to reduce damage, and accessible components and on-board running smoothly, while driving down cost. the associated costs, at every stage of their diagnostics also help reduce downtime. operation, while keeping productivity high. HANDLING FINISHED GOODS “Metal handling is not just about big trucks INTO PRODUCTION When the metal components or products handling steel pipes and slabs or tough fork In metal goods manufacturing applications, are complete, they will typically be collected lifts working in hot foundry applications,” says there is a choice of solutions to collect the coils from the production line by a lift truck and Botros Hanna, industry manager for Hyster from storage in the warehouse and take them loaded into lorries for transport to the end Europe, “Almost every industry imaginable to the production line. Some applications opt user. The finished goods may be packed uses some sort of metal product at some point.” for a Reach Truck, such as the R2.5, which onto pallets or handled directly on forks. Numerous manufacturing operations includes an ergonomic driver’s cab with “A big challenge at this stage is manoeuvrability, worldwide transform metals such as efficient operation via touch screen and joystick, as space in the production area and the loading aluminium, copper or zinc into finished goods, as well as an adjustable steering column bay is often at a premium,” says Botros, “Three- from tiny components to car parts. Hyster for comfort. Others opt for low, medium or wheeled electric lift trucks are a great solution.” equipment can be found reliably supporting high-level Order Pickers, or depending on their For example, the tough J2.0XNT model, with a these operations at every stage of the process. warehouse configuration, may use a fork lift. two-tonne capacity, has a Zero Turning Radius

MATERIALS ARRIVE AS COILS “No matter which type of electric truck the (ZTR) axle that provides a narrow turning circle, The first handling challenge is receiving application chooses, they will benefit from zero allowing the fork lift to be used in narrow aisles delivery of small metal coils on a trailer. emissions – something that is increasingly and on busy loading and unloading ramps. Here the trucks help to unload the coils, important to customers in the metal industry. Despite its compact design, the lift which are usually small enough to be Electric trucks also tend to operate more truck includes an ergonomically designed handled with standard forks, from the lorry quietly, contributing to a more pleasant operator compartment that supports and transport these to the warehouse. warehouse working environment,” says Botros. productivity by maintaining driver comfort, A typical lift truck used for this operation As this part of the operation is highly helping them to stay focused and operate is the J3.5XN four-wheel electric fork repetitive, there is also potential for accurately, even during long shifts. lift, which features a robust chassis, with applications to automate tasks with “We know that metal handling operations strong side covers that offer protection affordable Hyster Robotic solutions, such can be demanding. However, by choosing against possible impact damage. as tow tractors, pedestrian counterbalance the right trucks to meet the specific needs “Damage at this stage could mean that trucks and low-level order pickers. Hyster at every stage in the production and supply the metal cannot be used in production, ‘Driven by Balyo’ technology combines lift chain, metal applications can reduce damage, leading to unnecessary costs,” says trucks with robotic control systems to help increase efficiency and achieve a low total Botros, “The Hyster J series lift trucks are improve accuracy, boost efficiency and cost of ownership,” concludes Botros.  popular in these operations as they provide good stability, a strong mast and smooth handling as standard, helping to prevent the loads from being shaken or damaged.” The J3.5XN electric fork lift trucks offer equivalent performance compared to a IC lift truck and are suited for operation both indoors and outdoors. This makes it the ideal truck to transport goods from an outdoor loading area to an indoor warehouse. Thanks to three-phase motor technology for the drive and lift, the trucks are particularly well-suited to demanding

20 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM EVERYTHING STARTS WITH THE 9U-SERIES

THE NEW HYUNDAI 9U-SERIES IMPROVES YOUR BUSINESS!

Hyundai proudly introduces the newly upgraded 9U-series. Trust us if we say it’s a real catch! The 9U-series thinks of its customers by dramatically improving energy consumption and enhancing powertrain durability.

Discover the 9u-series at www.hyundai-mh.eu FORK LIFT TRUCKS | CASE STUDY

CONCRETE FLEET Ibstock is a leading manufacturer of clay and concrete building products and has very specifi c needs when it comes to fork lift trucks. We fi nd out how these criteria were met.

With 38 manufacturing plants in the UK, to the task and realised Ibstock supplies the construction sector we needed the robust, under such well-known brands as Ibstock heavy-lifting power of Brick, Forticrete, Supreme, Anderton torque trucks – but, and Ibstock Kevington – generating critically, we needed revenue of over £390 million. them to have automatic On-site safety is a top priority across all of braking when reversing.” the group’s plants, a conviction it pursues The sophisticated vigorously when specifying requirements pedestrian detection system automatically ‘red triangle’ projected warning light systems, for its vast fleet of forklift trucks. In fact, to applies the brakes if a person or obstacle is seatbelt interlocks, door interlocks on the ensure the safety of its workforce the business detected in the path of a reversing vehicle. cab, HEPA filters on the air conditioning to has been instrumental in working with two The three-stage safety system warns with an remove fine silica particles, automatic radio forklift truck manufacturers on developing an alarm and flashing lights at 9 to 5 m from the cut-out when reversing, key-pad driver access innovative pedestrian detection and automatic object, automatically slows the forklift at 5 to and flashing beacons that remain active for braking system for reversing lift trucks. 3 m and at 3m the brakes are applied hard 15 minutes after the truck is switched off. Initially introduced on hydrostatic trucks, the to perform an automatic controlled stop. An Together with the five Doosan D30S-7 system has more recently been significantly override button fitted to Doosan’s reverse grab Diesel counterbalance trucks, Glosrose also upgraded and adapted by Doosan for use handle allows the driver to proceed at a slow supplied a two tonne capacity Doosan B20X-7 on five of its torque converter, three-tonne speed if the path can be navigated safely. electric counterbalance for indoor applications, capacity D30S-7 counterbalance trucks, which handling product within the curing ovens. were supplied to Ibstock’s Forticrete facility PUT TO THE TEST “What we liked about Doosan and Glosrose in Anstone near Sheffield in early 2019. Working together with local Doosan dealer, was that they were keen to work with us and Glosrose Engineering and control and safety were easy to work with,” says Rob Lloyd. “Also, CRITICAL CRITERIA specialists, Transmon Engineering, the the Doosan product was renowned for its Rob Lloyd, Production Manager for Forticrete, Doosan trucks were quickly prepared and rugged and reliable performance in tough explains the reasons for engaging with Doosan run through their paces by the team from conditions – when you’re lifting one-tonne on developing the automatic braking system for Forticrete. The feedback was very positive, packs of blocks and stacking them six high torque powered forklift trucks: “We’re moving with drivers praising the responsiveness you need a powerful truck that can do the job. thousands of tonnes of concrete products a of the vehicle, the comfort of the driving “But it’s safety that’s our top priority, and year between production processes, block position and the comprehensive range of importantly, on the Doosan automatic braking stacking and loading vehicles. Much of the work safety features on the Doosan truck. system the vehicle comes to a complete involves rough yard duties and that demands a In addition to the standard safety features – stop, whereas on the hydrostatic truck the tough, rugged truck that can provide reliable and along with the new pedestrian detection similar system doesn’t stop the vehicle performance in a harsh environment. We system – the Doosan trucks were all supplied completely. The Doosan system is better and found hydrostatic trucks were not best suited to Forticrete fitted with the ‘blue spot’ and safer, and that’s absolutely critical to us.” 

22 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM Future-proof your fleet Cleaner operations, clever build, minimal maintenance, future focus! Complies fully with Euro Stage V emission standards Discover what GRENDiA LPG can do for your operations: visit www.mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk or call the Mitsubishi Greenline on 0845 371 3048

Mitsubishi GRENDiA LP Gas Series

Inspired by you. Built by Mitsubishi. Superior Loading & Unloading Solutions

Stertil is an international loading and unloading solutions specialist supplying high quality, safety, hygiene and sustainability to warehouses and distribution centres in diverse industries. Stertil offers custom made and technologically advanced dock equipment. These superior loading and unloading solutions are developed and realised by a specialised team of experts.

a member of the Stertil Group

Tel. 0870 770 0471, [email protected], www.stertil-dockproducts.co.uk

Innovative solutions for the Forklift Truck Industry

Call now for more information on • sales (new and used) • service • hire • parts • design • support Tel: 01670 737373 • clamps • double pallet handlers • layer handling • bale clamps • push pull units • brick & block clamps • clamps • handling • fork positioners • rotators

Unit 46, Colbourne Avenue, Nelson Park, Cramlington, Northumberland NE23 1WD www.bandbattachments.com ACCREDITATION | SPECIAL REPORT

SAFE, SECURE & COMPLIANT

Brent Stansfield, UK sales manager at delivery specialist , goes into detail on why it’s so vital to YSDS “ be properly compliant within your supply chain.

The UK is still seriously lagging behind our European counterparts when it comes to AEO

You may“ have heard the term AEO a lot provide consistency throughout their supply the EU, making it easier to trade with countries recently and the importance of gaining AEO chain and want a seamless flow of goods like the US, China and other WCO members. status. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t a fad to their customers. AEO certified logistic Customs hold-ups are the number one or industry buzzword, an understanding companies can provide this by minimising cause of shipment delays and when logistics and appreciation of what AEO stands for the chance of customs hold-ups. suppliers run such highly time-pressured supply will be what makes or breaks a firm’s chains, there is no time for inefficiencies. The supply chain in the very near future. THE PROCESS AEO certification helps mitigate this risk by AEO stands for Authorised Economic Operator Authorised Economic Operators voluntarily providing greater access to priority clearance and it is an internationally recognised mark choose to go through a lengthy audit conducted and quicker access to customs procedures. of quality that demonstrates that a company’s by HMRC to verify that they meet the specified role within the international supply chain criteria and prove their supply chain security. POST-BREXIT is secure. In simple terms, an AEO status The AEO audit process is extremely rigorous, The Brexit scenario involves UK-EU custom allows for simplified customs procedures the auditor looks into every aspect of a border implications that can cause serious and the possibility to fast-track shipments. business’ procedures from transportation supply chain frictions. Businesses need There are three variations of the AEO to customs documentation, ensuring all to consider what is going to change in accreditation; AEOC, which allows for processes are aligned with best practice. the international supply chain after Brexit customs simplifications, AEOS which relates This is to reassure HMRC that comes into play and how they are going to to the safety and security of a company’s businesses have adequate measures continue the import and export of goods. international supply chain and finally in place to prevent any mistakes, miss- For many traders and logistics suppliers, the AEOF which is a combination of the two. classifications and tampering of goods major impact on their flow of goods will be that are being imported or exported. the hold up in customs at the UK border. The INCREASED DEMAND Furthermore, companies are expected to UK government estimates that custom border The UK’s HMRC has experienced a spike in have competent and skilled staff undertaking entries will increase fivefold once Brexit has applications over the past few years, in 2019 tasks in each stage of the supply chain. taken place. According to Ernst & Young, the there was a 26% rise in AEO applications Due to the increased demand, the approval number of annual customs declarations is compared to 2017, which was the highest process can now take up to 12 months. expected to rise from 55m to circa 255m post- percentage increase across all European Brexit. They predict that for the remainder of countries. Although this may seem like VITAL BENEFITS the year there will be serious delays and AEO a steep increase, the UK is still seriously An AEO status provides businesses with certification will become even more integral. lagging behind our European counterparts the opportunity to optimise their supply The AEO certification acts as a buffer to these when it comes to AEO. In January 2019, 679 chain and transport internationally under frictions and minimises the impact of these likely UK businesses were registered, whereas Mutual Recognition Agreements. changes as both the UK and EU are expected to over 6,330 companies were AEO certified AEOC & AEOS each offer their own type of recognise each other’s AEO status in a post- in Germany alone. This discrepancy in benefits to business. If a logistics supplier Brexit environment. It is particularly vital for figures means that the UK can expect holds the AEOC status, then they will benefit businesses that transport highly time-sensitive a huge increase in applications to stay from a faster application process for custom goods or operate just-in-time supply chains. competitive against European companies authorisations. Whereas the AEOS certification International logistics suppliers need to once we leave the European Union. will give a business a lower risk score, thereby consider the impact Brexit will have on their Alongside this, many large enterprises, in meaning customs will carry out fewer physical supply chain and any areas for concern need to particular, manufacturers are now insisting checks and consignments can be fast-tracked be mitigated. It is vital to gain the accreditation on only working with trading partners that through customs control. This status is to stay competitive and as the AEO numbers are AEO accredited. Enterprises want to mutually recognised by countries outside of increase, so will the pressure to comply. n

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 25 OPINION | UKWA

POLICY CONTROL

The government has confi rmed plans to introduce import controls on EU goods at the UK’s borders after the Brexit transition period ends on 31 December 2020. Peter Ward, CEO of UKWA, discusses the next steps.

... Speaking at a recent Freeports across the UK – inland services that inevitably lies ahead. Border Delivery Group as well as adjacent to ports. Bottlenecks at ports seem inevitable event attended by The issues around new build as UK businesses grapple with the UKWA, the chancellor of the Duchy warehousing are well documented, process, systems and documentation of Lancaster, Rt Hon Michael Gove not least the time that it takes for they will need to move their goods MP, also made it clear that the real estate to come out of the ground, to and from the Euro zone; whilst policy easements put in place to so while we’re fully aware of the both public and private sectors face mitigate the risks of a ‘No Deal’ challenges the new worldview will bring, the challenge of recruiting additional scenario are no longer on the table. we can also recognise the potential staff – knowledgeable and trained As soon as January next year this will opportunities for our members and customs administrators within require traders and their intermediaries for the wider logistics community. the logistics sector, and for HMRC to submit customs declarations and Border Force the increased and be liable to checks on various COLLABORATE AND RESPOND workforce that will be needed to products that enter and leave the UK. UKWA is calling on association members police the new customs formalities. The UK Warehousing Association and non-members alike, 3PLs, retailers With demand for storage space set (UKWA) estimates that this will equate as well as real estate developers to rise, it is more important than ever to more than 200 million additional UK and industrial agents to join with us that policy makers, both nationally and customs declarations. This scenario to develop an imaginative, coherent locally, acknowledge the importance of is far from ‘frictionless’ and there response to the Government’s proposals. the logistics industry and take onboard seems little doubt that the need for well-located, the changes to the way we high quality warehousing trade with the EU is going and distribution to have a significant impact facilities close to on most supply chains. populations, reviewing There will certainly land use, planning and be interruption of flow, which, to We believe many companies with infrastructure legislation to allow for maintain equivalent lead times, is existing facilities and operations stand the growth of the warehouse space likely to be mitigated by companies ready to meet the new challenge; for that is required now and in the future. holding additional inventory and, example, those already involved with UKWA has – and will continue to – accordingly, demanding additional food distribution could, if given the work closely with the Government to warehousing space. This is happening necessary policy framework, adapt ensure that the logistics sector can at a time when the market is almost to provide inland inspection depots. ‘level up’ and meet the challenges ahead. at capacity as the industry recalibrates While land use and planning The Association urges members and all to accommodate the massive shift changes are most certainly required those with a stake in the logistics and from high street retailing to online to allow for more warehousing supply chain industries to engage with and ecommerce fulfilment. nearer point of consumption, this is UKWA as it seeks to shape the policies While Britain is, in effect, gearing up a longer-term strategy. Right now, that will impact upon the way logistics for a ‘Hard Brexit’, UKWA welcomes we need to respond urgently to the companies, as the facilitators of trade, government plans to open new spike in demand for warehousing operate for many years to come. 

26 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM

AUTOMATION & INTEGRATION | ROBOTS

EASY PICKINGS

The requirement to handle heavy items has led Wü rth Industrie Service to implement robotic picking and packing technology from Knapp. Here’s what the system is capable of.

From its logistics centre in Bad Mergentheim, directly from pallets, a process that takes place transfer the to the conveyor Germany, Würth Industrie Service provides at seven manual ‘fast picking’ workstations. system, thereby reducing physical strain. customers across Europe with industrial Here, goods from the high-bay warehouse fastenings and other components. Part of the are picked from pallets to trays, ready for INTELLIGENT SOFTWARE Wü rth group, the company is responsible for storage in the OSR Shuttle. As this involves Knapp’s integrated KiSoft software solutions supplying manufacturers with products and processing large quantities and heavy loads, communicate with Wü rth’s warehouse also logistics solutions according to the Kanban Wü rth is also using robotic technology for this management system to forward work principle – with goods delivered in Würth’s own task. The robot picks up each container and orders. As early as during order start, the containers, just in time. The Bad Mergentheim moves it to a labelling unit, where it receives software determines how the goods should site has 1,640 employees who help to supply a for a specific customer and automatic be distributed on the shipping pallets and an article range of over 1.1 million items. RFID allocation takes place. After this, the which robot should be responsible for One of the biggest challenges for Würt h is the container is placed in a tray and automatically which task – with the trays, containers and heavy nature of most of its articles, with trays transported onwards by the . arriving precisely in sequence in the weighing up to 50 kg needing to be handled. respective areas. Real-time analysis ensures To manage this, the company uses ergonomic PALLETISING ROBOTS maximum transparency and facilitates and multifunctional Pick-it-Easy workstations A further three robots are deployed for ongoing optimization of all processes.  from Knapp and is also implementing palletising in the dispatch area. Containers robotic picking and packing processes. that have already been picked, labelled Employees at the 20 goods-to-person and consolidated in the shuttle system are workstations primarily prepare Kanban orders palletised according to customer requirements by unpacking parts from their packaging by two robots working independently of each and emptying them into the designated other. Knapp’s KiSoft Pack Master software containers. Goods required for these Kanban transmits the correct retrieval sequence to the orders are supplied to the pick stations OSR Shuttle so that the articles are supplied in the required sequence by Knapp’s OSR in the correct order. This pre-defined packing Shuttle store, which features locations for pattern mirrors the storage locations and 205,000 trays and is served by 360 shuttles. pick-up sequences at the customer’s site. A The shuttle store not only houses the third robot takes care of palletising cartons. trays but also takes care of consolidation, sequencing and dispatch buffering. AUTOMATED MOBILE ROBOTS The OSR Shuttle store also supplies one Robots are also used in transport tasks at of Knapp’s order fulfilment robots, which Wü rth Industrie Service. Three of Knapp’s takes care of picking packs of product. The Open Shuttle AMRs (automated mobile robots) Pick-it-Easy robot uses intelligent Vision operate in the goods-in area, transporting technology to detect which article is located trays of goods to the conveyor system infeed in the source container. Then, using one point, for transfer into the OSR Shuttle storage of two interchangeable grippers, the system. The free-moving Open Shuttles robot picks up an item and places it in the process all transport tasks autonomously, designated position in the target container. planning their routes independently and It can pick articles weighing up to 3.5 kg distributing the work between them using and works at a rate of 300 picks per hour. swarm intelligence. This means that Most articles at Bad Mergentheim are picked employees no longer need to manually

28 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM Sorting the right solution

An automated sortation system is often the lynchpin in a distribution centre.

It has to handle thousands of products At AMH, we have the knowledge and the an hour and the last thing you want is experience. That’s why we create innovative a breakdown in peak. sortation solutions that work, period. Designing and building the right solution Contact us today to experience a requires knowledge and experience. new way of delivering a successful Knowledge built up over years and sortation solution. experience gained in real life scenarios.

T: +44 121 550 4342 E: [email protected] W: amhmaterialhandling.com AUTOMATION & INTEGRATION | WORKFORCE PROCESS, PEOPLE, TECHNOLOGY

Dr Paul Rivers, CEO at Guidance Automation, considers why the deployment of an automation solution should take into account the process, people and technology.

There has been much written about the UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS process from the very beginning is essential benefits that automation can unlock for Assessing the way in which automation will because their day to day activities will change. businesses, but too often businesses think fit within an existing process is critical. If, for The positive benefits for employees are they need to jump in at the deep end and example, one of the biggest issues within a significant – not least the use of solutions such deploy automation technology straight warehouse is vehicle congestion, especially at as mobile conveyors to minimise the need for away, hoping it will solve the problems they peak times, simply replacing human operated heavy and repetitive lifting. When technology can are experiencing. But how will a process vehicles with AGVs without considering the completely eradicate these arduous tasks – and optimised for a manual workforce perform timing and location of the routes is not going the workforce is required to simply verify the with automation – such as an Automated to address the problem. Reconsidering the item by scanning – individuals will respond well Guided Vehicle (AGV)? How will people traffic flow, the way orders are batched, to the change. But people need to be educated, respond when their day to day roles change? the tasks and schedules is essential to trained and confident. They need to understand maximise the specific value of the AGVs. how the technology works and how they work AUTOMATION MISCONCEPTION Growing numbers of organisations are together. A workforce chasing AMRs down the Industry 4.0 can transform organisations’ considering the use of automated vehicles aisle because they do not understand where the processes and operations. It can revolutionise to replace the highly manual task of driving system is designed to stop does not represent productivity, improve accuracy and unleash around a warehouse, picking a harmonious human/machine interaction. new levels of efficiency. In operating items and delivering There will, of course, be changes to the skillsets environments where skills those items to a loading required – fork lift drivers will increasingly be are thin on the ground station. Reallocating replaced by automated vehicles. However, in a and staff recruitment those individuals to market desperate to recruit and retain individuals and retention a challenge, dedicated pick locations with experience, this provides companies with a automation appears to be a makes operational chance to retrain highly skilled fork lift drivers to, fast track to nirvana. Yet the sense – but this is not for example, supervise loading or oversee picking reality is somewhat different. a like for like situation. For teams. Highlighting the specific skills (like picking) Automation is not a direct replacement example, while individuals that are simply not in the purview of automation for a human workforce – and how could it may only be able to operate a single pick today is an important part of this automation be? However technically advanced, today’s model, an AGV may be able to pick up to evolution and key to creating an operating automated solutions may offer huge three, not only reducing non-productive time environment that combines excellent technology opportunities to improve productivity, but but also cutting the number of autonomous with an engaged and motivated workforce. they do not replicate the activities of a human vehicles, and hence investment, required. workforce in a like for like manner. By For companies investing in Automated EMBRACING THE TECHNOLOGY failing to truly consider how the technology Mobile Robots (AMRs), analysing the SKUs, By considering both the processes and the will be deployed – and, critically, how it will the process, the distance travelled by vehicles people who operate those processes today, work in tandem with a human workforce – on each route is key to understanding how organisations can take a far more intelligent organisations are fundamentally failing to get many robots are required. Furthermore, by approach to automation. Add in simulation the point of automation or reap the rewards. running a simulation of how the automated to understand how AMRs, for example, might Some mistakes are basic, such as installing model would work in practice, an organisation operate at different times is critical to highlighting a fleet of AGVs but failing to consider the can highlight opportunities to optimise the potential problems and avoiding inefficiencies. need for automatic door opening. Others batching of orders to dispatch to the AGVs, Plus, of course, these systems deliver real are more fundamental, such as overlooking gaining further efficiency advantages. time data in huge detail. Combining analytics to the implications of dropping technology monitor conditions in real time with dynamic fleet into a workplace without engaging the ENGAGING THE PEOPLE scheduling and route optimisation will enable workforce. Either way, a misunderstanding Even the most optimised process can continuous improvement. The technology is of automation and its implications for both still be derailed if the workforce does not brilliant; but it is the way it is deployed, the way people and process can lead to serious understand how to work with AMRs or, even orders are batched, and schedules planned, the operational problems that risk derailing worse, is actively interfering with the robotic way people are managed and skilled, that is the key essential investment in improvement. vehicles. Ensuring people are part of this to truly realising the potential of automation. 

30 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM GEBHARDT PRINCIPLE | EFFICIENCY www.commpanions.de

Next Generation Intralogistics INNOVATION©

Innovation is technology that is made useful. This principle of “ef ciency” is a part of all of our products and projects that making us a leader in innovation – which has been recognized by experts and global leaders. GEBHARDT Accreditation: the VDI-Innovations Prize in Logistics and an award winning European Conveyor Systems Ltd. leader in Innovation and Industry 4.0.

Pintail Close, Victoria Business Park For over 65 Years, GEBHARDT and European Conveyor Systems have been Nether eld, Nottingham providing innovative automated material handling solutions to retailers, NG4 2SG England manufacturers and logistics providers around the world. UK

Tel.: +44 (0) 115 987 4363 Let’s sit together and talk about how we can innovate your intralogistics. [email protected]

European Conveyor www.gebhardt-ecs.co.uk Systems Limited AUTOMATION & INTEGRATION | SPONSORED CONTENT

TGW PRESENTS DIGITAL TWIN AT LOGIMAT 2020

TGW is undertaking an For TGW, the 2018 LogiMAT was all about important project – erecting BRIDGING Rovolution, the innovative robotic order an intralogistics system picking solution that had its world premiere for Fource, a Netherlands- in Stuttgart. The self-learning pick robot based automotive spare has since been given a major upgrade and parts specialist. will soon be put into regular operation by THE GAP its first customers. Rovolution is a central part of FlashPick and OmniPick – the TGW solutions for automatic split case picking and zero-touch pocket sorter, respectively. At LogiMAT 2020, TGW is continuing on its course of progress and adding a digital twin of Rovolution to the product line. This is a complete digital representation which is connected to the physical installation in real time and grows with it. The digital twin makes the behaviour visible, comprehensible and predictable. With its help, you can analyse data, learn from it and visualise it in 3D models. This means that not only can the current condition of Rovolution be monitored, but with a replay function, you can also look back at the past in order to detect causes of unexpected events. Furthermore, a look into the future will be possible, for example, to predict when certain maintenance tasks have to be carried out. Users benefit from real time performance data, a high level of transparency and increased productivity. The digital focus also includes a comprehensive platform for networked TGW is building a highly automated fulfilment centre that gives customers intralogistics system in Berkel and Rodenrijs an overview of the entire system and is for Fource. By carrying out this project, the the basis for various evaluation tools and customer is bundling its intralogistics at services. Furthermore, TGW offers Digital Potential Workshops in which processes one location and taking an important step in are analysed onsite at the customer’s optimising the supply chain. Furthermore, this location. This collaboration provides is the foundation for the planned growth for the insights from a digitalisation perspective. next years. Construction of the building started in December 2019, with the FlashPick solution slated to go live as planned in autumn 2021. INTRALOGISTICS DATA Fource is part of the US-based LKQ group solution – with ten aisles and more than IN ONE APPLICATION and sells automotive spare parts, tools and 180,000 tote storage locations. Some 200 components using a network of wholesalers. energy-efficient Stingray shuttles ensure The basis of digitalisation is data – which has to be collected, structured and The core markets of the company, which storage and retrieval. In combination with interpreted. As system integrator, TGW can has 3,000 employees, are the Netherlands twelve goods receiving workstations and offer its customers a critical advantage in and Belgium. Recently, the spare parts 16 high-performance picking workstations this area. Unlike pure software specialists, specialist placed an order at TGW for the PickCenter One, the shuttle system TGW plans and builds highly complex erection of an intralogistics system for is the centrepiece of the system. systems in addition to producing all mechatronic components. This enables her Greenfield logistics hub. “This is an The TGW Software Suite is responsible for the intralogistics specialist to gather important order and a fantastic parts and Warehouse Management including Warehouse data from all applications, products components reference for TGW,” asserts Control System (WCS) and Material Flow and solutions and display and link it David Hibbett, CSO at TGW Northern Europe. Controller (MFC). TGW Commander is comprehensively in a uniform system. responsible for the control system. Special Artificial intelligence technologies play a critical role here. They make it possible OPTIMISED SUPPLY CHAIN machines for automatically putting cartons to understand highly complex information The new building, with 50,000 m² of floor upright and closing them, tote stackers and and make predictions for future scenarios. space, bundles Fource’s logistics operation lifts are also part of the scope of supply. This brings us within reach of networked for the Netherlands at a single location. Due During live operation, Fource will be intralogistics systems in the near future that to its spectacular architecture, the fulfilment able to rely on TGW’s expertise. A team have a self-optimisation capability – with tremendous potential for the entire industry. centre is called “The Bridge”, and is a symbol of Lifetime Services specialists works of the combination of people and technology. together with the customer’s technicians FlashPick is the core of the highly automated to ensure maximum availability. n

32 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM 7253_KNAPP_AD_SHD_188x124_Layout 1 07/02/2020 09:31 Page 1 making complexity simple

KNAPP is a leading global supplier of warehouse automation solutions, with over 1700 active systems worldwide. The group’s advanced conveying, storage and fulfilment technologies are combined in solutions that feature seamless integration and intelligent software. Successful projects in the UK recently include systems for John Lewis, Boots, M&S, Staples, Clarks, British Gas and Well.

KNAPP UK Ltd Unit 60, Monument Business Park Warpsgrove Lane, Chalgrove accurate Oxfordshire OX44 7RW Tel: 01865 965 000 | [email protected] robotic Visit us on www.knapp.com picking Stand 604

Recycled. Reusable. Recyclable. Helping you create a sustainable future.

✔ Products that work seamlessly in automation ✔ Widest range of plastic pallets and pallet in the UK ✔ Cleaner, safer and more economical ✔ Variety of colours available ✔ Personalisation Services ✔ Very long lasting Find out more: ✔ 96% of Pallets made from Recycled Plastic +44 (0)1323 744057 [email protected] AUTOMATION | PRODUCTS KEEPING IT MOVING Here Jim Hardisty, managing director of Goplasticpallets.com, shares two of the company’s latest large-scale projects which demonstrate why plastic pallets are an indispensable component in automated warehouses.

Changing consumer demands and The plastic pallets are being used for storing process is automated – the publications are faster delivery expectations means that goods in stackable plastic totes. When the printed, collated, packed into bundles and today’s modern warehouses are reliant items are needed for an order, the control palletised ready for delivery. Any disruption on automation to keep things moving at a system ‘calls’ the pallet with the relevant box to the print run has major consequences – steady pace. Any disruption in the process and the cranes zoom through the narrow aisle both lost revenue and unhappy customers, can result in missed deliveries, effecting to recover the pallet, which it transfers onto so it’s essential that the system keeps a business’ reputation and bottom line. a conveyor. Here the pallet moves smoothly moving. Wooden pallets were not an option, One of the UK’s largest retailers responsible through the conveyor and the required tote as they are not consistent in size and any for operating more than 50 stores approached is robotically lifted off and sent by conveyor loose slats or nails can jam a system. Goplasticpallets.com in the spring of 2015 to the order picking area. For incoming The plastic pallet we recommended was looking for a robust, long life plastic pallet that stock, the tote travels first to the palletising the IPS 1210 Medium M5R which were would adhere to the company’s strict deflection area where it is placed on the pallet – one supplied in two colours and branded with parameters when loaded. Deflection was a pallet can hold a total of 30 totes – which the company name for easy identification. crucial factor for the retailer, as if a pallet is then stored away until it’s needed. This The plastic pallets are stacked ten high bends too much when loaded, its automated is automated e-commerce at its best; it’s and the cassette system lifts the top nine handling system will grind to a halt. Previous phenomenal to witness the system in motion. leaving the bottom one to feed out onto pallets that the retailer had tested deflected the conveyor to the loading position. Here too far, sometimes by as much as 40mm. AUTOMATING PUBLISHING the robots load the pallet with the bundles We recommended trialling the APB 1210 Another customer, a major British publisher of publications, then the pallet exits the Pool Perforated 3R pallet which deflected approached us seeking a durable plastic warehouse to be loaded onto the truck for by <8mm and passed all the necessary pallet that would be compatible with its immediate delivery. These plastic pallets tests. The retailer ordered an initial 12,000 automated cassette. When it comes to the have been keeping the publishing industry plastic pallets in 2015, and last year a further publishing industry everything is hugely moving for the last nine years, proving a 9,500 following a major site expansion. time-critical, including logistics. The entire long-life asset for warehouse automation. n FULFIL THAT OBJECTIVE Dematic has won a multi-million-euro contract to supply an automated collation and sequencing solution to Vectura AS, a Norwegian logistics company for alcoholic beverages.

The new system will be an extension to the Andy Blandford, senior vice president company’s automated pallet warehouse in & managing director, Dematic Northern Gjelleråsen, Norway, and will enable the Europe, says, “We are delighted to have been business to process up to 75 pallets per hour selected by Vectura for this important project, and sequence up to 400 pallets at any one time aimed at delivering greater productivity – all within the existing footprint of the building. and throughput for their Gjelleråsen As the first phase of a major project aimed operation. We are confident that this is the at introducing higher levels of automation to start of a fruitful and long-term business the company’s order preparation and dispatch relationship between Vectura and Dematic.” operation, the system will be installed on Christian Granlund, CEO, Vectura AS, a new mezzanine floor above the dispatch comments, “Our company believes in creating area to make maximum use of space. competitive advantage by investing in our value Installation will be coordinated to avoid chain. This project will help future-proof our disruption to business, which sees 50 million business by enabling us to provide the efficient Christian Granlund, CEO, Vectura AS and Andy units a year dispatched to government-owned and responsive service we are known for, as we Blandford, senior vice president & managing director, Dematic Northern Europe. Vinmonopolet stores, wholesalers and the grow. We have every confidence in Dematic’s hotel and catering industry. The project ability to help us fulfil that objective and look is due to go-live in the summer 2020. forward to a close collaborative relationship.” n

34 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM LIVING LOGISTICS Market leader of REALISING Pocket Sorter Systems VISIONS Automated Warehouse Solutions

As a leading systems integrator, we design, implement and maintain automated warehouse solutions – from inbound to outbound – at the highest levels of productivity.

Visit us at LogiMAT 2020 in HALL 5, BOOTH C61 and learn more about how to master supply chain challenges with flexible, durable and cost-effective intralogistics solutions by TGW.

10 - 12 March Hall 3, stand B05 www.tgw-group.com OPINION | COLD CHAIN FEDERATION GUIDING THE WAY

A new guide to health and safety in a cold store is designed to make it easier for businesses to meet compliance requirements and keep people safe. Chief executive of the Cold Chain Federation, Shane Brennan, explains why the guide has been published and how it can benefi t businesses.

Keeping colleagues safe storage warehouse must bear in mind. enforcement and interpretation. A ... is a first and fundamental We developed this guide with the help business can find that a policy that moral responsibility. It’s of health and safety experts from within is implemented in one facility in also good for business. But as everyone a number of the leading cold chain one part of the country is viewed who works in logistics knows getting logistics businesses in the UK. It was as good legal compliance, but the health and safety right can be complex a useful process for us all, a chance same practice delivered in another and time consuming. This is especially to review and challenge ourselves is not. That inconsistency is a major the case in a cold storage business. on what the main challenges are. cost and disruption for business. Running a safe cold store not only In setting out to do this we started means putting in place all the best from agreeing the purpose and role PRIMARY AUTHORITY PARNERSHIP practice and thorough risk assessments of external guidance in supporting That is the other key role a federation required in a general warehouse but businesses to do the job they need to can play. The Cold Chain Federation also a range of cold-specific policies do. What we agreed is that there are provides its advice through a legally like ensuring personal safety in a no short cuts. No outside authority, backed ‘primary authority partnership’. cold environment and managing whether it’s a trade association, training This is a partnership with a local risks associated with icy surfaces. provider or consultant, however good authority that is recognised in law There is certainly no room for their guidance and advisory service is, and must be respected by every other complacency. As we all know accidents can replace a business’ own in-house local authority officer in England. This can and do happen. Health and Safety responsibilities. But we can help. means that if we develop a specific way Executive (HSE) statistics show that of complying with a specific regulation 147 workers were killed, and a further RISK ASSESSMENTS you can rely on it. For example, our 581,000 reported injured in workplace As our guide makes clear, the advice on safe management of accidents in 2018/19 (across all types fundamental requirement of health ammonia refrigeration systems also of workplaces). Rightly, there are strict and safety law is for a business to published this month is ‘assured’. This health and safety requirements with take ownership of managing health means if you are a member and you which businesses in all sectors must and safety for themselves. Risk follow our compliance approach no comply. Fines totalling £54.5m from assessments, which are the foundation local enforcement officer will overrule prosecutions were issued as a result of of robust health and safety, can never or second guess what you are doing. investigations into incidents in 2017/18. be generic. They must be developed As well as issuing ‘assured’ guides, with due consideration of the building, we are also here to deal with COLD STORE GUIDANCE the operations and the people that work specific issues. Any member can Until now, there has been no starting in the business in that place and time. submit questions about compliance place for people looking for good Good guidance acts as reassurance, policy to us. We will then seek guidance on management of health a sense check that helps reduce the an answer in from our Primary and safety specifically in a cold store. chance of something being missed and Authority Partner and issue ‘assured We believe that providing that basic a source of ideas and best practice advice.’ That is then shared with framework is a core responsibility of that makes the job a bit easier. the company in question and in an the Cold Chain Federation, and I am The other important role of guidance anonymous way with the rest of delighted that this month we have is giving businesses reassurance that the membership. Once issued the published our new guide – Keeping they are doing things right. We talk a guidance must be respected. Please People Safe in a Cold Store. The lot about the burdens of red tape and contact the Cold Chain Federation document brings together the key its impact on business. However, it is Compliance team (compliance@ considerations anyone responsible rarely the rule itself that is the problem, coldchainfed.org.uk) for more for health and safety in a typical cold the problem is usually inconsistent information or to submit a query. 

36 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM COLD STORE | SPACE OPTIMISATION SERVING UP SPACE SAVINGS It’s no secret that cold storage space comes at an extra cost to buy or rent, as well as maintain. That’s why being as effi cient as possible with the space that you have is paramount, as Higgidy, supplier of food products, found out during its growth.

Space optimisation is a wise move to ensure Taking existing aisle widths into account, Combilift cost efficient operation, but when the space engineers suggested fitting triple telescopic in question comes at a premium, it is even forks – a relatively unusual feature on an Aisle more crucial. This is particularly true of Master. Their 1,200 mm closed length enables the cold store and chilled sector, where the the trucks to manoeuvre around the tight angles costs incurred per m² are much higher than and corners in the cold store, and their extended those in ambient warehousing. The right length of 2,350 mm means they have no problem combination of fork lifts and racking can accessing pallets in the double deep storage in the enable companies to cope with expansion and packaging warehouse. This system, recommended increasing volumes of stock without having by John Kelley, has resulted in a doubling of to consider the expense and inconvenience of the previous storage capacity in this area. off-site storage or moving to larger premises. Higgidy, a supplier of pies, quiches and THE RIGHT FLEET savoury snacks, has enjoyed significant As well as space optimisation, a further crucial growth since it was established in 2003, but issue for Higgidy – and a potentially challenging this success came with the pressing need one – was finding trucks that could cope with to maximise warehousing density at its site the constant transition between an extremely in Shoreham-by-Sea. The company is now frosty -22°C in the cold store, +3°C in the chilled using two 2,000 kg capacity 20WE Aisle section through to ambient temperatures. Master articulated fork lifts from Combilift Typical problems in this scenario can be a build- to ensure that there is enough space to up of condensation and an adverse effect on accommodate its range of ingredients, which performance. Aisle Master’s cold store model are transformed in its kitchens into baked – winner of an FLTA award for innovation – was products and stocked by major supermarkets developed in collaboration with major names in across the country. The trucks work in the the sector and is engineered to cope with the ambient, chilled and cold store areas as demands of this harsh environment. Higgidy’s cold well as in the packaging stores, which also store trucks are fitted with anti-mist glass on the offers Higgidy a high level of versatility. top, front and rear windscreens and the powerful The Aisle Masters have replaced a stand-on 930 Ah batteries counteract any possibility of stacker truck and a counterbalance fork lift battery draining, enabling prolonged operation and in addition to their ability to work in narrow in temperatures as low as -30°C if required. aisles and tight confines, a further benefit Since the trucks have been onsite, they have was the fact that they can “do everything” as proved to do just what they promised, and when logistics manager Dean Parsons explains, the current contract of the two older electric “Both previous trucks were very limited in where counterbalance fork lifts runs out with Mexmast they could operate, which also had implications in the next year or so, they will be replaced with if they ever broke down. The stacker truck Aisle Masters. “The drivers like the visibility could only work in the cold store for example, from the cab offered by the articulated design and the counterbalance truck didn’t cope well and also appreciate the excellent stability when with some of the surfaces when it was outside. lifting 800 kg pallets of, for example, frozen The beauty of the Aisle Masters is that they food to the top bay of 3.6 m,” said Dean. can go everywhere, offload outside and bring “There are also a lot of benefits from using goods directly to their designated storage bays.” just the one type of truck. As well as being very manoeuvrable in really tight spaces, the Aisle DOUBLING OF STORAGE CAPACITY Masters have the capacity to do so much and John Kelley of materials handling consultants work long hours on just one battery charge. Mexmast works with Dean and his team as well Mexmast and Combilift couldn’t have looked after as Combilift on the specifications of the trucks us better, so it’s been a recipe for success – just so that they met Higgidy’s exact requirements. like Higgidy’s products,” he concludes. 

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 37 SPACE OPTIMISATION | PACKING

SPEED AND SPACE

Hawthorn Produce had a need for a packing solution that was able to operate at speed, but also within the confines of the space it had available. The company worked with Proseal to find a solution.

A tray sealer and integrated conveyor from The large-capacity Proseal GT2s tray allowing the necessary space for the onward Proseal are providing a fruit producer with sealer is meeting HP²’s need for speed packing of the punnets,” comments Tony greater throughput and ample production with an average throughput of 127 packs Burgess, head of sales and control systems line space for packing, allowing it to meet per minute, thus enabling the company at Proseal. “Over the years, Proseal and HP² increased demand from its customers. to comfortably meet customer demands have each played a part in the other’s success Spalding-based HP² – short for Hawthorn and even take on extra orders. and growth, and we very much hope to see Produce, Packaging and Handling – required The integrated infeed conveyor ensures our excellent relationship continue.” n a high-speed tray sealing machine to meet that there is maximum space for product growing customer demand for top-sealed loading so HP²’s operators can always keep packs of grapes. The machine had to be up with the demands of the line. Crucially, capable of sealing 120 packs per minute the conveyor is controlled and managed and to meet these needs, HP² chose from the Proseal machine’s user-friendly the Proseal GT2s tray sealer with a fully interface, meaning there is no need for integrated flat-belt SC conveyor, making the addition of a conveyor cubicle, which a total line length of around ten metres. creates space for additional operators. Nick Bossley, managing director at HP², Equally as important, the single and secure comments, “As ever, Proseal’s service was point of control ensures that the infeed second-to-none. Installation was completed conveyor mirrors the speeds of the tray on the day of delivery – including control sealer and guarantees instant reaction to any links to existing end-of-line equipment to changes in run conditions. This, combined enable staggered controlled stoppages – and with Proseal’s ProMotion system, which uses production was able to commence on day following motion and intelligent buffering THE FULL LINE-UP two. The GT2s and integrated conveyor technology to enable trays to feed continuously have been fantastic for us in terms of extra into the sealer, delivers optimum efficiency The Proseal GT range has the flexibility to throughput and added stability and have truly and minimal stoppage downtime for HP². perform a wide range of heat seals, including helped us deliver for our customers’ needs. “HP² and Nick are loyal customers, so Packaging (MAP), Vacuum “This was no surprise as we’ve been Proseal we were delighted to supply them with a MAP, Skin, Skin Plus and Skin Deep. Like all Proseal machines, the GT range offers a customers for a long time and are well aware machine that is now actually exceeding rugged and hygienic food industry approved of the company’s excellent tray sealers.” their throughput requirements, as well as construction with washdown protection, while user-friendly menus with step-by-step prompts ensure ease of set-up for line operators. The Proseal model range offers solutions for all types of production needs, from hand- operated, portable machines for small-scale usage to high-speed, fully automatic in-line models. Over the years, the company has continued to innovate with the introduction of many performance-enhancing features. For example, Proseal’s E-seal technology produces an increased seal force of 200% while achieving a 92% reduction in energy usage. This delivers cost and sustainability benefits to processors and ensures the excellent seal reliability that meets the stringent quality requirements of the food retail sector. The system also improves MAP processes through accurate gas flush positioning and reducing gas flush cycle times, making it extremely efficient and enhancing shelf-life extension. ProMotion, the company’s continuous motion tray infeed system, can increase the speed of a tray sealer by up to 30% through providing a smoother, more stable journey for products into the machine. 38 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM GET MORE SPACE TO STORE, PROCESS & DISTRIBUTE

Our warehouse and logistics structures are individually designed to meet the needs of For a site visit or quick quote: your organisation. call us on 01380 830 697 All our installations meet building standards, require no email [email protected] additional, or minimal groundworks in many cases, and are visit www.coprisystems.com quickly deployable. We offer a full turnkey service covering every aspect, including finance options.

Increasing logistics costs? Supply chain delays? Stockpiling? Customs warehousing?

Whether you need additional short-term warehousing space to stockpile goods, a permanent customs warehousing facility, Need flexible space or additional loading and storage options for your distribution network, Spaciotempo will give you the agility to react quickly post-Brexit? and efficiently in an uncertain market. Clearspan structures up to 36m in width Eave heights of 8m There’s never been a better Full structural calculations for locations across UK and Ireland time to speak toSpaciotempo. Full range of ancillaries and project management services All guaranteed by a Customer Charter, safeguarding your investment.

For a no-obligation site visit and quotation, call us today on 01889 569 569. StandSee 402 us on

www.spaciotempo.co.uk SPACE OPTIMISATION | CASE STUDY

A FLEXIBLE By fixing the mast and allowing

“ the operator to tilt the fork

SOLUTION carriage, pallets can be picked and put-away on the top “ Rico Logistics, an industrial and parts fulfilment group, safely maximised the beam of the highest racking storage capacity of its new warehouse facility on the outskirts of Birmingham. smoothly, safely and efficiently.

Rico leased the building at Minworth nervous system and it allows features such as feature mean that at Rico there is absolutely in Summer 2019 to support its rapidly the operator’s vision camera, height selection no chance of aisle impact being overlooked.” expanding business. Following a consultation system and aisle sensing technology, to be Flexi believes that in the future these new with Narrow Aisle’s Warehouse Systems integrated without the need for hard-wired cobotic sensors that aid safe driving may Division, the company adopted a storage relays, contactors and so on. This means eliminate the need for barriers in the rack solution which enables all of the available that far less components are required and, system, allowing user to concentrate their space in the facility was utilised. as a result, truck uptime is optimised.” investment in providing safety guards to By introducing racking that made use Picking pallets at height is not a problem separate pedestrians from truck operations. of the full height of the building, Rico has due to the truck’s integrated tilting The intralogistics upgrade at Rico’s been able to optimise pallet locations and carriage and fixed mast design which Minworth unit was overseen by a team pick faces to ensure that the site delivers eliminates mast sway – even at heights from Narrow Aisle’s Warehouse System the most cost-efficient storage cube. of 14m. This feature enhances the truck’s Division and was completed on time and already class-leading high lift stability. within budget, while Rico’s new fleet of FLEET SUPPORT “By fixing the mast and allowing the articulated fork lift trucks were supplied on a The project was undertaken in two phases operator to tilt the fork carriage, pallets can contract hire package with inclusive service and, now complete, provides some 11,000 be picked and put-away on the top beam and maintenance support provided. n pallet locations. At its highest point, of the highest racking smoothly, safely which is in the apex of the building’s and efficiently,” says John Maguire. roof structure, the new racking scheme delivers a 14m high top rack beam. SAFETY FIRST A fleet of five Flexi articulated VNA The truck is equipped with ‘reverse trucks – all of which are the latest Flexi proximity sensors’ that provide a clear ACiON models from Narrow Aisle – is in audible and visual indication when operation within Rico’s new store. The approaching any object, especially useful trucks feature digital electric motor when manoeuvring at rack aisle ends. technology that allows all independent And safety at Rico is further enhanced by the drive, hydraulic and power-steering motors Flexi ACiON’s ‘smart stop’ system. Developed functions to be controlled digitally to ensure by Flexi Warehouse Systems’ team of software the most productive and energy-efficient engineers, the ‘in-aisle sensor’ disables the performance throughout the working day. truck if it has come in to contact with an object, such as pallet loads, racking or rack IN COLLABORATION guards within the aisle. The truck can only “The collaborative robotic – or ‘cobotic’ – be restarted once the driver has reported control systems in the heart of the Flexi details of the collision to the designated line ACiON 1500 model deliver a more integrated manager, thus ensuring that no potential performance, and result in greater truck/rack impact incidents go unreported. reliability and higher productivity combined John Maguire says, “Some of the most with significantly reduced operating and serious incidents of rack collapse within maintenance costs,” says Narrow Aisle’s warehouses occur because truck operators managing director, John Maguire. fail to report collisions and the damage He continues, “The advanced suite of cobotic caused goes unnoticed until it is too late. The technology is, in effect, connected to the truck’s ‘in-aisle impact sensor’ system and cut-out

40 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM h&ss AM half vert IMHX logo Ad Liz.pdf 1 15/05/2019 17:34:19

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

+353 47 80500 aisle-master.com SPECIAL REPORT | MODERN SLAVERY

PICK UP THE PHONE

In the December 2019 issue of SHD Logistics, we reported on the ever-present practice of modern slavery. As a follow up, we find out how charity, Unseen UK, is combatting breaches in supply chain ethics.

Unseen UK is an anti-modern slavery charity STRONG MODERN SLAVERY STATEMENTS individual alerts when a case specifically with one core aim – to achieve a world without Unseen offers a range of practical and cost- relevant to them is published. Through the slavery. Founded in 2008, the charity works effective tools and solutions to better support portal, Unseen publishes regular insights across three distinct areas: supporting victims, businesses in understanding, mitigating and and trend analysis better supporting equipping stakeholders and influencing managing modern slavery risks. It supports businesses to understand the issue and society. This is achieved by providing support businesses to develop strong modern portal members come together to share to survivors through safe houses, and a slavery statements in line with Section 54 learning, tackle challenges and develop reintegration and outreach service, providing of the Modern Slavery Act through targeted best practice in a collaborative way. n training within schools, statutory agencies, consultancy and support. All monies raised To find out more visit businesses and frontline services and working through business consultancy and support https://www.unseenuk.org/ closely with government and policy makers directly funds Unseen’s ongoing helpline both here in the UK and overseas. Unseen also operations and survivor support services. operates the UK-wide Modern Slavery Helpline. In 2018, the Helpline launched the Helpline The Modern Slavery Helpline was Business Portal, a subscription service which launched in 2016 and is the charity’s first gives business partners a unique insight into national project. Completely independent Helpline reports relevant to their business and and confidential, the Helpline is staffed by supply chains. The Portal is growing rapidly and modern slavery experts who are available is a key part of our members’ modern slavery 24/7. It’s totally free to call and provides over response. Several large UK retailers including the phone translation when needed. The Tesco and Next are members, alongside large CASE STUDY Helpline now receives contacts through food and clothing brands. The Portal has calls, online webforms and reports from a key service to offer businesses within all A report was received by the Helpline from a worried member of the public. the Unseen App. Since launch, the Helpline sectors, particularly those high-risk sectors They had noticed a concerning situation has processed more than 18,000 cases. the Helpline receives multiple reports on, where an adult and a potential minor were Recognising its expertise on the issue, including construction, transport and logistics. being made to work very long hours. They the Helpline is held in high regard by law The Helpline understands that many appeared to be tired and scruffy and working enforcement agencies, victims and members of businesses are alive to the risk of modern without proper training or safety equipment. It was believed that these workers were the public alike, and are the single call to action slavery within their company and supply chains living in substandard accommodation on all the UK Government’s public awareness and are already engaged in positive steps to provided by their employer and they were campaigns. It receives many reports on forced addressing this. However, reports received by not free to leave the job if they chose. labour and exploitative labour practices each the Helpline from victims continue to inform The Helpline identified modern slavery year and has indicated thousands of potential them that victims are less likely to disclose indicators and deemed the case relevant to one or more Helpline portal users. victims since the Helpline was launched. exploitation during audit or interview, and Working alongside the police, the In recognition of its unique position as a many instances are slipping under the radar. business located the situation and the national expert, the Modern Slavery Helpline The Helpline has a unique relationship of trust potential victims, ensuring a quick and provides unique services to businesses with victims that is often built up over time. As sensitive response that provided the around its modern slavery response and such, it gains an insight into issues that are not best outcome for those being exploited. The Helpline provided ongoing support risk mitigation. It offers bespoke support disclosed elsewhere. In a confidential and safe to the business in understanding how to businesses; providing training to raise way, it is able to highlight these hidden risks the situation had occurred and what awareness of modern slavery amongst to businesses in real time through the Portal. lessons could be learned to review and employees and helping management Businesses can access the cloud-based revise practices and reduce future risk. understand the risks associated within Portal system at any time to check on cases their sector and how to address them. reported relevant to their sector and receive

42 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM Need help with your storage space? We’re BiG on space utilisation - in fact we’re experts on it. Our Business Services team will redesign your storage area by using the latest laser and 3D mapping technology to make the most out of your available space. Book your FREE site visit today.

Email: [email protected] WWW.BiGDUG.CO.UK 0800 141 3380

www.storopack.co.uk THE LOGISTICS AWARDS 2020 MEET THE JUDGES Entries for this year’s Logistics Awards opens on Monday 16 March. Here is everything you need to know about the event, including the line-up of judges.

The Logistics Awards is an annual celebration Tesco. Prior to Tesco, Neil held senior positions engagement. Ruth of excellence in the logistics and supply chain at Woolworths, Hallmark Cards and CWS Ltd. previously worked sectors. The awards recognise the most Neil is a former chairman of CILT (UK) and for a FTSE100 innovative projects taking place throughout remains a great supporter of the Institute, company where the industry over the last 12 months. The and is an active member of the Engineering she headed up next edition of the awards will take place on & Logistics Staff Corps within the British engagement Wednesday 16 September 2020 at the Royal military, and an ambassador for Transaid. and wellbeing Lancaster Hotel, London. Entry submission He is a member of the Advisory Board at for circa 1,200 will open on Monday 16 March 2020. The Cranfield University’s Supply Chain faculty, employees. Ruth is excited to be a part of deadline for entries is Friday 15 May 2020. a Visiting Fellow at Cranfield University, this year’s judging panel and can’t wait a Visiting Fellow at Warwick University to read the submissions and seeing what NEIL ASHWORTH – non-executive (WMG) and is Hon. Professor of Operations great things the entrants have been up to. chair, board member and advisor Management and Information Systems at Neil was the boss at CollectPlus, having been Nottingham University Business School. KANWAL KANDA – head of transportation at the forefront of digital developments in Neil is currently non-executive chair of at Health & Safety Executive (HSE) retail for over 15 years. Selazar.com, a non-executive advisor at InPost As an HM principal inspector of health and Neil subsequently and at IVIS Group and works with a number safety, Kanwal has over 17 years of regulatory took accountability for of other organisations on an advisory basis. experience with the Health and Safety Yodel’s marketing and Executive across numerous industry sectors. In commercial functions in RUTH EDWARDS – business development that time, he has conducted, prosecuted and November 2017 through director at Talent in Logistics managed investigations his appointment as Ruth has been working in logistics for over following multiple chief commercial officer, 10 years, starting out in marketing before workplace fatalities, then chief strategy moving over to operations. In her current role injuries and cases of officer until April 2019. as Talent in Logistics business development ill health. Included are Before joining director she spends her time showcasing the numerous incidents CollectPlus/Yodel, Neil worked as a business amazing people that work in our sector and in a warehouse advisor to several blue-chip UK retailers and helping companies with their talent attraction, setting and with a fulfilment businesses following a period at workforce development and employee workplace transport

2020 CATEGORIES

Environmental KEEPING IT GREEN Future Skills Growth In addition to the usual entry process, this Innovation year we are asking entrants to answer an New Facility (Over 150,000 sq ft) or important question about how they are New Facility (Under 150,000 sq ft) growing in all areas, whilst still taking steps Operations Large to become more sustainable: “How has your (>500 employees) business become more environmentally Operations SME (<500 employees) sustainable in the last 12 months?” Safety We expect that entrants will explain how Technology Transformation Large they have reduced their carbon footprint, (>500 employees) or Technology talk about new recycling schemes, discuss Transformation SME (<500 green procurement, and tell us about many employees) other environmental sustainability initiatives. Warehouse Efficiency WAREHOUSE This information will be presented to the New Wellbeing Initiative judges alongside a company’s entry. LOGISTICS Category APPRENTICE

44 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM THE LOGISTICS AWARDS 2020 related element. His current role as and is an Associate of King’s College London accredited by CILT. He is also lecturer in HSEs Head of Transport sector involves where he studied Classics and Theology. He Supply chain at Warwick University. His devising national transport policy aimed is a Fellow of the UK Chartered Institute book on Warehouse Management published at addressing the worse than average of Logistics and Transport and former by Kogan Page has sold over 10,000 copies record for health and safety performance chair of the Supply Chain and Logistics worldwide. A book on Logistics and supply in the transport and logistics sector. Global Advisory Council of the World chain tools was published in July 2016. Economic Forum. He has also advised PROFESSOR JOHN MANNERS- the European Commission Directorate- KIRSTEN TISDALE – consultant BELL – chief executive of Ti General for Energy and Transport. He at Aricia Limited John is an honorary visiting professor at the has written five books on the industry. Kirsten’s career in logistics London Metropolitan University’s Guildhall has included operations, Faculty of Business and Law, and an adviser GWYNNE RICHARDS – founder business development, to the World Economic Forum. He has over 30 of Apprise Consulting HO roles and over fifteen years’ experience working in and analysing Gwynne has over thirty-five years’ experience years of consulting, since the global logistics sector. John started in warehouse establishing Aricia Limited his working life as an management in 2001. Kirsten started operations manager and logistics. He off her logistics life as a of a logistics company began his career graduate management based in the UK. Prior to with BRS a trainee and then contract establishing Ti in 2002, he forerunner of Exel manager for what was worked as an analyst in Logistics which NFC, now part of DHL. She then worked for consultancies specialising later became TNT Contract Services and PE Inbucon before in international trade, part of DHL. He founded his own logistics spending 12 years as an internal consultant transport and logistics. consultancy and training company in for M&S working on projects spanning its He also spent a number 2003. Gwynne works with companies supply chain operations. Kirsten now works of years as a manager of UPS, in a strategic on improving logistics operations, with corporate clients who are planning marketing and communications role. John benchmarking performance and deciding change in their logistics infrastructure and holds an MSc in Transport Planning and whether to outsource or not. His course operations – helping them to develop concepts Management from University of Westminster on Warehouse Management was recently and put facts and figures around options. n

THE VENUE

The Royal Lancaster London is Hyde Park’s proud mid- century architectural icon, with breath-taking views of the famous London skyline. The coveted location affords easy routes of transport from all major London train stations, with luxurious suites available for guests choosing an overnight stay. It is next door to Lancaster Gate station, with Heathrow Airport a mere 20 minutes from nearby Paddington Station.

2019 WINNERS

Environmental Innovation Operations (SME) (<500 Wellbeing Initiative McCulla Christie Lites employees) GEFCO Highly Commended: McCulla Unipart with Sky New Facility (>150,00sq ft) Editor’s Choice Decathlon Safety NHS Supply Chain Future Skills Wincanton with Adidas Clipper Logistics with the New Facility (<150,000sq ft) Overall Winner University of Derby and Kuehne + Nagel Technology Transformation McCulla Sheffield Hallam University Marks & Spencer Operations Large (>500 Growth employees) Warehouse Efficiency Carousel Logistics CEVA Logistics with Rolls- Pets at Home Highly Commended: Royce Highly Commended: Jack Wills BT Final Mile Highly Commended: Hermes

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 45 DATA ANALYSIS

LOOKING TO forget the peripherals – it could be that the number of loading bays has a greater impact in supporting growth than stock-holding capacity. You’ll also need to make some assumptions. THE FUTURE There’s often a feeling that making assumptions is a ‘bad thing’, but if you’re looking into the In this month’s Data Analysis column, Kirsten future, you’re going to have to do it – what is Tisdale aims to answer the question: how long important is that you state what they are and is your distribution centre going to last? the basis on which you’ve made them, so that others can understand and challenge them. You might assume that the temperature regimes Companies often need to produce forecasts or about what might alter in the world outside. in a food operation are going to stay in similar projections to get a feel of the pressures that a One very important aspect to consider is proportion looking forward. Is that true of the particular logistics facilities within the supply whether there is inflation or deflation in past, or is there a trend to increased frozen, chain might be under in five or ten years’ time. I selling values in your industry which, for for instance? What impact might that have? much prefer the word ‘projection’ as it’s a more example, may be the result of exchange rates Consider how the balance between various accurate description of what is generally done. or outsourcing. What looks relatively flat from aspects of what you’re doing could change The typical question is: how long is my a business point of view, can look completely and how that could affect the life of the warehouse, or other logistics infrastructure, different for logistics. As well as getting facility – the balance between stock and going to last? Key steps include identifying figures for planned growth, consider how throughput, capacity and productivity. Is your all the areas that are likely to change, collect your products, product mix and customers peak getting peakier because, among other data and make assumptions about how might change? And how might your operation things, of internet sales? What assumption they might alter, understanding the degree alter – for instance, could your handling rates should you consider making about that? of robustness of those decisions, and then improve with introduction of a new WMS? encompassing all of that within a model THE RESULT that illustrates the boundaries of where you DATA & ASSUMPTIONS Despite all your hard work to combine all these might be in a particular timeframe. That You’ll need to do some data collection – facts aspects into a model, you will never hit on model will probably consist of two main parts: and figures about your existing operation. You exactly the right figure, so the question to ask is forecasting volume and operational capability. might want to plot existing data from your whether it is likely to give you a good result. Are The most important aspect when looking into warehouse on a graph and use the equations the results being produced representative? If the future is to try to identify all the things that from trend lines to feed into your model you input the correct factors for last year, does might vary - only then will you be in a position (I’ll look in the next issue at some ways in it give a close result to what actually happened? to do the necessary analysis. Summarising which you can check that these are robust). Consider the sensitivity analysis (a posh Donald Rumsfeld: there are known knowns, You’ll need to judge the appropriate level of way of saying what-if?) you should carry out. there are known unknowns, but there are granularity – the department that forecasts What if we got more goods from Vietnam also unknown unknowns. In addition to to the nearest million may well be more and the sales value per item dropped? What internal changes, or ones which are specific accurate than the one that went to two if that gap we found, when we compared to your company, it’s also useful to think decimal places! It’s also important not to our ‘forecast’ for last year with reality, was then projected forward? What if sales were +/- 5%? The example graph shows one very simple way in which you could present this. One of the aspects that many logistics and supply chain analysis and modelling projects share, including this type, is a data collection phase – in the next article I’ll share some thoughts on this. n

Kirsten Tisdale is principal of Aricia, the logistics consulting company she established in 2001, specialising in strategic projects needing analysis and research. Kirsten is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport, with a career spanning both sides of the logistics relationship as well as consultancy projects.

46 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM SHELVING | ORDER PICKING

ON ANOTHER LEVEL

Multi-tier shelving will improve warehouse efficiency by allowing simultaneous order picking on several tiers to reduce order throughput times, according to Edward Hutchison, managing director of BITO Storage Systems. Many companies operate shelving and racking “ systems for storage and order picking on Floor space is expensive and often scarce in urban areas, where a single-level of their warehouse. So, we a vertically oriented warehouse is often the only way ahead. were interested to see a high level of visitor “ interest in BITO’s multi-tier display on the TRANSFER OPTIONS allow water and air to penetrate to give company’s stand at the IMHX exhibition in Picking operations on multi-tier installations added fire protection. They are useful where Birmingham last September. It reflects the can be further optimised with a number sprinkler systems must be installed or for growing interest, which we have observed of of transfer options such as lifts, pallet deep-freeze stores to ensure that goods are late, in using multi-level systems for picking transfer positions (with a pallet gate) thoroughly cooled. In addition, perforated and storage of non-palletised goods and or spiral chutes that help optimise the shelves let light through, creating a brighter small parts stored in bins and cartons. workflow between order picking areas and more pleasant working environment. There are many good reasons for this. Manual and despatch zones by gently transferring Dividers can be slipped on a shelf to help shelving-based multi-tier installations are products from one level down to the next. organise stock simply. They can be easily simple and the investment amounts to a Different load capacities and various lengths, moved to change the size of compartments and fraction of the sum required for an automated depths and widths of shelves give significant can clearly identify new products, for example, system. But, like automated storage and flexibility to store a broad and varying product at a glance or separate product lines or returns. retrieval systems, they make good use of range. Shelves that can be easily adjusted Integrating a multi-tier installation into otherwise redundant ‘airspace’ in a warehouse every 25 mm will allow the storage of a variety a broader intralogistics solution enables to provide extensive storage space on a small. of sizes of products. A 40 mm high shelf will efficient, valuable usage of space by indirectly Achieving this density is important: floor have a load capacity of up to 300 kg; low-height, multiplying the available space in the space is expensive and often scarce in 25 mm shelves, which give more storage building. In addition, since multiple tiers urban areas, where a vertically occupancy within a given height, will can be worked simultaneously. So, it also oriented warehouse is often be good for loads up to 150 kg. becomes possible to process significantly the only way ahead. A perforated shelf will more orders in the same amount of time. n E-commerce businesses offer a prime example of companies requiring space 300kg to process constantly A 40 mm high shelf will rising volumes of orders. have a load capacity They also prefer to locate of up to 300 kg warehouses close to their customers to help fulfil shorter order lead times, which is often in these costly, urban areas. A multi-tier solution may allow a company to keep its entire inventory in one area instead of operating several facilities in different locations. Creating a centralised warehouse in this way makes for easier inventory management, while also reducing overheads. A typical multi-tier shelving installation of two or three storeys might, for example, place a high-turnover item pick zone on the bottom tier, and put lower-turnover items higher up. Board or mesh floor deck walkways on the different levels can be linked to each other by stairways and/or lifts for convenient access.

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 47 ORDER PICKING | PRODUCTS

THE FRAME GAME

Inther Group claims to be the first Dutch logistics systems integrator to release the A-Frame on the market. Here’s what they have to say about the product.

The A-Frame is a technology for item that two columns of different items can fit are properly and optimally replenishing picking that is widely used in pharmacy. in one dispenser, with two ejectors. In this the A-Frame when needed. Therefore, the Inther Group owns the IP of the A-Frame case each column would have its own ejector. number of refilling errors remains low and the and is fully responsible for its production. However, for bigger items only one column tracking and tracing of boxes is maximised. This fully automatic solution for the quick is positioned in one dispenser. Intelligent In general, the need to process smaller processing of complex orders is a proven ejectors ensure a fully automatic, safe and order lines in the e-commerce supply channel technology and has been perfected by Inther. maximum processing of the items. Once an positively influences the business case for The A-Frame guarantees the highest possible item needs to be dispensed onto the conveyor integrating an A-frame. When integrated as productivity and an optimal material flow, even belt (which runs underneath the A-frame), part of an overall intralogistics hybrid concept, at peak loads. It performs perfectly with high the concerning ejector ejects the item at the the A-frame excels at handling part of the volume orders that consist of small, medium/ bottom of its column. A sensor also calculates overall order profile, typically fast-moving fast moving items that have similar packaging. the height and thus the number of items in items. However, other logistics solutions are Examples include pharmacy boxes, cosmetics, the column, with the addition of a measured typically required to fulfil the complete order tobacco and small office supplies. The A-Frame ‘indentation percentage’. This is an additional profile (slower moving/larger items). n from Inther is distinguished by its high level quality check that monitors the stock status of flexibility. The channels are adjustable so of the items. This ensures that personnel EVERYTHING IN VIEW Linde Material Handling is renewing its range of industrial trucks for order picking applications in order to widen an already comprehensive product portfolio.

Eight new models of the damped stand-on platform, which reduces Picking is usually carried out in a very busy Linde N20 C low-level the impact and shocks experienced by the environment, which entails increased risk order picker are the driver when the truck is used on uneven of material damage and accidents – and first such trucks to be ground. A fold-out driver’s seat (with sensor thus higher risk of unplanned consequential launched. They ensure for driver recognition) is also integrated costs and operational disruptions. To prevent comfortable, safe and for longer distances or waiting times. this, the N20 C comes with a whole range above all cost-optimised The N20 C is operated via the new, height- of standard and optionally available safety order picking in the adjustable steering wheel – a highlight of features. Extremely important for the driver load range between the new industrial truck generation. Rocker is the excellent view of the driveway and load. 1.2 and 2.5 tons. switches for forward and reverse driving are Additional features include the hydraulically With the arrangement of the battery, integrated into the round shape which has a assisted braking unit – which is one of a driver’s stand-on platform and load-handling rubberised surface for optimum grip. They total of three braking systems on board. It module, the company has adopted the can be operated on both sides using the varies the braking effect of the order picker standard market design for the N20 C, which thumb or index finger. To ensure driving is in relation to the load picked up. The Linde is particularly beneficial for operators of as distraction-free as possible, the Linde Curve Control system reduces the speed in mixed fleets; drivers do not have to rethink engineers have deliberately positioned the relation to the steering angle and prevents the operation of the vehicle when switching multi-function colour display below the tip-over accidents when navigating corners. n back and forth between trucks from different steering wheel. The clearly arranged screen manufacturers. The low entry height of displays the most important information merely 130 mm and the wide vehicle access relevant to the truck – from the state of the (428 or 418 mm depending on the model in battery charge to service instructions. question) make it easy to enter and leave the driver’s platform, something which is required CONNECTED AND SAFE frequently during day-to-day order picking. Upon request, the modular fleet management Ergonomically positioned handles provide software ‘Linde connect’ with access control, a secure hold, even when reversing. Optional damage monitoring and usage analysis can equipment features include the pneumatically also be installed on board the new trucks.

48 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM SAVE 10% ONLINE BITO20use promo code shop.bito.com Products to maximise efficiency at checkout

CONTAINERS FOR FORKLIFTS SMALL PARTS STORAGE DISTRIBUTION CONTAINERS

STACKING CONTAINERS PICKING SHELVES BOLTLESS SHELVING HEAVY DUTY SHELVING

BITO BECAUSE: Our storage and handling solutions are truly innovative We stock the widest range of storage and handling products in the UK T: 024 7638 8852 E: [email protected] You can trial prototypes at our Experience Centre You’re buying top quality products direct from the manufacturer www.bito.com HR

At a recent Talent in Logistics conference, where delegates were made up of instructors, OVERCOMING in-house trainers and training providers, I asked them to share their expertise. More In this issue Ruth Edwards, than 100 delegates worked together in LEARNING business development director teams to discuss example scenarios that at Talent in Logistics, considers represented some of the most commonly how logistics organisations faced training issues in the transport and can overcome barriers to logistics sector. These examples might BARRIERS training and development. sound familiar and could help you overcome some of your own internal challenges!

HOW TO JUSTIFY TIME AND BUDGET FOR TRAINING OVERCOMING NEGATIVE ATTITUDES TO TRAINING

The scenario: how investing in time to train The scenario: and situations encountered on Your organisation only trains to now, could reduce downtime Your organisation has a workforce the road or in an operational deliver short terms results and in the future with enhanced that is extremely disengaged, this environment. The workforce performance, the senior leaders productivity, safety levels would becomes very apparent during times thinks the managers don’t claim that the cost for training far improve and so there would be of change. When training is delivered understand, so perhaps outweighs the benefit it delivers fewer accidents, meaning less on new processes and procedures management could consider to the business. Occasionally they damage to stock and machinery there are lots of comments about going ‘back to the floor’ and change their tune but then money which would save money. how ‘it will never work’, ‘we have taking a ‘show not tell’ approach. gets a bit tight or the business gets Senior management need seen it all before’ and ‘what would It might be helpful to look at busy and the training is removed to understand that it is better the management know about our examples from other companies from the schedule/budget. to pay a couple of thousand job role’…sound familiar? How who are getting it right, or if pounds on training every few could you try and address this? there is disengagement with Delegates’ ideas and years rather than paying out management looking at peer-to- recommendations: tens of thousands of pounds Delegates’ ideas and peer training as an alternative. The Health and Safety or Training when there is an accident. recommendations: It’s important to get open department needs to educate senior Getting an in-house trainer To tackle a disengaged workforce, it’s feedback after training. leaders on why they shouldn’t cut has lots of benefits for training a good idea to reinforce the benefits In this scenario, the training. You should explain relevant – it makes the team into more of training. Sometimes by focusing management should try and regulations and legislation and refer of a family and enables the on the personal benefits of training find out what the employee’s to Approved Codes of Practice. trainer to find their colleagues it’s easier to win hearts and minds. want, consider what’s possible Explain to the organisation about needs and address them. n Training highlights real challenges and identify a middle ground. n

HOW TO GET MANAGERS ON BOARD WAYS TO MAKE TRAINING ACCESSIBLE

The scenario: assess Bob’s intentions. Why The scenario: they are older and don’t Bob is a senior manager at is he acting that way? What A survey was conducted with your understand the technology being your organisation and he most are his motives at work? blue-collar workforce recently and used in training? Or are they certainly has an influence on his As a senior leader, it would they were asked about training. young and feel inexperienced team, but Bob does not practice be interesting to know what Their responses varied but the compared to colleagues? In what he preaches when it comes training Bob has done himself, overwhelming themes were that these scenarios it may be to learning and development. has he ever been invested studying is too hard and so they more of a confidence building He doesn’t keep up to date with in? It would be good to look wouldn’t be able to do it, and that exercise than anything else. industry changes, he doesn’t at all senior management as learning is just not fun. How can It’s possible that they don’t challenge himself, he isn’t part of this exercise so that you work to change these views? enjoy training because they have curious of what other teams are he doesn’t feel singled out. a different learning style that isn’t doing. So why should his team? Bob certainly needs his Delegates’ ideas and being catered for. Maybe they could What could you say to Bob? KPIs assessed. These should recommendations: benefit from using something include how he can better Why does the workforce think they like a VR simulator instead of Delegates’ ideas and influence his team. It’s most are they can’t do it? Is it because PowerPoint classroom training? n recommendations: important to find ways to help It would be a good idea to Bob lead from the front. n

50 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM SUSTAINABILITY | PACKAGING

THE SUSTAINABILITY SEARCH

Rodney Steel, chief executive of the British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association, discusses the latest trends in packaging and how ‘sustainability’ can sometimes become the victim of its own headlines.

The topic of sustainability will remain centre cucumbers, for example, reduces its stage for the foreseeable future. It dominated lifespan by about 14 days. This potentially hearts and minds throughout 2019, becoming increases the chance of excessive food waste, very much aligned to global environmental causing increased CO2 emissions. Even if campaigns championed by the likes of Sir consumers changed their buying behaviour David Attenborough and Greta Thunberg. and expectations of food freshness, the As the headlines gather more traction, altered lifecycle of the cucumber could also the demand for sustainability and a more lead to more trips to the supermarket – by responsible attitude towards the protection the consumer and the logistics provider. of our planet quite rightly increases. Richard Smith, director at Linwood Raker, While plastic alternatives such as cardboard At the forefront of this is a high consumer said, “We’ve noticed a recent demand for and paper may appear to be more sustainable, demand for . But do paper-based packaging that is as cheap as a their carbon footprint can be equally as consumers really know when packaging plastic . While paper is easy to recycle, it damaging. Then you have the practical is sustainable and when it is not? isn’t always the best solution for every product.” issues of minimising pack sizes to reduce the The BCMPA, which recently repositioned itself At the start of the sustainability debate, the impact of delivery vehicles – and ensuring as the ‘Association for Contract Manufacturing, drive to reduce single-use plastic fully took packaging properly protects the product, Packing, Fulfilment & Logistics’ to better hold with the introduction of the fee including protection from wet weather. reflect the full service provided by its members, in 2015. The nation then went into somewhat “We work closely with our customers to has witnessed first-hand the sustainability of a frenzy, demonising plastic as a material pioneer the latest sustainable solutions such issue unfolding across the entire supply altogether, but ignoring that replacing them as ,” said Johnson. chain – from manufacture to end delivery. for example with ‘American style’ paper , “We’re also noticing that many customers We are all deeply involved in finding the best would typically require 20 times as many are refreshing their supply chain and solutions and sharing best practice. But often, vehicles to deliver them to the retailer. transport by introducing reusable stillages some of the positive thinking can be drowned A familiar concern among our members and containers,” she added, “For these out by the noise created by the headlines. is how to address the consumer demand technologies to be successfully integrated, Zero-waste packaging, reusable packaging for plastic-free packaging while at the same companies cannot lose sight of the overall and earth-friendly or eco-packaging are time being genuinely sustainable. The real functionality for the consumer during the all terms that are becoming increasingly temptation is to follow demand when faced design process, which is where outsourcing popular. And they are all areas in which with the alternative of losing business – even companies can provide guidance.” our members are helping to pioneer. when it’s not always the right thing to do. Outsourcing is one way to achieve true Neil Humphrey, sales director at Mailway, a sustainability in packaging, where innovative member of the BCMPA, said, “Five years ago, SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING ALTERNATIVES new materials emerge that, through sustainable packaging was rarely mentioned The role of plastic in the supply chain continues partnership working, start to bridge the by our customers and now it is a requirement to be an emotional touchpoint with consumers. gap between being eco-friendly, practical, of most new enquiries we receive, especially However, we must take a considered overview functional and commercially viable. One from new businesses and start-ups.” of how changes impact the whole supply chain. example is the development of stronger but But he warns: “In today’s environmentally BCMPA members are therefore working hard to lighter weight materials. BCMPA members conscious atmosphere, everyone is desperate find sustainable packaging alternatives that are are on the front line, with the benefit of to do the ‘right thing’ yet running the risk ‘real’ solutions rather than quick, temporary fixes. access to many associated businesses across of accidentally doing the wrong thing.” Sarah Johnson, marketing manager at the packaging industry who are working Cannon Packing & Logistics (CPL), agreed on these challenges. They understand the CREATING WASTE that companies were frequently influenced choices available and the potential pros This point illustrates that while companies by anti-plastic media headlines: “We’ve seen and cons aligned to different options. try to individually respond to the consumer single-use packaging withdrawn at point of sale So, searching for a sustainable solution demand for sustainability, their subsequent with no consideration for the whole of the supply may be complicated, but with the actions, however well intentioned, may chain. Single-use plastics are increasingly support, knowledge and resources of an sometimes have a knock-on effect being exchanged for ‘sustainable’ packaging outsourcing company, it is still possible to through other parts of the supply chain. only for the sake of presentation, without introduce creative and workable options Removing the from supermarket thought of the bigger environmental picture.” to these complex challenges. n

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 51 PACKAGING | ROBOTS

Kawasaki’s RS10-N robot proved ideal PALLET TO PALATE for precision label placement onto retaining straps Blackstar Handling, producer of conveying and packaging solutions, discusses its success using Kawasaki robots. The robots are used to apply labels directly onto the retaining straps on hundreds of pallets a day, each carrying around 9,000 drinks cans.

With the food and drink industry being well speeds, position, precision and repeatability a 10 kg payload at a reach of 1,450 mm. recognised for its place at the forefront of made us think very carefully about the Pegler further states that an additional innovation and development in the fields of best ways to automate the process.” advantage of working with the Kawasaki team automation, packaging and robotics, it is was that on this project Blackstar could also perhaps unsurprising that primary suppliers in SKILLS ON TAP do away with using a PLC on the robot system, the business have always been at the forefront According to Pegler, one of the key drivers thus reducing costs and complexity, while of new automation technologies, methods behind the success of the Blackstar business also seeing efficiency improved. Working and ideas. So, when the supplier of cans has been as much to do with attitude as it has on a cycle time of 25 seconds per pallet for to the drinks industry became aware of an the engineering skills on tap. “This is how labelling, the RS-10N robot and system has opportunity to further improve on the quality of we came to work with Kawasaki Robotics in thus far proved faultless. Almost 9,000 cans are the service it delivers to customers, it seized it. the first place,” he continues, “and why we contained on each of the hundreds of pallets To avoid any possibility of contact between have eschewed the approaches of other robot being delivered by this Blackstar customer the cans and the labels that must suppliers over the years. In simple terms, the weekly and, to date, not a single instance be applied to every pallet dispatched to its teams at Kawasaki Robotics and Blackstar of can/label contact has been reported. customers, the company decided on a novel have a very similar outlook on how best to approach that would effectively reduce to zero make a project work. Although we are well MORE THAN JUST A ROBOT the chances of it occurring. Embracing a fresh versed in the field of packaging and conveying, Commenting on the continued success of its approach, it was decided to place the labels we have always enjoyed the advantage of relationship with Blackstar Handling and their onto the retaining straps (which are 12 mm Kawasaki Robotics’ specialist knowledge of ordering of yet another of its robots, Kawasaki wide) that secure the load, instead of directly robots and how to make them work best as Robotics sales manager Ian Hensman says, onto the pallets themselves. To put the idea part of our systems. We’re the experts in “Once again, we have delivered much more than into practice, the company sought the guidance our fields and they are the experts in theirs, just a robot to a key customer. We have been of a business they had relied on previously so when this new application emerged and privileged to enjoy a long-standing relationship for packaging and automation engineering revealed the need for robotic assistance, we with Blackstar that sees practical, workable solutions, Blackstar Handling of Skelmersdale. didn’t even consider going anywhere else.” and cost-efficient customer solutions offered For the Kawasaki Robotics team, their part as part of the wider Blackstar proposition. HOUSEHOLD NAMES of the new process involved supplying a robot The combined knowledge and understanding Since the business was established more than (in this case, a standard RS-10N model) that of the two teams working in parallel has 20 years ago by managing director Ian Pegler, would position the labels accurately, repeatedly, brought real operational and commercial Blackstar has become one of the UK’s foremost and on an unbroken 24-hour shift pattern, benefits to Blackstar and its customers.”  practitioners in the art of designing, making sometimes for months on end if required, and and installing fast, high-precision bespoke with minimal maintenance involved. Operating conveying and packaging solutions. It has as part of the bigger package at Blackstar’s customers across the UK and Europe, including customer plants, the RS-10N applies two household names such as Heineken, Kelloggs, labels per pallet direct onto the retaining Kimberley Clark and Heinz, in addition to this straps and typically works through sixty very one producing cans for the drinks industry. large pallets an hour, or one every minute. “This application was especially interesting The required accuracy on the project was for for us, from an engineering viewpoint,” says label placement to be within +/- 1 mm in both Pegler. “Applying the label direct onto the the X and Y axes, with appropriate pressure strap, rather than onto the pallets themselves, to physically attach the label on contact: well was not in itself a major challenge, other within the capability of a robot that is supplied than identifying the correct adhesive. But as standard from Kawasaki with a guaranteed achieving the combination of the required accuracy of +/- 0.03 mm when carrying

52 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM legacy system in the dark ages.

Powerful, Scalable Warehouse Management Solutions Providing all the pieces you need to manage your warehouse with Zebra

Contact our team for more information: Ill Ill I llll 11111111111111111 www.globalbarcode.co.uk 01636 550 560 GLOBALExpertsin BarcodeBARCODE and RFID Solutions OPINION | FLTA UP TO SPEED

Tim Waples, chief executive of the Fork Lift Truck Association, explains how to specify a pallet truck that’s

right for your operation and sheds light on the training requirements for both operators and employers. There is a widespread belief that it simply isn’t necessary to train operators of power“ “ pallet trucks and pedestrian stackers. Nothing could be further from the truth. With Brexit now a reality, a slope, then it’s almost certain you’ll are severe. Supermarket giant Aldi ... UK warehouses are need to consider switching from a hand was fined £1 million for “providing operating at record capacity pallet to a powered pallet truck PPT). insufficient training” when an and, as a result, the use of pallet trucks employee lost two toes in an accident has never been greater. But the rise in POWER UP involving a power pallet truck. numbers has not been matched by an For the remainder of this article increase in understanding or awareness I will focus on power pallet SETTING STANDARDS among many owners and operators. trucks (PPTs) since hand pallet Indeed, such is the importance of The humble pallet truck is probably trucks fit better within a separate training for users of PPTs that on 1 the most common piece of handling discussion on manual handling. December 2019 the ABA introduced equipment in any warehouse, and Perhaps the most pressing issue new and tougher standards for one of the most dangerous. True, they concerns training. There is a widespread testing the basic operating skills cause few fatalities, but every year belief that it simply isn’t necessary to for pedestrian and rider pallet many hundreds of operators and their train operators of power pallet trucks trucks and stackers (Category A). colleagues suffer all manner of serious and pedestrian stackers. Nothing could The format for the new standards injuries including strains, is based on those agreed in recent trapping and fractures. years for counterbalance trucks and is, therefore, more stringent WHAT CAN BE DONE? and more consistent across all Let’s start with the basics. categories of equipment. When is a basic hand Be aware, though, that having pallet truck sufficient for delivered the basics you should also lateral handling operations provide Job Specific and Familiarisation and when should you training. And it doesn’t end there! consider powering up? If you are responsible for overseeing Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks handling operations, the law requires commissioned some you to be competent, not in operating the interesting research involving equipment itself, but in understanding 17 different makes of hand your responsibilities for upholding pallet truck. It revealed safety and proactively recognising that, on average, starting and rectifying bad/unsafe practice. a 500 kg load required significantly be further from the truth. A powered Those courses are becoming more greater effort – at 23.3 kg – than truck, be it pedestrian, stand-on widely available and the FLTA’s safety stipulated in official manual handling or sit-on is a potentially dangerous partner Mentor FLT Training and guidelines (20 kg for men and 15 kg piece of kit: for the operators and for accrediting body AITT have recently for women). Increase the load to two colleagues working on foot alongside. launched a pioneering online course: tonnes and the typical force to get it Moreover, under PUWER regulations Managing Forklift Operations. This in motion was a massive 49.6 kg. That it is your responsibility as an employer allows training to be carried out must give serious pause for thought to ensure that staff receive suitable whenever and wherever you choose. if you are a manager or supervisor. and sufficient training. Since that It can also be completed over fewer While there is no hard and fast rule, if training has been codified by the ABA total hours than a classroomÐbased your handling operations involve moving (Accrediting Bodies Association) it is alternative. Best of all, eÐlearning loads of more than 500 kg, moving the benchmark against which you will removes the internal logistics loads over long distances, frequent use be held to account in the case of an and costs incurred when several by the same person, handling large incident that is investigated by the HSE. managers, often from differing or unpredictable loads or working on And the penalties for failing to train locations attend an off-site. 

54 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM AUTOMATION | AI & MACHINE LEARNING MACHINES CAN TALK

SHD Logistics sits down with Will Leet, senior “ offering management specialist at Honeywell, When we analyse a customer’s data, we can predict with 80% accuracy which to talk everything AI of their employees are about to quit or when a motor is about to fail. and automation. “

James Burman (JB): How is us how we can improve our operations. A typical distribution centre is already short- automation transforming the The ability to make informed decisions handed and HR managers struggle to fill vacant warehouse and boosting ROI? using real-time data is the cornerstone of an positions. The market has clearly evolved and Will Leet (WL): One core function of a automated distribution centre (DC). This gives needs a solution to satisfy these basic but business is getting goods to customers. personnel enhanced visibility, allowing them important labour needs. That’s one of the However, businesses are often using to manage activities such as orders, deliveries, ways automation can make a difference. outdated manual operations tied to inflexible receipts and the movement of goods from the And this has happened many times before. and aging fixed assets. Today, the markets warehouse to other locations. At Honeywell, We don’t have elevator operators anymore, are forcing warehouses, distribution and we are enabling every DC to visualise and but a human still interfaces with the control fulfilment facilities to shed their previous manage critical system performance and panel to push the button and someone needs three-, four-, five-day delivery models. key asset health to ultimately improve to make sure the buttons still work. So, the Two-day shipping is now the norm and operational efficiency, predict and avoid risks, impact on labour will be a shift from general businesses are racing toward same-day and deliver a lower cost per case shipped. roles and responsibilities to workers with deliveries. Achieving service levels like these specialised skills and higher wages. are difficult, if not impossible, without adding JB: What features are you implementing automation. Systems and processes from 10 to help automate warehouses? JB: How does automation fit years ago just don’t provide the agility and WL: Every automated system from Honeywell your sustainability goals? scalability required to keep up with consumer can be configured to securely transmit data WL: Any time we can use automation to expectations and competitive pressures. to the cloud, enabling warehouses to not increase the efficiency of our customers, Automation enables significantly higher only gain efficiencies from automation, but we’re going to do it. They will use less energy, throughputs, fewer errors and better also discover insights in real-time. This is have fewer carbon emissions, and be more capacity utilisation. The benefits of modern where Honeywell’s experience and technology profitable in the long run. Using analytics and automation are also repeatable and easily around IoT for big data and machine learning automation, businesses ensure optimisation scaled up to meet market growth. This is leveraged from other industries. of operations, which boosts efficiency and equates to a low risk method to start Facilities managers and operations sustainability across the supply chain. automating and achieving a return on personnel get a much clearer picture of new technology. From here, a business what is happening in their warehouse at JB: How else is automation has an identifiable path forward to scale that moment thanks to powerful, predictive affecting materials handling? automation and the ROI that comes with it. algorithms. Honeywell is committed to WL: A lot of people only think of automation supporting customers with technology as a robot or a piece of equipment doing JB: What are the efficiency gains that will help them weather the future. the same process repeatedly, and to some from investing in automation? degree that is true. However, automation in WL: There are very clear and measurable JB: How does automation affect the amount that traditional definition is nothing new. We efficiency gains from automation. Things like of staff needed? Does it make some job roles have floor sweeping robots, automatic paper higher order fulfilment rates, shorter order obsolete, or will you need more employees shredders, and automated coffee makers. But, shipment cycle times, a lower cost per case to manage and operate machinery? by capturing the data and letting machines talk, shipped are easily delivered with automation. WL: Realistically, it likely won’t change the we can explore new automation outcomes. When Modern automation opens the door to amount of staff needed. Most industries we analyse a customer’s data, we can predict more adaptive systems that have the capacity are struggling with a shortage of skilled with 80% accuracy which of their employees to evolve to the needs of the business labour, especially as a large portion of the are about to quit or when a motor is about to and support new models for operation. workforce is marching toward retirement. fail. We’re very excited to help shape the future Machines can talk – and they are telling The warehouse industry is no different. of applied machine learning and big data.

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 55 AI & MACHINE LEARNING | DATA

THE AI BARRIER

SHD Logistics finds out from analytics provider,Zizo , why Artificial Intelligence might not necessarily provide a ‘quick fix’ for the logistics industry.

The trend towards logistic organisations Within logistics, there’s a lot of human robot capabilities will, in fact, help them wanting to adopt automation, robotics and involvement when data is captured and to make processes faster and more efficient Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help transform processed. There’s reliance on people to sign by removing the labour-intensive aspects of their business continues to gain momentum. documentation, accurately scan items and jobs. This is particularly the case for pickers However, there seems to be a belief that input the right information about a shipment. and packers, right through to delivery drivers if they can access ‘super computers’ and Every stage of the delivery process must be and those working on last mile delivery. throw vast amounts of investment into completed correctly, with several different them, these machines will be able to parties involved such as a 3PL or 4PL. There DATA PREPARATION intuitively interpret their data and give them are numerous touchpoints and not every The first thing to do is to establish that the answers, which humans cannot do, but this company throughout the process is willing to business has the data it thinks it has. If it doesn’t is not the case. A computer that can provide share data with each other, leading to holes have the data and it isn’t collected in a clean meaningful and fresh insight on data and in information for companies to try and create and recognisable format, it will be impossible to which never needs human intervention or a holistic view of what’s going on. A complete adopt anything like AI. The second step is using

updating, for now, only exists on Star Trek. view doesn’t often exist in logistics and this computing power to look at data and identify As Peter Ruffley, CEO of Zizo explains, there is causing big issues. The entire supply areas of commonality and connections between is a journey that businesses need to go on to be chain should be working together but often it, which warrant further investigations. There able to effectively deploy both AI and machine businesses are fighting against each other to are technologies which can visually show a learning (ML) solutions. It’s a question of them deliver quality of service for their customers, business how to do that, and at a low price point. firstly getting better at collecting, storing and even though it should be a joined-up approach. It might be that a business finds it doesn’t organising their data, and identifying areas currently hold a lot of high-quality data and within that data where there is potential for A SHAKE UP IN CULTURE only around 10% is any good. No matter insight and value. Then, they will be able to AI has the ability to unlock great efficiencies how small, good quality data can start successfully use emerging technologies to within logistics, by using data to optimise to make an impact. By getting the right target those specific areas of data to gain a driver routes and the way trucks are information to the right people or vehicles, a more in-depth understanding of their business. driven that can save tens of thousands small change can make a big difference. Before embarking on any AI project, it is vital to millions of pounds in fuel per year. Regardless of its size, an organisation wants to businesses answer two questions; ‘why are When it comes to data and new technology, know how it can use data to create certainty and we doing this?’ and ‘what is the problem we there appears to be two concerns. For the drive down the operational risks in delivering want to solve using our data?’. If it’s because c-suite, it’s trusting the data they hold. There from A to B. For the smaller logistics company, customers are complaining that their parcels is no point increasing the amount of data the thought of AI can be terrifying but it’s all are arriving late or incomplete and the collected if the business doesn’t trust its about using data to find areas where they can problem is that the business suspects it has data. Cloud-based analytics provide the have a competitive edge, make potential savings routing issues within the last mile, then these essential data foundation for organisations. and improve efficiencies, and with the support both create viable cases for investment. It creates the building block for the of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and cloud cultural change that will define a digitally analytics, they can compete with the larger firms. THE NEED FOR CHANGE transformed organisation, one that will have If there is a defined business reason and an There are lots of good reasons why logistic immediate visibility of all data and, critically, agreed outcome in mind, then AI can be the companies should be looking at AI, but the can create implicit trust in that data. right tool in logistics. But it won’t do everything biggest barrier to AI adoption is not using For workers, there is a level of fear for you – the majority of the work must be the AI tools, it’s getting the data into the that the increase in technology will done somewhere, either in the machine data models for analysis in the first place. impact their role. AI, ML and learning or data preparation phase. n

56 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM ROBOTS | AI & MACHINE LEARNING

ROBOT ROLLOUT

The Alphabot, developed as part of a plan to revolutionise the online grocery pickup and delivery process for Walmart associates and customers, is now fully operational at

a Walmart supercentre in Salem, US. Developed exclusively for the retail giant by Alphabot is what we think of as micro-fulfilment - an inventive“ startup Alert Innovation, Alphabot helps to merger of e-commerce and brick and mortar methods. enable quicker, more efficient order picking. “ The system operates inside a 20,000-square- foot warehouse-style space, using autonomous change Walmart’s online grocery operations. Because the carts that carry items move carts to retrieve ambient, refrigerated and “By assembling and delivering orders to both horizontally and vertically without any frozen items ordered for online grocery. After it associates, Alphabot is streamlining the lifts or conveyors, there are fewer space retrieves them, Alphabot delivers the products order process, allowing associates to do their constraints to consider, which should make to a workstation, where a Walmart associate jobs with greater speed and efficiency,” Roth adoption of the system easier across stores. checks, bags and delivers the final order. said. “Ultimately, this will lower dispense As the pickup and delivery process works times, increase accuracy and improve GATHERING KNOWLEDGE today, associates select items from the the entirety of online grocery. And it will Real-time data sharing is also a benefit. sales floor for customers, package them help free associates to focus on service Because Alphabot continually shares order and then deliver them. While associates will and selling, while the technology handles information, the system will learn – and as continue to pick produce and other fresh the more mundane, repeatable tasks.” it does, stocking will get more intelligent. items by hand, Alphabot will help make In short, Alphabot is another novel entry in Adoption of this new system across stores the retrieval process for all other items Walmart’s ever-expanding efforts to utilise can lead to a more seamless grocery easier and faster. It is important to keep intelligent, game-changing technology that pickup and delivery experience, making in mind that associates are a vital part of helps both customers and associates. substitutions easier to anticipate and fill. the process. The associate is required for “This is going to be a transformative “We never want to be in a position to tell an loading merchandise into the machine, for impact to Walmart’s supply chain,” Roth online grocery customer they can’t have an item,” picking orders at the stations and delivering said. “Alphabot is what we think of as Roth said. “We’ll be able to look at datasets the items to the customer’s car. While these micro-fulfillment – an inventive merger of and fairly say ‘these two brands of pasta are robotic systems are fantastic additions, e-commerce and brick and mortar methods.” typically bought together,’ or ‘here’s an item a they work in tandem with the associates. As the grocery pickup system operates consumer buys often,’ and use that information When asked if there was any staff training now, there are a few extra steps involved to make more informed substitutions.” required before this technology was for associates. But Roth believes Alphabot has been operating at its pilot implemented, Walmart confirmed that there the technology will change that. location in Salem since mid-2019. The store was indeed a programme in place. The alert But the benefits go beyond associates will continue to serve as Alphabot’s home while team helps with the initial training and then a who work with Alphabot every day, the process is studied, refined and perfected. co-manager for the e-commerce department extending to shoppers in more ways than After collecting associate and customer of that store can implement additional one. By increasing fulfillment speeds, this feedback, next steps for a broader Alphabot trainings with the associates. It is a very technology can create more convenience rollout will be assessed. At the time of writing, short training process, as the machine and for customers, allowing them to place Walmart has two additional units planned: computer screens are very self-explanatory. orders closer to pick-up time, and reducing Mustang, Oklahoma; and Burbank, California. wait time when picking up an order. These two units are due to be constructed STREAMLINED PROCESS The system’s fully autonomous bots operate this year. Until then, the system will continue Brian Roth is a senior manager of pickup on three axes of motion, constituting a more to assist associates in Salem as they usher automation and digital operations for Walmart flexible system than is typically found in in a new era of productivity and service that US. He believes Alphabot could fundamentally traditional fulfillment centers and warehouses. could shape the future of modern retail. n

WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM MARCH 2020 57 THE LOGISTICS 100 LogisticsThe 100 2019

OUTSIDE SHD speaks to Mirek Raba, one of the Logistics 100’s Rising Stars, to get a fresh perspective on how the supply chain is changing, and THE BOX what parts of the industry are enjoyed by younger people.

James Burman (JB): As somebody who MR: I think organisations, as well as young components of the supply chain – and that is, as has relatively recently began a career in professionals, face challenges on both sides of usual, to fully utilise the potential of available logistics, how did you end up in your role? the fence. One of the key challenges is the fact resources. Therefore, the future of supply chain Mirek Raba (MR): It all started when I enrolled that the expectations of young professionals management is constant change and learning. to Logistics and Supply Chain Management are high and are based on the picture many course at the University of Huddersfield. Being employers present to young people during JB: What are the most rewarding part of the Novus Trust scheme, course opened recruitment campaigns. Unfortunately, those aspects of your job? the possibility for me to join international are rarely met in the real world for various MR: There are several aspects that I find business operating in the FMCG sector during reasons. From my point of view, companies rewarding, but one which I find the most my studies; first as a placement student, must be transparent and consistent as to what interesting is the scope of the work. LCR then working part-time and finally full time opportunities are available, what the career Supply Chain Programme aims to enhance after graduation. I was lucky to quickly land a path is, and more importantly, what day-to- regional supply chains capabilities to be more position with pan-European responsibilities. day work looks like. On top of that is social competitive, locally and globally. Along with This helped me enormously to gain invaluable responsibility; companies must make sure that core work with SMEs, we are also collaborating experience in supply chain management across all employees feel that they work contributes to with OEMs and large organisations – inside European operations. In the meantime, I also the wider community, that company genuinely and outside the region – to establish how to completed an MBA, which along with the supports bigger goal that is good not only for increase local participation of SMEs in supply supply chain management experience helped the business. This is an important aspect for chains across different sectors. This part aims me transfer to a more strategic supply chain large number of people. Having a clear and to provide a boost to the regional economy and consultancy role at Leeds City Region Supply genuine message will help. Logistics is one at the same time enhance large organization’s Chain Programme, delivered by The University of the most critical sectors in the economy, supply chains by better, more reliable and of Huddersfield. The programme provides without which the country cannot operate, flexible local suppliers base. It is this strategic business development support to SMEs hence working in it can be very rewarding. regional work in combination with support for operating in the wider supply chain sector. My SMEs that is extremely rewarding for me. current role as supply chain analyst at Leeds JB: How do you think supply chain City Region Supply Chain Programme focuses management will be different JB: What do you enjoy doing on strategic analysis of supply chains across in five years’ time? during your downtime? primary industries in the Leeds City Region MR: The main change, which is already MR: Books and swimming – there is nothing (LCR) as well as providing strategic consultancy noticeable, will come from fast and disruptive better than a good book after a good swim. support to the programme management team. technological innovation. Therefore, managing technology with less and less JB: What kind of qualities do you think you human intervention will be one of the main need to work in a role such as yours? characteristics of supply chain management. MR: I think that in any supply chain-related The specific details are impossible to predict role, you need to incline to be analytical due to wide range of factors, from speed at and curious as supply chains become super which innovation takes place and decreasing dynamic and more and more complex. However, cost of technologies, to the impact of the I would say that ability to approach problems political situation related to international with ‘outside the box’ thinking is one of the trade. All of these will have a direct effect critical qualities that might be crucial to help on supply chain management strategies contribute to the competitive advantage of and operations. Furthermore, I think that the company you work for. The same applies blockchain will become more popular, making to my current role, being curious and look supply chains much more integrated. This at problems differently is one of the key will result in high flexibility and agility, elements of my approach to issues we face. boosting productivity at large scale. It will be then for supply chain managers to adjust to JB: It’s more important than ever for new realities. Therefore, along with supply other young people to begin careers in chain management insights, future supply this sector. What do you think companies chain managers will need to understand can do to inspire them to do so? technological details of the most important

58 MARCH 2020 WWW.SHDLOGISTICS.COM BOOK NOW AT EARLY BIRD RATE £245 + VAT

SAVE THE 19 May 2020 DATE The British Museum

Secure your Early Bird ticket today at www.logisticsconference.co.uk Superior technology that delivers more

Our new Plus Compound is made from high quality raw materials and a complex inishing process that extends service life and reduces rolling resistance. Our solid tyres deliver more mileage and energy eiciency with greater productivity, reliability and lower operating costs, even in the most demanding operations.

To try it for yourself contact us on 0800 408 4704, [email protected] or ind your local dealer at www.continental-tyres.co.uk/specialty