Topic: Photos

An iconic American brand is partnering with DHL Supply Chain to build out a network to meet soaring demand. It’s also turning to flexible automation to optimize operations.

Our new Intralogistics Robotics Study proves just how vital robotics and automation are becoming to warehouses and DCs of all sizes­—and across all industries.

A fast-growing leader in critical OEM parts for the food service industry is using goods-to-person robotic picking to meet customer service requirements.

After a banner year for materials handling automation indicators last year, our annual equipment outlook survey reveals a more conservative approach to spending on automation, equipment and related software -- however, the indicators didn't decline drastically.

Our annual reader survey finds that many are looking to implement or improve their systems across numerous areas, and when it comes to decision factors for evaluating systems, total cost of ownership and integration gained in importance, while concern over parts availability declined.

Our annual salary survey examines the compensation, job and career history, job responsibilities and career satisfaction for materials handling professionals.

Our research shows companies are adopting robots, but it’s a long way to go before they’re commonplace.

Warehouse and DC managers are feeling the pressure of e-commerce growth, high order volumes, as well as deep concerns around labor availability and international supply chain snarls. In response, our survey found that they’re ramping up spending for automation—but also spending more on their labor force to ensure an adequate pool of workers to keep goods flowing.

Our annual automation survey finds increasing budgets for automation and rising interest in automated solutions with reliable parts availability, as well as turnkey, integrated solutions. And though budgets are up, stresses show around labor availability, raising its importance as a driver for automation.

The labor crunch is a serious issue, not just for front-line employees in DC and other supply chain sites, but when it comes to higher-level supply chain talent, too. We surveyed supply chain professionals and found less than one-third feel their companies are highly prepared to handle demand with current staff, while two-thirds have increased wages to try to retain more people.

The Honeywell Intelligrated One-level Shuttle (OLS) System provides quick access to cartons, totes and trays, ideal for operations with high-turn inventory storage and short order cycle times. A shuttle can serve a dedicated level for maximum throughput, or use a shuttle lift to access multiple levels for increased flexibility.

Our annual salary survey for materials handling professionals asks about issues including pay, staffing trends, stress levels and job satisfaction. Even with pandemic disruption and robust e-commerce growth posing constant challenges, compensation and satisfaction stayed strong.

Capex budgets and headcount are both up amid signs of expansion. But underneath those positives are strains, led by concerns about labor and inventory turns. Applying more technology, say respondents, is the path forward.

Despite the hype, drones have been slow to catch on in the supply chain. But some intriguing new use cases suggest the technology could be ready to break out inside the DC.

Our annual reader survey found a nearly 20% drop in respondents holding off on software investments compared to the previous year when readers were struggling through the early months of the pandemic. Our 2021 report shows strong interest in inventory and labor management capabilities.