Retail

Warehousing and distribution are more closely tied to the business than ever before. Here’s a look at the biggest business issues impacting the design and operation of materials handling systems today.

Data from both Commerce and NRF showed that retail sales decreased on a sequential basis in June for the third consecutive month. This marks the first time retail sales have fallen for three straight months since late 2008.

Compliance and supply chain complexity plus lack of automation heighten risk to bottom-line and reputation

Dematic Multishuttle and RapidPick System will be on display at the Internet Retailer Conference and Expo, June 5 to 8 in Chicago.

There’s a significant trend that has been unfolding over the first half of the year that’s given me hope that the economy has finally turned the corner: Professionals representing all facets of supply chain management are starting to step out of their facilities and offices to attend live trade shows and events.

The ongoing upswing in e-commerce and mobile commerce activity continues to make a significant impact on how retailers, distributors, and third-party logistics approach distribution network processes, according to a new report from global real estate firm Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL).

Ecommerce and multi-channel retailing are changing perceptions about automation

Commerce reported that April retail sales at $408.0 billion were up 0.1 percent over March and 6.4 percent higher than April 2011. The NRF reported that April retail sales, which exclude autos, gas stations, and restaurants, were down 0.1 percent on a seasonally-adjusted basis from March and up 2.8 percent on an unadjusted basis annually.

Smart Packaging Systems won the award for The Cube, a transport packaging system that enables companies to move their products from factory to store with maximum ef?ciency and full protection of the product.

Multi-channel retailing has created unprecedented challenges for retailers that want one system to replenish stores, fill online orders and also accommodate in-store pick up.

Thomann’s new distribution center meets the growing need for multi-channel retailing.

Provider of outdoor gear and apparel, Moosejaw takes a bite out of indoor warehouse and order inefficiencies with a new cloud-based warehouse management system that also reduced labor costs by 20%.

GMI Distribution implements a robust, on-demand warehouse management system to track inventory and provide its 3PL customers with 24/7 visibility into inventory and transactions.

I can’t think of a better System Report to grace the cover of this Special Technology Issue than Musikhaus Thomann, one of Europe’s leading retailers of musical instruments and accessories.

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