Swisslog

At ProMatDX this week, Swisslog is demonstrating automated micro-fulfillment center technologies for simple and compact last-mile delivery solutions that can be placed anywhere to bring fulfillment closer to consumers.

Coming out of COVID, there’s a lot going on in the materials handling industry. Not all of it is visible

This new white paper from Swisslog (part one of a two-part series) explores the changing nature of the food and beverage industry, including the impacts of COVID-19, climate change, complex manufacturing constraints and high demand uncertainty.

Automation vendors, including several startups, are lining up to meet the growing interest in micro-fulfillment centers. Automation characteristics like high storage density, rapid access to totes, and high uptime are vital to success, but vendors also point to the need to iron out supply chain issues like replenishment.

Productivity has risen considerably, as quality inspectors can now inspect 40 pallets an hour.

New materials handling tools and approaches help this complex supply chain operate efficiently.

Warehouse execution systems grew out of the need to manage the way orders are processed in highly automated DCs to get more efficiency out of high-end fixed automation—but now the focus is expanding. Here’s how suppliers are addressing the need to manage automated and manual workflows, and apply machine learning and predictive models.

In our third white paper examining the Kaizen approach, we look at lights-out logistics; how it came into use and how it can help supply chains become more resilient in times of great uncertainty and crisis.

Automation is not all about equipment. People are just as important to the long-term success of a major capital expenditure. This affects everything from the work people do to how they interact with each other.

That was the goal of Scandinavian retailer Varner. The result is a most highly automated, omni-channel retail distribution center, that is also flexible, cost-effective, ergonomic and sustainable.

The 500,000-square-foot distribution center in Sweden handles fast-fashion store replenishment and e-commerce fulfillment in a highly automated setting.

It's truly a showcase for where automation is going next

Swisslog Logistics (Booth 7657) is highlighting its new and improved logistics dream team at Modex this week.

Regardless of the type of materials handling equipment you install, the next big decision will be to go contract or in-house for maintenance. Getting it right requires some thought and typically depends on your circumstances.

As the complexities of modern-day fulfillment continue to grow, software is playing an increasingly important role in how companies manage in this dynamic environment.