The WITRON Group currently employs people from 109 nations worldwide. This includes more than 50 nations at the headquarters in the northern Upper Palatinate region, Bavaria, Germany. Intercultural teams are part of everyday life in the offices and production facilities in Parkstein, the international subsidiaries, or the OnSite service teams in the logistics centres implemented by WITRON worldwide. One of Fabian Rösel’s important tasks as Global Head of HR at WITRON is to work together with the responsible managers to support people from a wide variety of backgrounds in such a way as to create a high-performance and value-based community that works both professionally and personally.

“Holiday pictures sometimes make you think we are all wearing ‘Lederhosen’ here in Bavaria and drinking wheat beer at lunch,” laughs Fabian Rösel when asked about the company’s corporate culture. The attribution of the ‘Mystique company from Bavaria’ is no coincidence and the North American people in particular have shaped it to this day. “We now have more than 7,000 employees from over 100 nations. In 2014, we had 2,200 employees from 36 nations. We have changed a lot in ten years and the ‘Lederhose’ now only plays a very minor role. Also, it’s more of an Upper Bavaria thing, but that’s another cultural story,” he jokes.

In 2024, his main focus will be on passing on values such as the down-to-earth attitude and pragmatism of the family company founded by Walter and Hildegard Winkler – which already extend as far as Asia and Australia. “With so many nations in the company, we have to strike a balance and communicate our values. But we in Parkstein also have to keep learning.” By comparison: There are 195 nations worldwide. WITRON has implemented projects in almost 60 countries to date.

Rösel describes, for example, how the straightforward and direct communication of the Upper Palatinate people – for which WITRON is so highly respected among experts – differs from the more emotional and discussing-spirited French nature. “That sounds trivial, but it’s important to understand in everyday life.” Recognizing, respecting, and productively using these differences is one of the core tasks in managing international teams. Rösel is convinced of that.

Another example is the management of such teams. Managers must not only fulfill their role as professional leaders, but also act as bridge builders between cultures. This means that they have to understand and respond to the individual needs of their employees. In the USA, for example, it is common for managers to ask personal questions at the beginning of a meeting in order to establish a connection – a practice that could be considered as a waste of time in Germany but is essential for the working culture in the United States.

When expanding to Australia, Rösel and his colleagues took advantage of the intercultural diversity at the company and found employees from the United States who were quickly ‘in synch’ with their Australian colleagues, had already worked at WITRON for many years, and had adapted and were able to convey the Parkstein culture thanks to their close cooperation with colleagues from the Upper Palatinate. “This is the only way to successfully enter the Australian market,” explains Rösel.

In order to fully exploit the potentials of intercultural teams and at the same time master the challenges, he believes that a number of success factors are crucial:

1. Cultural awareness and training: A profound understanding of cultural differences is essential. Regular training, intercultural training and coaching sessions help employees and managers to become aware of these differences and use them appropriately.

2. Clear communication: Clear communication rules and expectations are particularly important in intercultural teams. Different interpretations of instructions or feedback can lead to misunderstandings, which can be avoided through transparent and open communication.

3. Flexibility and adaptability: Companies that operate in different countries must react flexibly to the respective local conditions and cultural characteristics. This is not only about linguistic adaptations, but also about considering typical national working methods and times.

4. Managers as cultural mediators: Managers in international teams must act as mediators between cultures. They should both represent their own cultural values and be open to new influences. At the same time, they should create an environment where employees feel comfortable and can express their ideas freely.

An outstanding example of WITRON’s intercultural work is the development project in the African country of Niger, which the company initiated together with an employee from the country who has been working in Parkstein for several years. The aim is to establish a technical school that offers young people a sound education in the field of automation technology. This initiative not only shows that the company is taking its intercultural approach one step further, but also that social responsibility and corporate goals can go hand in hand. “We don’t want to moan about bureaucratic hurdles because they are high. But we do it anyway. Today, service technicians from Niger are already traveling around the world for WITRON and getting projects up and running together with colleagues from many other countries”, explains Rösel proudly.

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Körber Supply Chain Software, a leader in adaptable supply chain execution solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Dexory, a leading robotics and data intelligence company, to transform supply chain management. By integrating DexoryView’s advanced visibility platform with Körber’s world-class Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), the collaboration delivers unmatched insights, accuracy and operational efficiency to customers worldwide.

In today’s dynamic and competitive market, businesses are under pressure to future-proof their supply chains for resilience and agility. Dexory’s autonomous mobile robots provide daily scans across an entire warehouse, capturing data in real-time. The partnership with Körber Supply Chain Software enables organizations to swiftly uncover and address issues in the warehouse while empowering real-time, data-driven decision-making. By combining two leading-edge platforms, Dexory and Körber Supply Chain Software are equipping supply chain operators with tools to optimize operations, boost resiliency and enhance efficiency.

Körber Supply Chain Software’s order, warehouse, and transportation management systems have long provided businesses with unparalleled control over the flow of goods, from origin to fulfillment. With DexoryView – a warehouse intelligence platform combining autonomous robots equipped with sensors to collect real-time inventory data – customers gain an elevated level of visibility to achieve 99.9% inventory accuracy, actionable insights into goods movement, and the ability to optimize warehouses through data intelligence.

“Businesses in today’s market continue to look for ways to improve operational efficiencies through modern applications of automation technology and data driven applications,” said John Santagate, Senior Vice President of Robotics at Körber Supply Chain Software. “Through our partnership with Dexory, we are combining their data visibility and automation platform to enhance our industry-leading, supply chain execution solutions to bring real-time insights to the warehouse and enable our customers to create value out of data visibility.”

“Partnering with Körber Supply Chain Software aligns perfectly with our vision to transform warehouse operations through innovation,” added Oana Jinga, Chief Commercial and Product Officer & Co-Founder of Dexory. “Following a year of remarkable milestones, including our expansion into North America, this partnership marks a significant step in our growth. Together, we are poised to deliver exceptional value and success to our global customers.”

This partnership signals a transformative step forward for the supply chain industry – uniting two innovative leaders to deliver operational excellence and elevate customer success globally.

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Among the most exclusive destinations in Europe, it is impossible not to mention Bad Homburg, a favorite destination for discerning travelers for a luxurious, relaxing and fun stay. Just 20 kilometers from Frankfurt, nestled at the foot of the Taunus hills, this elegant town is best known for its elite spas and thecelebrated casino known as the Mother of Monte-Carlo. In this article we will discuss the attractions of Bad Homburg and provide PrivateJetFinder’s tips for chartering a private jet and arriving at your destination quickly, discreetly, and in the utmost comfort.

Bad Homburg Casino The Mother of Monte Carlo and the Exclusive Taunus Spa

The fame of this authentic gem of the German region of Hesse also comes from its main exclusive attractions, the Bad Homburg Casino, also known as The Mother of Monte Carlo, and the luxurious Taunus Spa.

The Mother of Monte Carlo. The Bad Homburg Casino is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe. It is often called “the mother of Monte Carlo” because of its historical importance and pioneering role in the world of gambling. This appellation comes from the fact that the German casino, which opened in 1841, directly influenced the creation of the Monte Carlo Casino on the French Riviera. When the Bad Homburg Casino began to gain popularity, attracting the European elite, the Prince of Monaco, Charles III, decided to replicate the model in France, thus creating the famous Monte Carlo Casino.

Located in a historic building in the heart of the city, on its refined atmosphere and elegant gaming rooms, it offers an exclusive experience that goes far beyond just gaming. Visitors can try their luck at the roulette, blackjack, and poker tables, or enjoy an elegant evening in one of Germany’s most sophisticated settings.

The Taunus Spa: world-class wellness

Bad Homburg is also renowned for its Taunus Spa, which offers one of the most exclusive wellness experiences in Europe. Surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape, visitors can enjoy a wide range of rejuvenating treatments, including thermal baths, massages, saunas and wellness trails. Every corner of Taunus Spa is designed to provide the ultimate in relaxation and tranquility, offering the perfect retreat for those who want to disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle and rejuvenate in a luxurious setting.

Where to land: the best airports to reach Bad Homburg by Private Jet

Bad Homburg is easily accessible due to its proximity to Frankfurt, one of the most important hubs for private aviation in Europe. Using PrivateJetFinder, travelers have access to a selection of airports that provide speed, discretion and comfort. Here are the two best options for those wishing to land in the area:

1. Frankfurt Airport (EDDF/FRA)
Frankfurt Airport (EDDF) is the region’s main international airport and offers a wide range of private aviation services. The General Aviation terminal ensures rapid handling of private flights, with optimized timings and highly personalized service. From here, Bad Homburg can be reached in about 20 minutes by car, but it is of course possible to opt for a helicopter transfer.

2. Frankfurt Egelsbach Airport (EDFE/QEF)
About 30 km from Bad Homburg, Egelsbach Airport is an ideal choice for small and medium-sized private jets. This less congested stopover than the main airport offers dedicated general aviation services and extremely fast handling times, allowing passengers to enjoy an even more private and comfortable experience.

Customized transfers

After landing, transfers to Bad Homburg can be arranged, by luxury car, limousine, or, for those seeking the ultimate in comfort, helicopter transfers. Each option is designed to optimize time and ensure a flawless arrival, letting every step of the journey reflect the exclusivity of the stay.

Private jets recommended by PrivateJetfinder to fly to Bad Homburg

When it comes to choosing the ideal private jet for a flight to Bad Homburg, the decision depends on personal preference, number of passengers and desired comfort level. PrivateJetFinder offers a wide range of options, ranging from small private jets, perfect for short, quick trips, to medium-sized jets, ideal for greater comfort, to extra-luxury jets for an exclusive experience without compromise.

Small jets: Cessna Citation and Learjet

For those seeking a quick and efficient flight without sacrificing comfort, small jets are a perfect choice. Popular models for short hauls include the Cessna Citation XLS+ and the Learjet 75. These jets are ideal for flights of 1 to 2 hours, with a capacity of 6 to 8 passengers, and provide fast flight times and efficient handling. Both models offer a comfortable cabin with well-distributed space, perfect for those looking for a practical, no-frills, yet still elegant trip.

Also read our article on Cessna Citation jets.

Midsize jets: Gulfstream and Falcon

For a higher level of comfort, midsize jets such as the Gulfstream G280 and Dassault Falcon 2000LXS are the ideal choice. These jets offer capacity for up to 10 passengers and are perfect for mid-range routes, such as those connecting major European capitals to Bad Homburg. With a high cruising speed and spacious cabin, travelers can enjoy greater privacy and comfort, with ample seating, optimized flight management, and, in some models, the ability to work or relax in elegant and functional environments.

Extra-luxury jets: Bombardier Global and Gulfstream G650

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, extra-luxury jets such as the Bombardier Global 6000 and Gulfstream G650 represent the pinnacle of the private flight experience. These jets are designed for unparalleled comfort, with spacious, elegant cabins equipped with every conceivable amenity. With a capacity of 12 to 16 passengers and a flight range that allows long nonstop legs, they are perfect for those who want to travel in total exclusivity, enjoying impeccable service and space reminiscent of a true luxury suite. Ideal for flights that require the ultimate in privacy, comfort and performance.

Choose the ideal Private Jet with PrivateJetFinder

The choice of private jet to arrive Bad Homburg depends on the type of experience you want to have, contact PrivateJetFinder, to learn all the details and plan your private flight down to the smallest detail. Our staff is operational every day to provide decades of experience in chartering private jets to the most exclusive destinations around the world.

Two Konecranes reach stackers have just started handling containers at the Ultraport terminal in Puerto Angamos, a major port for Chile’s vital copper exports. Ultraport is ramping up efforts to reduce emissions and chose lift trucks featuring Flow Drive, a Konecranes innovation that uses a special transmission to cut fuel consumption without losing performance.

Ultraport has been a Konecranes customer for over a decade, with an extensive fleet that includes over 30 reach stackers and several mobile harbour cranes throughout Chile. They are part of Ultramar, which has installed the first Konecranes Rail-Mounted Gantry (RMG) cranes on the continent at their Terminal Graneles del Norte (TGN). Ultraport has now continued to lead the way in material handling by introducing the first Flow Drive lift trucks to the region.

“As one of the leading port operators in Chile, we have a responsibility to maintain sustainable business in the region. Because Puerto Angamos plays such a key role in the Chilean economy, we believe it is the ideal location to start our emissions reduction program,” says Nelson Ojeda, Manager of Ultraport Angamos.

“The first Konecranes Flow Drive reach stackers in Latin America are a natural addition to Ultraport’s large Konecranes fleet. Their faith in our technology and expertise convinced them that this is the best solution for their emissions initiative. And we’re proud to work with trusted local distributor Trex to help Ultraport achieve their goals,” says Andres Ramirez, Sales Manager, Konecranes Lift Trucks.

The two new lift trucks are Konecranes SMV 4632 TC5 reach stackers equipped with Flow Drive, an innovative solution utilizing a hydromechanical variable transmission (HVT) to limit power at low speed, reducing wear and carbon emissions while cutting fuel consumption by up to 25% compared to a reach stacker with standard diesel configuration. A number of optional onboard features improve performance and safety while further reducing environmental impact: the Hydraulic Long Life (HLL) filter increases the oil change interval, automated central greasing minimizes mechanical wear and reduces maintenance, and two additional cameras located on the spreader that allow the driver to check the twist locks during the whole operation, while one rear camera aids visibility in reverse maneuvers. TRUCONNECT® Remote Monitoring collects operational diagnostics to help optimize usage and the Premium upgrade adds tire pressure monitoring to maintain stability, further cut fuel consumption and extend tire lifetime.

This delivery is part of Ecolifting™, Konecranes’ vision to increase its handprint – meaning the beneficial environmental impact that can be achieved with our product and service portfolio – while reducing customers’ carbon footprints. From eco-optimizing diesel drives, to hybridization and fully-electrified fleets, we will continue to do more with less.

A strong focus on customers and commitment to business growth and continuous improvement make Konecranes a material handling industry leader. This is underpinned by investments in digitalization and technology, plus our work to make material flows more efficient with solutions that decarbonize the economy and advance circularity and safety.

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Logistics Reply, the Reply Group company specializing in innovative supply chain solutions, is pleased to announce that LEA Reply™, its modular and cloud-native platform for supply chain execution, has successfully completed the AWS Foundational Technical Review (FTR). Reinforcing its alignment with Amazon Web Services (AWS) best practices; LEA Reply™ aims to deliver on its commitment to providing secure, scalable, and forward-thinking solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the logistics and supply chain sectors.

The AWS Foundational Technical Review, based on the AWS Well-Architected Framework, reflects a comprehensive review of LEA Reply’s architecture. By meeting AWS’s stringent standards in security, reliability, performance, and operational excellence, Logistics Reply ensures that its platform is built to help customers tackle the complex challenges of modern supply chains. This validation also highlights the platform’s ability to integrate AWS’s capabilities to empower businesses with cutting-edge tools for scalability, data protection, and efficiency.

“The AWS Foundational Technical Review certification is a testament to our commitment to innovation, security, and reliability. said Enrico Nebuloni, Executive Partner at Reply. In a time when cybersecurity is a critical concern, this recognition reassures our customers that LEA Reply™ meets the highest standards of security, scalability, and operational resilience. By leveraging AWS infrastructure and adhering to its best practices, we provide a robust, cloud-native platform designed to handle the complexities of modern supply chains. This milestone strengthens our position as a trusted partner, enabling businesses to mitigate risks, enhance performance, and ensure business continuity with confidence.”

The AWS FTR Validation underscores LEA Reply’s capacity to address core challenges faced by supply chain professionals today:

Resilience: Enhanced security measures protect critical operations and data.
Agility: Scalable solutions that adapt to business growth and market shifts.
Efficiency: Optimized performance through adherence to proven architectural frameworks.
Cost-Effectiveness: Smart cloud resource management ensures value for investment.

By embedding AWS best practices into its DNA, Logistics Reply continues to deliver innovation that empowers supply chain leaders to navigate disruption, seize opportunities, and maintain a competitive edge.

CMC Packaging Automation, a global supplier of sustainable, advanced packaging solutions, today announced the launch of the CMC Genesys Compact, a state-of-the-art addition to its portfolio of right-sized packaging technology. Developed in response to the growing demand for compact, efficient, and easily deployable systems, the CMC Genesys Compact offers a scalable solution designed to seamlessly integrate into both greenfield and brownfield environments, making it an ideal option also for businesses looking to upgrade through automation existing facilities with minimal disruption.

Capable of producing right-sized corrugated boxes at a rate of up to 500 pieces per hour, this new system is tailored for packing both single and multi-line orders without the need for void fillers, significantly reducing material waste and providing a boost to operational efficiency. Unlike its predecessor, the CMC Genesys, this new model does not require the CMC Vary-Tote for product handling. Instead, items are precisely scanned directly on the inlet conveyor, sized, and securely packed in custom boxes. Optional features include easy-opening strips and resealable options to enhance the unboxing experience for customers.

Advanced Material and Compact Design

The machine supports corrugated materials from different sources: Z-fold, cut sheet channel and the innovative CMC Wave-Line system, which combines a kraft paper liner with open flute corrugate. With a compact footprint of 44 sqm, the Genesys Compact offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing it to be easily relocated or reconfigured for future projects, making it a versatile choice for dynamic fulfillment operations and offering scalability and long-term investment value.

Enhancing Sustainability and Compliance

The introduction of the CMC Genesys Compact aligns with the upcoming European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) as well as the EPR and similar packaging laws emerging across U.S. states such as the 2021 New Jersey’s Recycled Content Law or the 2022 California’s Packaging EPR Law, supporting companies in meeting stricter sustainability standards. The system efficiency in eliminating void fillers and optimizing box sizes helps businesses significantly reduce empty space and their environmental impact, contributing to a more sustainable packaging future.

“Retailers, e-commerce players and logistics companies are increasingly looking for flexible solutions to right-size their packaging and streamline fulfilment processes. Automation is the key to achieving these objectives, optimizing operational costs and footprint,” said Luigi Russo, CEO of CMC Packaging Automation. “Automation addresses labour shortages and rising costs, providing scalability during peak demand periods, ensuring reliable performances.”

“Retailers and logistics providers are under immense pressure to optimize their packaging processes while meeting new sustainability standards,” continued Luigi Russo. “CMC Genesys Compact provides an innovative solution that not only complies with these new global requirements but also helps reduce the environmental impact of packaging. This machine is a testament to our commitment to driving sustainable automation solutions for our partners.”

Experience the Genesys Compact Live

CMC is offering personalized demos of the CMC Genesys Compact at their headquarters in Città di Castello offering prospective customers a hands-on experience of its capabilities. The machine will also be showcased at the upcoming LogiMAT 2025 and ProMat 2025 exhibitions, where attendees can experience firsthand how CMC’s latest innovation is setting new benchmarks in automated packaging.

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