Advanced, sustainable and integrated packaging for modern intralogistics will be on display at CMC Packaging Automation’s stands at LogiMAT 2026, and at MODEX Atlanta. The events will mark another important milestone as the company anticipates the unveiling of the new CMC Super Vertical Box (CMC SV-Box) and an innovative showcase for a fully integrated Pick2Pack process.

The new CMC SV-Box represents a significant evolution in automated packaging. Designed specifically for e-commerce and omnichannel fulfillment, the CMC SV-Box is the first and only fully automated, box-last, right-sized vertical packer. Unlike traditional box-first systems that rely on predefined carton sizes and WMS data to estimate box dimensions, the CMC SV-Box builds each box only after the actual products are measured in real time.

Using high-resolution cameras and advanced cubic-read technology, the system captures the true dimensions of each order directly from the physical items.

With an output of up to 500 perfectly right-sized boxes per hour and an ultra-compact footprint of just 10 m²/ 110 sq. ft. – compared to the more than 100 m²/ 1000 sq. ft. typically required by conventional right-sized packaging machines – the CMC SV-Box redefines compact automation, fitting seamlessly into brownfield environments and space-constrained facilities.

Conceived as an entry-level automation solution for SMEs yet fully scalable for complex intralogistics systems, it embodies CMC’s commitment to performance, flexibility, and customer-centric packaging while delivering a typical ROI of under two years. Through a cut-to-size process from an innovative single-wall corrugated reel, the solution reduces corrugated consumption and packaging waste by up to ~60% improving transport efficiency and supporting compliance with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and other emerging global sustainability standards.

At LogiMAT in March and MODEX in April, the company will also showcase a fully integrated Pick2Pack process, demonstrating how e-fulfilment centres can achieve higher efficiency, accuracy, and scalability through end-to-end automation. Pick2Pack has become a critical capability for modern e-commerce and omni-channel fulfilment operations, enabling orders to move seamlessly from storage to right-sized packaging with minimal or zero manual handling. By eliminating intermediate handling steps, Pick2Pack processes reduce labour dependency, increase throughput, improve order accuracy, and support faster order cycle times, key requirements in today’s high-volume, high-variability fulfilment environments.

This approach also aligns with the growing industry trend toward dark factories, where highly automated systems operate with minimal human intervention. Dark warehouses not only address labour availability challenges but also enable 24/7 operations, consistent performance, and improved workplace safety.
The core of CMC’s Pick2Pack showcase is the CMC Genesys with Vary-Tote solution. This technology enables seamless integration with any AS/RS, supporting true one-touch and zero-touch processes from picking to right-sized packaging. Orders can be automatically inducted, consolidated, and packed with minimal/zero manual input, ensuring optimal box sizing, no void fill and lower shipping costs.

Tania Torcolacci, Head of Global Strategic Partnerships commented: “This unique showcase will be supported by leading industry technology partners. True automation is no longer about individual technologies performing well in isolation, it’s about how seamlessly they work together to create a continuous pick-to-pack flow”.

Francesco Ponti, CEO at CMC Packaging Automation says: “Through its presence at these events, CMC Packaging Solutions reinforces its role as a technology partner for companies seeking to transform packaging from a manual cost center into a strategic, automated, and sustainable component of their logistics operations.”

What This Means in Practice

Daifuku has confirmed that LogiMAT 2026 will be the first European outing of its new Sorting Transfer Robot series, the SOTR-S, SOTR-L and SOTR-M. While the SOTR-M system will be in full demo mode at the Stuttgart event, its sister solutions, the SOTR-S and SOTR-L will also be on stand (1J67, Hall 1). While the SOTR-M manages totes and the SOTR-L handles pallets, the SOTR-S handles piece items, bringing total flexibility to a warehouse.

Designed, manufactured, and tested in Japan, the new trio of Sorting Transfer Robots are now being introduced across the UK and Europe. Setting new standards in productivity, scalability and automation simplicity, the latest robot system from Daifuku is aimed primarily at businesses in the e-commerce, retail and parcel sector facing complex sortation challenges.

The SOTR-S is of particular interest to the European and UK automation markets, given its remarkable speed and flexibility. Travelling at up to 180m per minute – it is capable of handling 10,000 lines per hour, driving new levels of capacity and productivity. The system’s two-tier structure also ensures smooth traffic flow and unfettered efficiency. Thanks to its narrow aisle structure (enabled by tilting trays), the SOTR-S is under half the footprint of more conventional sorting systems. Compared to conventional sorting systems, the SOTR-S is rapid to install and simple to expand as required with the addition of vehicles or chutes.

Commenting on the new SOTR-S, Russell Hutchinson, manager of business development at Daifuku’s Europe branch, said:

“In the face of rising order volumes and the increasing complexity of product types, traditional sorting methods often struggle with accuracy and efficiency. Manual processes lead to higher costs and slower throughput, creating significant warehousing and distribution challenges for businesses. Our new SOTR-S offers a solution designed to overcome these hurdles.”

Daifuku’s advanced technology ensures precise sorting of diverse items, enhances operational efficiency and adapts effortlessly to growing demands. By automating and optimising business’ sorting operations, the SOTR-S reduces labour costs and boosts productivity, delivering a rapid return on investment.

Parcels and parcel bags that pile up at transition points on belt conveyors are not inevitable. From March 24 to 26th, Flexco Europe, a specialist in mechanical conveyor belt connection systems, will be presenting its segmented transition plates and belt edge protection at LogiMAT. Other exhibits include transfer plates for roller conveyors. Flexco Europe will be demonstrating how the individual solutions are used and complement each other to achieve maximum effectiveness in Hall 1, Booth A25, using a demonstration model.

With a low coefficient of friction, the company provides reliable transfer points where items can easily slide from belt to belt or to the transfer hopper to transport packages and cartons safely. Conveyed material frequently accumulates at transfer points and falls to the ground, especially at airports. This can damage the contents of packages. With segmented transfer plates the material can glide smoothly from belt to belt. Flexco Europe offers two transfer plate variants, suitable for belts with widths of up to 1,524 millimeters and gaps of 100–250 or 75–150 millimeters. The bright yellow colour of the segments helps maintenance personnel monitor them and replace them quickly if necessary.

Roller conveyor transfer plates (RCTPs), which can be installed in belt-driven, shaft-driven, chain-driven and motorized roller conveyors, ensure that envelopes, polybags, and small parcels do not get lost between the rollers – a common problem in conveyor systems. The RCTP covers the gap between two rollers. With this solution, conveyors are not only more productive, but also safer. Employees no longer have to reach between the rollers to pull out products, reducing the risk of injury. The transfer plates are suitable for large quantities of packaged products that can differ greatly, ranging from soft and flexible to dense and compact.

Open edges along conveyor lines also allow conveyed goods to fall and slide under the conveyor belt. Product loss and damage to goods, belts, and, in the worst case, the system itself, can result in unplanned and costly downtime. To prevent this from happening, Flexco has developed the Belt Edge Protector (BEP). Made from recycled and wear-resistant UHMW, it covers the conveyor belt edge and prevents packages from getting stuck underneath. The simple and quick installation in individually adjustable lengths makes the BEP even more indispensable.

These three components in combination (STP, RCTP, and BEP) offer the solution for any logistics system to make maintenance work and downtime plannable, keep maintenance costs low, and maintain high safety standards.

The February 2026 issue of Logistics Business is now available, offering in-depth coverage of supply chain resilience, warehouse automation, energy strategy, and next-generation logistics technology. With disruption, cost pressures, and decarbonisation continuing to shape the sector, this edition explores how operators are adapting — and where investment is being directed.

Supply Chain & Transport: Resilience at Scale
We open with an exclusive interview with Etihad Cargo’s Chief Cargo Officer, Stanislas Brun, on a strategy built around disciplined growth, digital control, and strategic partnerships. The feature looks at how Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a global logistics hub amid geopolitical volatility and extended aircraft delivery timelines.

Amazon’s approach to supply chain resilience is also examined, drawing on insights from the Amazon Business Reshape conference. From AI-led forecasting to same-day fulfilment and supplier redundancy, adaptability is emerging as the defining capability for modern supply chains.

Infrastructure and investment remain key themes, including the 285,000 sq.ft. chilled distribution hub at DIRFT for Arla Foods and XPO Logistics, adaptive planning models for volatile conditions, and ways to turn warehouse energy into a competitive advantage.

Software & IT: From AI Hype to Agentic Execution
Digital transformation continues at pace. This issue features interviews with software providers positioning themselves as AI-first, debates on modular versus monolithic supply chains, and an exploration of “Agentic AI” — the latest concept in decision-driven warehouse execution.

Materials Handling & Intralogistics: Automation for Fulfilment
Warehouse innovation is at the heart of this issue. Highlights include visits to highly automated 3PL centres, Flying Tiger’s AMR-driven distribution hub in Poland, the growing role of digital twins, next-generation conveyor systems, and smarter safety and energy-saving equipment. Humanoid robots and compact, high-throughput sortation systems are also reviewed.

Energy, Sustainability & Post-Peak Strategy
Rising electricity costs and electrification pressures are driving smarter energy management. The issue examines battery storage, onsite renewables, and other strategies to reduce grid dependence. It also looks beyond peak season, outlining five challenges logistics businesses face once demand subsides — and why fundamentals like preventative maintenance remain critical.

The February 2026 issue shows a sector moving beyond growth at any cost. Resilience, scalability, energy intelligence, and disciplined automation are shaping the next phase of supply chain evolution.

LogChain will relocate its global headquarters to the UK and establish a HQ and new base for innovation and scale in the Liverpool City Region, strengthening the UK–Southeast Asia digital trade corridor and scaling trusted, interoperable trade infrastructure across global markets.

The move reflects the company’s ambition to scale the practical infrastructure required for modern trade: multi-party digital workflows, trusted data exchange, and legally robust electronic documentation that reduces friction, strengthens resilience and improves compliance across global supply chains.

Leading Base for Trade Tech

The UK aims to become one of the world’s most credible environments for trade technology companies, combining deep capital markets and world-class professional services with a legal and regulatory direction-of-travel that enables innovation to scale responsibly.

Liverpool: An Engine Room Of Growth

Liverpool City Region was selected for its globally connected trade and logistics footprint, strong innovation credentials, and Freeport development. This positions the region as a practical ‘real economy’ testbed for scaling digital trade. The UK HQ and operational base will support LogChain’s work with governments, ports, financial institutions and industry partners, while strengthening links between UK capabilities and international trade corridors. 45 percent of trans-Atlantic trade goes through the Port of
Liverpool and is home to more than 6,500 digital and tech businesses. Its blend of trade infrastructure and innovation capacity (combined with the world’s greatest football team!) makes it one of the UK’s most important real-world testbeds for scaling next-generation supply chain and logistics solutions.

“I’m really proud that LogChain has chosen the Liverpool City Region as its UK base. We’re a place that ‘gets’ trade, logistics and technology, and we’re serious about backing companies that are shaping the future of global commerce. Moves like this help bring good jobs to the region and strengthen our links with the rest of the world,” said Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, UK.

Proof Point in Trade Digitalisation

LogChain is globally recognised as a leader in the burgeoning field of trade digitalisation, not ‘paper on PDFs’, but the transformation of cross-border trade processes through secure digital documentation, automated workflows and interoperable data. LogChain delivered the world’s first fully digitalised movement of goods, demonstrating that legal, operational and commercial barriers can be
overcome in live trade environments.

In 2026, trade digitalisation is more important than ever: geopolitics, supply chain disruption, compliance pressures and cyber risk have made trade resilience a national capability issue, not just an operational efficiency issue. Digital trade infrastructure underpins faster customs clearance, reduced fraud, better ESG traceability, and improved access for SMEs and emerging markets.

“LogChain was built as infrastructure for digital trade, designed to support innovation while meeting the highest standards of security, trust and compliance. This expansion reflects our confidence in the UK as an environment where regulated innovation can scale responsibly. Liverpool City Region’s role in global trade, logistics and Freeport development closely aligns with how we think about building dependable systems that underpin international commerce. We see this move as a foundation for long-term collaboration,” said Andie McKeown, Co-Founder and CEO of LogChain.

Supply chain leaders are betting on real-time action over planning to gain a competitive edge, according to new research, which reveals that competitive advantage comes from connected, intelligent execution, not isolated systems and static planning.

Supply chain execution has emerged as the defining battleground for competitive advantage, according to research released by Infios, a global specialist in intelligent supply chain execution. The ‘Supply Chain Execution Readiness Report’, based on a survey of 100 U.S.-based supply chain leaders, reveals that nearly eight in ten enterprises now view fast, dynamic execution — not planning or visibility alone — as their primary source of competitive differentiation in volatile markets.

This strategic shift is driving unprecedented investment: 59% of organizations plan to increase spending on supply chain solutions over the next 12 months, even as economic headwinds persist. The message is clear: connecting execution across order, warehouse and transportation operations is no longer operational infrastructure — it’s strategic leverage.

Yet the research exposes a troubling paradox. While supply chain leaders recognize execution as their competitive edge, most organizations lack the fundamental capabilities to execute at speed.

Where Supply Chains Break Down

The Infios research documents systematic execution failures: 58% cite manual workflows as their biggest inefficiency, nearly half lack automation for daily tasks (46%) and only 20% have real-time visibility across operations.

Most remain trapped in reactive mode, relying on delayed information and manual firefighting. In fact, when asked to best describe their decision-making approach during a major supply chain disruption, only 6% of respondents say they use analytics and/or AI for automated, prescriptive responses, while the majority primarily react to events as they occur (51%) or use technology for predictive alerts and manual interventions (43%).

“Supply chains aren’t struggling because leaders lack intent or investment,” said Richard Stewart, Executive Vice President of Product and Industry Strategy at Infios. “They’re struggling because execution environments were never designed to sense disruption, coordinate decisions and act in real time. When systems operate in silos, even minor delays quickly cascade into missed commitments and rising costs.”

From Reactive to Autonomous: The Power of Intelligent Execution

Supply chain execution has evolved into a strategic capability that directly impacts resilience, customer experience and growth. Organizations that master execution can respond to disruptions in real time, synchronize decisions automatically across operations and transform volatility into competitive opportunities.

Yet a stark artificial intelligence (AI) execution gap persists: only 23% have implemented AI in select workflows across supply chain execution and 41% remain in pilot stages.

The Next Phase: Systems That Act, Not Just Record

The next wave of supply chain advantage won’t come from more dashboards or visibility tools—it will come from connected execution environments that synchronize decisions and embed intelligence at the point of action.

“AI creates the most value when intelligence is directly connected to action,” Stewart added. “The organizations that pull ahead will be those that move from systems that record activity to systems that act—automatically, intelligently and end to end.”

The Execution Imperative

Execution capability is the new competitive divide. Organizations that fail to modernize — replacing manual workflows with intelligent automation and achieving real-time synchronization — will fall behind competitors who master dynamic execution. As supply chains face mounting pressure from customer expectations, cost volatility and operational complexity, the ability to execute with speed and precision will separate market leaders from followers.

To learn more about how to seize the opportunities revealed in today’s supply chain landscape, download The Supply Chain Execution Readiness Report.

Landing in the UK by private jet means choosing efficiency, comfort, and premium services. Among all airports in northern England, Manchester International Airport (MAN) stands out as one of the best options for business and leisure flights, thanks to dedicated infrastructure, impeccable ground services.

Manchester International Airport: the benchmark for private jet travel in the UK

The airport in Manchester is not only the third busiest airport in the United Kingdom, but also a strategic hub for private flights. Here, every detail is designed to make the flying experience quick, safe, and comfortable.

FBO and VIP lounge services

FBOs (Fixed Base Operators) at Manchester International Airport offer everything a business or private passenger could want:

• Fast track check-in and security checks-you skip the lines and are ready to go in minutes.
• Catering services and private lounges: elegant spaces to relax or work before takeoff.
• Dedicated pet transport services: with utmost attention, dedicated spaces and guaranteed safety.
• Extreme weather management: including heated hangars and ground operations such as de-icing (removal of ice from wings) in winter, a critical service to ensure safety and punctuality.
  

Here, every detail is designed to turn the landing or departure experience into a smooth and stress-free process, setting Manchester apart from many other British airports.

Land at other airports near Manchester

While Manchester is ideal for more direct flights and those seeking established infrastructure, there are attractive alternatives for private jets:

• Biggin Hill Airport (BN2): located south of London, famous for discretion, premium services, and low traffic.
• Farnborough Airport (FAB): a symbol of British business aviation, ideal for corporate flights and large jets.
• Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL): a quieter option than Manchester, with excellent facilities for private jets.

The choice of airport depends on the travel strategy, but all of these airports should be considered excellent for private jets and dedicated ground services.

Main routes to Manchester

Due to its strategic geographic location and efficient airport, Manchester is a popular destination for discerning travelers who choose to arrive in England and throughout the United Kingdom by private jet. Below are three examples of routes from Italy, Spain, and France.

Rome Ciampino – Manchester

Imagine taking off from Rome’s Ciampino airport aboard a Cessna Citation CJ3, and in less than three hours finding yourself in the heart of the North of England, ready to start a business day or an exclusive weekend. This is not a dream: it is the real experience of those who choose to fly by private jet to Manchester by landing at one of the finest hubs for business aviation in the United Kingdom.

• A private flight Rome Ciampino – Manchester Internationalduraabout 2h45 minutes by light jets such as Cessna Citation.
• Departing from Rome Ciampino, the experience is immediately premium thanks to high-end FBOs, VIP lounges. and truly streamlined boarding procedures.
  

Barcelona – Manchester

• The private flight from Barcelona to Manchester is equally quick and relaxing, combining efficiency and pleasure: about 2h15-2h30 flight time.
• Interesting alternative for those who want to leave a nearby secondary airport: Sabadell Airport, dedicated exclusively to private jets ensuring greater discretion without sacrificing luxury.
  

Paris (Le Bourget) – Manchester

MAN International: perfect for landing in the UK.

Whether it is Rome, Barcelona or Paris, Manchester remains a very important destination for business aviation in the UK,even taking off from alternative airports for those who want to personalize their flying experience to the fullest.

Those flying to the UK by private jet should consider:

• Security checks and customs: quick procedures with FBOs, but always to be planned.
• Weather conditions: winter and frequent rains may require extra services such as wing de-icing.
• Airport alternatives: in addition to Manchester, Farnborough is an excellent choice for corporate flights, while Biggin Hill offers discretion and agility for direct flights to and from London.

Contact privatejetfinder.com if you want to turn your next private flight to Manchester into an exclusive, efficient and completely tailor-made experience. Requesting a personalized quote is quick and easy: you will quickly receive a detailed proposal designed around your actual travel needs.

Margins are under pressure across the transport and logistics sector – and fleet spend leakage is increasingly part of the problem. From fuel misuse and unauthorised transactions to delayed visibility and manual reconciliation, small inefficiencies can quickly accumulate into significant cost erosion.

To address this challenge, Logistics Business is hosting a free webinar on 24 February 2026 at 14:00 UTC, exploring practical strategies to stop fleet spend leakage and regain cost control.

Expert panel discussion

The session brings together industry expertise from across fleet operations, compliance and technology:

• Peter MacLeod, Editor & Podcast Host, Logistics Business
• Ruth Waring, Transport & Compliance Consultant and Founder, Women in Logistics UK
• Stuart Campbell, Product Lead, Fleetwallet at Cubic³

Together, the panel will examine how transport and finance teams can move from reactive, month-end reporting to proactive spend management.

What the webinar will cover:

• Improving real-time visibility of fleet spend
• Identifying and preventing unauthorised transactions
• Tracking costs by vehicle, driver and route
• Simplifying compliance and audit-ready reporting
• Reducing administrative burden while strengthening control

The discussion is aimed at fleet managers, transport operators, compliance leads and finance professionals seeking practical approaches to tightening cost control without slowing operations.

With cost pressures continuing across fuel, maintenance and operational overheads, gaining better visibility and control over fleet spend has become a strategic priority rather than an administrative task.

Register for the free webinar:

Bleckmann, providers of supply chain management for fashion and lifestyle brands, announces the ‘go-live’ of a new automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) at its site in Almelo – Newton, Netherlands. The new integrated goods-to-person system is an integrated Kardex AutoStore solution with automated packing line and provides a streamlined alternative to traditional rack storage. It dramatically reduces inventory footprint while speeding up picking and packing operations. The new system is the next step in Bleckmann’s automation strategy, which aims to address labour scarcity and provide a smoother fulfilment process.

Less space, more speed

The new AutoStore uses up to seven times less space than a traditional picking floor to store the same amount of inventory. This increases storage capacity, allowing more SKUs (from multiple customers) to be stored simultaneously and greatly reducing the risk of stock shortages. Items are also retrieved by radio-controlled robots, saving time by eliminating the need to walk towards picking locations.

The AutoStore is part of an integrated solution that requires minimal human intervention. This features an advanced conveyor system from carton erectors and an autonomous packing station with height reduction of the cartons, which significantly streamlines the fulfilment process.

“From the moment a product enters the AutoStore until it leaves the warehouse in a carton, it will have only been touched by a single pair of hands,” explained Kevin Paindeville, director warehouse solutions and innovation at Bleckmann. “This increased productivities, and reduce risk of error due to less manipulation.”

An integrated solution

Automating the labour-intensive picking and packing process will enable Bleckmann’s clients to offer their customers later cut-off times for next-day delivery, among other benefits. These include intelligent demand forecasting. “The AutoStore system automatically makes the most popular items more accessible, so that they can be dispatched faster,” said Tom Wijlens, COO Netherlands North at Bleckmann. “It’s also possible to programme the system ahead of peak sales periods so top-selling items are available even quicker – saving valuable time during those extra-busy moments.”

Lights-out logistics

Switching to the AutoStore solution has many other benefits, according to Wijlens: “The new system greatly reduces the likelihood of picking mistakes,” he continued. “It also offers exceptional flexibility and scalability. This means that we can start with a basic set-up and expand it when clients need extra capacity – during the Black Friday period, for example – without disrupting ongoing operations.”

Another advantage of the AutoStore system is its low energy consumption. Ten robots at work use the same amount of energy as one vacuum cleaner. As the robots can work in the dark, energy can also be saved by switching off warehouse lights.