DP World has recorded the 100,000th container moved by rail from its Southampton logistics hub as part of its award-winning and carbon emission reducing Modal Shift Programme trial.

The share of rail freight for onward journeys by containers arriving by sea at DP World Southampton has risen from 21% at the start of the programme to more than 30% today. The increase means 100,000 more containers have started their onward journey by rail than without the incentive. The landmark 100,000th container departed Southampton by freight train carrying goods being shipped for major retailer Halfords.

In reaching this total the Modal Shift Programme has removed more than 25,000 tonnes of CO₂e from supply chains, cut road congestion by shifting approximately 8 million road miles to rail freight. DP World now aims to further increase the share of rail freight towards 40% in 2026.

John Trenchard, Vice President – Commercial & Supply Chain, DP World in the UK, said: “I would like to thank all our customers who have embraced the Modal Shift Programme and made the positive choice to use rail as a lower carbon option for their international supply chains through DP World Southampton. Reaching this groundbreaking milestone of an additional 100,000 containers moved by rail rather than road is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team to make the Modal Shift Programme trial the success it is now.

“This is a unique programme that sits at the heart of DP World’s ambition to offer market leading, more sustainable options to our supply chain partners in the UK. Through a combination of detailed analysis, customer engagement and responding to new market trends, we have further refined the programme trial since its launch in September 2023 and set our sights on continued growth in the share of rail freight for the onward journeys all containers make after arriving at Southampton.”

Emma Tillsley, International Logistics and Customs Manager at Halfords, said: “We’re committed to reducing emissions from all parts of our supply chain. Moving freight from road to rail is an important part of that strategy. We’re thrilled to learn that a container carrying Halfords products was the 100,000th to be moved by rail from Southampton under this DP World programme. The reduction of CO₂e, coupled with the added benefits of a reliable rail service, has provided a first-class overall service for our logistics network.”

The programme pays customers a direct financial incentive for each import laden container moved by rail from DP World Southampton to a railhead within 140 miles. DP World’s Modal Shift Programme trial has now resulted in the establishment of four new daily cargo rail services from Southampton to Birmingham, Cardiff, East Midlands Gateway and Doncaster and helped DP World win both the ‘Business of the Year’ and the ‘Driving Rail Freight Growth’ awards at last year’s Rail Freight Group honours event and an edie decarbonisation award for ‘Transport and Mobility Project of the Year’.

The milestone follows a recent announcement from DP World that its Carbon Inset Programme – a world first at a container port – has also registered more than 100,000 TEUs worth of import laden containers by cargo owners in its first two months. Launched in January, the Carbon Inset Programme rewards importers with 50kg CO₂e of carbon inset credits for every loaded import container they move through DP World’s London Gateway and Southampton terminals.

In addition to its hubs at Southampton and London Gateway, DP World’s offer includes logistics, forwarding and European transport capabilities, all of which are being integrated into the company’s global network. Operating in 78 countries, DP World handles 10 per cent of global containerised trade.

similar news

Cargo Owners Encouraged to Shift to Rail

Packaging machinery specialist Hugo Beck celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2025. To mark the occasion, the company will host two Open House events on 7th and 8th May as well as on 14th and 15th May 2025 at its headquarters in Dettingen/Erms, near Stuttgart, Germany.

Since its founding in 1955, Hugo Beck has been at the forefront of horizontal packaging technology. The mid-1950s was a time of rapid industrial growth and cultural change – Rock and Roll was taking the world by storm, the first Disneyland theme park opened its gates, and automation was revolutionising industries. That same time, Hugo Beck was established as a small, family-run mechanical workshop for turned parts.

Over the next seven decades, as Hugo Beck developed a strong reputation across a wide range of industries and sustainability became a driving force, the company has grown into a globally recognised supplier of customised packaging and automation solutions. Today, the company remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering fully automatic horizontal film packaging, flowpack, and paper packaging machines with speeds ranging from 3,000 to 18,000 cycles per hour.

The two Open House events will feature live demonstrations across Hugo Beck’s full machine portfolio, giving visitors a close-up look at the company’s packaging solutions tailored for diverse industries, including e-commerce, pharmaceutical and medical technology, food and confectionery, wood and large format products and much more. Guests will be able to explore the showroom and production areas, with experts on hand to answer questions and provide insights into machine capabilities. These demonstrations will highlight how Hugo Beck’s machines enhance both efficiency and sustainability in packaging operations.

A key part of the events will be expert lectures from the Sustainable Packaging Institute (SPI) of the Albstadt-Sigmaringen University, addressing crucial trends in sustainable packaging and regulatory developments. Institute Director Prof. Dr. Markus Schmid will explore practical solutions for sustainable packaging and their role within a circular economy, while Alina Kleiner, Scientific Researcher at the SPI, will provide an overview of the latest EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and its implications for businesses. Additionally, Mara Strenger, Deputy Institute Director at the SPI, will offer insights into the new EU Green Claims Directive and examine how sustainability can be assessed and and how this may conflict with consumer perception and acceptance.

“Celebrating 70 years of innovation is a testament to the dedication and vision that has driven Hugo Beck from its humble beginnings to a global leader in packaging technology,” said Timo Kollmann, Managing Director at Hugo Beck. “We’re excited to open our doors to partners, customers and prospects for this milestone event, showcasing how our solutions will keep on shaping the future of packaging.”

With 70 years of family-owned heritage, Hugo Beck is built on the expertise of over 100 employees, delivering renowned, customer-specific packaging solutions. Over 300 apprentices have graduated over the years, contributing to the company’s continued innovation.

Throughout its history, Hugo Beck has pioneered key packaging innovations, from its first film packaging machines in 1962 to the introduction of the first automated horizontal polybag machines on the market in the 1970s. By continuously expanding its machine range the company grew globally, with exports reaching 50% by the 1990s. Embracing its position as technology leader, Hugo Beck introduced servo drive technology in 1996, set a world record in 2002 with the fastest phone card packaging machine, and expanded to its 7,700 m2 production site in 2006. In 2015, the company added robotic systems to its automation technology, and in 2019, launched a new generation of flexible, hybrid machines for film and paper packaging. And, during the e-commerce boom of 2020, Hugo Beck launched the paper e-com fit paper packaging machine, offering a unique and sustainable solution for e-commerce and mail order sectors.

“As Hugo Beck looks to the future, our focus remains on innovation, automation, and sustainability,” said Timo Kollmann. “With seven decades of experience, we continue to develop advanced packaging solutions that enable businesses to optimise their processes while meeting evolving environmental standards. The 70th Anniversary Open House events will showcase these advancements and provide a platform for discussions on the future of packaging.”

similar news

Hugo Beck Showcases Ecommerce Packaging

Linde MH has launched new trucks into the popular one-to-two tonne sector. Peter MacLeod reports from their launch at Linde’s impressive Aschaffenburg factory.

Towards the end of last year, Linde Material Handling (MH) invited the world’s media to the launch of its two- and three-wheeled electric counterbalanced trucks with load capacities up to two tonnes. The significance of this product range is that it is the world’s most specified capacity so it was vital for Linde to get it spot-on. And did they? Well, don’t take my word for it, because I am not
a trained, professional forklift operator with a degree in engineering. Sure, I was extremely impressed by the many bells and whistles, the build quality, the electronic mastery contained within, and the manufacturing excellence on display during our tour of the Aschaffenburg facility, and I’m a sucker for laser light shows and dry ice – not to mention the demonstration of acrobatic trampolining that preceded the official unveiling.

No, you have to take Theo Egberts’ word for it, because Theo is Europe’s most knowledgeable and widely respected independent forklift expert, a function he performs as the official IFOY Award
tester. Read this article in the knowledge that the Linde’s collective enthusiasm for its new baby – spoiler alert – has been overwhelmingly endorsed by Theo, as he explains at the end.

Best Seller

Visit any warehouse anywhere in the world and you’re likely to see a three- or four-wheeled electric forklift with a capacity of up to two tonnes in operation. They are the staple of any high-capacity warehouse facility. If the colour doesn’t automatically give the game away, then look closer at the manufacturer, and that’s quite likely to be a Linde (or one of its sister brands), as they are among largest players in this market.

Linde MH has now replaced its existing range of electric forklifts with 26 new three- and four-wheel truck variants with load capacities ranging from one to two tonnes. According to Linde, they are designed to offer significant enhancements in ergonomics and performance above their predecessors and competitors. The nature of the operations in which they are specified means that this class of truck often work with loads at the maximum load limit, operate in confined spaces, or contend with challenging environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, dust and dirt.

The new trucks meet a wide range of customer requirements, and come with a choice between integrated lithium-ion and lead acid batteries. The vehicles have been designed to be tailored to
provide optimised performance for their intended use, and feature an ergonomic workplace that was ably demonstrated to us by Tomas, a literally enormous – 204cm tall, size 54 boots – German forklift operator from one of Linde’s nearby customers who smoothly entered, operated, and left the cabin as nimbly as would a man half his size.

“Linde MH is once again setting the benchmark for this crucial industrial truck sector,” says Torsten Rochelmeyer, Senior Director Strategy & Solution Portfolio at Linde Material Handling. “Thanks to new technologies and optimised vehicle design, we can now meet our customers’ demands for high-performance, energy-efficient, comfortable and safe vehicles even better than before.”

Two Versions: Xi and E

The latest 12 models in the Linde Xi range feature an integrated lithium-ion battery and offer “unparalleled performance and an extended range of applications”, according to Linde. An additional 14 variants upgrade the existing standard electric forklifts, the Linde E14 to E20, with load capacities of 1.4 to 2.0 tonnes and a trough battery. Operators have the option to switch between lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries according to the plug-and-play principle or continue using existing batteries. Furthermore, the E-models have been designed to accommodate fuel cell technology.

The Linde Xi10 to Xi20 models have seen a notable increase in efficiency in everyday use, largely due to the combination of a 90V lithium-ion battery and a synchronous reluctance motor. The truck can reach 20km/h in minimal time and, says Linde, offers lifting and lowering speeds up to 20% higher than the average for competitor trucks. A corresponding thermal management system ensures that the full motor power is consistently available, even under heavy loads and in continuous operation. “In terms of performance, the new forklifts represent a considerable improvement
over previous models and also clearly raise the bar in comparison to the competition,” added Rochelmeyer.

Driver-Focused

“It is becoming increasingly difficult to fill vacancies in logistics and warehousing,” says Rochelmeyer, describing the growing shortage of personnel in this area. “The new Linde electric forklifts are therefore a real advantage for human resources managers in their efforts to recruit and retain employees. The spacious workplace delivers on its promise: Our development engineers have designed these vehicles with the specific needs of the truck drivers in mind and created a product that will optimally support them.”

This is evident in the Linde Xi10 – Xi20 trucks, where the integrated lithium-ion battery provides the engineers with additional flexibility. As a result, the entry step is significantly larger and lower, and the footwell is approximately 30% larger than is typical in this vehicle class, providing additional space for movement. Furthermore, all electric truck versions offer additional headroom versus their IC counterparts, as graphically demonstrated by Tomas, our lofty Teutonic friend.

Adjustable heating vents positioned around the driver’s workplace and a 60% improvement in heating performance compared to previous models create a comfortable climate in the cabin, even when operating outside in cold temperatures. For high temperatures, the forklifts can be equipped with an optional aircon system. Its integration into the driver’s overhead guard is an industry first,
Linde tells us.

Another significant contributor to comfort is the damping and decoupling technology integrated into the axles and lift mast. These effectively reduce shocks and human vibrations, thereby ensuring the operators physical comfort. The standard 3.5-inch display and the optional 7-inch display provide the driver with a comprehensive range of information and offer similar levels of experience as when driving a passenger car.

Intelligent Forklifts

Linde says the list of optional extras includes another industry-wide unique selling point, the Linde Steer Control. Optionally, a mini-wheel or a joystick can be fitted instead of the classic steering wheel. With the left arm resting on the armrest, drivers can steer the trucks with minimal movements using only their fingers.

Focus on Safety

An increasing number of forklift functions, available either as standard or optional features, ensure a high level of protection for drivers and their working environment. The standard Linde Load Assist system automatically adjusts lifting and tilting functions according to the weight of the load and lifting height to prevent tipping accidents. Should the vehicle be fitted with a cabin, electronic safety belt monitoring can be integrated with a door monitoring system. Through software configuration, the service technician can determine whether the seat belt must be worn even when the door is closed or if it is sufficient for the driver to either close the door or fasten the seat belt.

The new Linde Reverse Assist Radar is designed to detect both moving and static objects behind the truck and, in the event of potential danger, will rapidly apply the brakes to bring the vehicle to a safe stop. Finally, the AIbased safety assistance systems Linde Reverse Assist Camera and Front Assist Camera help to ensure accident-free logistics. The camera systems integrated into the vehicle display are capable of distinguishing between people and objects and can actively intervene by reducing the speed of the truck in the event of danger.

Theo’s View

So, that’s just about everything I know about Linde’s sparkling new line-up. What does the true expert, the man who has spent a career testing and benchmarking every new truck against its competitors, Buro Andersom’s Theo Egberts think?

“The impression is that it’s very spacious, yet very compact,” he says. Having tested both the Linde 20P 4-wheeler and the xi16 3-wheeler, he adds: “Both trucks are best-in-class (1-2t range), with
the highest productivity in the Andersom test. No truck has ever before been that productive – it’s a new benchmark. Normally a compact truck is defined by a large battery and no footplate to step
on/off. With an integrated battery, you don’t get this compromise. The battery isn’t so big, but that’s not a problem as it can be opportunity charged.

“In our test protocol, we noted that the large battery (there are three battery options – small, medium and large) is large enough to have a practical working shift for eight hours. Of the three drive modes, ‘performance’ gave us the highest benchmark we have ever seen. On ‘efficiency’, the performance is still very, very fast. Even on the lowest setting, ‘economy’, the truck performs above average on our test.”

So there you have it. Independently endorsed as best in class, these new Linde trucks have been exceptionally well designed to meet the needs of this popular yet demanding market sector.

similar news

Linde Racks Up 111,111 Units of its Famous 386 Series

We often receive inquiries about empty leg flights from our customers, who are interested in flying by private jet on more advantageous terms. Since there is still a lot of confusion about this type of empty leg flight, we decided to write an article to clarify what empty leg flights are, how they work, and how to find them on the most popular destinations on PrivateJetFinder.

What is an Empty Leg flight?

In the private aviation industry, the term empty leg flight refers to a repositioning flight that a private jet makes without passengers. This occurs when a customer books a one-way flight, leaving the aircraft without occupants for the return trip or transfer to the next destination.

Why do empty leg flights exist?

Private jets often operate one-way routes, but still must return to base or reach a new airport.
The operating costs of these flights are already partly covered by the main route, therefore, operators can offer greatly reduced prices to fill these segments.

The Repositioning Flight of Private Jets.

After dropping passengers off at their destination, the plane must travel to the next departure point for the next flight. This shift, called a repositioning flight, represents a cost to the operator, who prefers to offer the flight at a reduced price rather than have the jet travel empty.
For this reason, those who are flexible with dates and times can take advantage of empty leg flights to travel on a private jet at very favorable terms.

How much does it cost to charter a private jet empty leg?

Empty leg flights can cost Up to 75 percent less than a traditional charter flight. However, the price depends on various factors:

• Distance and duration of flight.
• Type of jet (light, midsize, heavy jet).
• Airport taxes and operating costs.
• Demand and availability of the route.

Real savings: If an outbound private flight costs €20,000, the return in empty leg can cost even less than €7,000.

How to book a private jet empty leg?

1. Empty leg flights cannot be scheduled well in advance to find them contact Private Jet Finder for available routes in real time.
2. Be flexible. To get the best deals, it is essential to be prepared to leave on short notice and adapt to specific routes and airports.
3. Book quickly. Because they are in high demand, empty leg flights sell out quickly. If you find the right private jet for your needs, block the flight now.

Advantages and Disadvantages of empty leg flights

Advantages:

• Much lower prices than traditional charter flights.
• Same comfort and luxury as a private flight.
• Rapid access to high-end jets without excessive cost.

Disadvantages:

• Predetermined times and routes, with little flexibility.
• Possible cancellation if main flight booking changes.
• Variable availability, often last minute.

Private jets empty leg flights to Helsinki, Stockholm and Olbia

Among the most popular destinations on PrivateJetFinder In particular, we note strong demand for empty leg flights to Helsinki, Stockholm and to Olbia in the summer months, when Sardinia becomes one of the most exclusive destinations in the Mediterranean.

Helsinki and Stockholm are ideal hubs for connections to Northern Europe in the utmost comfort and luxury. Due to the growing demand for private jets to these destinations, it is now possible to find empty leg flights on those routes at different times of the year as well.

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is one of the busiest for private jets during the summer. Again, it is therefore many customers want to take advantage of private jet repositioning flights for an almost last minute departure at an affordable price.

Popular routes, such as Helsinki, Stockholm, and Olbia (especially in summer), are among the destinations that could offer private jet routes that fly empty. However, as mentioned above, there is not always a guarantee that there will be empty leg flights available

Contact PrivateJetfinder to search for private jets empty leg flights

If you want to experience the luxury of a private flight without the full cost, empty leg private flights are a unique opportunity. With the right flexibility, you can fly on luxury jets at a fraction of the original price.

Find your ideal empty leg flight with Private Jet Finder and book a private jet without compromise! For any destination contact us, we will do our best to offer you a trip that fits your needs, with maximum flexibility and convenience, even when it comes to empty leg flights.

• Do you often fly by private jet? Also read our article on the best ground services at major airports.

After the introduction of parallel speech recognition and output last year, the voice experts at EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group) will showcase another groundbreaking innovation at LogiMAT 2025: LYDIA Live Translation. In the next evolution of the multilingual approach, the innovative Pick-by-Voice solution will not only support the regular picking dialogue but also act as an intuitive translation assistant for free-flowing conversations between employees. With support for over 40 languages, workers can choose their native language and immediately start working productively without language barriers or extensive training. Visitors can exclusively discover in Hall 4 how this world-first innovation is becoming a real game-changer in times of skilled labour shortages and fluctuating availability of seasonal workers – boosting productivity, motivation, and efficient onboarding for employees.

Whether in logistics, industry, production, or maintenance – multinational teams have long been the standard in intralogistics. However, many employees in warehouses do not always speak the same language. The result: communication problems that can affect the efficiency and quality of work. In picking, a lack of language skills also leads to longer onboarding times, more coordination effort, and a high error rate. With the introduction of Multi-Language Recognition, LYDIA Voice already addressed this problem comprehensively. The multilingual capability of the Pick-by-Voice solution recognizes a wide variety of languages flexibly and provides voice instructions in over 60 selectable output languages. With the Live Translation feature, the picking pioneers take a decisive step further: The system acts as a translation assistant in free dialogue with over 40 languages – a unique added value that no other voice system offers.

The success story behind the innovation

The pivotal impetus for developing the Live Translation feature came from close collaboration with Rossmann, Europe’s largest drugstore chain and a long-standing LYDIA Voice partner. This partnership began with initial discussions between Rossmann’s Logistics Director, Henrik van Duuren, and EPG’s Managing Director of Voice Solutions, Tim Just, at the LogiMAT trade fair in March 2024. During these conversations, Mr. van Duuren proposed the idea of enabling multilingual communication in daily warehouse operations. EPG then committed to acting as the technology partner to bring this project to life in collaboration with Rossmann. The result is a practical solution that significantly improves day-to-day operations in multinational and fast-changing teams without requiring any changes to existing infrastructure or hardware.

With LYDIA Live Translation, EPG directly addresses current trends and challenges in the global industry. The feature allows employees to communicate in their preferred language while the system translates and delivers input in real time. For Rossmann, this innovation is particularly valuable in fostering interpersonal connections. Employees who speak different native languages can now communicate seamlessly, leading to a noticeable improvement in collaboration. Clear instructions and communication in one’s native language not only enhance efficiency but also ensure even higher quality in the workplace.

An Anniversary of Excellence: 25 Years of LYDIA Voice

LogiMAT 2025 also provides the perfect setting for a special anniversary: LYDIA Voice celebrates 25 years of innovation and success. Since its introduction in 2000, the solution has been available in the world of voice-guided picking and set standards for efficiency, precision, and ergonomics. At their booth, the company will demonstrate how LYDIA Voice has evolved over a quarter of a century from an innovative niche product into the world’s leading pick-by-voice solution in intralogistics. “25 years of LYDIA Voice represent 25 years of innovation, progress, and customer focus,” emphasizes Just. “From a visionary idea to the globally leading pick-by-voice solution – this success is the result of close collaboration with our customers and partners who have supported us along the way. Our focus is now on the future: we aim to continue revolutionizing the logistics industry with pioneering technologies in the next 25 years.”

similar news

LYDIA Voice becomes #1 Android voice solution

The logistics landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by the need for efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. For businesses aiming to stay ahead, this evolution presents both challenges and opportunities. Luca Zironda, Global ISM Material Handling & Automation Power Transmission at Megadyne, shares insights into how innovation is shaping the industry and what visitors can expect at LogiMAT 2025.

Q: Luca, how is Megadyne addressing the challenges of modern logistics?

Luca Zironda: “At Megadyne, we believe in continuous evolution. Our focus is on developing solutions that enhance performance while reducing environmental impact. The logistics industry is under increasing pressure to optimise energy efficiency, improve reliability, and extend equipment longevity. That’s exactly what we’re delivering with our power transmission solutions.”

Q: What can visitors expect when they meet Megadyne at LogiMAT 2025?

LZ: “From March 11-13, we’ll be in Stuttgart, Germany, at Hall 1, Booth G31, showcasing cutting-edge technology designed to meet the toughest demands of material handling and logistics. Our experts will be on hand to discuss the latest innovations, including:

• Megadyne MEGASYNC™ Titanium: One of the most powerful synchronous power transmission belts on the market today. Engineered to reduce wearing friction and minimise energy loss, it delivers up to 50% more power capacity compared to traditional belts, offering substantial energy savings. Whether replacing chains and gears or seeking a superior belt drive solution, Megadyne MEGASYNC™ Titanium is the ideal choice.
• Megadyne Rollpower™: Exceeding the most rigorous industry standards, this belt reduces the need for idlers and tensioners, simplifying setup while delivering up to 5% energy savings. Its exceptional wear and abrasion resistance also reduces downtime and operational costs.
• MEGALINEAR RPP14 XHP2 & MTD14 XHP2: Advanced timing belts that offer 10% higher performance than previous XHP models, with increased breaking strength and elongation resistance—perfect for heavy-load applications in logistics and material handling.
• MEGALINEAR QST: Featuring an advanced tooth design, QST (Quiet Self Track) belts maximise power transmission while reducing vibrations and noise. The result? A quieter, more efficient system with lower energy consumption and improved operational efficiency.Q: Sustainability is a major industry focus. How does Megadyne integrate this into its product development?

LZ: “At Megadyne, sustainability is more than a concept. Our goal is to create high-performance solutions that optimise efficiency, reduce energy loss, and enhance reliability. By doing so, we help businesses achieve their sustainability goals while improving overall productivity.”

Q: Any final thoughts for those attending LogiMAT 2025?

LZ: “We’re excited to connect with industry professionals and showcase how our innovations can elevate their operations. Join us at LogiMAT 2025 to discover how performance and efficiency can go hand in hand.”

similar news

Megadyne introduces ‘game-changing’ rubber belt

Peter MacLeod meets Thomas van Workum, President of FORTNA International, a man who sits the helm of a company that has its finger in just about every piece of supply chain pie. Given the unpredictability inherent in today’s supply chains, a robust, flexible, and reliable fulfillment operation is key to operational success. If it is also cost-effective and carbon-light in operation, then delivering promises to a demanding and expectant customer base becomes less of a challenge and more of an opportunity.

Supply chain optimization

FORTNA is a global partner in supply chain optimization, providing end-to-end solutions that drive operational excellence. From consultancy and system design to automation, software integration, and lifecycle services, the company delivers seamless and scalable solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. As a company with nearly 80 years of history, it has long been one of the recognized leaders in the U.S. and is expanding its footprint in the European market. The upcoming LogiMAT trade show presents an opportunity to showcase its expertise and build new partnerships within the region. Exploring some of these further, I was delighted to be able to interview Thomas van Workum, President FORTNA International, the man who leads the commercial, operations and services supporting its International expansion.

AI for Operational Excellence

While AI continues to be surrounded by hype, FORTNA takes a pragmatic approach—using AI where it truly delivers value. “Our focus is on leveraging AI to create optimal outcomes for our customers,” says Thomas van Workum, President FORTNA International. AI is embedded in three key areas: Tech Support, Software Development and Machine Learning for Automation.
We have developed language models that analyze documentation and historical issue resolution data. This allows tech support teams to identify malfunctions and find solutions much faster, minimizing downtime for customers. “Instead of manually searching through manuals, our AI assistant quickly scans both documentation and past cases, providing a solution in seconds,” van Workum explains.

AI is also transforming how FORTNA develops software for system integration. “We use AI to assist in writing code, which significantly shortens lead times and enables our software engineers to focus on more complex tasks,” he adds. While complex solutions still require manual customization, about 30% of the code is now AI-generated, improving efficiency and accelerating deployment.
FORTNA’s AI-powered robotic solutions use vision technology to pick and place products of all shapes, weights, and sizes. “By leveraging AI and machine learning, our robotic picking solutions achieve top-tier pick rates and accuracy, outperforming many existing solutions in the market,” van Workum notes. With rising labor costs and shrinking availability, businesses are increasingly open to investing in robotics, and FORTNA is at the forefront of delivering these solutions.

Driving Carbon Reduction

Decarbonization is a major challenge in logistics and supply chain management. I asked van Workum in what areas FORTNA is helping its customers reduce their carbon consumption. He answers by identifying two chief ways – designing warehouse automation to use less energy and by optimising packaging to reduce vehicle mileage.

FORTNA designs systems that dynamically adjust energy consumption based on demand. “If the load on a system is lower due to order fluctuations, we don’t need it running at full capacity,” van Workum explains. “By reducing speeds and switching off unnecessary components, we help our customers cut energy usage. With transport, we are working to do it in the most efficient way and therefore we work with partners to supply the best solution to our customers.” Through strategic partnerships with Packsize and Sitma, FORTNA minimizes packaging waste, reducing the amount of air transported in shipments. “Less empty space means fewer trucks on the road, lowering carbon emissions. While eliminating packaging entirely isn’t always feasible, minimizing it makes a real difference,” he adds.

Navigating Supply Chain Uncertainty

In today’s volatile geopolitical and economic climate, businesses must prepare for both the “known unknowns” and the unexpected disruptions that can upend supply chains. So how can FORTNA help its customers become more resistant to the effects of these so-called black swan events?

“Our promise is that FORTNA thinks alongside the customer in how to de-risk their operations and inventory planning. Our consulting team works alongside customers to de-risk their operations and improve inventory planning,” van Workum says. This includes in-depth network analysis to identify potential vulnerabilities and optimal warehouse locations. We do that for some of the largest brands in the world.

At the warehouse level, FORTNA’s automation and software solutions provide an additional layer of resilience. “By integrating robotic picking, customers become less reliant on manual labour, reducing exposure to workforce shortages. Our Warehouse Execution System (WES) is also among the best in the world, continuously optimizing inventory allocation and fulfillment workflows,” he explains.

Looking ahead to LogiMAT, I asked van Workum which of the company’s strengths and specialisms it will be looking to highlight in what is becoming quite a crowded and competitive marketplace.
“We are one of the few system integrators that fully embrace emerging technologies,” he says. Unlike many competitors that focus solely on their own product portfolio, FORTNA prioritizes finding the best solution for each customer’s needs. This commitment to innovation is evident in FORTNA’s collaborations with technology leaders like AutoStore and Geek+, where the company integrates third-party solutions with its own advanced software to provide customers with tailored, high-performance systems.

With a growing presence in Europe and a track record of delivering impactful solutions, FORTNA is set to make a strong impression at LogiMAT—demonstrating how it helps businesses achieve operational excellence in an ever-evolving supply chain landscape.

similar news

Fortna and Geek+ Partner for Order Fulfilment

In this episode of our podcast, Logistics Business Conversations, Peter MacLeod sits down with Damon He from SEER Robotics to discuss the evolving relationship between humans and robots in warehouse operations. As automation reshapes logistics, Damon sheds light on how robotics enhances, rather than replaces, human roles, creating a more efficient and safer working environment. He highlights that robots don’t eliminate jobs but instead restructure them—allowing workers to focus on higher-value tasks such as robot maintenance, programming, and data analysis.

Key Topics Discussed:

✅ Robots as Collaborators, Not Replacements – How automation supports human workers by taking over repetitive, physically demanding, and hazardous tasks.
✅ Job Creation Through Robotics – Why the introduction of mobile robots doesn’t mean job losses, but instead creates opportunities for higher-skilled roles.
✅ Safety & Efficiency Gains – How robotics reduces workplace injuries, improves accuracy, and enhances productivity.
✅ The Role of AI in Future Warehouses – Damon’s insights on AI-driven robotics and its potential to further optimize logistics operations.
✅ Steps to Automation – Practical advice for businesses looking to integrate robotics, starting with small-scale pilot projects before scaling up.

“It’s time to welcome robots, not resist them.” – Damon He

Listen Now – Available on all major podcast platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe to Logistics Business Conversations for the latest insights from industry leaders!

Humans and Robots

March marks a major milestone for SEER Robotics, as the smart logistics company gears up to showcase its latest intelligent robotics solutions at two of the world’s most influential logistics exhibitions—LogiMAT Stuttgart and ProMat Chicago.

As a global supplier of intelligent robotics controllers, SEER Robotics will present a comprehensive line-up of hardware and software solutions built around its industry-leading SRC series controllers, highlighting its cutting-edge automation technologies and innovation-driven capabilities.

With a commitment to localization and adaptability, SEER Robotics tailors its solutions to meet the unique needs of different markets, driving the intelligent transformation of global logistics. Visitors to LogiMAT and ProMat will witness region-specific solutions that have already been deployed by world-renowned enterprises, including Schneider Electric, Philips, Hisense, Haier, Gree, Bosch, Volkswagen, ABB, Walmart, and many more.

Where to Find SEER Robotics
LogiMAT 2025 | March 11-13 | Stuttgart, Germany | Hall 8, Booth 8D77
Showcasing: SRC controllers, intelligent stacker forklifts (SFL-CDD14-CE & SFL-CDD15-CE), pallet trucks (SFL-CBD15-CE), single-arm forklifts (SOF-300EU), RDS resource scheduling system, and visualization products.

ProMat 2025 | March 17-20 | Chicago, USA | Lakeside Hall, Booth E12013
Showcasing: SRC controllers, rotary lifting AMRs (SJV-SW600), single-arm forklifts (SOF-300EU), reach trucks (SSR-1400), RDS resource scheduling system, M4 QuickGo application, and visualization products.

similar news

Podcast: Automation: The Future of Your Warehouse

As eCommerce continues its rapid expansion, businesses face mounting challenges: space constraints, labour shortage, increasing shipping costs, and the urgent need for sustainable packaging solutions.

CMC, a global supplier of sustainable, advanced packaging solutions, is set to transform fulfilment operations with the launch of two game-changing innovations at LogiMAT in Stuttgart, Germany, March 11-13, 2025 and ProMat 2025 in Chicago, March 17-20, 2025: CMC Super Vertical and CMC Genesys PRIMA.

CMC Super Vertical: The first 3D Vertical Bagger and Auto-packer for single and multi-item orders, featuring an ultra-compact footprint, one-day installation and plug-and-play integration and relocation —ideal for brownfield sites.

With less than a 10 square metres/107 square feet footprint, CMC Super Vertical is a breakthrough in right-sized packaging automation, designed to optimize fulfilment even in smaller facilities. It is the first-ever 3D Vertical Bagger and Auto-packer on the market, providing a plug and play and scalable solution that integrates seamlessly into brownfield environments. It is an ideal choice for businesses seeking to upgrade existing facilities with automation while minimizing disruption, also serving as an entry-level solution to help companies transition from manual packaging to 3D automation.

Key Features of the CMC Super Vertical:
• Packaging Capabilities – Two versions available to produce either 3D paper mailers or right-sized boxes, offering versatility for diverse products shipping needs.
• Higher speed per Square Metre/Feet – Runs up to 500 packages per hour, handling both single and multi-line orders seamlessly.
• Pre-Consolidation Eliminated – Handles unstable multi-line orders without requiring pre-consolidation.
• Versatile Paper Options for 3D Mailer Version–Supports heat sealable functional barrier paper, kraft paper, padded paper and open flute cardboard for enhanced protection.
• Plug-and-Play Installation – Allows for easy setup next to put walls, lower shipping and installation costs, seamless integration into existing fulfilment workflows and easy relocation.

New Era for Box-First Packaging

CMC Genesys PRIMA, a high-throughput, space-efficient machine that brings box-first automation to the forefront leveraging integration with warehouse automation technologies. Following the recent launch of the CMC Genesys Compact for box-last processing, this latest innovation is the first right-sized packaging machine of its kind to support BOTH box-first and box-last processes — a significant advancement in operational efficiency.

CMC Genesys PRIMA features a compact footprint of less than 20 square metres/215 square feet, ensuring easy installation and seamless relocation for future expansion.

With CMC Genesys PRIMA, CMC not only pioneers a breakthrough technology but also redefines packaging with CMC PRIMA-BOX — a patented, innovative box concept designed to set a new standard in automated packaging.

• A unique box design eliminating any void filling material
• Unnecessary corrugated is not discarded but used to create built-in protective corners, providing additional stability and safeguarding for products.
• The box is presented to the picking station with one open side, allowing operators to easily place products inside without obstruction from the flaps. This feature is especially useful for handling taller boxes or preventing using trays
• New design does not require extra equipment to place a lid or seal the box
• Optional automatic box closing
• Tape-free design, reducing material waste
• Easy opening and resealing option
• Opens from the top like a presentation box — enhancing customer experience

As fulfilment centres increasingly seek to optimize existing spaces rather than expand, CMC Super Vertical and CMC Genesys PRIMA delivers a future-proof automation solution designed for sustainability, operational efficiency, and maximum ROI.

similar news

CMC Genesys Enables Multi-Line Fulfilment Without Pre-Consolidation

Motorised drive roller manufacturer Itoh Denki is set to showcase its innovative MDR-based technologies at LogiMAT 2025.

Itoh Denki, a leading international specialist in motorised drive roller (MDR)-based material handling technologies, will showcase its range of highly innovative modular material handling technologies at the forthcoming LogiMAT 2025 show.

Itoh Denki’s stand (no. 1K25 in Hall 1) will display a number of novel systems based on acclaimed MDR technology, bringing greater control and modularity to material handling processes across
both the warehouse and the factory. It says its modular systems allow for unrivalled flexibility to meet changing operational demands, optimising throughput and performance.

FNR is an MDR-powered conveyor platform which safely and efficiently transfers light loads of all shapes and sizes via a patented bed system comprising robust plastic wheels. Able to undertake any task handled by belt conveyors, FNR delivers further benefits in near-silent operation and colleague safety.

Requiring minimal set-up and ongoing maintenance, FNR is designed specifically for applications involving small and medium-sized items and is particularly suited to singulation and accumulation tasks for order preparation. In these applications, thanks to its short, independently controlled zones, FNR can rapidly and efficiently singulate or accumulate items even in very short distances.

As an entirely modular system, FNR can be easily integrated into existing in situ systems – and can be reconfigured whenever necessary as requirements evolve. FNR will be displayed alongside Itoh Denki’s family of diverter units which between them cater for a vast array of application requirements.

Sorting Excellence

The Multi-Angle Ball Sorter (MABS) harnesses patented rotating ball transfer technology to enable diversion to exits at 30°, 45° or 90° angles on either side. Capable of handling up to 4,300 units per hour, MABS can be integrated into any type of conveyor system, where it can handle loads up to 30kg of varying shapes and sizes.

Available in five sizes and easily reconfigurable to meet changing requirements, up to eight MABS units can be combined as necessary to create larger transfer zones.

MABS will be demonstrated in combination with Itoh Denki’s acclaimed F-RAT NX compact 90° diverter and sorter module for smaller loads up to 50kg, and M-RAT module for larger loads up to 250kg. F-RAT NX and M-RAT are the only diverters of their type to transfer products at 90° on either side of the conveyor line without lifting the product between entry and exit, enabling smoother transfers and simpler conveyor design.

MABS, M-RAT and F-RAT all run on 24V DC power, enabling designers and specifiers to move away from pneumatically powered systems with all their challenges around commissioning,
maintenance and safety.

Tatsuya Akashi, President of Itoh Denki Europe, explains: “As the leading international trade show for intralogistics solutions and process management, LogiMAT once again offers the opportunity for system designers and specifiers from across the world to see the gains in productivity and flexibility they can enjoy by choosing systems from Itoh Denki.

“MDR-based systems continue to become the preferred choice for a vast range of applications where performance cannot be compromised, while bringing advantages in terms of enhanced safety – for both colleagues and products – energy efficiency, minimal maintenance, and ease of setup and reconfiguration. We anticipate strong interest in all of the technologies we will have on show at
LogiMAT.”

similar news

Conveying and Diverting Solutions