Geek+, the AMR technology provider, and top market intelligence firm Interact Analysis have jointly released a new white paper, The Future of Warehouse Robotics, that examines where the industry is at the beginning of 2022 and the new approaches made possible by AMR technology.
Critical Issues: Manufacturing/Supply Chain
Critical issues are thought provoking articles relating to strategy, legislation, technology, best practice and some of the most challenging business topics in the world of manufacturing and supply chain information technology. The articles in this section have been contributed by leading vendors, industry leaders, research analysts, trade associations and consultancies and cover a variety of topics relating to the manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, transportation and distribution marketplace across Europe. They look at market trends, improvements in technology and some thought provoking comment on all aspects of optimising and improving efficiencies throughout the supply chain from raw material to finished product.
Other important topics covered in this section concern Health and Safety in Logistics with articles from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).Taxation, government policy, climate change, recruitment and training schemes are all covered, as well as educational opportunities at various UK logistics educational facilities such at Cranfield University.
Technology is now critical to achieving business sustainability within manufacturing, industry report reveals
Apr 06, 2022
Almost 60% of manufacturing businesses have considered how IT can help them be more sustainable, according to new industry research.
The research, which was carried out by leading IT provider, Digital Space, surveyed over 1,000 representatives, to highlight the valuable role IT has in reducing corporate environmental impact.
Organisations are increasing investment and exploration in quantum technologies with expectations of first commercial applications in 3-5 years
Apr 04, 2022
New research published today by the Capgemini Research Institute reveals that almost a quarter (23%) of organisations are working (or planning to work) on leveraging quantum technologies, with expectations of at least one major commercial application within the next 3–5 years. Furthermore, 20% of organizations are expecting to increase investments in the technology in the next year.
Further delays to Brexit order checks will not resolve issues for trade, says Logistics UK
Apr 04, 2022
Any additional delays to the introduction of post-Brexit border checks on imports will simply postpone the inevitable, and send mixed signals to businesses that have been urged for months to get ready for the additional formalities involved with moving goods across the UK’s borders, according to business group Logistics UK.
76% of organisations suffered downtime and data loss in 2021, system crashes, human error and cyberattacks to blame
Apr 04, 2022
Acronis, the cyber protection solutions provider, has released its annual Cyber Protection Week Global Report 2022 timed to this year’s World Backup Day.
Warehouse Operators Take Note: These Robots Can Increase Workers’ Worth and Interest in Warehousing Jobs
Mar 30, 2022
By Marcel Kars, VP, Warehouse Automation EMEA, Zebra Technologies
Prior to the pandemic, warehouse operators who were committing to robotics automation solutions were considered innovative and pioneering. In fact, respondents to a 2019 Warehousing Vision Study conducted by Zebra indicated that the adoption of robotic material handling solutions was only expected to grow by 6-8% in a five-year period.
How to Protect your Workers in Industrial Warehouses
Mar 30, 2022
By Joanne Kirby, freelance writer.
A warehouse can be a dangerous place for workers – especially if the appropriate health and safety measures haven’t been taken. You’re expected to safely lift, carry and store items – some of which can be extremely heavy. In many cases, you’re expected to do so with the aid of machinery which might be dangerous if misused.
Cloud labelling to become table stakes in modern global supply chains, Loftware survey reveals
Mar 30, 2022
Almost three quarters (73%) of companies believe the cloud will be the preferred method for labelling applications within the next three years, according to an annual report published by Loftware, the global software company specialising in Enterprise Labelling and Artwork Management solutions.
Plan for Tomorrow Today
Mar 29, 2022
By Laith Marmash, Zebra Technologies.
Why integrating deep learning with barcode reading makes good business sense.
In traditional production environments, it’s quite a leap from conducting basic barcode reads to implementing deep learning algorithms. But planning to future-proof a business in this way today will deliver key competitive advantages tomorrow.
One in five businesses have paid or would pay a ransom for their data, finds Thales
Mar 28, 2022
New research from Thales has found that malware, ransomware and phishing continues to plague global organisations. In fact, one in five (21%) have experienced a ransomware attack in the last year; with 43% of those experiencing a significant impact on operations.
Manufacturing Critical Issues
The manufacturing industry is facing a number of critical issues, including:
- Supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and geo-political tensions/war has caused widespread disruption to global supply chains, and this is having a significant impact on manufacturing. Manufacturers are struggling to get the raw materials and components they need to produce their products, and this is leading to shortages and delays.
- Labour shortage. The manufacturing industry is facing a labor shortage, as there are not enough skilled workers available to fill open positions. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the decline of manufacturing in some countries, and the lack of educational opportunities in STEM fields.
- Rising costs. The cost of manufacturing is rising, due to factors such as the rising cost of raw materials, energy, and transportation. This is putting pressure on manufacturers' margins and making it difficult for them to compete.
- Technology adoption. The manufacturing industry is facing the challenge of adopting new technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence. These technologies can help manufacturers to improve efficiency and productivity, but they can also be expensive and disruptive to implement.
- Environmental regulations. Manufacturers are facing increasing environmental regulations, which are forcing them to change their production processes. This can be costly and time-consuming, but it is essential for manufacturers to comply with these regulations in order to remain competitive.
Supply Chain Critical Issues
The global supply chain has been facing a number of critical issues in recent years, including
- Labour shortages: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to labor shortages in many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. This has made it difficult to find and retain workers, which has led to delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
- Equipment shortages: The global supply chain is also facing shortages of equipment, such as containers, trucks, and ships. This is due to a number of factors, including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and increased demand for goods.
- Port congestion: Port congestion has been a major issue in recent years, as ships have been waiting for days or even weeks to unload their cargo. This is due to a number of factors, including increased demand, labor shortages, and weather events.
- Demand volatility: Demand for goods has been volatile in recent years, as consumers have shifted their spending habits due to the pandemic. This has made it difficult for businesses to forecast demand and manage their supply chains accordingly.
- Natural disasters: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, can also disrupt the supply chain. These events can damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and destroy inventory.
