Articles

Automation

When Robotics, Starlink, and AI Converge: What’s Next?

When Robotics, Starlink, and AI Converge: What’s Next?

The maturation and convergence of three technologies—robotics, Starlink, and artificial intelligence—will revolutionize the practice of supply chain management across the globe. I know you have heard that before, but this time it is not hyperbole. When these three technologies converge, much of how we manage logistics today will be legacy, a fading memory in a […]

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Bringing Automation to Food Production

Bringing Automation to Food Production

John Deere and SpaceX have partnered to bring new automation advances to food production. Automation in the food supply chain is nothing new and there are many examples of how automation has driven efficiencies by saving time and keeping costs down. Most of the existing examples are found in the middle mile—the warehouse and DCs—moving […]

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Myth-busting AI in the Supply Chain

Myth-busting AI in the Supply Chain

Over the past decade, supply chains have undergone a substantial digital transformation. One of the most significant factors driving this change has been the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies. As these technologies have become more prominent, however, so too have misconceptions about their impact on supply chain and logistics operations.

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Automated Warehouse: Examples, Benefits, and Trends

Automated Warehouse: Examples, Benefits, and Trends

The automated warehouse is not only a glimpse into the future of logistics but a present reality shaping the supply chain landscape.  According to a study by MHI and Deloitte, 80% of respondents believe the digital, always-on supply chain will be the predominant model within five years. With the advent of technology, warehouse automation systems […]

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Warehouse Location Automation

Warehouse Location Automation

If a robot told you where to go, would you listen? Choosing a domestic distribution site is a well-honed science with several schools of thought. Some supply chain practitioners favor the mega-DC approach, while others use retail locations to do double-duty as efulfillment centers. Other practices include a blended approach to match evolving customer demand.

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4 Reasons for the Warehouse Investment Boom

4 Reasons for the Warehouse Investment Boom

Right behind the frenzied investment in ChatGPT and related AI is an investment boomlet in distribution center and warehouse automation and robotics. Four convergent trends are at work here. 1. Driven by current economic challenges is the necessity to extract every ounce of ROI from each sale’s dependency on inventory and the infrastructure that supports […]

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How Flexible Parcel Handling Automation Can Help Overcome Labor Challenges

How Flexible Parcel Handling Automation Can Help Overcome Labor Challenges

Warehouse and distribution center operators are investing in parcel handling automation to help them succeed as DCs must adapt to handling thousands of parcels each day. According to BCG, consumer companies that have invested in warehouse and fulfillment automation have experienced 20% to 50% improvement in service levels while reducing costs to a similar extent. […]

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