Where do business and materials handling meet?

摘要

With more than 27 years of experience covering the industry in his toolbox, Bob Trebilcock, Modern's executive editor, served up the keynote address in style. Trebilcock highlighted automated materials handling, robotics, warehouse software systems and mobility as the key themes and technologies shaping materials handling operations in today's warehouses and distribution centers. Trebilcock offered attendees his "big picture" view in terms of how technologies and systems are not only improving operations inside the four walls, but how they are making a significant impact on the overall business strategy of many of today's sawiest manufacturers and retailers. He kicked off the address by discussing how materials handling is becoming essential to enabling broader corporate strategies. "Materials handling is becoming a competitive advantage for the best companies," Trebilcock said, "and competitors are being forced to stay abreast of one another in regard to materials handling to remain competitive." He also singled out networks and intralogistics (the movement of goods within the four walls) as important components, noting that companies must rethink materials handling projects to stay competitive. 'The best companies are looking at their intralogistics to meet their objectives at the lowest cost," said Trebilcock, "and with the fewest touches."