FTD mag

Dematic supported Metcash transition with automation facility upgrade

Dematic delivered a goods-to-person (GTP) automation system for Metcash’s new 115,000 square metre distribution centre in Truganina, consolidating the distributor’s Victorian operations into a single site. The facility replaced a multi-shed layout in Laverton and featured an integrated solution aimed at improving efficiency and supporting future growth. Previously, Metcash managed grocery, liquor, convenience and perishableContinue reading “Dematic supported Metcash transition with automation facility upgrade”

Bonfiglioli launches gearbox range tailored for AGVs

A growing number of warehouses are deploying automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to support safer, more efficient and productive operations. “Companies continue to invest in automation, and AGVs are often the most feasible solution – addressing labour shortages, safety risks, flexible layouts, and the increasing need for space and productivity,” says Martin Broglia, managing director of BonfiglioliContinue reading “Bonfiglioli launches gearbox range tailored for AGVs”

Adaptive systems… What is modular automation, and why does it matter?

Modular automation is reshaping how manufacturers and warehouse operators approach system design – offering a strategic way to manage volatility, labour pressures and the rising need for flexible, efficient operations. Unlike traditional automation systems that often require large-scale redesigns to accommodate change, modular automation is built around adaptability. It allows businesses to deploy discrete, compatibleContinue reading “Adaptive systems… What is modular automation, and why does it matter?”

WorkSafe changes:

‘Welcome step’ to modern, supportive regulation The change in focus for WorkSafe New Zealand is “long overdue and should assist employers” in keeping workers safer while having fewer concerns about being punished, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA). The changes – including a new letter of expectations, a restructured funding model, and a legislativeContinue reading “WorkSafe changes:”

Are chemicals safely stored in the warehouse?

Chemical warehouse explosions in Tianjin Port, China and the Lebanese Beirut Port killed nearly 400 people, Injured thousands, left many more homeless and caused massive property damage. The common element is the absence of safe warehouse practice, particularly identifying and safely managing non-compatible chemicals and the avoidable loss of emergency responders unaware of what theyContinue reading “Are chemicals safely stored in the warehouse?”

Lifting solutions…

Centra Forklifts now exclusive NZ distributor of Flexi articulating forklifts Centra Forklifts (NZ) Ltd – distributor for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks – is one of the oldest established forklift companies in New Zealand and now the company is adding what it describes as another premium brand to its range, announcing the exclusive local distributorship for Flexi articulating forklifts. “We see this as a greatContinue reading “Lifting solutions…”

Delivering trusted hygiene…

Kärcher’s autonomous robot delivers smarter, zero effort, total compliance cleaning Delivering medicines, vaccines, and medical devices demands more than cleaning – it requires a trusted partner for hygiene, compliance and seamless operations. Healthcare Logistics chose Kärcher to deliver exactly that. “With strict protocols and audits, Healthcare Logistics needed an automated floor cleaning solution to maintainContinue reading “Delivering trusted hygiene…”

New tracks…

Slow economy impacts KiwiRail as it repositions for growth A national freight downturn in a soft domestic economy, and a series of one-off events, contributed to a fall in KiwiRail’s bottom line in the half year to December 31, 2024. However, good progress was made in delivering on the company’s transformation plan and investments which togetherContinue reading “New tracks…”

AGVs and forklifts:

The perfect partnership for smarter, safer warehouses In today’s fast-paced logistics landscape, modern warehouses are embracing automation to overcome labour shortages, boost efficiency, and enhance safety. automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are rapidly becoming indispensable in these environments, seamlessly complementing human-operated forklifts to create a balanced, high-performance system. AGVs are programmed vehicles that follow predetermined orContinue reading “AGVs and forklifts:”

Greater local presence…

SSI Schaefer strengthens ANZ offering with new office SSI Schaefer, a global player in intralogistics and automated warehouses, has announced the opening of its new office in Sydney, Australia, at Norwest Quay in Norwest Business Park, North West Sydney. The new office “reinforces SSI Schaefer’s commitment to Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) and positions SSIContinue reading “Greater local presence…”