Warehouse Automation Matters

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart spoke with Jim Shaw, President and Co-Founder of Zion Solutions Group, and Chip Steffey, Director of Sales, about how warehouse leaders are adapting operations as labor dynamics and demand patterns continue to shift.Drawing on decades of experience advising distribution and fulfillment operations, Shaw and Steffey discussed why traditional assumptions about peak season, workforce models, and facility layouts are changing. They shared what they are seeing inside warehouses today from evolving order profiles and “ever-peak” demand cycles to the operational warning signs that a facility’s design is no longer aligned with real-world volume.The conversation also explored how technology is changing the structure of warehouse labor, why flexibility across layout, software, and workforce strategy has become essential, and how leaders can evaluate automation investments when capital, service levels, and operational risk are all in play. If your warehouse was built for a different era of demand, this episode offers practical insights on how to think about flexibility, labor, and operational resilience in the years ahead.00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation and Flexibility01:26 Changing Demand Patterns in Warehouse Operations05:36 Aligning Warehouse Design with Demand Assumptions08:31 Labor Availability and Its Impact on Operations11:08 Identifying Rigid Warehouse Layouts13:13 Effects of Volume Fluctuations on Operations15:13 Assessing Scalability in Warehouse Operations17:30 Understanding Flexibility in Warehouse Design20:26 Operational Trade-offs in Redesign and Automation22:44 Designing for Flexibility in Operations25:13 Understanding Current State for Operational Success26:40 The Importance of Fresh Perspectives28:59 Future of Flexible Design in Warehousing

In this episode of “Warehouse Automation Matters,” host Mary Hart spoke with Kevin Sullivan, COO of Conectiv Supply Chain Solutions. They discussed the company's rich history in media and entertainment, the importance of flexibility in 3PL solutions, and how automation varies across different industries. Sullivan shared insights on balancing customization with scalability, the onboarding process for new customers, and the significance of data in enhancing automation. They also explored the challenges of reverse logistics and the future of automation technologies.00:00 Introduction to Conectiv Supply Chain Solutions01:09 Flexibility in 3PL Solutions02:29 Automation Across Different Industries04:41 Balancing Customization with Scalability05:34 Onboarding New Customers06:50 Packaging and Kitting Automation08:46 Handling Returns and Reverse Logistics09:42 The Role of Data in Automation11:15 Underappreciated Use Cases for Automation12:18 Future of Automation and Emerging Technologies13:20 Advice for Warehouse Managers

Fast is easy. Perfect is hard. Inside scale3PL’s playbook for the most demanding moment in supply chain history.In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart spoke with Adam Lawicki, Executive Vice President of Strategy at scale3PL, about the changing landscape of e-commerce fulfillment and the critical role of automation. They discussed the pressures brands face in a world where e-commerce is continuously growing, leading to the concept of “ever-peak,” which is the idea that peak demand is now a year-round reality. Lawicki emphasized the importance of automation in meeting these demands efficiently and sustainably, while also addressing labor challenges and the need for intuitive training solutions. The conversation highlighted how scale3PL turns operational exceptions into exceptional customer experiences and offers valuable advice for warehouse leaders considering automation.In a world where speed and peak is table stakes, scale3PL is built for precision. They run at ever-peak where automation, design, and discipline turn chaos into calm. Every scan, every shipment, and every exception is engineered to deliver not just accuracy, but confidence. Because in fulfillment, perfection isn’t luck, it’s built.00:00 Introduction to scale3PL01:54 Understanding Industry Pressures and Ever-Peak05:03 The Role of Automation in Meeting Demand09:37 Training and User Experience with Automation13:54 Addressing Labor Challenges and Flow Optimization16:24 Turning Exceptions into Exceptional Experiences18:37 Key Decisions in the Automation Journey20:22 Advice for Warehouse Leaders on Automation21:05 Future of Automation in 3PL22:47 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart interviews Bryan Corbett, VP of Sales and Marketing at Barrett Distribution Centers. They discuss Bryan's journey into the 3PL industry, the importance of evaluating 3PLs beyond just cost and location, and the significance of human elements in logistics partnerships. Bryan shares insights on identifying red flags in potential partnerships, the role of robotics and automation in warehouses, and the factors that contribute to successful automation implementation.00:00 Journey into the 3PL Industry02:23 Evaluating 3PL Partnerships04:19 Identifying Red Flags in 3PLs06:32 The Role of People in 3PL Success09:07 Marketing and Human Touch in 3PL10:47 Automation and Robotics in Warehousing11:54 Driving Change in Automation12:32 Strategies for Moving What Matters

In this episode of “Warehouse Automation Matters,” host Mary Hart discussed the benefits of warehouse automation with Dave Green and Mike Wills from Peak Technologies. They explored the hesitations companies face regarding automation, the significant ROI timelines, and the softer benefits such as employee satisfaction. The conversation highlighted the importance of solution providers in designing long-term automation strategies and the common pitfalls of DIY automation. The partnership between Peak and Locus Robotics was emphasized as a key factor in successful warehouse automation implementations.00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation02:15 Overcoming Automation Hesitations04:48 Understanding ROI in Warehouse Automation07:02 Exploring Soft Benefits of Automation10:01 Labor Efficiency and Cost Management11:43 Complementing Temporary Labor with Automation12:58 The Role of Solution Providers14:47 Designing Long-Term Automation Strategies16:11 Pitfalls of DIY Automation Solutions18:08 The Peak and Locus Partnership19:47 Unique Challenges in Automation21:31 Final Advice for 3PLs on Automation

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart sat down with Mike Geiger, VP of IT at KSP Fulfillment, to unpack what it takes to hit 10 million robotic picks, and why that milestone is just the beginning. Geiger shared how automation stabilized labor, reduced training time, and improved employee experience, all while giving KSP the flexibility to scale during peak season. From building a culture of continuous improvement to preparing for what’s next with AI and streamlined systems, this episode offered a firsthand look at how a forward-leaning 3PL is reshaping fulfillment operations for growth and resilience. 00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation and Milestones02:18 The Journey of Automation Implementation06:59 Employee Response and Cultural Shift08:23 Continuous Improvement and Automation11:17 Scalability and Customer Relationships12:26 Future Innovations and Advice for 3PLs

In this conversation, Mary Hart interviewed David Welsh from Radial about the company's journey in scaling warehouse automation. They discussed the motivations behind adopting automation with fulfillment robots, the implementation process with Locus Robotics, and the operational changes observed. David shared insights on collaboration with partners, the impact on employee experience, and the lessons learned throughout the process. The discussion highlighted the importance of quality, productivity, and employee satisfaction in the evolving landscape of fulfillment operations.00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation and Radial01:00 The Journey to Automation: Initial Implementations03:21 Expanding Automation: Lessons from the First Rollout05:56 Scaling Automation Across Multiple Facilities08:19 Workforce Integration and Employee Experience10:58 Key Lessons for Fulfillment Leaders12:38 The Future of Fulfillment at Radial

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart interviewed Tony Altman, President and CEO of Motivational Fulfillment. They discussed the evolution of the company, its commitment to continuous improvement, and the integration of technology and automation in warehouse operations. Altman shared insights on change management, the importance of communication, and how automation enhances employee experience while maintaining a people-first culture. He also emphasized the need for customized solutions in automation and offered advice for other 3PL leaders.00:00 The Journey of Motivational Fulfillment01:55 Commitment to Continuous Improvement04:35 Change Management in Warehouse Operations05:33 Building a Flexible WMS06:10 Real-Time Decision Making and Visibility07:10 Balancing Automation with a People-First Culture08:27 Training for New Technologies09:28 Impact of Robotics on Workforce Morale10:30 Future of Fulfillment Strategy11:25 Advice for 3PL Leaders on Automation

In this conversation, Oscar Mendez, Head of AI and Data Science at Locus Robotics, discusses the transformative role of AI in warehouse automation. He emphasizes the importance of holistic AI that not only focuses on tasks but also delivers tangible business value. Mendez explains the significance of physical AI, trustworthiness, and explainability in AI systems, and how these elements contribute to optimizing warehouse operations. He also addresses the hype surrounding robotics foundation models and the necessity of domain expertise in AI development. The conversation concludes with insights on integrating human associates into AI-driven workflows and the importance of data in driving AI initiatives.00:00Introduction to AI in Warehouse Automation02:35Understanding Holistic AI and Business Value05:23Robotics Foundation Models: Hype vs. Reality07:56The Importance of Physical AI in Warehousing12:33Trustworthiness and Explainability in AI17:07Holistic AI: Orchestrating Warehouse Operations19:52System Directed Labor: Integrating Human Associates21:31The Role of Data in AI Development23:29Climbing the AI Complexity Ladder26:12Addressing Skepticism Towards AI in Warehousing

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart discusses the transformative impact of Low-Code Application Platforms (LCAP) in warehousing with experts Bryan Batchelder and Dave Castanon from Datex. They explore the challenges of legacy systems, the advantages of low-code solutions, and real-world applications of Datex Studio in enhancing warehouse operations. The conversation highlights the importance of modernization in response to market shifts, particularly in e-commerce, and offers insights into the future of LCAP across various industries.00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation and LCAP02:10 The Shift from Legacy Systems to Modernization04:03 Understanding Low-Code Platforms06:16 The Role of Datex Studio in Warehouse Operations08:59 Real-World Applications of LCAP in Warehousing12:14 Future Impact of LCAP on Various Industries14:46 Advice for Warehouse Leaders on Embracing LCAP

What should warehouse managers prioritize when choosing a new WMS? According to Amit Levy, EVP of Sales and Strategy at Made4Net, it's not just about ticking off features. In this episode, Levy joins host Mary Hart to unpack the real-world considerations that make or break a WMS implementation, from inventory accuracy and scalability to user adoption and IT alignment. You’ll hear how modern WMS platforms act as control towers for hybrid operations and why speed-to-value and flexibility matter more than ever.Whether you're in the early stages of evaluating systems or planning your next upgrade, this conversation will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually drives operational success.Listen now to hear practical advice, common pitfalls, and real-world examples of how WMS platforms can support fast-growing operations.00:05 Identifying Red Flags in Warehouse Management Systems02:42 Common Misconceptions About WMS03:32 Key Features to Look for in a WMS06:16 Flexibility and Scalability in WMS09:06 The Role of WMS in Modern Warehousing11:34 Real-Time Data and Visibility in WMS

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart spoke with Bryan Boatner, Global Managing Director of Automation at Ranpak, on the importance of automation in warehouse operations with a focus on right-sized packaging, waste reduction, and the role of data in optimizing processes. Boatner shared insights on how automation can enhance efficiency, sustainability, and customer experience, as well as the collaborative efforts with other automation technologies. The conversation highlighted the future trends in packaging automation and offered advice for warehouse operators considering automation solutions.00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation02:36 The Importance of Right-Sized Packaging05:57 Sustainability and Waste Reduction07:26 Impact of Automation on Throughput08:26 Data-Driven Packaging Solutions10:14 Adapting to Diverse SKUs12:27 The Journey to Automation13:43 Measuring ROI in Packaging Automation16:49 Customer Experience and Returns17:54 Shifting Customer Expectations18:44 Collaborations in Automation20:12 Future Innovations in Packaging Automation21:07 Advice for Warehouse Operators

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart interviewed Mert Selcuk, Senior Manager of Supply Chain Strategy and Capabilities at Staples Canada. They discussed the journey of implementing warehouse automation along with the challenges, strategies, and technologies involved. Selcuk shared insights on the importance of collaboration with vendors, the role of data in decision-making, and the impact of automation on operational efficiency and employee satisfaction. The conversation highlighted the significance of understanding specific needs before exploring automation solutions and the value of a strong partnership with technology providers.00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation02:48 Mert's Journey into Supply Chain05:32 Exploring Automation Opportunities08:23 Implementation Strategy and Team Dynamics11:12 Data-Driven Decision Making13:26 Vendor Evaluation and Partnership16:02 Lessons Learned and Future Outlook

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart interviewed Chris Caouette, Chief Revenue Officer at North Bay Distribution, on challenges and innovations in the 3PL and e-commerce fulfillment space. They explored the evolving role of 3PLs, the importance of technology and automation, strategies for competitive shipping rates, and how to improve customer satisfaction and inventory management. Caouette shared insights on emerging challenges in the logistics industry and offered advice for brands evaluating 3PL partners.00:00 Introduction to 3PL and E-commerce Challenges02:12 The Evolving Role of 3PLs04:43 Balancing Customer Experience and Costs06:54 Strategies for Competitive Shipping Rates09:35 Ensuring High Order Accuracy11:29 Improving Customer Satisfaction through Logistics12:30 Inventory Management Solutions14:04 Emerging Challenges and Opportunities for 3PLs15:16 Advice for Brands Evaluating 3PL Partners16:33 North Bay Distribution's Unique Value Proposition

In this episode, Mary Hart spoke with Austin Feagins from Staci Americas about the complexities of technology and compliance in beauty product fulfillment. They discuss the unique challenges faced by the beauty industry, including high customer expectations and strict regulations. Austin shares insights on common compliance issues, the critical nature of the pack-out process, and how technology, including AI and drones, is transforming inventory management and traceability. The conversation concludes with advice for brands looking to scale their fulfillment operations while maintaining quality and compliance standards.- 00:00 Introduction to Beauty Product Fulfillment Challenges- 02:59 Compliance Issues in Beauty Distribution- 06:03 The Importance of Pack Out Process- 09:03 Technology in Pack Out and Damage Prevention- 11:51 Traceability and Inventory Management in Warehousing- 15:02 Future of Technology in Beauty Fulfillment

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart spoke with Kevin Hume, co-founder of ThruPut Partners, about the evolving landscape of supply chain design and the importance of agility in warehouse operations. They discussed the limitations of traditional supply chain methods, the application of agile methodologies, and the significance of technology integration. Hume shared a case study of a successful agile transition and offered insights on preparing for market shifts, balancing automation with workforce needs, and the future trends in supply chain agility, including the role of AI.00:00 Introduction to ThruPut Partners02:11 Challenges in Traditional Supply Chain Design04:44 Applying Agile Methodologies to Warehouse Operations09:00 Case Study: Successful Agile Transition12:26 Preparing for Market Shifts13:54 Balancing Stability and Adaptability in Automation15:38 Overcoming Challenges in Agile Supply Chain Strategies18:02 Future Trends in Supply Chain Agility19:42 Advice for Warehouse Leaders21:02 Leveraging AI in Supply Chain Design

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart interviews Derek Morse from Barrett Distribution about the transformative role of analytics in warehousing. They discuss how analytics has evolved from manual data collection to a data-optimized approach, the key performance indicators (KPIs) that warehouse leaders should track, and the challenges of adopting a data-driven strategy. Morse also shared insights on emerging trends like AI and machine learning, the balance between automation and human decision-making, and offered advice for warehouse leaders looking to enhance their analytics strategy.00:00Introduction to Warehouse Analytics02:50The Evolution of Analytics in Warehousing05:24Key Performance Indicators in Warehousing08:07Data-Driven Decision Making and Challenges09:23Emerging Trends in Warehouse Automation

In this conversation, Mary Hart interviewed Barbara Porter, COO of Fragrance.com, about top trends in retail warehouse automation. They discussed the significant impact of AI and robotics on operational efficiency, the importance of sustainability, and the challenges faced when integrating new technologies. Porter shared insights on consumer expectations, the balance between speed and quality, and the future role of humans in automated environments. The discussion highlighted the necessity for warehouses to adapt to changing market conditions and the benefits of leveraging automation to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.00:00Introduction to Warehouse Automation Trends01:20Impact of AI on Retail Warehouse Operations02:49Consumer Expectations and Automation Changes03:41Sustainability in Automation Decisions04:48Technological Innovations in Warehouse Automation05:49Challenges in Adopting Automation Technologies08:04Balancing Speed, Efficiency, and Quality09:42Future Predictions for Warehouse Automation10:30Evolving Role of Humans in Automated Warehouses12:08Scalability During Peak Seasons15:54Advice for Companies on Warehouse Automation

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart and Kait Peterson, VP of Product Marketing at Locus Robotics, discuss the critical role of flexibility and automation in modern warehouse operations. They explore the challenges faced by warehouses today, including labor shortages and fluctuating demands, and how automation can help address these issues. The conversation covers the importance of metrics for measuring throughput, common misconceptions about automation, and future trends in the industry. Peterson also offers valuable advice for warehouse operators considering automation to improve scalability and efficiency. 00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation 01:08 The Importance of Flexibility in Warehousing 02:26 Challenges Facing Modern Warehouses 05:01 Automation's Role in Scalability and Efficiency 07:22 Managing Returns and Seasonal Demands 09:51 Innovations in Picking and Throughput 12:24 Maximizing Throughput with Automation 14:24 Key Metrics for Measuring Throughput 17:13 Misconceptions About Automation 20:21 Future Trends in Automation Technologies 22:10 Advice for Warehouse Operators

In this episode, Mary Hart sat down with Bob Duron and Diron Raines of nGroup to discuss their evolution as a third-party logistics provider, focusing on labor management, automation, and the complexities of holiday returns. Duron and Raines highlighted the top challenges of peak seasons, the benefits of warehouse automation, and the importance of flexibility in operations. They highlighted the integration of various technologies to enhance operational efficiency and safety, while also addressing trends shaping the future of 3PL and reverse logistics. 00:00 Introduction to nGroup and Its Services 01:32 Challenges of Holiday Returns 03:09 Impact of Automation on Operations 05:23 nGroup's Unique Labor Approach 07:26 Flexibility in Operations 08:59 Integration of Technologies 11:13 Safety and Automation 16:17 Job Satisfaction and Retention 17:25 Future Trends in 3PL and Reverse Logistics 19:31 Key Takeaways for Potential Clients

In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart speaks with Ken Ray, WMS Systems Engineer at Cooper Lighting Solutions, about the intersection of holiday spirit and warehouse efficiency through complex cartonization. Ken shares his journey to becoming a licensed Santa Claus -- named Ken Kringle -- and discusses the importance of data in optimizing carton sizes for shipping. The conversation explores the efficiency gains achieved through automation, the sustainability efforts in packaging, and the positive impact on customer experience. Ken also offers advice for businesses considering cartonization solutions and shares insights on the future of automation in warehousing. - Cooper Lighting Solutions: https://www.cooperlighting.com/global - Santa Ken Kringle: https://santakenkringle.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ken Kringle and Holiday Spirit 03:13 Understanding Complex Cartonization 06:46 The Role of Data in Cartonization 08:59 Efficiency Gains from Complex Cartonization 11:46 Sustainability and Waste Reduction 13:32 Customer Experience and Feedback 14:28 Automation in the Cartonization Process 16:03 Unexpected Benefits of Cartonization 17:10 Future of Packaging and Automation 19:11 Advice for Businesses Considering Cartonization 19:43 Ken Kringle's Upcoming Events

In this conversation, Mary Hart and Chris Budney discussed the critical aspects of preparing warehouses for peak season. They explored the challenges faced by warehouses, including labor shortages, inventory management, and the importance of technology. Budney emphasized the need for flexibility, effective communication, and the integration of automation to enhance efficiency and meet consumer expectations. The discussion also highlighted the role of data analytics in forecasting and planning for peak periods, as well as the long-term strategies that warehouses can adopt to remain resilient and agile in a rapidly changing environment. 00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation and Peak Season Challenges 03:12 Key Challenges Faced by Warehouses During Peak Season 05:52 Preparing for Peak Season: Essential Focus Areas 08:57 Flexibility and Technology in Warehouse Operations 12:03 Balancing Human Workers and Automation 15:04 Best Practices for Inventory Management 17:59 Data Analytics and Forecasting for Peak Season

In this episode of "Warehouse Automation Matters," Mary Hart sits down with Erik Pichette and Adam Schwarz from Locus Robotics to explore the intricacies of optimizing and automating warehouse mezzanines. They discuss best practices for efficient design, from slotting strategies to handling peak demand, and emphasize the importance of collaboration and planning to avoid common pitfalls. The conversation also highlights how AI, machine learning, and innovative solutions are shaping the future of mezzanine automation to boost productivity and ROI. 00:00 Introduction to Warehouse Automation and Mezzanines 01:26 Understanding Warehouse Mezzanines 04:09 Design Considerations for Different Industries 06:01 Best Practices for Automating Mezzanines 07:31 Ensuring Optimal Space Utilization 10:40 Technological Innovations in Mezzanine Automation 12:22 The Role of AI in Future Automation 15:25 Future Trends in Warehouse Design

In this conversation, Mary Hart and Guy Courtin discuss the rise of online pharmacies and their impact on logistics companies. They explore how e-commerce trends are reshaping the pharmacy landscape, the unique challenges of delivering pharmaceuticals, and the role of technology and regulatory requirements in ensuring safe and efficient delivery. The discussion also touches on sustainability, returns, recalls, and the future of logistics in the online pharmacy sector. 00:00 Introduction to Online Pharmacies and Logistics 01:32 The Impact of Online Pharmacies on Logistics 04:08 Challenges in Logistics and Fulfillment Strategies 06:31 Tecsys' Role in Adapting to Online Pharmacy Challenges 07:52 Importance of Cold Chain Management 10:34 Regulatory Requirements and Their Impact 13:55 Innovations in Logistics Technology 16:46 Handling Returns and Recalls in Pharmaceuticals 19:57 Traceability and Recalls in Online Pharmacies 22:41 Sustainability in Pharmaceutical Deliveries 24:48 Future Trends in Online Pharmacy Logistics 28:02 Tecsys' Future Support for Logistics Companies

Greg Walls, Vice President of Revenue at Paccurate, discusses the importance of better packaging decisions in shipping. Right-sized packaging automation involves using the minimum necessary dimensions to fit a product in a box, resulting in higher volume utilization of space, which is crucial in reducing transportation costs and waste in the supply chain. By using the right carton size, businesses can lower shipping costs and increase their bottom line. Optimizing carton sizes also helps increase throughput in a warehouse, leading to higher efficiency and productivity. Right size packaging also contributes to a lower carbon footprint and helps companies meet their environmental goals. To start reaping the benefits of cartonization and right-sized packaging, businesses should focus on accurate dimensions and consider using Paccurate's simulation platform to explore different scenarios and potential savings. Ultimately, the impact of cartonization and right-sized packaging goes beyond cost savings and contributes to a positive customer experience and increased customer retention. 3PL Case Study: https://paccurate.io/case-studies/optimizing-carton-sizes-for-kao-brands

Andy Johnston, Senior Director of Innovation at GEODIS, discussed where to start with warehouse automation and emphasized the importance of identifying the workflow that needs to be solved and then finding the right technology to automate it. Johnston highlighted the need for a cultural fit between the company and the automation partner, as well as the importance of visibility and data analysis in the automation process. He also discussed future trends in warehouse automation, including increased collaboration between humans and robots and the development of more complex technology. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:07 Defining Innovation in Warehouse Operations 07:12 Assessing Warehouse Readiness for Automation 10:34 The Importance of Working with a Partner 13:22 Finding the Right Automation Partner 16:12 Choosing the Right Automation Solutions 20:16 Common Pitfalls and Mistakes in Automation Selection 22:45 Advice for Companies Hesitant to Adopt Automation 26:51 Key Takeaway: Managing Expectations

In this episode, Mary Hart interviews Tim Dolcich, Director of Engineering at DHL Supply Chain, about the role of robots in 3PL fulfillment. Tim shares his background in supply chain and how he got involved in the industry, and discusses the tasks and processes that have been automated with robotic systems in DHL warehouses, such as assisted picking, unloading, loading, and sortation. Tim explains how these robotic technologies integrate with existing warehouse management systems and the selection process for implementing them. He also highlights the impact of robots on efficiency, productivity, and employee satisfaction in fulfillment operations. Tim emphasizes the importance of collaboration between robots and human workers and the challenges faced during implementation. He discusses the scalability of robotic systems and the emerging technologies and trends he is excited about for the future of 3PL fulfillment. 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:34 Integration with Warehouse Management Systems 04:24 Impact on Efficiency and Productivity 06:48 Ensuring Effective Collaboration 09:04 Scalability of Robotic Systems 13:56 Advice for Implementing Robots

In this episode, Mary Hart interviewed Drew Eubank and Jordan Frank of the Zion Solutions Group to discuss the future of warehouse automation. They discussed the challenges faced by companies when implementing new solutions, such as selecting the right technology and getting employees to embrace it. They emphasized the importance of education and understanding the customer's goals and limitations. They also discussed the opportunities for growth and improvement in warehouse management, including the scalability and flexibility of automation solutions. They mention the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the future of warehousing and the potential for automation in areas such as pick and pack operations.  Chapters 00:00 Introductions and Background 01:29 Challenges in Implementing Warehouse Automation 03:20 Overcoming the 'Shiny Object Syndrome' 07:33 How Zion Solutions Group Helps Warehouses Grow 09:07 Opportunities for Growth and Improvement in Warehouses 13:49 Scalability and Flexibility in Warehouse Automation 19:44 The Influence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning 22:34 The Warehouse of the Future 25:27 Advice for Warehouse Managers Starting Their Automation Journey

In this episode, Mary Hart interviews Austin Feagins, Senior Director of Customer Solutions at Staci Americas, about how to prepare for a peak season in the warehousing industry. They discuss Austin's role in the company, the challenges faced during peak season, the impact of automation and technology on warehouse operations, and emerging trends in warehouse automation. The key takeaways from the conversation include the importance of planning ahead for peak season, the use of automation tools to improve efficiency and productivity, and the need to stay updated on emerging technologies in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Role in the Company 03:34 Challenges Faced During Peak Season 06:20 Strategies to Prepare for Peak Season 07:34 Planning Ahead for Peak Season 09:20 Technologies and Automation Tools for Increased Demand 10:50 Impact of Automation on Warehouse Operations 13:30 Morale and Productivity Among Staff 17:41 Success Stories and Lessons Learned 20:11 Integrating Automation and Preparation for Peak Season 22:17 Emerging Trends in Warehouse Automation 24:20 Advice for Integrating Automation and Preparation for Peak Season 25:39 Key Takeaway: Plan Ahead for Peak Season

Kevin Lawton, host of The New Warehouse podcast, discusses the major shifts in the warehouse and supply chain industry, including a shift from the idea of a fully automated warehouse to a focus on collaborative robotics and enabling workers to do more with less. Lawton also talks about the evolution of technology in warehouses and predicts that humanoid robots will play a bigger role in the future. He emphasizes the importance of gaining on-floor experience in the industry and highlights the exciting innovations in automated loading and unloading of containers. Lawton shares some of the standout episodes from his podcast and discusses his plans for future educational content, including his Warehouse Wisdom Wednesdays newsletter, which you can sign up for here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:11 Naming The New Warehouse Podcast 04:46 Major Shifts in the Warehouse and Supply Chain Industry 07:00 Evolution of Technology in Warehouses 09:21 Predicting the Future of Warehouses by 2030 14:23 Advice for Those Entering the Warehouse Industry 16:08 Exciting Innovations and Developments in the Warehouse Sector 18:35 Standout Episodes and Stories from The New Warehouse Podcast 22:26 Changing Perspective on the Industry 24:08 Future Plans for The New Warehouse Podcast

Anthony Pendola, Senior Manager of Distribution at Fleet Feet, and John Santagate, Senior Vice President of Robotics at Korber Supply Chain Software, talk about the benefits of humans and robots working together in a warehouse setting. They discuss the collaboration between Fleet Feet and Korber, the integration of robots into warehouse operations, the roles and responsibilities of workers and robots, the impact on efficiency and productivity, and the future outlook for robot-human collaboration. - 01:49 Collaboration between Fleet Feet and Korber - 04:59 Integrating Robots into Warehouse Operations - 06:07 Defining Roles and Responsibilities of Workers and Robots - 08:00 Employee Response and Transition to Working with Robots - 11:57 Impact on Efficiency and Productivity 15:00- Future Outlook for Robot-Human Collaboration - 24:36Key Takeaway: Robots are not as challenging or complex as they may seem

Thomas Stearman, the Director of Industrial Engineering at UPS, discusses the importance of pick velocity — how fast items can be picked and prepared for shipment. UPS has implemented strategies such as batch picking, warehouse execution systems, and automation technologies to improve pick velocity. These technologies have not only increased efficiency but also improved employee satisfaction and reduced turnover.

Learn about the Warehouse Automation Matters podcast and why warehouse managers and operators should tune in.