Cognex Introduces Checker 4G Series

Cognex Corporation today announced the addition of the Checker® 4G Series to its line of vision sensors. The new Checker 4G Series complements the existing Checker 3G Series, which features simple USB connectivity and no PC setup with the SensorView® teach pendant.

Checker 4G allows the user to configure the sensor as a presence sensor or measurement sensor to inspect and error proof his manufacturing process.  Presence sensors verify that features are present.  Measurement sensors verify that features are the correct height, width and/or diameter.  In either mode, there is no limit to the number of part features that a single Checker can “check”. With patented part detection technology, Checker sensors are also able to detect and inspect over 6,000 parts per minute in varying positions along the production line.

"With our new Checker 4G Series, customers can realize many of the benefits of a networked vision sensor over Ethernet including the ability to easily communicate with factory automation devices and remotely monitor and manage vision sensor activity throughout the manufacturing process," said Pascal Dorster, Vision Sensors Business Unit Manager.

 

 

 

Anver's Vacuum Lifter Handles Flimsy Loads

A new air-powered vacuum lifter that enables one person to handle foam, rubber, plastic, composite, and thin wood sheet for feeding cutting tables and other equipment is being introduced by Anver Corporation.

The Anver VPFL-4 Air-Powered Lifter for flimsy loads has main beams and cross bars sized as necessary, and multiple vacuum suction cups with top and bottom spring suspensions to hold securely and provide full X-Y-Z adjustability.  Featuring an adjustable handlebar and integrated controls, this lifter lets one person handle loads previously requiring several people.

Capable of handling moderately porous to non-porous loads, the Anver VPFL-4 Air-Powered Lifter is a below-the-hook unit that runs on standard shop air.   It requires only 8” of head room and is available with parking stands to protect the vacuum cups.  Standard features include an air filter, vacuum check valve, vacuum gauge and a leakage sensor with audio-visual alarms. The Anver VPFL-4 Air-Powered Lifter is priced from $ 2,995 (list), depending upon configuration.  Price quotations are available upon request.

 

 

Lancer Sides With Safety

For specialist handling solutions it always pays – in every sense – to turn to the specialist manufacturer, and when it comes to side loading forklift trucks then the established name to note is Lancer. The side loading design is especially suitable for long, horizontal and what could be deemed as awkward loads – within for example the steel, piping, timber and window industries. All Lancer trucks can cope with handling long loads inside, outside, on uneven ground and gradients and over long distances.

Capacities range from 2 to 35 tons and cover two main formats – the electric fourway sideloader and the IC version fourway sideloader. The “environment and energy friendly” Electric version solves all materials handling tasks. The four individual model ranges and a full choice of optional equipment enables the sideloader to fit any application. Standard advanced features of all Lancer trucks include multi-purpose lighting, anti-slip water resistant panels, wide comfortable cabins with adjustable seats and tinted safety glass, armored roofs plus protective grills, variable temperature and wiper controls, height adjustable steering incorporating operating functions and pre-controlled hydraulics with joystick operation.

 

Michael Kramer Joins Michelman

Michelman recently announced the hiring of Michael Kramer as its Chemical Specialties R&D Manager. Kramer will be based at the company’s headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, and will be responsible for the global chemical specialties R&D activities, including project and technology leadership, technical service and laboratory management.  He will also serve on the company’s technology leadership team.

Kramer earned a Ph.D. in Polymer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi and has over 15 years of technology experience in the specialty chemical industry, including experience in radiation-curable and water-based technology, industrial coatings, powder coatings, pressure-sensitive adhesives and printing inks.

 

 

Gasco Names Kevin Wilson National Sales Manager

Gasco Affiliates has appointed Kevin Wilson as national sales manager to direct sales efforts supporting Gasco’s impending new product introductions for the specialty gas market. A 23-year veteran of the specialty gas and instrumentation industry with more than 30 years of sales experience, Wilson is responsible for developing and executing sales and launch strategies for Gasco’s new product initiatives. He will focus on raising awareness of Gasco’s commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative products and exceptional customer service among new and existing customers.

Gasco president Tom Hanway said Wilson will play a key role in ensuring the company achieves multiple successful new product launches through the addition of new distributors and by fostering an increased dedication to Gasco products from its existing national distributor network. “Gasco changed the industry’s view of ‘standard’ with the recent introduction of the 44, an innovative new cylinder that holds 44 liters of gas in a standard 34-liter cylinder,” Hanway said. “We are confident Kevin will build on the momentum of that product launch to ensure continued success as we introduce more new product innovations to the industry this year.”

 

 

U.S. Industrial Production up in December

Industrial production rose in December by the largest amount in five months, providing the economy with solid momentum heading into the new year, the Associated Press reports. Activity at the nation's factories, mines and utilities increased 0.8 percent last month, the Federal Reserve said Friday. Industrial production was up in every month but one in 2010. Overall industrial activity has risen 11 percent since hitting its recession low in June 2009, but it is still 6 percent below its peak reached in September 2007.

Factory production, the biggest slice of industrial output, rose 0.4 percent, the sixth straight monthly increase. Makers of computers and electronic products, clothing and leather, chemicals and other products were among the industries seeing gains. But auto production dipped. "Manufacturing looks like it is doing its job and moving the economy ahead," said John Silvia, chief economist at Wells Fargo.

 

Johnson Controls Breaks Ground on Battery Recycling Facility

Johnson Controls, Inc. recently broke ground on a fully-integrated battery recycling facility in Florence, S.C. The Florence Recycling Center, slated for completion during 2012 and to be operated by Johnson Controls' Power Solutions business, represents a capital investment of more than $150 million, will create an estimated 250 new jobs and approximately 1,000 indirect jobs in the area. The facility is the first facility of its kind to receive an air permit in the U.S. in nearly 20 years.

As part of the groundbreaking, Johnson Controls introduced the facility's plant manager, Steven Ewart, who has been with the company since 1999. Prior to joining Johnson Controls, he served for 12 years as an officer for the U.S. Army Armor Corps. Ewart and his family are relocating to Florence from Fort Wayne, Ind., where he was plant manager at a battery distribution center.

The facility will be located directly off of US-76, on Paper Mill Road.  Johnson Controls plans to develop 36 acres of the site for its new facility and parking, with the remaining acreage undeveloped.  Portions of this undeveloped acreage will be permanently protected through a conservation easement.  

 

Trelleborg Moves Corporate Offices

Trelleborg Wheel Systems Americas, Inc. has completed the move of its North American corporate offices in Ohio. “We are very pleased with our new location. The city of Fairlawn has been very welcoming,” said Ydo Doornbos, Managing Director of Trelleborg Wheel Systems Americas, Inc. The new office is the home of the Industrial Tire and the Agricultural Tire divisions. The main Ohio Distribution Center is located in Akron, Ohio. The Hartville location will remain open as a satellite distribution center.

 

Winners, Losers in "New Normal" Economy: Top 10 differences By Stuart Morley

How is it that companies that have been around for more than 100 years failed in this economic downturn while other younger companies like Apple, Facebook, WalMart and The Huffington Post continued to grow? It is a similar picture for many lesser-known, mid-sized companies: some have failed and others have thrived, irrespective of their industry, size or location.

It is the best of times and the worst of times. Too many businesses are reacting in fear, pulling back and struggling. There are 10 key differences between a thriving company and a floundering one in this economy. Ask yourself, are you:

Sticking to your industry or crossing the boundaries?

The struggling businesses spend a lot of time try to copy the “big guys” in their industry and wonder why this approach does not work for them. Successful businesses seem to ignore the big guys and focus on current and prospective customers. When probed further it was found that many of these successful businesses are finding opportunities at the overlap of two or more industries. These businesses try to follow the example of companies like Cirque Du Soleil who combined elements of both the circus and theatre industries in better venues than the average circus. Is your company looking for opportunities at the boundaries of your industry?

Focusing on economists or customers?

Embattled businesses seem to be consumed by watching and reading about bad economic news trying to understand the mind of economists. The successful businesses seldom have time to watch TV or read a newspaper. It does not mean they don’t hear the bad news; it is everywhere. They just don’t dwell on it. They are busy watching and reading about their customers and going to customer events, customer trade shows and customer seminars to better understand their mind of the customer.When did you last did you go to a customer trade show or event rather than events for your industry?

Focusing on price or value?

We all know stories of airline passengers paying 10 times the price of other passengers. This approach works in many industries. Service can be escalated based on value and delivered to some clients who would pay ten times as much for the added value. The struggling businesses are stuck in commodity-type situations with very little price flexibility. The successful businesses find ways to get price control and avoid competition because they are better at articulating their value and using different ways to price their services. How much control do you have over your pricing?

Talking to industry leaders or to employees?

It is amazing how much time business leaders will devote to their industry events. They sit on committees and attend conferences for their own industries, spending more time talking to competitors and industry gurus than they do talking to employees who are in daily contact with customers. The successful businesses seldom send people to events in their industry. They spend more time reviewing employee surveys than industry surveys. Have you recently asked employees about what customers are saying that could open the door to new products and services?

Preparing for best of times or the worst of times?

The struggling businesses are clinging to their existing products and services and focusing on cutting costs in all areas to protect cash in the short term. These businesses assume things are only going to get worse. However the successful businesses say they are seeing more volatility and they are having some of their best months and some of their worst months all in the same year. Thriving businesses are focused on finding things that will help them in the good months and the bad months. They are breathing life into more experiments with new product and service ideas than ever before. Analysis has shown that most of their revenues today come from products and services they did not offer a few years ago. How much of your revenues and profits come products and services you did not offer a few years ago?

Focusing on jobs or projects?

The most dynamic companies today have 80% of their employees spend more of their time on projects and only 20% doing routine work. It seems the struggling businesses are caught up in traditional management hierarchies where employees are viewed as having routine job descriptions. Management wants employees to do the routine work faster, rather than finding the next breakthrough opportunity. Successful businesses seem to recognize and manage projects carefully, as they find this is where they generate most of the new ideas and breakthroughs. How much of your company is project focused versus routine focused?

Doing more or less?

We are so busy we tend to stick with existing methods because we don't have enough time to stop, reflect, research, and implement better methods. The struggling businesses add new work to employees’ to-do lists. The successful businesses have regular exercises to find things to stop doing, so that employees can find free time to do new things. When is the last time your company had an exercise to see what you could stop doing?

Standardizing or living at the edge of chaos?

The struggling businesses seem to love installing new, complicated (often computer-based) accounting, manufacturing or supply chain systems because that is what the big companies in the industry have done. They hope this will be the “silver bullet” to solve all their problems. These large complicated systems work well in situations where all the variables are known. However, successful businesses tend to avoid these large complicated systems because they felt they were not in control of all the variables that impacted their business. Complicated systems cannot function in complex environments where many variables are unknown. Successful companies use a wide range of smaller, flexible systems focused on tracking customers and trends rather than tracking employees and financial history. Is your business complex or complicated?

Keeping your financials secret or sharing with employees?

Many successful businesses have learned that, in the tough times, sharing the news, good and bad, with all employees at all levels works. This empowers employees to act with confidence, as they know they whole story. The success rate with the turnaround increases dramatically with this one step. Successful businesses encourage their workforce to perform less like employees and more like entrepreneurial-minded, strategic partners. They also take time to celebrate successes, both big and small. How much do you share and celebrate with employees?

Working long hours or take more holidays?

Business owners and managers in struggling businesses seem to work longer hours in the vain hope that putting their head down and doing more of the same is the solution. The successful businesses focus on doing things differently. Successful businesses owners and managers work fewer hours and take more holidays; they have realized that when times get tough it is usually because customers are buying less. They need an answer to why customers are buying less from them. The successful business owners and managers tell us they find their best thinking is done away from the office in situations that are less stressful. When last did you work fewer hours in the week or take an extra holiday?

Do you have what it takes to thrive, and not just survive, in this “new normal” economy? Keep your business in mind, and see how many of these 10 questions you have addressed lately. It may give you a clue as to how well you are turning these worst of times into the best of times.

About the Author

Stuart Morley is the founder and Master Strategist with JUMP, a division of Morley & Associates Inc. Stuart has worked with more than 300 mid market clients to facilitate companies transitioning for growth and profitability. Stuart is an author of “Weather the Storm. A Survival Guide For Mid Market Organizations.” For more information email him at stuart@brsjump.com, visit his website at www.brsjump.com or call (705) 646-7722.

 

 

FastPic Systems Introduces FastPic5 Inventory Management

FastPic5 inventory management and control software from FastPic Systems provides a batch handling function that improves the throughput and productivity of industrial material pick and put operations. In single pick operations, an operator may visit the same storage location multiple times when picking orders throughout their shift. With batch picking, an operator only visits each storage location one time during the batch, increasing productivity by up to 2/3.FastPic5 software allows users to use static, dynamic or operator defined batching to meet specific order fulfillment needs. In addition, FastPic5 software also allows the batch picking process to be interrupted with "hot picks"—individual picks that must be made to customer delivery expectations. The hot pick is simply added to the top of the queue to pick next. After the pick the operator returns to picking the batched orders. FastPic5 software is designed to manage manual and automated storage and retrieval systems and can be configured to control single workstations and multiple work zones.

 

 

 

 

Megamat RS to be Featured at ProMat

Kardex Remstar has introduced the new Megamat RS Vertical Carousel, the fusion of reliability and security in a new generation of vertical carousel technology. The new Megamat RS vertical carousel will be on display at Promat in Chicago McCormick Place, March 21-24 in Kardex Remstar booth #2919. The Megamat RS vertical carousel features reduced lifecycle costs, an improved structure with interchangeable carriers and multiple control options while maintaining the key objectives of vertical carousel technology-saving organizations time, space and money. "Our design engineers have been collaborating intensively to develop a new generation of our popular vertical carousel warehousing system," explains Colman Roche, Vice President of Sales, Kardex Remstar. "They have focused on maintaining optimum quality standards and a responsible and cost-conscious consumption of resources." With innovative design and technology improvements, the Megamat RS vertical carousel maintains the key objectives of vertical carousel technology-saving organizations time, space and money- by increasing productivity by 2/3 and reducing floor space requirements by 75 percent when compared to manual storage systems.

 

 

 

Hamilton Caster Introduces New Swivel Technology

The Hamilton engineering department is proud to unveil Hamilton’s next generation swivel technology: HPI™. HPI™ or Hamilton Precision Integrated, can be found on select series of Hamilton’s heavy duty forged steel casters with load capacities ranging from 600 - 23,000 lbs. per caster.  HPI™ outperforms conventional CNC-machined ball raceways, kingpinless, and unit load bearing swivel constructions. The new design improves the bearing’s element of contact and more than doubles the number of contact points. The new HPI™ raceways are also 45 percent harder than conventional hardened raceways and the surface finish is an incredibly smooth 16 micro inches. Casters equipped with the HPI technology have shown to swivel more easily under heavy load and outlast conventional swivel raceways in 24/7 operations such as automatic guided vehicles (AVGs) and tow-line carts. Many of Hamilton’s popular forged steel caster series have been upgraded and HPI™ is now standard equipment on the Maxi-Duty (MD/MDD), Enhanced Precision Super Duty (EPSD), Extra Heavy Duty (EHD), & Extended Services (ES) Series.  Most other standard series can be upgraded to HPI™ as an option.

 

 

 

Terex Corporation Appoints Doug Friesen Senior Vice President

Terex Corporation recently announced it has appointed Doug Friesen as Senior Vice President, Terex Business System (TBS). Friesen is currently Vice President and Managing Director, Terex Cranes Demag, in Zweibrucken, Germany. He will transition to his new role over the next several months and report directly to Ron DeFeo, Terex Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Doug Friesen will be responsible for developing and implementing the Terex Business System to accelerate the enterprise-wide transformation of Terex into a world-class, customer-focused operating company," DeFeo said.

Friesen joined Terex in 2005 as Vice President and General Manager, North America, Terex Cranes. In 2008 he led the team that received a Chairman's Excellence Award in recognition of the outstanding financial performance of the Terex Cranes facility in Waverly, Iowa. Prior to joining Terex, he held senior leadership roles with General Motors and Toyota, and has extensive training and experience in implementing lean business processes. Since mid-2008, Friesen has led Terex Cranes Zweibrucken operations. Friesen will be transitioning his responsibilities for Terex Cranes Demag and new leadership will be identified in the coming months.

 

 

 

AAR Reports Rail Traffic Up in First Week of 2011

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) today reported rail traffic was up for the first week in 2011 ending Jan. 8, with U.S. freight railroads originating 285,108 carloads, up 20.1 percent compared with the same week last year. Intermodal traffic for the week totaled 213,665 trailers and containers, up 8.6 percent compared with the same week in 2010, with container volume up 10 percent and trailer volume up 1 percent. Several changes to the carload commodity groups took effect this week including the addition of two new groups, Iron and Steel Scrap (Group 18) and Waste and Nonferrous Scrap (Group 19). Canadian railroads reported volume of 70,742 cars for the week, up 5.4 percent from last year, and 44,314 trailers or containers, up 3.4 percent from 2010. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 12,959 cars, down 1.1 percent from the same week last year, and 6,059 trailers or containers, up 2.9 percent from 2010. Combined North American rail volume for the first week of 2011 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 368,809 carloads, up 16.1 percent from last year, and 264,038 trailers and containers, up 7.5 percent from 2010.

 

 

Sunbelt Rentals Acquires Empire

Ashtead Group PLC announced last week that its U.S. subsidiary, Sunbelt Rentals Inc., has acquired Empire for an initial consideration of approximately $38 million, which was paid in cash at closing. An additional $1.5 million of additional cash consideration may also become payable depending on Empire’s profits in the year through Aug. 31, 2011.

Empire, based in Baton Rouge, La., with seven branches in the states of Louisiana, Texas, Alabama and Tennessee, is a specialist provider of scaffold rental, erection and dismantlement services to principally an industrial customer base in Gulf Coast petrochemical industries. In the fiscal year ending Aug. 31, 2010, Empire reported revenues of $42 million and a pre-tax profit of $4 million. Its gross assets $35 million.

“We are delighted to conclude this acquisition which is firmly in line with our long term strategy of developing high value added specialty businesses which broaden our product offering and the markets we serve and provide us with significant cross selling opportunities,” chief executive Geoff Drabble said. “Empire will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary within Sunbelt’s scaffold division with its key managers all remaining with the business.”

 

 

 

Manitowoc Company Completes Sale of Kysor/Warren

The Manitowoc Company, Inc. has announced the completion of its previously announced divestiture of Kysor/Warren and Kysor/Warren de Mexico to Lennox International for $138 million. Manitowoc will use the net proceeds of approximately $124 million from this sale to further reduce its secured debt and financial leverage. The Manitowoc Company, Inc. is a multi-industry, capital goods manufacturer with nearly 100 manufacturing, distribution, service, and/or office facilities in 26 countries. It is recognized as one of the world's largest providers of lifting equipment for the global construction industry, including lattice-boom cranes, tower cranes, mobile telescopic cranes, and boom trucks.

Manitowoc also is one of the world's leading innovators and manufacturers of commercial foodservice equipment serving the ice, beverage, refrigeration, food prep, and cooking needs of restaurants, convenience stores, hotels, healthcare, and institutional applications.

 

 

Fear: The Basic Enemy of Success By Dr. Rick Johnson

Fear can stop you in your tracks. Fear is an emotion that if left uncontrolled can ruin any chance of success. The biggest fear many of us experience is the “Fear of Failure.” The only way to develop confidence is to address and overcome the fear of failure.

For 10 years I did corporate turn-a-rounds of financially troubled companies. During that period I was often asked; “Why would you take over a company that was in a death spiral approaching bankruptcy?” My answer was simple and it was based on the premise that I had no fear of failure. I simply stated a fact. “Why not, there is no failure. If I turn it around I am a hero. If I don’t it simply means nobody could.”

A basic principle of success in developing confidence is overcoming the fear of failure.  During my early years as a consultant our firm had the privilege of interviewing numerous very successful CEO’s and entrepreneurs that had proven success track records. A common trait found in every single one of these success stories was the fact that they were all risk takers. They simply were not afraid of failure. Their risks were generally calculated but they were risks just the same.

Early childhood development experts confirm that instilling confidence starts with allowing kids to fail at an early age. That is one reason I adamantly oppose the no score sporting events for young kids that many people are now promoting. Everybody gets a trophy even if your team sucks. Kids need to learn how to fail and it is just as important as learning how to win. One of the toughest mentoring moments for a leader is to learn to let his employees fail. Applying this concept does not mean letting them make a mistake that will put you out of business but it does mean paying attention to what happens when someone does step up and attempt to do more than the specific task requirement. It means letting them fail but being there to catch them when they fall. It becomes a tremendous mentoring opportunity if you do it right. Put yourself in their shoes. If you are positively noticed for trying something new - and not just chastised if the outcome was unsuccessful, what will it do the next time business throws you something that just does not quite fit the usual job description?

Confidence Creates a Positive Attitude

Employees that have a fear of failure often lack self-confidence. Some may even have a self-esteem problem. Lack of confidence by employees can have a detrimental effect on the organization as a whole. Productivity often suffers in the absence of self-confidence because if a person lacks the confidence to accomplish a task, they will hold back their effort because they fear failure.

The sales force is probably the worst place for the company to find a lack of confidence or fear of failure. Most effective sales people are extremely confident and in fact many have large egos. It’s almost a requirement due to the fact that rejection is a part of the life of an outside sales person. Sales will suffer if a sales person lacks self-confidence. Fear of Failure and the lack of confidence breeds intimidation, apathy and an unwillingness to go the extra mile to secure the order. This could be critical to the overall sales strategy. The sales manager must be keenly aware of the passion level and confidence level of every sales person under them.

Management is NOT Immune to the ‘Fear of Failure’

The fear of failure can also impact the level of self-confidence in mid-level managers. It is not uncommon for a manager to address some tough issues with employees and if they elect not to address those issues they set precedent and may even create a different culture that allows less than acceptable performance. The lack of confidence and fear of failure can become very contagious and if it isn’t recognized early on it can permeate an organization. This can cause a devastating effect on growth and profitability. Fear of failure stifles Innovation for those charged with developing new ideas. Innovative ideas are not brought forward, nor discussed. New ideas are kept to oneself in the hopes that person won't be criticized. It can also create a roadblock to effective communication, marketing and service.

Communications suffers in the presence of a lack of self-confidence. People who don't have confidence don't speak up. Things are left unsaid and, by default, internalized. If it's not out in the open, it can never be dealt with. Marketing suffers when the marketing team lacks self-confidence. "This idea probably won't work anyway." That's a likely statement from a marketing department employee with no self-confidence and so the idea goes nowhere. The point is, people are the reason companies succeed and people are the reason companies fail. It is a primary responsibility of management to make sure they have a finger on the pulse of employee attitude, confidence, emotion and self-worth. Keep your employees confident with an attitude of success and the company won’t ever have to worry about the “Fear of Failure.”

 

 

 

Phoenix Products Offers New Dock Light

Phoenix Products Company, Inc. has announced the release of the new Phoenix FLEX LED docklite®. The Phoenix FLEX LED docklite® provides light comparable to an incandescent dock light with a 150W PAR38 lamp. The FLEX LED is designed for the general illumination of a truck trailer. Using light emitting diodes (LEDs) with an average rated life of 50,000 hours and a 12º beam angle, this fixture is energy efficient and relatively maintenance free. Operating on only 16W, the LED head offers an 84 percent energy savings over an incandescent dock light with a 150W lamp. Vented to maintain the longevity of the LEDs, the FLEX LED housing is made from a high-temperature polymer and is designed to resist denting, deflection and wear. All hardware and mounting bracket are made from zinc-plated steel to resist corrosion. The fixture is also designed to fit any standard electrical outlet with a 3-prong plug.

 

 

MCFA Adds Jungheinrich Branded Products

Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc. (MCFA), has announced the addition of three new Jungheinrich®-branded warehouse products to its North American product line. “The addition of the new Jungheinrich products allows us to provide our customers with further equipment choices for the warehousing industry,” said Jeff Rufener, vice president of marketing, MCFA. “As one of the world´s leading companies in material handling, Jungheinrich continues to develop new products that offer first-class ergonomics and specialized solutions. With the help of our extensive dealer network, MCFA has the ability to help North American businesses increase productivity and efficiency with newer and more technologically-advanced products.” The three new warehouse products include the EZS 570NA Tow Tractor – 15,400 lbs. capacity; EKS 208/308 Order Picker – 2,200 – 3,000 lbs. capacity; and ETV Q20/ETV Q25 Multi-directional Reach Truck – 4,400 – 5,500 lbs. capacity. The newly-introduced Class 2 and 3 warehouse products are the latest development from Jungheinrich AG’s manufacturing and distribution agreement with MCFA. Under the agreement, MCFA serves as the exclusive distributor of Jungheinrich-branded warehouse products in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

 

 

 

Superior Tire & Rubber Corp. Hires New Director of Marketing

Superior Tire & Rubber Corp. has hired Apipong Nakayuenyongsuk as director of marketing. Nakayuenyongsuk previously worked at Superior Tire & Rubber Corp. as a summer intern in 2009. He graduated in spring 2010 with an MBA in Marketing, Strategy and Finance from Carnegie Mellon University. Nakayuenyongsuk previously worked for four years in sales and marketing for Michelin Asia.

 

 

 

Schneider Packaging Debuts Tissue Tough Case Packer

Schneider Packaging Equipment recently introduced the Tissue Tough case packer (TTCP), for versatile case packing of single or multiple rolled and folded tissue product lines and multiple SKUs. Schneider’s Tissue Tough case packer combines gentle product handling with the durable construction required to handle tissue and towel case packing. Ergonomically designed for easy case removal, quick adjustments and rapid setup and recovery, the TTCP is an ideal low cost solution for efficient side or end load RSC or HSC cases.  The integrated design incorporates case-erecting, collation, loading, folding and sealing.  These rugged machines are optimized to accommodate production floor space requirements and are available with an Auto KDF Loader option for case magazine loading. Available in multiple layouts and configurations, each system can be fully integrated with palletizing, stretch wrapping, labeling, product and pallet transport conveyor, pallet dispensing, and slip sheet dispensing for a complete fully automatic solution. 

 

Wittich Joins Remcon Plastics

Remcon Plastics, Inc. has hired Benjamin F. Wittich as continuous improvement leader to lead the Continuous Improvement Team and implement Lean Manufacturing best practices on the plant floor of its facility.

Wittich is responsible for implementing innovative business solutions to build and sustain a strong lean culture within the Remcon workforce. Over the next year, he will train and mentor six employees in lean manufacturing tools and practices. Wittich is charged with identifying and eliminating or reducing the seven types of waste from Remcon production processes, boosting process capacity by 37 percent for the year. Wittich manages two employees on the Continuous Improvement Team.

Wittich graduated from Pennsylvania State University, in the Smeal College of Business, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain and Information Systems. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, Zeta Chapter and is still active in its alumni association.

 

 

 

Maslanyk Named VP of Sales & Marketing at CLARK

CLARK Material Handling Company has announced the promotion of Bo Maslanyk to Vice President of Sales & Marketing, effective immediately.

In this new position, Maslanyk will have responsibility for sales, marketing and communication activities related to new and used equipment, national and major accounts sales. He will continue to serve as a key member on the CLARK global marketing team to ensure that CLARK’s position in the material handling industry continues to be recognized as a top major brand.

“For the past four years, Bo has been instrumental in helping CLARK attain and grow market share and brand recognition for CLARK," said Dennis Lawrence, CLARK’s President and CEO. “He consistently ensures that we have the right programs, products, strategies and effective marketing efforts to drive us forward in the marketplace. His ability to maintain and build partnerships and relationships with our customers and dealers has been a key to our success.”

 

 

 

Nominations Open for Women in Trucking Award

The Women In Trucking Association and Navistar Inc. have created an annual award to honor the trucking industry’s most influential woman. The inaugural award will be given at a reception to be held during the Truckload Carriers Association conference in San Diego, Calif., on March 15, 2011. 

 “We are excited to be able to honor a woman who has been influential in the trucking industry,” said Ellen Voie, President/CEO of Women In Trucking.  “This award will further our mission to celebrate the success already evidenced by those have led us through a very male dominated career environment.”

“Women lead the trucking industry in many different roles,” said Anne Belec, Chief Marketing Officer, Navistar Inc.  This award is designed to shine a spotlight on some of that great leadership in hopes of inspiring other women to join our industry.”

Award candidates are defined as women who make or influence key decisions in a corporate, manufacturing, supplier, owner-operator, driver, sales or dealership setting.  The individual must have a proven record of responsibility and mentored or served as a role model to other women in the industry. The woman does not have to currently hold the position for which her work is nominated, but she must be a living individual.

Nominations are now being accepted for this award and must be submitted before the Jan. 31, 2011 deadline.  Judges for the award will be Howard Abramson; Transport Topics Publisher, Tom Nightingale; Chief Marketing Officer, Con-way, Inc. and Anne Belec.  More information about the award can be found at www.womenintrucking2011.org.

 

 

 

 

JLG Telehandlers Now Equipped with Firestone Tires

JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company, recently announced an agreement with Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, Off Road Tire division for the exclusive supply of the Firestone DuraForce MH tires on JLG®, Lull® and SkyTrak®  branded telehandlers.
 
“JLG and Bridgestone Americas Off Road collaborated to create the Firestone DuraForce MH that will set a new industry standard by increasing tire life up to 300 percent,” said Brian Boeckman, JLG Industries global director of product management for telehandlers. “The result is a tire that dramatically improves the cost of ownership for all three telehandler brands.”
 
The low profile tire design minimizes the opportunity for sidewall damage while the unique self-cleaning tread coupled with low ground bearing pressure optimizes performance in rough terrain conditions. Fewer tire and rim combinations mean fewer parts to stock and reduced inventory-carrying costs for JLG distribution.

 

Business Planning for 2011 By: Dr. Bart A. Basi

With the start of a new tax year and the economy now in recovery mode, this is the best time to update the strategy for your business.  Too often business people wait until late in the year to do their planning.  While there are some actions that can be taken at that point, those who work proactively throughout the year implementing business and tax strategies fare far better than those who put planning off to the last minute.  There are plenty of items and tax planning that should be attended to throughout the year.  Lets look at some of the basic concepts.

Business operations

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), the economy is now in recovery.  While it still feels like a harsh recession, hiring has improved and many publications, including the federal Beige Book, give reason to find optimism.  Now is the time that businesses should work hard to increase revenue and look to hire additional staff.  Lately, the trend has been that American businesses hire temporary staff ahead of hiring full time employees; so start now to look at your labor needs and hire temporary staff that can become full time employees as the demand increases.  Business is predicted to pick up in the near future; it is therefore the appropriate time to ramp up man power.

Investments

Even though the country’s economy is now recovering, some lingering benefits of the recession are still around.  Instinctively, businesses tend to cut investments when business is slow.  Ordinarily, this response to the business stimuli would be appropriate. However, given increased Internal Revenue Code section 179 expense deductions and manufacturer’s incentives to purchase more investments like trucks, equipment, and even buildings, economic down turns tend to be excellent times to increase investments in business property, especially if the investments will create more efficiency in operations.  The superior financing and tax incentives during an economic downturn, and now subsequent recovery, are and usually do outweigh any benefit through saving money by cutting back on needed investments.  Further, if you do not reinvest now, you may have to reinvest later, when the tax and manufacturer’s incentives are not as good as they are today.

Financing

The economic down turn has also brought with it lower financing rates that are currently remaining in the recovery.  The financing on buildings and equipment may be eligible for lower refinancing rates.  Check with your bank to see if your current loans can be refinanced and determine what the rates are if you do purchase equipment and need financing.  Just be sure to check the fees and costs before committing to any refinancing.

Estate planning

Many business people have complex estates.  Along with the complexity, the average net worth of a business person is substantially higher than an employee.  On its current course, Congress has raised the estate tax exemption; if your estate is close to the new level, you need to consider estate planning.  Now with the changes in housing values, the potential increase in business value, individually owned retirement accounts and other sources of wealth, an average business person’s estate may very easily be over the maximum amount of the current or future tax exclusion amount.  It is best to begin estate planning early in the year so issues can be resolved throughout the year and the estate plan can have time to operate during the year.  Please review your total estate value and start the process of a complete estate planning process now.

Succession planning

Along with estate planning, comes business succession planning for those who own businesses.  Business succession planning is not as simple as drafting a will.  Business succession planning, when done properly, provides a smooth transition for the succeeding generation.  The process includes the valuation of the business and the creation of legal documents, such as a buy/sell agreement (the most important legal document a business owner can have.)  When succession planning is not done or is done improperly, it usually means the loss of the business and therefore the loss of your lifetime of hard work.  Don’t procrastinate, start the process now!

Beyond the items discussed above, there is plenty that can be done to improve your financial and tax situation throughout the year.  Too often people approach financial, tax, and business planning as an after-thought of running the operations of their business.  Operating a business in this manner does not afford the business person an opportunity to see the bigger picture.  Running a business without a plan to exit and retire is similar to driving a vehicle with no destination in mind.   Proper planning and implementation of an exit, succession and tax strategy allows you to keep more of your hard earned cash and allows you to have a better retirement when the time comes.  If you are not sure where to start or how to start, please contact the experts at the Center to assist you in your exit, succession and tax planning strategies.