C O V E R
S T O R Y
Warehouse
Automation
What���s driving it and how
material handling manufacturers,
integrators, and warehouse
providers are responding.
By LARA L. SOWINSKI
T
here are several overarching themes driving the push for more automation
inside the four walls. Some relate to changing demographics in the labor
force, others to how consumers are shopping today, and let���s not overlook
the constant striving for more efficiency, productivity and cost reduction.
Collectively, these forces are creating an almost manic effort throughout
the industry���spanning the continuum from material handling manufacturers all
the way to warehouse operators���to automate operations wherever possible. Let���s
take a look at what���s driving warehouse automation and how it���s manifesting in
new equipment, technology and processes.
E-commerce and omni-channel retailing
Without a doubt, e-commerce and omni-channel retailing together are largely
responsible for a significant amount of activity surrounding warehouse automation.
It���s fair to say there has been a full-on explosion in the number of consumers who
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013
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