As the fervour of the opening day of IntraLogisteX 2024 winds down, it’s time to reflect on the exhilarating highlights that graced today’s [19 March] conferences at the event’s bustling venue, the NEC Birmingham.
With a plethora of enlightening sessions spanning across multiple theatres, attendees were treated to a captivating glimpse into the future of logistics.
At the helm of the conference lies the IntraLogisteX keynote stage. This was complemented by the Robotics and Automation conference stage and the Sustainable Supply Chain Exhibition stage, all integral parts of the co-located IntraLogisteX event alongside the Robotics and Automation Exhibition. A new addition this year, the Sustainable Supply Chain Exhibition, further enriched the event atmosphere, paving the way for a fusion of cutting-edge technology and visionary insights into the future of sustainability.
The day commenced with a resounding keynote address on the IntraLogisteX stage by Matt Harling, senior business development manager at Invar Group. Titled “When should my business consider automation and what factors should I consider before adopting automation?” Harling unraveled the intricacies of automation deployment, guiding attendees through key decision points and strategic considerations.
He commented: “Efficacy is paramount; while automation can yield tremendous benefits, it can also have adverse effects if not implemented correctly, leading to a chain reaction of issues further down the supply chain. It’s essential to enhance specific capabilities and consider every aspect at every level.”
Harling also noted during his session that when considering automation it’s imperative to prioritise safety, repetitive tasks, scalability for long-term planning, cost efficiency, consistency and quality in messaging, effective data management, staying updated with market demands, achieving high-volume goals, addressing strategic objectives like reducing carbon footprint and embracing technological advancements.
In an era where sustainability is paramount, MiTEQ and The Pallet Loop stepped forward to address the pressing challenge within the construction supply chain, boasting a staggering 20 million assets to recover and re-use.
The session, also hosted on the IntraLogisteX stage, provided an enlightening exploration into leveraging radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to foster sustainability and bolster profitability for businesses.
Alex Whiting, managing director at MiTEQ, shared during the session: “Our focus lies in enhancing visibility and management of assets through RFID technology. Navigating the complexities of RFID implementation for maximum return of investment can be daunting, yet pivotal. From transport and retail logistics to energy and utilities, asset management technologies are revolutionising operations. By leveraging technology to tag and track assets, organisations stand to reap significant benefits, particularly in improving sales and streamlining operations.
“Additionally, as we expand into aviation, field services, and healthcare, the imperative to automate data management becomes increasingly evident. From smart pallets in warehousing to seamless integration with existing infrastructure, our aim is clear: to meet your vision for tomorrow while exceeding expectations today.”
In an overview of active safety and accident prevention in the workplace, Darren Horrigan, national sales manager for active safety at Troax, emphasised the critical role of active safety measures in fostering a safer and more efficient environment. By promoting a positive safety culture, organisations empower employees to prioritise their wellbeing. Horrigan also explained technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the approach to health and safety, enabling proactive measures.
As day one of IntraLogisteX 2024 comes to a close, anticipation mounts for the wealth of knowledge and revelations that await on the second and final day. With more expert speakers on the agenda to deliver insightful presentations, tomorrow promises another day of unparalleled learning and discovery.
