Conveyor Networks provides a one stop shop for complex automation systems, software, parts and after sales service and support (24/7).
With over 11 years’ experience in electrical, mechanical and control systems, as well as software development, Conveyor Networks delivers expert technology solutions primarily, but not exclusively, to the ecommerce/retail and FMCG logistics marketplaces.
Paul Archer – Automation Sales Manager at Conveyor Networks speaks to Warehouse & Logistics News.
What are your best-known products/solutions/services?
Wherever our customers find themselves, we ensure our smart warehouse technology delivers frictionless growth now and in the future. Whether it’s hardware, software, an integrated design or a complete system, we work with customers on their journey to a connected warehouse.
Which industry sectors are your customers in and which ones are growing fastest?
We provide technology solutions primarily, but not exclusively, to the ecommerce/retail and FMCG logistics marketplaces. Ecommerce in particular is witnessing explosive growth at the moment and there is no denying the pandemic has hastened the move to digital shopping for many UK customers. Ecommerce fulfilment now dominates space in distribution centres, as retailers need their sortation equipment to be fast and reliable to manage the volume of goods being moved.
What are your most recent product innovations?
In the last 12 months we have created really exciting partnerships with robotics and AI solutions manufacturers, such as Geek+ and Cimcorp. This technology is majorly disruptive in the automation industry compared, with more traditional ASRS and sortation solutions.
Adoption of robotic solutions is growing at a rapid pace. Businesses like Geek+ are leading the way designing robotics that are highly flexible and easy-to-use. As a UK distributor for Geek+ solutions, the benefits of fast improvement on warehouse efficiency and order fulfilment accuracy are significant for customers we work with.
What are the major trends and developments affecting your category and your customers, and how are you responding?
It’s becoming more evident that Covid-19 is signalling lasting change in the retail industry. Many retailers tell us they expect to see substantial growth in their online sales over the next 5 years. This new trend is creating a shift in the balance of demand. Retailers must now react with more speed. AMRs like those we provide from Geek+ offer rapid lead times, fantastic pay back periods, flexibility and scalability that have never been seen before in the industry.
Likewise, we are seeing disruptive trends in the FMCG sector as many move away from being a manufacturing business to become more customer and consumer-focussed. Covid-19 has highlighted the need to invest in supply chains to make sure they can withstand the pressure of demand.
Can you tell us about any recent customer contracts and how you helped the customer meet their challenges?
We recently signed a deal with a FMCG manufacturer that wanted to improve efficiency and resilience in their operations, through the adoption of automation. The requirement was to reduce labour reliance for palletising at the end of production lines. Our materials handling solution ensures they satisfy increasing volumes with the ability to handle 6000 cases per hour.
How does business in 2020 compare to previous years? What’s your strategy for succeeding in the current climate?
As the logistics and supply chain industry emerges post-coronavirus, there is a definite shift towards higher resilience, flexibility and robustness. Like everyone we saw an initial slump, but very quickly the industry became busy. There is still business to be done. The rise in ecommerce sales has presented a major opportunity in the market for smart warehouse technology, which we are primed to support with.
What’s the latest news from your company?
2020 has been a year of investment in our business. We’ve seen several new members join the team in both sales and software, ensuring we remain agile and responsive to our customer needs. In addition, we have received two major funding awards this year totalling over £200k, putting us in a strong position to enable streamlined growth of our software products portfolio. Our partnerships with companies such as, Geek+, Cimcorp, ProGlove and Ancra have propelled our service offering forward with the next level of advanced warehouse technology.
Can you tell us about any areas where you’re currently making technical advances?
Industrial sustainability has never been more prevalent than it is today. The supply chain and manufacturing sector is primed to enter a new dynamic phase, driven by rapid changes in technology, packaging innovations and availability of resources. We believe growth should come at a minimal environmental cost and are always looking at how we can develop our solutions, so they are as eco-friendly as possible. We are working on some exciting developments in paper packaging solutions for retailers in particular. Watch this space as we announce details soon!
Are you investing in staff training and skills development?
Our team thrives on challenge and innovation and we’re always looking to develop new skills and knowledge. Conveyor Networks is also an active supporter of youth employment, with success in both graduate and apprentice schemes.
Conveyor Networks
t: 01925 742888
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