This year has seen members of the Automated Material Handling Systems Association (AMHSA) inundated with enquiries for new logistics automation projects.
Secretary at AMHSA
The well-publicised labour shortages across UK warehouses have been pushing wages up, shifting the ROI on automation projects. In fact, labour availability is such a pressing issue that many companies believe automation to be the way forward at almost any cost. With much of the shift to e-commerce during the pandemic proving to be permanent, firms are restructuring their logistics around the new normal. The labour-intensive e-com order profile, coupled with ever-increasing consumer expectations for fast and flexible delivery, make automation the ideal solution.
Market to double
Coupled with the trend of digitalization – as companies aim to exploit technologies such as the IoT, augmented reality and artificial intelligence – the growth in e-commerce is driving sales of automated logistics systems. In fact the global warehouse automation market is predicted to more than double from $29.6 billion in 2020 to $69 billion in 2025 (source: Interact Analysis).
Automatic benefits
By handling the demanding order profile and higher return rate of e-commerce orders more quickly and easily than manual processes, automation can increase efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer service. In particular, automation helps with consolidation of items into a single shipment, minimizing returns through fulfilment accuracy and making returns rapidly available for resale.
Looking ahead
With IMHX, the UK’s largest logistics event, making a welcome return as an in-person exhibition in September 2022, next year is set to be a busy one. AMHSA will once again be actively involved in the show, promoting the advantages of automation through the ‘Meet the Experts’ seminar programme and showcasing the sector’s latest technologies in the AMHSA Pavilion.
Attracting talent
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds into the logistics industry remains a key focus. AMHSA continues to help recruit talent through its four-year apprenticeship programme, offered in partnership with automotive manufacturer, Toyota.
Industry voice
AMHSA will continue in its role as the voice of the automated intralogistics sector, having input into BSI and FEM to influence policy and industry standards. The association provides members with a rich programme of training workshops, networking events and other opportunities to share best practice.
Join us
AMHSA represents over 60 leading companies, which between them supply the overwhelming majority of the UK’s automated material handling equipment. AMHSA welcomes new members who share its commitment to promoting excellence in terms of solutions, after sales support, reliability and safety. For information, please call Matthew Jones on 01858 414229 or visit www.amhsa.co.uk
AMHSA
01858 414229
Comments are closed.