Returning Bicycle Manufacturing to the U.S.

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by Barry Render

Kent International plans to produce 500,000 bikes in the U.S. in 2017, and more than 1 million by 2020.

Kent International plans to produce 500,000 bikes in the U.S. in 2017, and more than 1 million by 2020.

 

After decades of offshoring, bicycle manufacturing is coming back to the U.S. as overseas costs rise and companies realize the value of “local for local” production. “From hand-crafted boutique brands to high-volume manufacturing, U.S. bicycle makers are reshoring bike production,” writes Industry Week (Dec.8, 2016).  A confluence of factors are giving rise to new opportunities. Continue reading →

Using Drones to Take Inventory at Walmart

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by Barry Render

drone work in classic warehouse 3d image

Soon, the labyrinthine aisles at Walmart’s distribution centers — stocked high with canned beans, toys and many other products — could also have a low humming sound. The country’s largest retailer, reports Supply & Demand Chain Executive (June 6, 2016), is testing the use of flying drones to handle inventory at its large warehouses, which supply the thousands of Walmart stores throughout the nation. In 6-9 months, the machines may be used in its distribution centers.

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Google’s Self-driving Technology Creates a Revolution in Material Handling

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March 24, 2016

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ottoA swarm of robots will soon be overtaking John Deere’s Wisconsin  plant, reports New Equipment Digest (March, 2016). A fleet of new-generation AGVs will begin zipping through the lanes of the company’s assembly line, hauling parts and materials across the plant in an efficient, automated buzz. On the face of it, there is nothing too exciting about this news. Automated Guided Vehicles have been scurrying around pla Continue reading →