Warehouse Automation Matters
Warehouse Automation Matters is the essential podcast for warehouse managers and operators who are passionate about optimizing their operations. Hosted by Mary Hart of Locus Robotics, each episode delves into the real-world challenges and triumphs of warehouse professionals. We explore the strategies that keep orders flowing and ensure timely fulfillment. From cutting-edge automation technologies to practical insights on boosting efficiency, Warehouse Automation Matters provides invaluable tips and expert advice to help you stay ahead in the fast-paced world of warehouse management.
Episodes
Labor, Demand, and the New Rules of Warehouse Operations
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart spoke with Jim Shaw, President and Co-Founder of Zion Solutions Group, and Chip Steffey, Director of Sales, about how warehouse leaders are adapting operations as labor dynamics and demand patterns continue to shift.Drawing on decades of experience advising distribution and fulfillment operations, Shaw and Steffey discussed why traditional
From Film Reels to Fulfillment Robots
In this episode of “Warehouse Automation Matters,” host Mary Hart spoke with Kevin Sullivan, COO of Conectiv Supply Chain Solutions. They discussed the company's rich history in media and entertainment, the importance of flexibility in 3PL solutions, and how automation varies across different industries. Sullivan shared insights on balancing customization with scalability, the onboarding proce
Ever-Peak and 3PL Warehouse Automation
Fast is easy. Perfect is hard. Inside scale3PL’s playbook for the most demanding moment in supply chain history.In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart spoke with Adam Lawicki, Executive Vice President of Strategy at scale3PL, about the changing landscape of e-commerce fulfillment and the critical role of automation. They discussed the pressures brands face in a world where
Beyond Price: Choosing the Right 3PL Partner
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart interviews Bryan Corbett, VP of Sales and Marketing at Barrett Distribution Centers. They discuss Bryan's journey into the 3PL industry, the importance of evaluating 3PLs beyond just cost and location, and the significance of human elements in logistics partnerships. Bryan shares insights on identifying red flags in potential part
The Soft Benefits and ROI of Warehouse Automation
In this episode of “Warehouse Automation Matters,” host Mary Hart discussed the benefits of warehouse automation with Dave Green and Mike Wills from Peak Technologies. They explored the hesitations companies face regarding automation, the significant ROI timelines, and the softer benefits such as employee satisfaction. The conversation highlighted the importance of solution providers in designing
10 Million Picks and Counting
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart sat down with Mike Geiger, VP of IT at KSP Fulfillment, to unpack what it takes to hit 10 million robotic picks, and why that milestone is just the beginning. Geiger shared how automation stabilized labor, reduced training time, and improved employee experience, all while giving KSP the flexibility to scale during peak season. From buildin
Rolling Out Robots The Radial Way
In this conversation, Mary Hart interviewed David Welsh from Radial about the company's journey in scaling warehouse automation. They discussed the motivations behind adopting automation with fulfillment robots, the implementation process with Locus Robotics, and the operational changes observed. David shared insights on collaboration with partners, the impact on employee experience, and the l
Automation with a Human Touch
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart interviewed Tony Altman, President and CEO of Motivational Fulfillment. They discussed the evolution of the company, its commitment to continuous improvement, and the integration of technology and automation in warehouse operations. Altman shared insights on change management, the importance of communication, and how automation enhanc
Real AI for Real Warehouses
In this conversation, Oscar Mendez, Head of AI and Data Science at Locus Robotics, discusses the transformative role of AI in warehouse automation. He emphasizes the importance of holistic AI that not only focuses on tasks but also delivers tangible business value. Mendez explains the significance of physical AI, trustworthiness, and explainability in AI systems, and how these elements contribute
LCAP and Warehouse Automation Explained
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart discusses the transformative impact of Low-Code Application Platforms (LCAP) in warehousing with experts Bryan Batchelder and Dave Castanon from Datex. They explore the challenges of legacy systems, the advantages of low-code solutions, and real-world applications of Datex Studio in enhancing warehouse operations. The conversation hig
Make Smarter WMS Decisions
What should warehouse managers prioritize when choosing a new WMS? According to Amit Levy, EVP of Sales and Strategy at Made4Net, it's not just about ticking off features. In this episode, Levy joins host Mary Hart to unpack the real-world considerations that make or break a WMS implementation, from inventory accuracy and scalability to user adoption and IT alignment. You’ll hear how modern WM
Right-Sized Packaging and Warehouse Automation
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart spoke with Bryan Boatner, Global Managing Director of Automation at Ranpak, on the importance of automation in warehouse operations with a focus on right-sized packaging, waste reduction, and the role of data in optimizing processes. Boatner shared insights on how automation can enhance efficiency, sustainability, and customer experie
Navigating the Warehouse Automation Landscape
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart interviewed Mert Selcuk, Senior Manager of Supply Chain Strategy and Capabilities at Staples Canada. They discussed the journey of implementing warehouse automation along with the challenges, strategies, and technologies involved. Selcuk shared insights on the importance of collaboration with vendors, the role of data in decision-making, a
3PL Fulfillment Lessons from the Front Line
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart interviewed Chris Caouette, Chief Revenue Officer at North Bay Distribution, on challenges and innovations in the 3PL and e-commerce fulfillment space. They explored the evolving role of 3PLs, the importance of technology and automation, strategies for competitive shipping rates, and how to improve customer satisfaction and inventory manag
Beauty Fulfillment, Perfectly Packed
In this episode, Mary Hart spoke with Austin Feagins from Staci Americas about the complexities of technology and compliance in beauty product fulfillment. They discuss the unique challenges faced by the beauty industry, including high customer expectations and strict regulations. Austin shares insights on common compliance issues, the critical nature of the pack-out process, and how technology, i
Agility in Warehouse Operations
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart spoke with Kevin Hume, co-founder of ThruPut Partners, about the evolving landscape of supply chain design and the importance of agility in warehouse operations. They discussed the limitations of traditional supply chain methods, the application of agile methodologies, and the significance of technology integration. Hume shared a case
Making Data Work for Your Warehouse
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, Mary Hart interviews Derek Morse from Barrett Distribution about the transformative role of analytics in warehousing. They discuss how analytics has evolved from manual data collection to a data-optimized approach, the key performance indicators (KPIs) that warehouse leaders should track, and the challenges of adopting a data-driven strategy. Morse
AI and Robotics: Transforming Retail Operations
In this conversation, Mary Hart interviewed Barbara Porter, COO of Fragrance.com, about top trends in retail warehouse automation. They discussed the significant impact of AI and robotics on operational efficiency, the importance of sustainability, and the challenges faced when integrating new technologies. Porter shared insights on consumer expectations, the balance between speed and quality, and
The Importance of Flexibility in Warehouses
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart and Kait Peterson, VP of Product Marketing at Locus Robotics, discuss the critical role of flexibility and automation in modern warehouse operations. They explore the challenges faced by warehouses today, including labor shortages and fluctuating demands, and how automation can help address these issues. The conversation covers the im
Automating Holiday Returns in 3PLs: Peak Season, Peak Solutions
In this episode, Mary Hart sat down with Bob Duron and Diron Raines of nGroup to discuss their evolution as a third-party logistics provider, focusing on labor management, automation, and the complexities of holiday returns. Duron and Raines highlighted the top challenges of peak seasons, the benefits of warehouse automation, and the importance of flexibility in operations. They highlighted the
Cartonization Magic: Optimizing Warehouse Efficiency with Christmas Cheer
In this episode of Warehouse Automation Matters, host Mary Hart speaks with Ken Ray, WMS Systems Engineer at Cooper Lighting Solutions, about the intersection of holiday spirit and warehouse efficiency through complex cartonization. Ken shares his journey to becoming a licensed Santa Claus -- named Ken Kringle -- and discusses the importance of data in optimizing carton sizes for shipping. The con
Peak Season Playbook Strategies for Smooth Warehouses
In this conversation, Mary Hart and Chris Budney discussed the critical aspects of preparing warehouses for peak season. They explored the challenges faced by warehouses, including labor shortages, inventory management, and the importance of technology.
Budney emphasized the need for flexibility, effective communication, and the integration of automation to enhance efficiency and meet consumer ex
Automating Warehouse Mezzanine Best Practices
In this episode of "Warehouse Automation Matters," Mary Hart sits down with Erik Pichette and Adam Schwarz from Locus Robotics to explore the intricacies of optimizing and automating warehouse mezzanines. They discuss best practices for efficient design, from slotting strategies to handling peak demand, and emphasize the importance of collaboration and planning to avoid common pitfalls. The conver
The Future of Pharmaceutical Deliveries
In this conversation, Mary Hart and Guy Courtin discuss the rise of online pharmacies and their impact on logistics companies. They explore how e-commerce trends are reshaping the pharmacy landscape, the unique challenges of delivering pharmaceuticals, and the role of technology and regulatory requirements in ensuring safe and efficient delivery. The discussion also touches on sustainability, retu
Optimizing Carton Sizes for Increased Efficiency
Greg Walls, Vice President of Revenue at Paccurate, discusses the importance of better packaging decisions in shipping. Right-sized packaging automation involves using the minimum necessary dimensions to fit a product in a box, resulting in higher volume utilization of space, which is crucial in reducing transportation costs and waste in the supply chain. By using the right carton size, business
Where to Start with Warehouse Automation
Andy Johnston, Senior Director of Innovation at GEODIS, discussed where to start with warehouse automation and emphasized the importance of identifying the workflow that needs to be solved and then finding the right technology to automate it. Johnston highlighted the need for a cultural fit between the company and the automation partner, as well as the importance of visibility and data analysis in
The Role of Robots in 3PL Fulfillment
In this episode, Mary Hart interviews Tim Dolcich, Director of Engineering at DHL Supply Chain, about the role of robots in 3PL fulfillment. Tim shares his background in supply chain and how he got involved in the industry, and discusses the tasks and processes that have been automated with robotic systems in DHL warehouses, such as assisted picking, unloading, loading, and sortation. Tim explai
Improving Warehouse Operations with Automation
In this episode, Mary Hart interviewed Drew Eubank and Jordan Frank of the Zion Solutions Group to discuss the future of warehouse automation. They discussed the challenges faced by companies when implementing new solutions, such as selecting the right technology and getting employees to embrace it. They emphasized the importance of education and understanding the customer's goals and limitat
Preparing for Your Next Warehouse Peak Season
In this episode, Mary Hart interviews Austin Feagins, Senior Director of Customer Solutions at Staci Americas, about how to prepare for a peak season in the warehousing industry. They discuss Austin's role in the company, the challenges faced during peak season, the impact of automation and technology on warehouse operations, and emerging trends in warehouse automation. The key takeaways from
The Human Element: Navigating the Next Decade in Warehouse Automation
Kevin Lawton, host of The New Warehouse podcast, discusses the major shifts in the warehouse and supply chain industry, including a shift from the idea of a fully automated warehouse to a focus on collaborative robotics and enabling workers to do more with less. Lawton also talks about the evolution of technology in warehouses and predicts that humanoid robots will play a bigger role in the future
Human-Robot Collaboration in the Warehouse
Anthony Pendola, Senior Manager of Distribution at Fleet Feet, and John Santagate, Senior Vice President of Robotics at Korber Supply Chain Software, talk about the benefits of humans and robots working together in a warehouse setting. They discuss the collaboration between Fleet Feet and Korber, the integration of robots into warehouse operations, the roles and responsibilities of workers and ro
Improving Pick Velocity in Your Warehouse
Thomas Stearman, the Director of Industrial Engineering at UPS, discusses the importance of pick velocity — how fast items can be picked and prepared for shipment. UPS has implemented strategies such as batch picking, warehouse execution systems, and automation technologies to improve pick velocity. These technologies have not only increased efficiency but also improved employee satisfaction and r
Introductory Trailer
Learn about the Warehouse Automation Matters podcast and why warehouse managers and operators should tune in.
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