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Today’s number is $375 million. That is the amount Storage Solutions Group was acquired by Jungheinrich.

Hello and welcome back to news, trends & insights in the industry.

In today’s edition:

• 3 Start-ups (SkyDrop, CES AT, ZMP )

• 2 Old guards (Jungheinrich, Kroger)

• 1 Tech in e-commerce fulfillment (Ryder Systems)

• 1 Logistics Origins (Alexander the Great on military logistics)

Let’s dive in.

In the Box

Autonomous Trucking CES 2023

Advanced autonomous trucking development was showcased at CES 2023. At the event several autonomous trucking start-ups including Waabi, Gatik, Waymo, Kodiak Robotics, Aurora, and Plus showcased their automated driving systems.

Most that were focused on passenger cars and ride-hailing services have now shifted to commercial and industrial applications in recent years.

“I think there’s more understanding that for self-driving, commercial vehicles are where it’s going to happen first at scale,” - Raquel Urtasun, CEO & Founder Waabi.

Waymo: Showcased a full lineup of self-driving vehicles including the Freightliner Cascadia tractor installed with the latest generation of the Waymo Driver.

Gatik: Revealed their fully autonomous box trucks designed for short-haul operations.

“Autonomy is coming. E-mobility is coming. It’s software-driven, and ZF is ready with hardware, software, and system solutions,” - Martin Fischer, Board member, ZF Group

ZMP partners with Japan Post Holdings for robotic delivery

The Japanese robotic company recently partnered with Japan Post Holdings for robotic trial delivery.

The goal is to reduce labor shortages in the growing old demographic in Japan.

The robots won’t be operating entirely alone, with humans monitoring remotely and being able to intervene.

Its DeliRo robot aims for a charming look that even kids know them on the streets.

SkyDrop gets New Zealand CAA Approval

Formerly known as Flitery, the drone delivery company recently got a 102 approval from New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

It’s the first company in the country to get live store-to-door drone delivery. It will launch its hub in Huntly.

“SkyDrop is excited to work with the CAA to make New Zealand the innovation leader in speedier, cheaper, and greener last-mile drone delivery. This approval is a groundbreaking milestone for SkyDrop, and the drone delivery industry,” - SkyDrop Founder and CEO Matthew Sweeny.

Technology

Ryder System investing in E-commerce

The logistics and truck leasing Ryder System recently showcased its investment in e-commerce fulfillment at the CES 2023 event.

The company has shown skin in the game by acquiring national fulfillment provider Whiplash for $480 million.

Ryder also cited growth in its Ryder Last Mile business, which provides home delivery and installation of big and bulky products such as appliances, furniture, bedding, and exercise equipment.

Old Guards

Jungheinrich AG

The German logistic solutions provider acquired Indaina-based Storage Solution Group for $375 million.

The move to provide the forklift solution company with racking and warehouse automation solutions would give it a strategic foothold in that fast-growing U.S. sector.

“The acquisition of Storage Solutions is an important step in the implementation of our 2025+ strategy. It is an excellent opportunity to expand our geographic footprint in the U.S. and adds a strong strategic platform for growth in warehouse automation across the region,” - Lars Brzoska, the Jungheinrich CEO.

Kroger

The grocery chain giant has plans to acquire Albertsons which is likely to be opposed by FTC.

Another challenge in the wake beyond the Federal Trade Commission includes a deteterotiating consumer macro backdrop that has slowed spending growth at Albertsons stores according to Freightwaves.

The merger deal would generate $200 billion in annual revenue from over 4,996 stores.

According to Albertson’s investors like equity firm Cerberus Capital estimates the proposed merger to be around $5.2 billion.

Logistics Origins

Alexander the Great’s military logistics

Alexander's military logistics were critical to his success on the battlefield.

His meticulous planning and organization, transportation methods, communication network, flexibility, and commitment to maintaining his troops' health and morale were all key factors that helped him to achieve his military objectives.

Here are some examples of Alexander’s journey to conquering the world.

Logistical Planning and Organization

Alexander understood that the success of his campaigns depended on careful planning and organization. For example, before his invasion of Persia in 334 BC, he spent several months preparing his troops and securing his supply lines. He established a network of supply depots and set up a system of messengers to keep his commanders informed of his plans.

Transportation Methods

Alexander used a variety of transportation methods to move his armies and supplies quickly and efficiently. He relied heavily on his cavalry, which could cover long distances quickly and harass the enemy's flanks. For example, during his conquest of the Persian Empire, he used his cavalry to great effect at the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 BC, where he outflanked the Persian army and won a decisive victory.

In addition to his cavalry, Alexander also used chariots, carts, and boats to transport supplies and equipment. For example, during his campaign in India in 327 BC, he built a fleet of boats to transport his troops and supplies down the Indus River.

Communication Network

Alexander understood the importance of communication in warfare and established a reliable communication network using messengers and signal fires. He also used homing pigeons to carry messages between his commanders.

For example, during his siege of Tyre in 332 BC, he used signal fires to coordinate his attack with his fleet. He also used messengers to keep his commanders informed of his plans and to relay orders to his troops on the battlefield.

Thank you for reading.

My goal is to break down complex technologies in the logistics and supply chain industry. Hope it is worthwhile.

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Over and out,

Okerosi