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MAGA in the approach path
German technology remains highly regarded when it comes to rapid material handling, the elimination of weaknesses, and service quality. Following successful projects in Oklahoma and Texas, the steel trader " Steel and Pipe Supply " (SPS) in Kansas City once again relied on Kasto saws and storage systems.
Rent warehouse equipment instead of buying it
Bito is launching an offensive with an economical alternative for companies that want to re-equip, expand, or temporarily supplement their warehouse and production areas, but don't want to tie up their capital long-term: renting instead of buying is the motto. The advantages – especially in " dynamic times " – are obvious.
«Kanpai» with sake on the pharmaceutical chain
Logistics provider Yusen is presenting an expanded global platform for the healthcare sector at LogiPharma in Vienna, where companies such as Novartis, Bayer, Takeda, and hospital supplier UCB are currently participating. The platform focuses on the professional delivery of specialized healthcare solutions.
Streamlined logistics
Coop's own rail connection for urban logistics in Zurich, streamlined logistics vehicles and the outsourcing of all operating room logistics in a cooperation between the Seeschau Clinic and the Swiss Post are the projects that are entering the final sprint for this year's Swiss Logistics Award from GS1.
Vacuum technology makes mobility possible
Compressed air has traditionally been used primarily for fixed installations. Schmalz's vacuum grippers also mainly operate with lines that often have to run across halls and facilities. However, mobile robotics increasingly requires flexible solutions – a need that Schmalz now intends to address more effectively.
A foray into drive technology
Safelog, the specialists for software for controlling intralogistics processes, have entered into a cooperation with the drive experts from SEW Eurodrive at LogiMAT in order to jointly develop a high-performance software for controlling mobile and stationary processes in intralogistics.
Networking with perspectives
“Never walk alone” could be the motto of a networking event hosted by the consulting experts from “Adnovum”, where the Digital Product Passport (DPP), cybersecurity and IT opportunities with Petra Merino (GS1 Switzerland) and security expert Andreas Achterholt are on the agenda on May 7th in Zurich.
Maintenance in Austria
With a new workshop in Obersiebenbrunn near Vienna, rail manufacturer Stadler is expanding its capacity for the commissioning, approval, and servicing of modern rail vehicles in Austria. The workshop has been used to maintain Westbahn's high-speed trains since March 2026.
Idealworks pushes into the US market
Idealworks, part of the Munich-based Agile Robots Group, with more than 1,700 AMRs and AGVs worldwide and one of the pioneers in industrial automation through AI in robot-controlled logistics processes, has founded a US company headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina.
New chain belt sorting
At LogiMAT, conveyor technology provider Interroll attracted attention with a new chain-belt sorting system developed after the acquisition of Sortteq. Together with MCP Play, this creates a material flow ecosystem that combines single-item transport with intelligent sorting.
Stadlerrail in «Kiwi» mode
Stadlerrail in «Kiwi» mode
Kiwi is the name of both the flightless bird and the fruit, which is now sought after worldwide for its high vitamin content. New Zealand calls its national railway " KiwiRail " and is now receiving nine more ETCS-equipped mainline locomotives and 24 diesel-hybrid shunting locomotives from Switzerland.
To ensure smooth operations on the North Island, the contract with Stadler includes the delivery of nine mainline locomotives equipped with ETCS (European Train Control System). The second contract provides for the delivery of 24 innovative battery-diesel hybrid shunting locomotives, as well as spare parts, special tools, and technical services.
ETCS-compatible mainline locomotive
Stadler is currently still in the process of manufacturing the 57 DM-class narrow-gauge locomotives ordered by KiwiRail in 2021, primarily intended for long-distance service on the South Island. Under the new agreement, both companies have now expanded their commitment to include this additional order. For operation on the North Island rail network, the locomotives will be equipped with ETCS.
ETCS enables the safe and seamless operation of the DM locomotives on the Auckland Metro network, which is equipped with the ETCS Level 1 trackside train control system. This initiative will also equip the locomotives for safe operation on the Wellington Metro network once the trackside signaling system has been upgraded to ETCS.
Hybrid shunting locomotive
Under the second agreement, Stadler will supply 24 hybrid battery-diesel narrow-gauge shunting locomotives with a center cab and a maximum axle load of 16 tons. The new shunting locomotives are specifically designed for use in all KiwiRail shunting operations. Thanks to the integrated battery module, the locomotive will primarily operate as a zero-emission vehicle, significantly reducing the CO2 footprint of shunting operations. The comprehensive contract also includes spare parts, special tools, and technical services. The shunting locomotives will be designed to be operated within the boundaries of the shunting yard via a safe and robust remote control system from outside the cab.
Photos: KiwiRail (courtesy of KiwiRail)
Adele Wilson, Chief Customer and Growth Officer of KiwiRail, praised the new locomotives as part of a $1.7 billion investment in rolling stock that will enable KiwiRail to provide better service to its customers and further improve access to low-carbon transport for the New Zealand freight market. The locomotives will also be used on tourist routes.
The Co-Co locomotives are equipped with a low-emission 3000 kW diesel engine compliant with the latest European emissions standards (Stage V), ensuring not only a significant reduction in pollutant emissions but also optimized combustion. The locomotives are designed to run on HVO biofuels. Two external walkways connect the two driver's cabs, providing direct access to key maintenance equipment.
Electrification on the main line.
The Bo-Bo shunting locomotives are designed to combine the high performance and efficiency of AC propulsion with the flexibility and environmental friendliness of hybrid propulsion. The locomotives are designed for both cab and open-air operation and feature a remote control system that enhances their versatility. Like the DM-class mainline locomotives, they are also equipped with an automatic engine start-stop system (AESS) to minimize fuel consumption, noise, and emissions, as well as a remote diagnostics and condition monitoring system.
