From lifting gear, cranes and conveyors to forklifts and warehousing systems, plus packaging technology, robotics and RFID - LogiMAT traditionally ushers in the year of events for the logistics sector, showcasing all that's new and innovative for intralogistics now and in the coming years.
The International Trade Fair for Distribution, Materials Handling and Information Flow takes place for the 9th time from 8 to 10 February 2011. LogiMAT has grown into the annual highlight in the intralogistics sector in Europe - 770 international exhibitors from 18 countries, are displaying their products and services on 52,000 square metres of fully booked space in Halls 1, 3, 5 and 7 at the New Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre. Particularly strongly represented this time is the section on materials handling and storage technology (34.5 percent), and the sections on software for simulation, storage systems and stock management (34.3 percent). Over 14 percent of the exhibitors are coming from outside Germany - above all from Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands and Italy. 175 companies have been attracted to exhibit at LogiMAT, either for the first time or as returning exhibitors after a few years of absence.
The increase in net exhibition space of 3.3 percent on last year, to 25,375 square metres this year, is an early indicator of an increase expected also in the number of trade visitors to LogiMAT 2011. The organiser, Euroexpo of Munich, is reckoning on around 21,000 participants. Last year, according to a survey by independent market researchers, 87 percent of the visitors were from managerial positions within their companies in industry, trade and logistics services. "This year again LogiMAT will prove itself to be a unique and efficient intralogistics platform for decision-makers right in the heart of Europe," says Exhibition Director Peter Kazander, of Euroexpo, Munich.
Under its motto of 'Be pro-active - amaze with quality!' LogiMAT 2011 is an international showcase for all segments of intralogistics: materials handling and storage technology, packaging and order-picking technology, warehouse technology and packaging systems, software, operational equipment and logistics and outsourcing services. In short, the focus is on products, solutions and systems for rationalisation and cost-saving in intralogistics systems.
Product launches galore!
Among the things visitors will be flocking to are the stands of those exhibitors who are launching new products at the fair. A whole host of new developments and innovations are being shown at the fair, among them, for example: the zero-energy logistics centre of IWL AG; the new order-picking technology from KLS Steuerungstechnik that can be used for warehouse handling of round and angular packs at the same time; Goldberg Systems' efficient battery-charging systems; and the innovative image-processing systems for robots from the Fraunhofer IPA. Against a background of complex change processes in the sector, Kazander praised the innovations capability displayed by these firms in their new intralogistics products and solutions: "In reality, the biggest risk is to miss out on change."
Trends right across the logistics sector
According to the industry association Bundesvereinigung Logistik, the logistics industry still has the third biggest turnover of all sectors in Germany, after the automotive industry and retailing. It employs 2.7 million people and that figure is growing. As the economy picks up the sector is even experiencing a shortage of skilled personnel. In 2010 turnover in the logistics industry rose by around four percent to approximately 210 billion euros. Growth is set to continue in 2011, which should mean that by the end of the year turnover should again reach the level achieved in the record year of 2008. For the important segment of intralogistics, too, experts are predicting a noticeable recovery. As a result of the world financial crisis German intralogistics suppliers suffered a year-on-year fall in turnover of 21 percent in 2009, i.e. from 21.7 billion euros in the record year of 2008 to 17.1 billion in 2009.
According to a recent survey by logistics consultants Logistikberatung IWL AG of Ulm the intralogistics sector in 2010 reacted to the crisis by stepping up their cost-reduction and restructuring measures. The main drive was in increasing investment, outsourcing and marketing efforts. Intralogistics planners and consultants, however, were still suffering from cancelled orders, payment delays and defaults. Logistics properties, on the other hand, remained unaffected in Germany, changing hands for 1.2 billion euros. According to Colliers International this corresponds to a rise of 53 percent. The economic upturn in 2011 will lead to a further rise in demand for logistics space.
There is much pent-up demand for automatic identification systems, because by introducing a greater degree of automation and greater efficiency of systems - in particular in the warehouse - companies can tap into yet more rationalisation and cost-saving potential. Software is of course an essential component in logistics today. During the downturn, attention focused on crisis management, but now the theme of green logistics is regaining importance. At LogiMAT 2011 visitors will be able to see how the principle of sustainability is much more than a fashionable marketing trend: it is being implemented in day-to-day intralogistics operations. For in times of ever scarcer resources - fuel, raw materials, employees, and environmental resources - any investments that are made have to achieve a particularly sustainable effect.
Many strategies and best-practice examples in the accompanying programme
In the extensive accompanying programme to LogiMAT 2011 trade visitors will be able to find out just which strategies and measures can sustainably optimise the value-added chain in intralogistics. The 22 trade forums, 61 'Innovations Forums' (exhibitors' presentations) and four live events cover a broad spectrum of themes, presenting lots of practical information and a chance to engage in dialogue with sector experts.
Subjects covered include 'The Utility and Futility of Green Intralogistics', 'Intelligent Packaging and Returnable Containers', 'AutoID technology for Transparency in Logistics', 'Lean Production with SAP2', 'Financial Communication for SMEs', 'Focusing on Stock', 'Insourcing' and 'Comparing Germany and Austria as Locations for Industry'. Plus 'Intelligent DTS Solutions in Intralogistics', 'Safety in the Warehouse', 'Energy-Efficient Intralogistics Systems of the Future', 'Battery Management and Energy Efficiency for Forklifts', 'Further Training in Logistics', 'IT Security' and 'Objective Logistics Consultancy'.
Intralogistics in action is promised - live and close-up - in the special displays called 'Tracking & Tracing Theatre', 'Load Securing', 'Demonstration Warehouse' and 'Innovations Lounge'. In these live events, visitors can see for themselves in practical demonstrations just how logistics processes integrate. "Over 90 speakers from business, research and the international trade media will be providing participants with an excellent chance to update their knowledge," says Peter Kazander. In a range of different event formats and using numerous best-practice examples, LogiMAT provides real added-value for exhibitors and visitors, and it's all included in the price of a ticket to the fair.
BEST PRODUCT award goes to....
Three exhibitors who meet the challenges of intralogistics with outstanding products that demonstrate particular innovative qualities, will be awarded the coveted 'BEST PRODUCT' Award at LogiMAT 2011. The award is presented in the three categories of 'Software, communications, IT', 'Order picking, packaging, protection' and 'Procurement, handling, storage'. The prestigious medals and certificates will be conferred upon the winners of the BEST PRODUCT Award, being held this year for the eighth time, at a ceremony on the opening day. A key criterion in the choice of winners is that their products must already have contributed to the rationalisation, cost-saving and increase in productivity in intralogistics and have been tested in practice with excellent results. This time, too, the winners are being chosen by an independent jury made up of seven renowned academics and journalists. "In the highly competitive market of intralogistics, the BEST PRODUCT Award is intended as a way of encouraging exhibitors at LogiMAT to gain the edge with new products and solutions," is how Peter Kazander, Exhibition Director of LogiMAT, explained the background to the award.
LogiMAT 2011 is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. ?A one-day ticket costs €28, a three-day ticket €35.?For further information go to www.logimat-messe.de.
Next year LogiMAT celebrates its 10th anniversary; it is being held from 13 to 15 March 2012 in Stuttgart.
The International Trade Fair for Distribution, Materials Handling and Information Flow takes place for the 9th time from 8 to 10 February 2011. LogiMAT has grown into the annual highlight in the intralogistics sector in Europe - 770 international exhibitors from 18 countries, are displaying their products and services on 52,000 square metres of fully booked space in Halls 1, 3, 5 and 7 at the New Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre. Particularly strongly represented this time is the section on materials handling and storage technology (34.5 percent), and the sections on software for simulation, storage systems and stock management (34.3 percent). Over 14 percent of the exhibitors are coming from outside Germany - above all from Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands and Italy. 175 companies have been attracted to exhibit at LogiMAT, either for the first time or as returning exhibitors after a few years of absence.
The increase in net exhibition space of 3.3 percent on last year, to 25,375 square metres this year, is an early indicator of an increase expected also in the number of trade visitors to LogiMAT 2011. The organiser, Euroexpo of Munich, is reckoning on around 21,000 participants. Last year, according to a survey by independent market researchers, 87 percent of the visitors were from managerial positions within their companies in industry, trade and logistics services. "This year again LogiMAT will prove itself to be a unique and efficient intralogistics platform for decision-makers right in the heart of Europe," says Exhibition Director Peter Kazander, of Euroexpo, Munich.
Under its motto of 'Be pro-active - amaze with quality!' LogiMAT 2011 is an international showcase for all segments of intralogistics: materials handling and storage technology, packaging and order-picking technology, warehouse technology and packaging systems, software, operational equipment and logistics and outsourcing services. In short, the focus is on products, solutions and systems for rationalisation and cost-saving in intralogistics systems.
Product launches galore!
Among the things visitors will be flocking to are the stands of those exhibitors who are launching new products at the fair. A whole host of new developments and innovations are being shown at the fair, among them, for example: the zero-energy logistics centre of IWL AG; the new order-picking technology from KLS Steuerungstechnik that can be used for warehouse handling of round and angular packs at the same time; Goldberg Systems' efficient battery-charging systems; and the innovative image-processing systems for robots from the Fraunhofer IPA. Against a background of complex change processes in the sector, Kazander praised the innovations capability displayed by these firms in their new intralogistics products and solutions: "In reality, the biggest risk is to miss out on change."
Trends right across the logistics sector
According to the industry association Bundesvereinigung Logistik, the logistics industry still has the third biggest turnover of all sectors in Germany, after the automotive industry and retailing. It employs 2.7 million people and that figure is growing. As the economy picks up the sector is even experiencing a shortage of skilled personnel. In 2010 turnover in the logistics industry rose by around four percent to approximately 210 billion euros. Growth is set to continue in 2011, which should mean that by the end of the year turnover should again reach the level achieved in the record year of 2008. For the important segment of intralogistics, too, experts are predicting a noticeable recovery. As a result of the world financial crisis German intralogistics suppliers suffered a year-on-year fall in turnover of 21 percent in 2009, i.e. from 21.7 billion euros in the record year of 2008 to 17.1 billion in 2009.
According to a recent survey by logistics consultants Logistikberatung IWL AG of Ulm the intralogistics sector in 2010 reacted to the crisis by stepping up their cost-reduction and restructuring measures. The main drive was in increasing investment, outsourcing and marketing efforts. Intralogistics planners and consultants, however, were still suffering from cancelled orders, payment delays and defaults. Logistics properties, on the other hand, remained unaffected in Germany, changing hands for 1.2 billion euros. According to Colliers International this corresponds to a rise of 53 percent. The economic upturn in 2011 will lead to a further rise in demand for logistics space.
There is much pent-up demand for automatic identification systems, because by introducing a greater degree of automation and greater efficiency of systems - in particular in the warehouse - companies can tap into yet more rationalisation and cost-saving potential. Software is of course an essential component in logistics today. During the downturn, attention focused on crisis management, but now the theme of green logistics is regaining importance. At LogiMAT 2011 visitors will be able to see how the principle of sustainability is much more than a fashionable marketing trend: it is being implemented in day-to-day intralogistics operations. For in times of ever scarcer resources - fuel, raw materials, employees, and environmental resources - any investments that are made have to achieve a particularly sustainable effect.
Many strategies and best-practice examples in the accompanying programme
In the extensive accompanying programme to LogiMAT 2011 trade visitors will be able to find out just which strategies and measures can sustainably optimise the value-added chain in intralogistics. The 22 trade forums, 61 'Innovations Forums' (exhibitors' presentations) and four live events cover a broad spectrum of themes, presenting lots of practical information and a chance to engage in dialogue with sector experts.
Subjects covered include 'The Utility and Futility of Green Intralogistics', 'Intelligent Packaging and Returnable Containers', 'AutoID technology for Transparency in Logistics', 'Lean Production with SAP2', 'Financial Communication for SMEs', 'Focusing on Stock', 'Insourcing' and 'Comparing Germany and Austria as Locations for Industry'. Plus 'Intelligent DTS Solutions in Intralogistics', 'Safety in the Warehouse', 'Energy-Efficient Intralogistics Systems of the Future', 'Battery Management and Energy Efficiency for Forklifts', 'Further Training in Logistics', 'IT Security' and 'Objective Logistics Consultancy'.
Intralogistics in action is promised - live and close-up - in the special displays called 'Tracking & Tracing Theatre', 'Load Securing', 'Demonstration Warehouse' and 'Innovations Lounge'. In these live events, visitors can see for themselves in practical demonstrations just how logistics processes integrate. "Over 90 speakers from business, research and the international trade media will be providing participants with an excellent chance to update their knowledge," says Peter Kazander. In a range of different event formats and using numerous best-practice examples, LogiMAT provides real added-value for exhibitors and visitors, and it's all included in the price of a ticket to the fair.
BEST PRODUCT award goes to....
Three exhibitors who meet the challenges of intralogistics with outstanding products that demonstrate particular innovative qualities, will be awarded the coveted 'BEST PRODUCT' Award at LogiMAT 2011. The award is presented in the three categories of 'Software, communications, IT', 'Order picking, packaging, protection' and 'Procurement, handling, storage'. The prestigious medals and certificates will be conferred upon the winners of the BEST PRODUCT Award, being held this year for the eighth time, at a ceremony on the opening day. A key criterion in the choice of winners is that their products must already have contributed to the rationalisation, cost-saving and increase in productivity in intralogistics and have been tested in practice with excellent results. This time, too, the winners are being chosen by an independent jury made up of seven renowned academics and journalists. "In the highly competitive market of intralogistics, the BEST PRODUCT Award is intended as a way of encouraging exhibitors at LogiMAT to gain the edge with new products and solutions," is how Peter Kazander, Exhibition Director of LogiMAT, explained the background to the award.
LogiMAT 2011 is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. ?A one-day ticket costs €28, a three-day ticket €35.?For further information go to www.logimat-messe.de.
Next year LogiMAT celebrates its 10th anniversary; it is being held from 13 to 15 March 2012 in Stuttgart.
